What Scholarships Exist for Low-Income Students Going to College?

As someone from a low-income family, I'm concerned about affording college. Are there any specific grants or scholarships that I should be aware of for students in my situation?

Absolutely, there are many financial aid options available for low-income students. Here are some to consider:

1. Federal Pell Grant: This is one of the most known and substantial grants available for low-income students. The maximum award varies each year, but it was currently set at $7,395 for the 2024-2025 award year.

2. Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG): This grant is for undergraduates with exceptional financial need, going to participating schools. Aid amounts vary from $100 to $4,000 annually.

3. State-funded scholarships and grants: Many states offer need-based scholarships or grants for their residents. Check with your state's education department to know what's available.

4. Institution-based scholarships: Many colleges and universities offer their own need-based scholarships. This information can usually be found on each institution’s financial aid webpage.

5. QuestBridge: This nonprofit organization matches low-income students with leading institutions, and provides them with full-tuition scholarships.

6. Gates Millennium Scholar Program: Though this program is highly competitive, it covers tuition, fees, room, and board for low-income students of color.

7. The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation: This is another competitive scholarship, but provides up to $55,000 per year for four years. It goes to high-achieving high school seniors with financial need.

Also remember to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as early as possible to be considered for many forms of financial aid. Applying early increases your chances of receiving the most aid possible. Most universities have their own net price calculators on their website too. You can use these to get an estimate of what your specific financial aid package might look like at that school.

This list is by no means exhaustive, so continue researching opportunities. There are many scholarships out there specifically designed to make college more affordable for students from low-income families.