• Cost of Education includes tuition and fees, books, and supplies, room and board, transportation and some personal expenses.
• Your Family Contribution is determined from the FAFSA. This amount is the same regardless of the college you attend.
• Financial Need is calculated from the formula above. Your financial need will change depending on the cost of the school. Types of Financial Aid Scholarships are sometimes based on financial need, but may award talents such as academics or music. Look for scholarships a year before you attend college.

Grants are difficult to qualify for because they are based on financial need. They are considered gift aid and don't have to be repaid. Complete the FAFSA to determine if you are eligible for the following grants:

• Federal Pell Grant
  The largest grant fund available. Pell Grants range from $400 to $2,700.
• Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant (SEOG)
  A federal grant administered by the college financial aid office.
• State Grant
  A joint federal and state funded grant program. Contact your college financial aid office to find out how to apply for this grant in your state.
• Institutional Grants
  Many colleges administer their own private grant funds, contact your college financial aid office for details. Federal Work-Study jobs are often offered to students with financial need and who submit their FAFSA on time. Student Loans are an excellent resource if you borrow wisely. Your financial aid office determines if you qualify for need-based or non-need-based loans.
• The Federal Perkins Loan may be offered by your college and requires a completed promissory note.
• Through the Federal Stafford Loan Program, students with financial need may qualify to have the government pay loan interest while in school. Those who don't show need may qualify for an Unsubsidized Stafford Loan.
• The Federal PLUS Loan is for parents to help fund their child's education.