subject: Advice On Applying For College Grants [print this page] Beginning life as a new college graduate is a new, exciting, and anxious time for many young adults. Adding to the stress of finding a job and making their mark in the world is student loan debt. While most college graduates have student loans to pay back, debt is never a fun issue to deal with. Depending on how much was required to borrow, payments can range from as little as $50 a month up to several hundred dollars. There are federally funded loans available to parents, also, to help keep the student from shouldering the entire amount.
Especially in today's economy, and with education costs rising, college grants and scholarships are a necessity for the average person. Generally, the recipient earns scholarships in some way, while the grant is applied for.
There are almost as many scholarships and college grants as schools to attend- public and private grants, each with their own particular stipulations, requirements, and deadlines. Some guidelines are very general, while others are very explicit. Some grants can be applied for through the institution's financial aid office, while others can be privately sought after. There are also grants for online or long-distance learning, which is becoming more and more available.
When looking for a college grant, first, determine what you need that grant to cover. Do some research to get an estimate of costs to be covered over the enrollment period you require. The best place to start is with your local library and the foundation directory. Ask your reference librarian for help. Local awards may not necessarily be listed online. You can check with your college of choice to see what they may offer, and do an internet search.
Once you have found an appropriate grant, carefully check application requirements and submission deadlines. A grant offered twice a year may not work immediately for you if your school's enrollment and registration processes do not fit the grant's timeline. Give yourself ample time to gather required documents, and then thoroughly and accurately complete the grant application.
Lastly, when at all possible, follow up on your application. Inquire when you might receive an answer from the granting body. If you are filing for more than one grant, keep accurate records for yourself with timelines, and space for filing document copies.
Once you have applied for a college grant, the process will not seem so daunting, and you will become familiar with general characteristics and nature of the college grant. Best wishes for success.
