Scholarships for low-income kids going to college?

I'm trying to figure out what kind of financial aid or scholarships are available for low-income high school students planning to go to college. Does anyone know of specific programs or grants that I should be looking into?

Sure, I'd be happy to help guide you towards some funding options for low-income students aiming for college. One of the most significant resources is the Pell Grant, which is a federal grant that doesn't need to be repaid. Pell Grants are awarded primarily to undergraduate students who display exceptional financial need.

In addition to the Pell Grant, here are a few more scholarships and funds you might want to consider:

1. The Gates Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to outstanding minority seniors from low-income backgrounds. Each year, 300 top student leaders with exceptional academic records and leadership abilities are chosen.

2. Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG): This is another federal grant for students with extreme financial need. Not all schools participate in offering this grant, so it would be a good idea to check with the financial aid office at the schools you're interested in.

3. Horatio Alger National Scholarship: This scholarship is for high school seniors who have overcome significant adversity and could use financial assistance to pursue their college education. They award multiple scholarships of $25,000 each year.

4. The Questbridge National College Match: This program helps high-achieving, low-income students gain admission and full four-year scholarships to partner colleges.

Please note that for most of these scholarships, you'll need to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for need-based financial aid. The FAFSA should be completed as soon as possible after October 1st of your senior year. Furthermore, some scholarships have their separate application process, so do keep an eye out for each programs' specific deadlines and requirements.

Checking with your high school's guidance office and the financial aid office at the colleges you're interested in can also steer you towards other scholarships that might be a good fit for your situation.