Marriage and a college degree are not mutually exclusive.
Students intending to marry while they pursue a college degree should consider the decision carefully. The choice can have both positive and negative consequences on the amount of financial aid you receive. On one hand, by marrying, you are considered financially independent and won't have to declare your parents' assets on your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). On the other hand, both you and your spouse's income will be evaluated jointly, which can cause the total amount of your award to go down.
Instructions
1. Complete the FAFSA form. This is the basic form used by the United States Department of Education to determine aid eligibility. It is also used by universities and private organizations who issue grants and scholarships. Fill out the form whether or not you anticipate receiving aid from the government.
2. Visit your school's financial aid office to investigate internal funding opportunities. Though there is probably not a grant or scholarship set aside specifically for married students, there will likely be funds set aside for students in your department and college. Focus on local grants and scholarships to have the advantage of competing against a smaller pool of students.
3. Search the Internet for scholarships for married students. In the text box, put the terms "married," "scholarship" or "grants" in quotes to narrow your results. Enter the term "parents" in quotes if you have children.
4. Apply to financial aid programs at your spouse's place of employment. These programs are most prevalent for the spouses of government or university employees. However, some private companies such as the Coca Cola Corp. and KS Energy Services in Wisconsin set aside scholarship funds for the spouses and children of employees.
5. Search for scholarships designated for nontraditional students. The National Center for Education Statistics defines a nontraditional student as one who is older than 22, re-entering higher education after a long absence or has dependents (a spouse or children). Since more married students are likely to fit these criteria, nontraditional student scholarships are a good opportunity to apply for funds and compete against a smaller pool of applicants.
Tags: married students, against smaller, against smaller pool, college degree, grants scholarships, nontraditional student