Now available! Students can begin to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid or what is known as the FAFSA. Recently, Alabama passed legislation making FAFSA completion the newest addition to state graduation requirements. The FAFSA is also required for any student seeking federal and state financial aid, including grants and scholarships in some colleges. Most Alabama students qualify for Pell Grants of up to $6,495 per year; furthermore, Pell Grants do not have to be paid back.
Scholarship: financial support awarded to a student, based on academic achievement or other criteria that may include financial need, for the purpose of schooling. There are two major scholarship categories -
Merit-Based: awarded based on academic performance.
Need-Based: awarded based on the financial need of an applicant.
Athletic-Based: awarded based on the athletic performance of an applicant.
Grant: federal or governmental funds that serve as financial aid for a student's education but generally do NOT have to be repaid.
Loan: a form of financial aid that must be repaid at a later date.
Planning for college involves more than just choosing a major and campus—it also includes understanding the financial investment required to reach your goals. Reviewing financial options early helps you make informed choices that can impact your academic path and future financial stability. Scholarships, grants, dual enrollment credits, and financial aid all play a critical role in reducing the cost of higher education, and each option offers unique benefits that can shape your journey. We encourage families to explore these resources together and consider the long-term value of careful financial planning. Taking the time now to understand your funding options can help make college affordable and set you up for success well beyond graduation.
All Montgomery Public School students have access to Get Schooled, a free, personalized, online scholarship resource and post-secondary support platform. By registering, students receive mobile-friendly correspondence that includes videos and articles about scholarships, paying for college, and financial literacy. MPS students, also have the opportunity to receive actionable feedback on college and scholarship essays once you register.