Student Financial Aid Options Overview Iowa

Grants and Scholarships

Also known as 'gift aid,' grants and scholarships provide 'free' college funding. The most common federal grants are the Federal Pell Grant and the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG). You may also qualify for state and institutional grants.
Thousands of scholarships are available, from your school, company, or any number of private organizations. Scholarships typically reward excellence in a certain area, such as academics, sports, or arts.
Grants and Scholarships offers an overview of gift aid programs, including where to find them and how to apply.

Student Loan Basics

Which loans offer the best terms? What's the difference between a subsidized and an unsubsidized loan? How do I qualify? Student Loan Basics answers these questions, and guides you through the available loan options. The federal government offers several low-interest loan programs, including the Perkins, Stafford, and Parent Federal PLUS Loans.

Federal Work-Study

Earn money for your education through this government-subsidized, need-based employment program. Many students rely on work-study positions to supplement their basic financial aid package. Federal Work-Study Programs discusses the unique benefits of work-study jobs.

AmeriCorps Student Aid

Serve your community and gain access to college funding at the same time. Americorps, a national community service organization, offers full-time educational awards in return for service work. You can accrue benefits before, during, or after your college degree and apply them either to current educational expenses or loan repayment. Find out more about the Americorps Student Aid program.

Military/ROTC Student Aid Overview

The U.S. military maintains a proud tradition of funding college education. In return for service in the armed forces, you can qualify for ROTC scholarships, the Army College Fund, the Montgomery GI Bill, the College Loan Repayment Program (CLRP), and more. The Military/ROTC Student Aid Overview takes you through the higher education benefits available to you as a member of the armed forces.

College education is a major investment, but you'll find a wealth of resources to help you cover the costs. Many programs are readily accessible via the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), but others are a bit harder to find. This guide can help you take full advantage of your financial aid options.



Author: Sonja Albrecht

Source(s)
Yahoo! Financial Aid Overview
http://education.yahoo.com/college/financial_aid/articles/financial_aid_options_overview.html

Federal Student Aid Funding Education Beyond High School
http://www.studentaid.ed.gov/students/publications/student_guide/2006-2007/english/otheraidsources.htm#americorps

Princeton Review
http://www.princetonreview.com/grad/finance/articles/tools/basics.asp