Scholarships help cover college costs and are not repaid. Some are based on financial need, but many reward talents such as academics, leadership, music or athletics. Many scholarships are competitive and have early deadlines. You get paid for the hours worked so don't expect the money up front to pay tuition. Work-Study is awarded based on financial need so your earnings are excluded from the financial aid formula.
Some loans are in the student's name and some are for parents.
These types of financial aid are based on Free Application for Federal Student Aid results. Top The Financial Aid Process Step 1. Add other extracurricular activities to demonstrate your involvement and leadership abilities. Look for scholarships a year before you need them to catch early deadlines. Ask your guidance counselor about local and private scholarships, and line up letters of recommendation.