Paying for College
Your comprehensive guide to financial aid, scholarships, and college funding options
Funding your college education doesn't have to be overwhelming. With proper planning and knowledge of available resources, you can make college affordable. Our comprehensive guide covers all major funding sources to help you navigate the financial aspects of higher education.
Government Funded Grants & Loans
FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)
Complete your FAFSA form in January of your senior year to access federal financial aid programs.
Available at: www.fafsa.ed.gov
Federal Aid Programs Available:
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Federal Pell Grant
Need-based grant that doesn't need to be repaid
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State Supplemental Grants
Additional state-funded grant programs
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Federal Work-Study
Part-time employment program for students with financial need
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Federal Perkins and Stafford Loans
Low-interest student loans with flexible repayment options
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Federal Plus Loans for Parents
Loans available to parents to help pay for their child's education
College-Specific Scholarships
Institutional Aid
Key Facts:
- ✓ Most scholarship money comes directly from colleges
- ✓ Colleges offer "scholarship packages" based on merit and need
- ✓ Must complete FAFSA to apply for most scholarships
Types of Institutional Aid:
- • Merit-based scholarships
- • Need-based grants
- • Talent-based awards
- • Program-specific scholarships
Company-Specific Scholarships
Employer Scholarships
Many companies offer scholarship programs for employees' children. This is an often-overlooked source of funding that can provide significant financial assistance.
Action Steps:
- 1. Ask parents and grandparents about employer scholarship programs
- 2. Check with HR departments at family members' workplaces
- 3. Look for union-sponsored scholarship programs
- 4. Research professional association scholarships in your intended field
Independent Scholarships
National Scholarship Search Engines
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collegeboard.org
Comprehensive scholarship database
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weeklyscholarshipalert.com
Regular scholarship opportunity alerts
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fastweb.com
Personalized scholarship matching
Local Independent Scholarships
Email Notifications
Sent directly to seniors throughout the year
TCS Website
Listed on our website in the spring
Community Organizations
Local businesses, civic groups, and foundations
Essential Tips for Success
Start Early
Begin searching for scholarships as early as your sophomore year. Many scholarships have early deadlines.
Don't Leave Money on the Table
Millions of scholarship dollars go unused annually because students don't apply. Every scholarship is worth pursuing.
Be Prepared
Prepare answers to common scholarship application questions in advance to streamline the application process.
Beware of Scams
Legitimate scholarships never require upfront fees. If you have to pay to apply, it's likely a scam.
Recommended Websites & Resources
Federal Resources
- www.fafsa.gov - Federal Student Aid
- www.collegeforalltexans.com - Texas State Resources
- www.collegeanswer.com - Planning & Aid Information
Specialized Resources
Additional scholarship sites for specific populations and minority groups are available for students who qualify.
Contact our guidance counselor for specific recommendations based on your background and interests.
Kathy Howard
Guidance Counselor
Ready to Start Your College Financial Planning?
Don't wait until senior year to start planning. The earlier you begin, the more opportunities you'll discover.