How do private college students secure scholarships and aid?

I'm considering a private college, but the tuition seems daunting. Are there scholarships or financial aid options that are more accessible to students attending private institutions? Any guidance would be awesome!

Sure, there are quite a few financial aid and scholarship opportunities for students attending private institutions. I'll divide my response into three key components: institutional aid, federal and state aid, and outside scholarships.

Firstly, many private colleges have substantial institutional aid programs. This is aid money provided directly from the college's own resources. For many students, this can be the largest source of aid. In fact, many private colleges have a "need-blind" admissions policy, which means they won't take your financial need into account when deciding on your admission. Schools like Vanderbilt University practice this policy.

After being admitted, these colleges will then construct a financial aid package that meets 100% of your demonstrated financial need. In a "need-blind" school, your ability to pay won't affect your chances of getting in, but if accepted, the school will make it financially feasible for you as well. The amount of aid you're eligible for is typically determined through use of the FAFSA or CSS Profile.

Secondly, don't be quick to dismiss federal and state aid. Federal aid comes from the U.S. Department of Education and comprises grants (which don't need to be paid back), loans, and work-study opportunities. State aid can include grants, loans, work-study opportunities, and even scholarships in some cases. Remember, to be eligible for federal and most state aid, you'll need to fill out the FAFSA.

Lastly, investigate outside scholarships. These are scholarships provided by organizations outside of the college, like companies, nonprofits, community groups, and foundations. An example could be a scholarship offered for students from a specific city or for students pursuing a particular major.

To find these scholarships, you can use scholarship search tools like Appily. Another approach involves reaching out to your high school counseling office, or your city or state's education office. These entities often have information about local scholarships that aren't as widely publicized.

It's vital to remember that applying for scholarships and aid takes time and effort. You'll want to start researching and applying early. Good luck!