Different Types of Aid
There are two basic types of financial aid: federal financial aid and college scholarships and grants.

• Federal Financial Aid: Federal financial aid is based on need, and to qualify, you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which can be found online at www.fafsa.ed.gov. This application allows you to apply for grants, scholarships and loans issued through the U.S. government. Once you submit the application, the Department of Education decides how much aid you should receive and sends information to the college.
• College Scholarships and Grants: The college will send information about federal aid awarded to your teen as well as any college scholarships or grants he received. You may have to complete a separate form to apply for various college scholarships, and this can be done at the time of application.

Work-Study Programs
The Work-Study program is a federally-funded program that places students in part-time jobs to help them pay school expenses. The government pays some or all of a student’s wages. The student earns money for school while gaining real-world experience. Parents and teens can indicate an interest in the Work-Study program on the FAFSA and, if your teen is eligible, he’ll be matched with work based on personal information on the application.