If you're not a homeowner or you have very poor credit, consider debt relief instead of a mortgage.

1) Type of debt:

Credit Card Debt
Student Loan Debt
Tax Debt
Other Debt

2) What State do you live in?

 
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Private Scholarships

As a part-time student, private scholarships can be a powerful tool for you. Combine scholarships with your income and other sources of aid to make your education more affordable. Regardless of your employment or financial aid status, you may be eligible to find a scholarship that supplements your existing financial package.

Private scholarships come in all forms, but all encourage different kinds of students to achieve their goals of completing an educational program. Scholarship sponsors use different criteria when selecting award recipients. The most frequent sponsors of private scholarships include: 

  • Employers
  • Charitable foundations
  • Local governments
  • Private benefactors
  • Social action groups

Unlike some loan and grant programs, which are often based on merit or financial need, private scholarships often assist students from all economic and academic backgrounds. For example: If your parents work for a large corporation, scholarships might be available to you even if you are no longer a dependent. Other groups sponsor scholarships that recognize student achievements in sports, politics, academics, or community involvement. 

Scholarships come in a variety of amounts and with different requirements. A growing number of Web sites offer free professional scholarship information and searches to get you started. Begin your search online at FastWeb and FinAid. Members of your community might be able to tell you where to find local scholarship opportunities. Look for advice from:

  • Small business managers
  • Elected officials
  • Law enforcement agencies
  • Leaders of community organizations
  • Religious or social leaders

Educational institutions often manage a portfolio of alumni and donor scholarships, so make sure to ask your school financial aid office how to apply for any scholarships they have available.

Scholarships often have personalized applications, which include student status or GPA requirements. Scholarships administered by schools also use information from the FAFSA to determine the specialized financial need for the scholarships they administer. Check with your financial aid office for more information about their scholarships.