Federal and State Aid
The government provides a huge chunk of all financial aid - about 70 percent - and even adults can qualify. This money can help pay for everything from a two-year technical program to a doctoral degree.
Learn everything you can and get your share.
Are You an Independent Student?
You're automatically "independent" at age 24. This can be a good thing because you may qualify for more aid. However, the government sets strict guidelines for defining independent students, so don't try to fool them. If you are independent and married, you will have to report your spouse's income.
The Need Factor
From the federal perspective, need is pretty straightforward:
- COA (Cost of Attendance) - EFC (Expected Family Contribution) = Need
You are considered to have need at a participating school if your EFC is less than the cost. That means you should qualify for financial aid.
Billions of Dollars, One Application: the FAFSA
One form is your gateway to all government and much college-based aid. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is used to determine what you'll pay and how much help you're entitled to.
Big important FAFSA rules:
- Submit your form ASAP after January 1
- Everyone (and we mean everyone) should apply
- Respond immediately to requests for more information
Tax Breaks and Tuition
There are more ways to save on your tuition than squirreling away your pennies and searching for scholarships. Under a program promoted by the IRS, you can receive tax breaks if you paid tuition for yourself, a spouse, or a child.
Next Steps
If you're planning for college, you may receive grants, work-study, and loans. Grad students generally don't receive grants from the government, but can still qualify for loans, work-study, and institutional awards. Every student should apply.
- Download FAFSA Forms (This will open in a new window)
- Find FAFSA Tips
- Get an Overview of the FAFSA
- Explore Federal Awards
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