Know Your Options
There are many sources of financial aid for students, including government loans and scholarships. In addition, there are many non-governmental organizations and foundations that provide assistance.
Click on the links below to learn about various types of financial aid that are available to students.
• Federal Student Aid Loans. Loans are the most common federal aid and must be repaid when you graduate or leave college.
• Federal Grants. Grants require no repayment, and the federal government has a number of grant programs.
• Work-Study Programs. Work-study programs allow you to earn money while in school.
• Aid in Exchange for Public Service. In order to encourage people to choose certain careers in public service, the federal assistance program provides aid in exchange for services provided.
• Targeted Aid for Specific Groups. There are several financial aid options available for certain people groups, as well as for specific professions.
• Aid from the State of Tennessee. The Tennessee government also has a number of financial aid programs, including a scholarship lottery, merit-based grants, and aid for specific people groups.
• Non-governmental assistance. There are many private foundations, corporations, and organizations that provide both need-based and merit-based scholarships. For a few tips to help you get started, click here.
Note: Colleges and universities provide approximately 20% of all aid students receive -- it is, therefore, important that you also check the website of any school you’re applying to for information on financial aid opportunities.
