Financial aid helps students cover the cost of higher education through grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study programs. These resources make it possible to pursue a degree or certification with reduced financial burden.
Financial Aid for Higher Education
Types of Financial Aid
There are several forms of financial aid available:
– Grants & Scholarships – Free money that does not need to be repaid.
– Loans – Borrowed money that must be repaid, often with interest.
– Work-Study Programs – Opportunities to earn money while studying.
How to Apply for Financial Aid
The primary application for financial aid is the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Some institutions and states may also require additional applications. It’s important to apply early to maximize eligibility.
➡ Start Your FAFSA Application
How Parental Dependency Affects Financial Aid
Dependent students must report their parents’ income on the FAFSA, which can affect how much aid they receive.
Independent students only report their own income, often qualifying for more financial aid.
Who is considered an independent student?
– Over 24 years old
– Married
– Has children or dependents
– Veteran or active military
– Emancipated minor or in legal guardianship
Managing Financial Aid
– Accepting Awards – Review and accept your aid package carefully.
– Maintaining Eligibility – Stay in good academic standing to keep receiving aid.
– Loan Repayment – Understand your loan repayment terms before borrowing.
Here Are the Basics
Understanding financial aid starts with knowing what options are available and who qualifies. Most students can access aid through federal programs, state grants, and institutional scholarships.
How Financial Aid Works:
– Grants and Scholarships – No repayment required, based on financial need or merit.
– Work-Study – Earn wages while studying.
– Federal and Private Loans – Borrowed funds that must be repaid with interest.
Who Qualifies?
Eligibility depends on income, enrollment status, and dependency status. Many students qualify for aid, but filing a FAFSA is required to determine eligibility.
Public vs. Private Loans
Federal Loans (Public Loans)
– Offered by the government
– Lower interest rates & flexible repayment
– Subsidized (government pays interest while in school) & Unsubsidized options
Private Loans
– Offered by banks, credit unions, & private lenders
– Higher interest rates, credit-based approvals
– Less flexible repayment terms
Work-Study Opportunities
Work-study programs provide part-time jobs for students with financial need, allowing them to earn money while gaining work experience.
Financial Aid Offices for Local Schools
Below are the financial aid contacts for schools from our Higher Education resources:
–University of Georgia – (706) 542-6147 – Financial Aid Website
– Georgia State University – (404) 413-2600 – Financial Aid Website
– Georgia Tech – (404) 894-4160 – Financial Aid Website
– Morehouse College – (470) 639-0999 – Financial Aid Website
– Spelman College – (404) 270-5193 – Financial Aid Website
– Clark Atlanta University – (404) 880-8992 – Financial Aid Website
– Kennesaw State University – (470) 578-6074 – Financial Aid Website
– University of West Georgia – (678) 839-6421 – Financial Aid Website
– Valdosta State University – (229) 333-5935 – Financial Aid Website
– Albany State University – (229) 500-2020 – Financial Aid Website
– Georgia Southern University – (912) 478-5413 – Financial Aid Website
– Augusta University – (706) 737-1524 – Financial Aid Website
– Fort Valley State University – (478) 825-6327 – Financial Aid Website
– Columbus State University – (706) 507-8800 – Financial Aid Website
– Savannah State University – (912) 358-4162 – Financial Aid Website