There are many factors that play into applying for college, but one remains constant- the price. As fears of infinite debt continue to burden students and their families across the globe, applying for scholarships can lessen the burden. Here are some tips from FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid), a trustworthy tool aiding students in college costs:

Scholarships are essentially free money offered by schools, employers, individuals, private companies, nonprofits, communities, religious groups, and professional and social organizations

You can find scholarships on:

• Our HS website
• US Department of labor’s free scholarship tool (https://www.careeronestop.org/toolkit/training/find-scholarships.aspx) 
• Various foundations, religious or community organizations, local businesses
• Organization related to your field of interest

You can apply for scholarships before their deadline- some are year round, at the beginning or end of each month, etc- It should state it in the scholarships description when applying.

Some scholarship money may go directly to your college to aid in costs, and others may send a check right to you. This information will be included in the scholarship description. If it isn’t, make sure you ask!

Scholarships affect your total student aid, because all of the aid added together can’t be over the total cost of attendance at the college or career school you plan on attending. You will need to let the school you plan on attending know of the scholarships you receive, and they will subtract that amount from your cost of attendance as well as other aids like loans. Any other amounts can be covered by financial aid if eligible.