College grants, unlike loans, do not have to be repaid. Finding grants for college is often easier than scholarships because they come with many need-based financial aid packages. Need-based college grants and as well as academic grants are available from the federal government. In addition, some private foundations and organizations offer grants for nontraditional students.
FAFSA
In order to apply for federal grants, you must submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA application is available online and through your community college's financial aid office. When you submit a FAFSA application, you are automatically considered for a variety of need-based and academic grants. Each school has a limited amount of FAFSA funds available to students, and grants are given based on each student's level of need. Your level of need is measured by your EFC, or Estimated Family Contribution.
Pell Grant
Pell grants are available for low-income students. In addition to your level of need, Pell grants are awarded based on your cost to attend school, part-time or full-time enrollment status and whether you attend school for a full academic year or less. Generally, full-time students who attend community college for a full year receive more aid than part-time students. As of 2011, the maximum Pell Grant you can receive for one academic year is $5,500.
FSEOG
Students with the lowest income and EFC often receive a Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant in addition to the Pell Grant. In determining eligibility, the U.S. Department of Education uses your income and assets if you are independent; your parents' income and assets if you are dependent; the size of your household; and the number of family members in your home, excluding parents, attending postsecondary school. As of 2011, FSEOG grants range between $100 and $4,000 per year.
SMART Grant
In addition to the FSEOG and Pell Grant, the federal government offers an academic grant called the National Science and Mathematics Access to Retain Talent Program (SMART). You qualify for the SMART grant if you excelled in challenging coursework in high school. The purpose of the grant is to encourage students to pursue college majors that impact the global economy, such as science, mathematics, technology, engineering and critical foreign languages
Private Grants
Aside from federal awards, grants from private institutions are available to attend community college. Grants for nontraditional students are available for applicants from all backgrounds. Grants for older women returning to school, such as the Soroptimist Women's Opportunity Grant, help women with significant financial need afford the cost of attending college. Veterans in the state of Illinois can apply to receive the Illinois Veteran Grant (IVG). Consult with your community college financial aid office to find out additional grant opportunities available from the college or alumni donors.
Tags: community college, Pell Grant, level need, academic grants, academic year