As explained in Learn the Different Types of Funding, there are two main methods for applying for financial assistance: FAFSA and non-FAFSA. Utilizing BOTH methods will maximize the amount of scholarships, grants, and non-payback funding you can receive. Here are some basic steps to get you started.
1. Apply for FAFSA
To receive any kind of federal or institutional (college) financial aid, you must apply to FAFSA. It is a common misconception that you will only receive financial assistance through the FAFSA application process if your household is at or below poverty income level, or have extreme financial need. While this is true for federal grants and scholarships, you may still be eligible for institutional awards (through your college) based on the estimated family contribution calculated when you complete a FAFSA application.
FAFSA also opens the door for you to receive other kinds of financial assistance that is not awarded through your college’s Financial Aid Office. Many other sources of funding will ask for your “Student Aid Report” that is generated when you complete a FAFSA application. The reality is college is expensive for everyone, including middle and middle-high income wage earners.
Click below to learn more about FAFSA and how to apply.
2. Apply to Other Sources of Funding (non-FAFSA)
To apply to other sources of funding, you will need to complete additional applications from FAFSA. These sources may be scholarships, grants, stipends or private loans. There are various organizations, including your own college, that offer these different sources of funding. These other sources of funding are not always easy and straightforward to find, and each have their own (sometimes complicated) processes for applying.
It may also feel overwhelming trying to sift through all the different sources of funding to see which ones you qualify for. While you may be tempted to just applying for everything in one quick swoop with the same answers to all the different applications, whether or not you qualify for a particular scholarship, this strategy is not recommended as that can decrease your chances of receiving any funding. Use some of the tips and strategies for applying to other sources of funding included in the link below to help you navigate the complex web of funding. With a few insider tips, you be on your way to receive funds that will make all your efforts worth it.
Remember to Search for ECE-Related Sources of Funding
Searching for funding that matches your situation does not have to take endless hours of time searching if you have the right strategies and tools. Just knowing a few tricks can help save you time and energy. Below is a quick list of funding sources for ECE students both in the UH system as well as anyone in general working to earn ECE credentials. Be sure to follow the strategies for applying to other sources of funding before diving into these applications!
3. Follow Tips for Successful Scholarship Applications
No matter which college you attend, there are some general steps you should follow to guarantee your ability to receive funds. Follow these simple steps to get started.
