I'm considering heading back to college after taking some time off, and I'm wondering about grants or scholarships available for young adults like me. Does anyone have tips or resources on how to find financial support for students returning to school?
Returning to college can be a rewarding experience and seeking grants or scholarships can indeed help in managing the financial demands. Here are some strategies to help you find educational funding:
1. FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid): This should be your starting point. While many people consider FAFSA for traditional, younger undergraduate students, adults returning to school also qualify. Filling out the FAFSA form can open doors to federal grants, loans and work-study funds. Starting from 2023, FAFSA uses the Student Aid Index (SAI), not Expected Family Contribution (EFC), to determine your aid eligibility.
2. Institutional Financial Aid: Contact the financial aid office at the institution you're considering. Many schools offer scholarships and grants specifically for non-traditional or returning students.
3. Employer Tuition Assistance: If you're currently working, check if your employer offers tuition assistance or reimbursement programs. These are often underutilized benefit programs.
4. State Grants and Scholarships: Check out the financial aid websites of your state's Department of Education. Many states offer grants for residents returning to school.
5. Professional Organizations: Some professional organizations offer scholarships for adults returning to college to earn a degree in a specific field.
6. Private Scholarships: There are numerous private scholarships for non-traditional students. Websites like Scholarships.com or Appily offer free databases of available scholarships you can search.
Remember, every little bit helps in funding your education. The key is to be proactive in researching and applying for all aid options you qualify for. Good luck on your educational journey!
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