There are grants to help you pay college tuition.
The cost of getting a college education continues to increase exponentially. According to the "Los Angeles Times," college costs rose higher than inflation in 2010 by 7.9 percent at public colleges and 4.5 percent at private institutions. This reality has made grants an even more important part of every college student's financial plan. Grants offered by both public and private sources can help students pay for college.
Federal Pell Grant
Federal Pell Grant is offered by the U.S. government and is open to all incoming freshmen that come from low-income families. All applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents and can be part-time or full-time students. They must also demonstrate financial need by using the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Recipients will get up to $5,550. Students who lost a parent during military service in Iraq or Afghanistan will receive the maximum amount.
Illinois Veteran Grant
The state of Illinois offers a college grant to residents who are military veterans. To qualify, applicants must have served at least a year in the United States Armed Forces, in the Illinois National Guard or in the reserve component of the armed forces. Those selected will receive money to pay full tuition and fees at an Illinois public college or university. These include community colleges, and applicants must be enrolled in full-time study. Recipients that are members of the Illinois National Guard can combine this grant with the Illinois National Guard Grant Program.
Cal Grants
Administered by the California State Aid Commission, Cal Grants give financial assistance to California residents. Selected candidates, will be graduating high school seniors or GED holders, and they can receive up to $11,124 through the Cal Grant A award to pay for college. The Cal Grant B awards gives $1,551 to pay for books, while the Cal Grant C award provides $576 for books and $2592 for tuition. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents and must demonstrate financial need. They must also plan to attend a qualifying California college as either part-time or full-time students. Most male applicants are expected to have registered with the U.S. Selective Services.
Ruth Simms Hamilton Research Fellowship
The Ruth Simms Hamilton Research Fellowship offers a grant to two graduate students each year. The annual program is one of many grants administered by the TIAA-CREF Institute. It was named for the late Dr. Ruth Simms Hamilton, who was a professor at Michigan State University. Applicants must be pursuing a degree in Africana or African diaspora studies. Those selected can receive up to $30,000.
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