Scholarships for community college: what's the deal?

Hey, I'm thinking about starting at a community college before transferring. Can anyone tell me if there are decent scholarships available for community college students? Or is financial aid mostly loans?

Financial aid for community college comes in many forms, and scholarships are certainly a big part of that. Many community colleges offer institutional scholarships, based on a variety of factors like academic achievement, special talents, or financial need. Also, some local businesses and community organizations provide scholarships specifically for community college students in their area. These are typically awarded based on similar criteria.

In addition, there are numerous national scholarships out there that aren't restricted to students attending traditional four-year universities. Websites like Appily and Fastweb can be great resources to help find scholarships that you qualify for. Bear in mind that securing scholarships often requires proactivity on your part: you'll have to do your research, and make sure to observe the application deadlines.

It's also worth looking into federal and state grants, which do not need to be paid back, unlike loans. The process for getting these usually involves filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), a form that helps determine your eligibility for financial aid programs. Starting in October of each year, you can submit your FAFSA for the next academic year.

Although loans do make up a significant portion of aid, they are far from the only form of financial assistance available for community college students. Don't hesitate to reach out to the financial aid office at your community college for specific information regarding financial aid options they may have. They're there to help!