What Fraction of Students Get Scholarships or Grants for College?

I'm curious about how common it is to receive financial support for college. Do a lot of students get scholarships or grants, or is it more selective? Trying to gauge my chances as I start applying.

According to the most recent data from the National Center for Education Statistics, around 85% of first-time, full-time undergraduate students at 4-year degree-granting postsecondary institutions in the United States receive some type of financial aid, which includes both grants and scholarships.

However, the likelihood of getting scholarships or grants can depend on several factors. These include the cost of the college, your family's financial circumstances, and your academic credentials or other talents.

For instance, if you are applying to a higher-cost college or university and your family's financial situation qualifies you for need-based aid, there's a good chance you'll get some form of grant (essentially, funds you typically don't have to pay back). This might come from the college itself, or from federal or state programs. The government awards Pell Grants, for example, to students demonstrating significant financial need.

On the other hand, scholarships, which also don't need to be paid back, are usually based on merit - academic achievement, athletic prowess, artistic talent, etc.. So, if you've been a high achiever in any of these areas, your likelihood of getting scholarships can be higher.

In conclusion, while the percentage mentioned above says that financial aid is quite common, how much aid you'll receive and what forms it will take (grants, scholarships, loans, etc.) can vary widely based on the factors mentioned. Therefore, my advice will be to apply broadly for financial assistance, researching opportunities for both need-based aid and scholarships rewarding your specific talents and achievements. Keep your options open, and consider a range of colleges in terms of cost and value in order to keep your education affordable.