4 easy ways to get money for college
Here are 4 easy ways to get money for college:
- Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid): The FAFSA is the most common way to apply for federal, state, and institutional financial aid. It's free and takes about 30 minutes to complete. You can apply online at fafsa.gov. The FAFSA will determine your Expected Family Contribution (EFC) and help you qualify for federal student loans, grants, and work-study programs.
- Apply for Scholarships: Scholarships are a great way to get free money for college. You can search for scholarships on websites like Fastweb, Scholarships.com, or Niche. You can also check with your school's financial aid office or local organizations for scholarship opportunities. Make sure to apply early, as some scholarships have deadlines as early as January or February.
- Take Out a Private Student Loan: If you need additional funds to cover college expenses, you can consider taking out a private student loan. Private student loans are offered by banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Make sure to compare rates and terms from different lenders to find the best deal. You can also consider a co-signer to help you qualify for a lower interest rate.
- Sell Unwanted Items or Start a Side Hustle: You can also make some extra money for college by selling unwanted items or starting a side hustle. You can sell items on online marketplaces like eBay, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace. You can also start a side hustle like dog walking, tutoring, or freelance writing to earn some extra cash.
Remember, it's always a good idea to prioritize federal student loans and grants over private loans, as they often have more favorable terms and repayment options. Additionally, be sure to carefully review the terms and conditions of any loan or scholarship before accepting it.