For parents of high school seniors headed to college, there are two most anxious times of the year. The first one was waiting for the college acceptance letters, and the second one is figuring out how to pay for college.
Good thing that there are now many ways to find free college grant to support your child’s education whatever school he or she decides to go to. All you need to do is know where to search and raise the right questions.
The institutional scholarships universities and colleges offer remain to be available these days. The money is given according to the strength of the overall application. Many institutions will reallocate funds that they offer to students who accepted admission offers at other schools.
This means that it is now time for you to do your homework if you wish to grab a free college grant. Below are some of the most overlooked routes when it comes to getting financial assistance for college education.
Guardian or Parental Employers
Many nonprofit organizations and large corporate provide this benefit to employees and their dependents alike. Most of the time, though, less than 5% of available funds is being used every academic year, with the remaining scholarship dollars left untouched. Many workplace human resource offices will have more details regarding these programs.
Civic and Community Organizations
This kind of free college grant is set by the local communities and fraternal and civic organizations as well. Most of these organizations claim that there are very few applications submitted to them that leaves this available cash right on the table.
Even though these groups often offer relatively smaller monetary amounts, typically ranging from $2,500 to $3,500, it can still make a big difference between enrolling to a second choice or first choice school.
Talent Grants
Although it is well know that there are available scholarships for students for their musical or athletic abilities, there are still many other opportunities that a lot of families and applicants usually overlook.
From debate and speech, to journalism and drama, and even discipline-specific or major specific grants, you can find these and more in certain departments. When looking for a free college grant, it is recommended to check with the financial aid offices of every institution to know what is available.
Minority and Protected Groups
More often than not, there are available funds for students who belong to protected groups or are minorities, like students of certain ethnic and cultural descent, gender-specific opportunities, students with disabilities, and others.
You can also expect to find a free college grant for descendants or children of military veterans or those who served in wars. Cash is also made available for wards of the state, students raised in shelters, and foster children.
It only goes to say that during your search for free college grant, it is a must to cast your net as wide as you can. Check with your school or other organizations because for all you know, they have the answer to your financial needs for your education.