FAFSA: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a free online form that students and families can use to apply for federal financial aid for college each year. This aid can include grants, work-study, and loans. Colleges and career schools use the FAFSA data to determine how much aid a student is eligible to receive. Some states and colleges also use FAFSA data to award their own aid.

Scholarships: A scholarship is 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 various types of scholarships – the two most common being merit-based and need-based.

Grants: A college grant is a type of financial aid that doesn't need to be repaid, and is considered a gift of money. Grants can come from a variety of sources, including federal, state, university, or private organizations. They are usually awarded based on financial need, but other factors may also be considered, such as the student's enrollment status or whether they withdraw from the program early.

Loans: A college loan is a sum of money that a student borrows to pay for college or career school, and that they must repay after graduation, plus interest. Loans can be obtained from the federal government, state government, or private companies.

Work-Study: Work-study is a form of student employment limited to part-time during the school year, and students usually work no more than 20 hours a week. Partially funded by the federal government, this program provides financial assistance through student employment.