Scholarships, Grants, and Institutional Aid

Whether you’re pursuing a certificate, trade program, associate degree, or bachelor’s degree, you can get help paying for college. It can come in the form of financial aid from your state, from the federal government, and/or from the college you plan on attending. And it can also come from scholarships or grants, which money for college that you don’t have to pay back.

The Basics on Grants and Scholarships

Financial aid is money lent or given to you to help you pay for college. Understand the differences between scholarships, grants and loans.

What Is a Pell Grant?

The federal government offers Pell Grants to help students pay for college. Find out if you qualify.

How to Find and Apply for Scholarships

Because scholarships don’t need to be repaid, they can be an important part of making college affordable. There are a few things you can do to simplify the process and save time where possible.

Scholarship Directory

The complete directory of all scholarships available via BigFuture's Scholarship Search tool.

Connect with Colleges and Scholarships

Colleges and scholarship programs are looking for students like you. Help them find you by joining our Student Search Service™.

Get Help Paying for College

Most students get help paying for college. Use these resources to figure out how to find and apply for financial aid and scholarships, and how to understand the difference between gift aid, loans, and work-study jobs.

How to Review and Compare Your Financial Aid Awards

When reviewing your financial aid award, there are a few steps you can take to ensure you’re making a financially informed decision.

How to Get State and Institutional Financial Aid

If you’re planning to attend college and wondering what kinds of financial aid may be available to you, you’re in the right place.

Understanding Your Financial Aid Award Offers

A financial aid offer shows how much financial aid you can receive when attending a specific college. The financial aid offer will help you understand the costs for your first year of college and every year you plan to attend.

How Outside Scholarships Affect Your Financial Aid Package

Getting an outside, or private, scholarship can actually reduce the amount of financial aid you get from your college. But that doesn’t mean you’ll have to pay a bigger share of your college costs.

What to Do When Your Financial Aid Award Isn’t Enough

If you’ve received a financial aid offer from a college you’re interested in attending but find it isn’t enough, you may be eligible to submit a financial aid appeal.

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Basics

To apply for federal financial aid, you have to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Find out how to complete the form and other key information you need to know.

College Loans

If you can’t afford to pay for college with your savings, financial aid, scholarships, and other resources, you may need to take out a loan that needs to be paid back. A college education can increase your career opportunities and your future salary. This means that taking out a college loan—as long as you borrow wisely—can be an excellent investment in your future.