Social Security payments are available up to age 18 for unmarried students with a deceased parent or a parent who is disabled or drawing Social Security benefits. State vocational rehabilitation offices usually have financial assistance for people with visual impairments, with hearing or speech difficulties, or with other physical disabilities. The U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs has financial aid available for Native American students. The local branch of your state employment office provides information about two government programs which are set up to train the unemployed. Both provide money for going to school.
Relatives often provide financial help for a dedicated student.
Someone who would be reluctant or unwilling to lend you money for a car, a new business, or a trip to the South Pacific might be honored to help you get an education. A sincere, straightforward request is never insulting. Personal savings comprise the bulk of money spent on higher education. Use money from savings accounts, bonds, stocks, or trusts set up by others to support your education. Employment is another way students can get additional money.