The first step is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). As the name of the FAFSA implies, the form can help you to apply for and determine eligibility for various federal student aid through grants and loans.1
There are certain items and documents you may need to fill out the form, which may need to be completed every year your child attends college. Items you will likely need when filling out the FAFSA may include:
- Social Security numbers
- Tax records
- Records of untaxed income (e.g. child support)
- Records of all assets
Be sure you do not mail original documents, as you’ll need these records in the future, as well. When filling out the FAFSA online, save your progress as you go. You do not need to complete the entire form in one session.
Avoid Loans — Earn Scholarships
Scholarships can help when trying to figure out how to pay for college without loans. Scholarships are often offered by outside organizations, as well as opportunities for scholarships at the university you are applying for.
These organizations typically set up scholarship funds for students who display qualities they want to raise awareness about. Scholarships are typically available to a wide range of individuals, and eligibility criteria vary depending on the scholarship program. Common factors that can determine eligibility for scholarships may include academic achievement, financial need, field of study, extracurricular involvement, specific demographics (e.g., ethnicity, gender, or region) and other qualifications set by the scholarship provider.2
In addition to outside organizations, universities themselves may offer scholarships. For example, Grand Canyon University offers a variety of scholarship options for both traditional on-campus and online students. GCU has also compiled a list of outside scholarships that our incoming students may wish to apply to.
Apply for Grants
Grants are awarded based on need. Unlike loans, grants do not have to be repaid.4 In order to be considered for federal grants, students must fill out the FAFSA.1
The application window now opens as early as Oct. 1, which is a departure from the previous Jan. 1 start date. It’s recommended that you complete yours as quickly as possible since some awards are subject to availability.3
In addition to federal grant opportunities, students may be eligible for university-offered grants. Talk to university counselor at GCU about the scholarship and grant opportunities that your child may qualify for.
