February is Financial Aid Awareness Month
February is Financial Aid Awareness Month, a national campaign organized by the Department of Education aimed at helping students and parents learn about the various financial aid options available to pay for college.
Here are resources to secure funding for higher education:
- Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Submit the FAFSA early to maximize aid opportunities and gain access to federal, state and institutional aid. Many states and colleges use the FAFSA application to determine eligibility for aid.
Attend UNCF’s free monthly webinars to learn more about our scholarships, internships and programs. UNCF awards more than 11,000 scholarships to students every year—totaling more than $60 million in financial aid. Apply to UNCF scholarships.
- Apply to as many scholarships as possible. Research scholarships at your institution, state, those that are merit-based, athletic-focused and for other interests. Private scholarships are also available from nonprofit organizations, foundations and businesses. Search for scholarships on databases such as the College Board’s Scholarship Search. Check eligibility requirements and make sure to submit complete applications.
Speak with your high school counselor and college financial aid office to learn about all types of aid. Research scholarships, fellowships, grants, work-study programs and loans. These financial aid options can help cover the costs of tuition, fees, books and other expenses related to students’ education.
- Follow the hashtag #FinAidFeb on social media for more tips.
Financial Aid Awareness Month is a great time to explore college financial planning, financial aid options and how to pay for college. Take advantage of the resources and information available to make informed decisions about your education and financial future.