Financial aid is not difficult to find if you know where to look. Your eligibility for Federal and institutional aid is determined by the income and asset information you submit on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Get started by checking out the different types of financial aid for which you might be eligible.

Grants
The Federal government, your state of residence, and your educational institution provide grants that you don't have to pay back as long as you maintain you enrollment status, make satisfactory progress toward your degree, and do not leave your degree program. You can use grants to pay for any of your educational expenses. See grants for more information.

Scholarships
Scholarships are available based on a number of criteria. Some corporations offer scholarships for their employees, or you might be eligible based on your income or cultural background. Start your scholarship search for free through your school's financial aid office, online, in your community, and at the public library. See scholarships for more information.

Work-Study
Work-Study is a way for you to earn some of your financial aid award. Ideally, a Work-Study job will be related to your major. If you quality for a Work-Study award, most schools have on campus Work-Study jobs and off campus Work-Study jobs in the community at non-profit organizations or advocacy groups.

Loans
The Federal government offers a number of educational loan programs that allow you to repay the loan after you graduate, withdraw from your online program, or drop below half-time enrollment. A private loan secured through a bank or educational lender provides even more financial flexibility while you're in school. See loans for more information.