It is vital to become aware of all required documents and deadlines. The main types of assistance are gift, merit and self help aid. Gift Aid is granted based upon financial need and does not require repayment. Merit assistance is based upon some qualifying criteria such as academic or athletic achievement. This assistance typically does not require repayment.
Self Help Aid typically comes in the form of work programs or loan programs.
Work programs allow students to work and receive pay for hours worked. Loan Programs allow students to receive low interest rate loans which are not required to be repaid until the student is no longer enrolled or has dropped below half-time. The PLUS Loan program allows parents to borrow low interest rate loans.