What financial aid options are available for community college students?

Community college students can usually access the same main categories of aid as students at four-year colleges: federal and state grants, institutional scholarships, outside scholarships, work-study, and federal student loans.

The starting point is the FAFSA. If you qualify financially, the biggest source of aid is often the Federal Pell Grant, which does not need to be repaid. Depending on your state, you may also qualify for state grant programs, and some states have “free community college” or tuition promise programs that cover part or all of tuition after other aid is applied.

Community colleges also often have their own scholarships, though the amounts are usually smaller than at many four-year schools. These can be based on academics, financial need, your major, local residency, or things like community service. Local foundations and community organizations are also common scholarship sources for community college students.

Federal Work-Study may be available if your college participates and you show financial need. That gives you a part-time job, often on campus, and you earn money through paychecks rather than having the funds directly applied to your bill.

Loans are available too, mainly federal Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans. Subsidized loans are better if you qualify, because the government covers the interest while you are in school at least half time. Community college students can borrow, but many students try to keep borrowing low since total costs are often lower.