A major concern for students planning to attend college is how to pay for college.   Paying for college should not be a barrier to attending college. 

This section provides information on sources of financial aid including the federal and state government, the colleges and universities, grants, scholarships, and loans.   

Students and parents should think about and plan  how they will finance a child’s college education and explore sources of funding.

• Types of Financial Aid
• How Financial Aid Works
• Glossary of Terms-U.S. Dept. of Education
• Quick Guide to Financial Aid Terms
• Frequently Asked Questions about Financial Aid
• Myths About Financial Aid

Applying for Financial Aid – Students apply for financial aid after January 1st of their senior year in high school.

• Applying  for Financial Aid
• How Do I Apply for Federal Student Aid?
• FAFSA-Free Application for Federal Student Aid          
• FAFSA Step by Step
• What Information Do I Need for the FAFSA?
• Financial Aid Calendar   
• Financial Aid Calculator
• CSS Profile – Some universities require the CSS Profile in addition to the FAFSA.  Check with the university you plan to attend.

Grants and Scholarships  

• TEXAS Grant
• Scholarships   – There are many sources of scholarships. Students usually apply for scholarships in their senior year.  Students may review the scholarship links offered in this section but should work closely with their senior class counselor who provides most of the information on scholarships at the high school.
• Scholarship Resources- College for Texans 
• Be Aware of Scholarship Scams   

College Costs

• The Cost of Education
• Average Costs of Texas Colleges & Universities
• NCES College Search/Costs
• Tips for Reducing College Costs
• Saving for College
• Tax Credits & Other Programs
• Texas Tomorrow Funds

Texas Financial Aid Center Hotline

1-888-311-8881- The Texas Financial Aid  hotline operates from Monday through Thursday from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and on Friday from 7:00 a.m. to   5:00 p.m. Bilingual operators are available.