The average cost to attend a private university in the U.S. is around $34,000 per year. That’s a lot of money for most students and families. Education grants can help reduce that cost and ease some financial stress.
What Are Education Grants for Students?
Education grants are a type of financial aid that you don’t have to pay back if you meet the requirements. Most are funded by the government and are based on financial need. Unlike loans, they’re meant to make education more affordable without adding debt.
How to Find Education Grants
Since most education grants come from the government, you need to complete the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA). Filling out this form will let you know what federal government grants for school you qualify for.
Some of the most common education grants for students include:
Some grants for college will target specific groups of people, such as low-income students, single mothers and BIPOC students.
You can also visit your state’s education department to learn about the schooling grants for your state.
Research Other Available Grants
You can also look for grants outside of the federal and state systems. Many colleges and universities offer institutional grants, which often work alongside government aid. Contact your school’s Financial Aid Office for information.
Private organizations also offer grants, usually with their own applications. These can come from nonprofits, companies, or community groups—especially for students from underrepresented backgrounds or specific fields of study.
Examples include:
- Lions Club: Local chapters often provide scholarships or grants for students in their communities.
- Rotary Club: Local and global grants are available, especially if your studies align with their service focus areas.
- American Association of University Women (AAUW): This organization offers grants to women pursuing education in underrepresented or STEM fields.
How Do You Apply for an Education Grant?
Step One: Fill Out the FAFSA Form
Start by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This form opens the door to most education grants. Double-check your information before submitting—it affects how much aid you can receive.
If you’re unsure about any part of the process, reach out to your school’s financial aid office. They can answer questions, explain program requirements, and guide you through the application.
You’ll need:
- Social Security number
- Recent tax return information (W-2s or pay stubs)
- Records of assets and bank balances
- Any child support information
- Your Alien Registration Number (A-number) if you’re not a U.S. citizen
Step Two: Receive the Aid Offer
Once your FAFSA is processed, your school will send you a financial aid offer. Review it carefully before accepting. You can decline any grant that doesn’t fit your needs or comes with conditions you don’t agree to.
Some grants may require you to study in a certain field or maintain a specific GPA. Others may have limits if you already receive aid elsewhere. If you accept, the grant funds will go toward your tuition and fees, and you may receive the rest as a refund for other education costs.
Step Three: Apply to FAFSA Every Year
To keep receiving federal or state grants, you must complete a new FAFSA every school year. Your eligibility can change based on your income or financial situation. For private or institutional grants, check if they require annual reapplication.
Final Thoughts
Education grants can make college more affordable and help you avoid extra debt. They may not cover every expense, but they can reduce how much you need to borrow. Applying takes time and organization, but it’s worth it to lessen your financial burden while earning your degree.
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