How to Find State Grants For College

In order to locate state grants, high school seniors, graduates, and college students should first look into their state’s Department of Higher Education. However, there are some things you should understand about grants before you get started on your search, like how they compare to loans. Here are some of the basics, plus a list of how to locate your state’s available grants with links.

What Are Grants for College Students?

Grants for college students are a form of gift aid that, in most cases, does not have to be paid back unlike loans. However, in some cases, if the student fails to meet the obligation or eligibility requirements of the grant, the money will have to be paid back. For example, if you accept the federal TEACH grant but do not complete your obligation of service after graduation, you will be required to pay the loan back plus interest.

Grants can be awarded based on demonstrated financial need as well as merit. The amount the grant gives depends on the individual program and your specific needs and/or achievements. Awards may also be available in your state for minorities, low-income students, those entering high-need fields, veterans, active service members, those with disabilities, and those in foster care.

Grants can be offered by the federal government, state, private organizations, and schools.

 How Can You Apply to State Grants?

Almost all state grants will require you to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in order to be eligible. This form will also be used to determine your eligibility for college-based financial aid programs, federal financial aid, and loans.

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How Can You Locate State Grants for Colleges?

For most students, you can simply Google for state grants, or you can head over to your state’s Department of Higher Education. These departments tend to have detailed instructions and information on their offers. Almost all states offer at least one grant to their residents, but there are exceptions, and just because one state offers a program does not mean another does the same. These programs widely vary.

A Comprehensive List of State Grant Options

Use the list below to find out what your state offers and where you can find out more information:

  • Hawaii. Hawaii does not have a department of higher education but does have quite a few grants available.
  • Kansas Board of Regents. There are a number of grants available in Kansas including the Kansas Career Technical Workforce Grant.
  • Michigan.gov. MI Student Aid has the Children of Veterans Tuition Grant, Fostering Futures Scholarship, and more.
  • Montana. Montana does not currently have any state-specific grant programs.
  • Nevada. The state of Nevada does not currently offer any grants.
  • Ohio Higher Ed. Choose Ohio First, Nurse Education Assistance Loan Program, and Ohio College Opportunity Grant are just a few options offered by the state.
  • Oklahoma College Start. Oklahoma’s website offers advice for college planning, financial aid tips, and information on their scholarships and grants.
  • Washington, DC. Washington DC offers the DC Tuition Assistance Grant for residents.

If you have any questions about your state’s grant and scholarship options, you may want to reach out to your school. They can help direct you to the correct location for further details and information.

Are you on the lookout for grants and scholarships to help fund your education? Our Scholarship Search Tool can help make the search a breeze.

 

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