You will want to apply early and to as many programs as possible to maximize your free financial aid for college. The additional cost of college will need to be paid by the student or family, either up-front or after graduation through student loans.
Last updated on June 3, 2023 by College Financial Aid Advice.
Here are some of the best college grants and scholarships.
Application Deadline ASAP after January 1 each year for next school year.
Award Amount up to $6,895 (average grant is less than full amount)
The federal government offers Pell Grants to needy students. Determination is made based upon the FAFSA. If you are wondering if you are eligible, see our website page on Pell Grant Requirements. Apply as early as possible as the funds run out. Federal Pell Grants.
Application Deadline varies, see FAFSA Deadline
Award Amount varies
State grants are offered by most states for college students. Due to budget cuts, many states are cutting back on these programs. Most are need-based scholarships and some are merit-based scholarships. When you file your FAFSA Application, you will be automatically enrolled for some state grants, but not all. Check with your financial aid office to determine eligibility requirements in your state.
Application Deadline varies
Award Amount varies
There are many fun scholarships for college. By fun, I mean ones that are are easy, such as scholarship contests, or ones that are wacky or unusual, and are fun to read about. These are real scholarships that someone will win, so why not you? For more information on fun scholarships see Fun and Easy Scholarships
Application Deadline varies
Award Amount varies.
Sometimes it seems like scholarships are always available for someone else, not you. We have some scholarship lists by year, so you can see which scholarships are available for you. Check out our scholarship lists at the links below:
Scholarships for High School Seniors
Scholarships for High School Juniors
Application Deadline varies
Award Amount varies.
There are many merit-based college grants and scholarships offered by corporations, colleges and universities, trust funds, and even government agencies. For more information see Merit Based Scholarships
Application Deadline varies
Award Amount varies
There are many great scholarships and grants for college bound minority men and women. Some awards are based on merit, and some on both merit and financial need. For more information see Scholarships for Minorities
Do you have some advice to share with other college students about finding scholarships and grants for college? Enter our scholarship essay contest to win $1000 for college. Share your advice on getting the best scholarships and grants for college. See our Scholarship Rules
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Scholarship Lists An overview of the different types of Scholarship Money for College.
Grants Learn more about grants, the other free money for college.
Need Tuition Help? Reduce the cost of tuition with these college Tuition Assistance Programs.
Tax Credit Claim the American Opportunity Tax Credit.
College Savings Plans Save money for college with these College Savings Plans.
Need a Student Loan? Yes, you qualify for these college Student Loans.
Scholarships for High School Students
Equitable Foundation Scholarship
Bill Gates Scholarships for Minorities
College Scholarships for Women
Scholarships for African American Women