Picture of graduation cap and moneyAre you independently wealthy? Me neither, that’s why I relied on federal financial aid to pay for college. If you’re in college, it’s time to apply for student financial aid. Almost all two- and four-year colleges, universities and career schools use the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form to award federal student aid, and most state and college aid.

There are three categories of federal student aid: grants, work-study, and loans. I don’t know how I would have managed to afford college without my loans and my work-study job.

Federal student aid covers expenses such as tuition, fees, room, board, books, supplies, and transportation. Aid also can help pay for a computer and for dependent care.

It’s a good idea to apply for federal aid before other sources, because federal loans usually offer lower interest rates, and have more flexible repayment options than loans from banks or other private sources. Your school’s financial aid office is the best place to learn about the full range of financial aid available to you.

And please don’t get caught up in the scams! The federal student aid application is available for free from the Department of Education.

Apply online today.

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