It is always a good idea to assume that you might be eligible for financial aid, regardless of your family’s income. Many families may miss the opportunity to receive aid because they assume their income is too high and never apply for the aid. Family income is only one factor that determines whether you are eligible for financial aid. Other factors that are considered include:

-         Cost of attending selected schools
-        Value of family assets
-        Size of family
-       Number of children in college in your family
-        Other factors

Apply for financial aid by going to http://www.fafsa.ed.gov. Follow the process outlined at the Web site, and fill out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Pay attention to application deadlines, as federal, state, and individual school deadlines may all vary.

Financial aid is likely to come from three sources: Federal, State, or private aid offered by individual institutions. Some forms of federal aid are available to families of any income size. Federal student loans that may be awarded regardless of income include Stafford Loans and PLUS Loans.

Schools may offer scholarships that are merit based instead of need-based. Athletic scholarships may be available. Contact your school’s financial aid office for more information. Additionally, private organizations may offer scholarships that may or may not be need-based. Check out the following Web sites for information about possible scholarship opportunities:

-http://search.cashe.com 
-http://www.college-scholarships.com
-http://www.fastweb.com