Smart Financial Aid Strategies: Maximizing Grants, Scholarships, and Work-Study to Reduce College Costs

Smart Financial Aid Strategies: Maximizing Grants, Scholarships, and Work-Study to Reduce College Costs

It’s no secret that a college education doesn’t come cheap. As of 2024, the average annual cost of college in the U.S. was $38,270. That’s more than double the cost of college in the 20th century, so it’s no wonder that student loan debt sits at $1.777 trillion. With such stark statistics, how can you…

How to Pay for College Without Loans: 15 Proven Strategies That Work

How to Pay for College Without Loans: 15 Proven Strategies That Work

The average college graduate in the United States leaves school with over $40,000 in student loan debt, a financial burden that can take decades to repay. For many students and families, that number isn’t just overwhelming, it’s paralyzing.  Whether you’re a high school senior preparing for college or a current student reconsidering how to finance…

Girl holding books in front of school building

10 Financial Aid Myths Busted: What Students and Parents Need to Know

Misinformation about financial aid myths can derail even the best college plans, leaving students and families confused or stuck with unnecessary debt. From FAFSA misconceptions to confusion over scholarships, these myths can cost you thousands.  In this guide, we’ll bust 10 common college financial aid myths, share financial aid facts, and give you practical strategies…

Navy ROTC Scholarship

What Is the Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) Scholarship Program? The NROTC Scholarship Program funds college education while training students for naval service. Its cornerstone, the Four-Year National Scholarship, covers full tuition at participating schools, provides a $750 yearly book stipend, monthly stipends (starting at $250 for freshmen, rising to $400 for seniors), and…

McDonald’s HACER Scholarship

What Is the McDonald’s HACER National Scholarship? The McDonald’s HACER National Scholarship was established in 1985 to support Hispanic high school seniors by providing financial assistance for college. Open to students planning to attend accredited two- or four-year institutions in the U.S., this scholarship awards up to 30 recipients annually with funds ranging from $5,000…

Marine Corps Scholarship

What Is the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation? The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation is more than just a financial aid program; it’s a tribute to the resilience of Marine families. It offers scholarships to children of active duty, reserve, or veteran U.S. Marines, as well as Navy Corpsmen, Chaplains, and Religious Program Specialists who have served…

Doodle for Google Scholarship

What Is the Doodle for Google Scholarship? The Doodle for Google Scholarship was established to inspire students in grades K–12 to reimagine the Google logo by providing financial assistance to those committed to creativity and artistic expression. Open to students attending U.S.-based schools or homeschools, this scholarship awards a $55,000 college scholarship to the National…

Davidson Fellows Scholarship

What Is the Davidson Fellows Scholarship? The Davidson Institute Fellows Scholarship recognizes extraordinary students 18 and under who have completed a “significant piece of work” in one of eight categories: Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, Literature, Music, Philosophy, or Outside the Box.  With awards of $100,000, $50,000, or $25,000, fund tuition and related expenses at accredited…

Black at Microsoft (BAM) Scholarship

What Is the Black at Microsoft (BAM) Scholarship? The Black at Microsoft (BAM) Scholarship was established to support high school seniors of African descent by providing financial assistance to those committed to education, leadership, and pursuing careers in technology. Open to students planning to enroll in four-year colleges or universities in the U.S., this scholarship…

Point Foundation Scholarship

What Are The Point Foundation Scholarships Three unique scholarships and one award are offered by The Point Foundation: The Point Foundation Flagship Scholarship, The Point Foundation BIPOC Scholarship, The Point Foundation Community College Scholarship, and Point’s Internship & Professional Development Award. These scholarships, under the Point Foundation umbrella, empower LGBTQ students with tailored support.  The…

Mesothelioma.com Scholarship

What Is the Mesothelioma.com Scholarship? The Mesothelioma.com Scholarship aids students affected by any form of cancer, a disease often linked to factors like asbestos exposure in cases like mesothelioma, once common in construction and manufacturing. Cancer can strike decades after its cause, impacting workers like insulators or veterans, and families through secondary effects. Launched in…

Home Depot Scholarships

What Is the FutureReady Scholarship? me Depot supports multiple scholarship programs tailored to different students: These programs reflect Home Depot’s mission to foster talent in industries that build and improve communities, offering both financial aid and encouragement for future leaders. Who Is Eligible for the Home Depot Scholarship? Eligibility varies by program: All applicants must…