These are forms of financial aid that do not have to be repaid by the student. Examples of these types of financial aid include:

• State and Federal Grants and Scholarships

• Private/Corporate Grants and Scholarships

• Institutional Grants and Scholarships

Loans

This type of financial aid must be repaid. Examples of these types of financial aid include:

• Federal Perkin Loans

• Federal Direct Subsidized Loans

• Unsubsidized Federal and State Loans

• Private Loans

These are financial aid programs for individuals who agree to perform certain work or services after completing college. Many of these programs require a minimum number of payments and a commitment to working in public service fields in areas of high need. Depending on the program they may help to pay a portion of your student loan or completely forgive the amount of the loan remaining after the term of service is complete.

This is a state prepaid tuition plan and 529 college savings plan. The prepaid tuition plan allows individuals to for tomorrow’s college tuition costs at Texas public colleges and universities at today’s prices. A 529 college savings plan is an investment account that offers tax-free growth and tax-free withdrawals on earnings used for qualified higher education expenses.

There are a number of federal income tax credits and deductions and other programs for college students.

These are waivers of tuition and/or fees for certain students who aren’t Texas residents.

These are jobs (usually on campus) that are offered by the college to help students pay for tuition or other college costs; work-study jobs are awarded based on financial need.

Learn more about financial aide using the following:

• Financial Aid Links

• Financial Aid Chart

• Tuition Assistance Programs

• Potential Tax Benefits for Higher Education

• Evaluating Award Offers