As you begin exploring financial aid options, it's essential to take the time to research and understand the key terms and definitions involved. Knowing the difference between grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study programs can help you make informed decisions about funding your education. Familiarizing yourself with concepts like interest rates, repayment plans, and loan terms empowers you to ask the right questions and avoid costly mistakes. Remember, when it comes to financial aid, information truly is power. The more you know, the better prepared you'll be to make choices that support your long-term success.
FAFSA
Scholarships and Grants
If you need help logging in, refer back to CFNC information page on Plans After High School under Enroll.
That’s right. The Next NC Scholarship is a financial aid program that helps most North Carolinians from households making $80,000 or less pursue higher education. Students attending a community college will receive at least $3,000 per year. Those attending a public university in North Carolina will get a minimum of $5,000 per year. The best part? It’s money that doesn’t have to be repaid.
As home to the nation’s first public university, North Carolina has a long-standing commitment to educational opportunity for all residents. The NC Promise Tuition Plan reaffirms the state’s commitment to make the university experience affordable and accessible to all.
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BigFuture is a free online resource created by the College Board to help students plan for college and career after high school. It provides tools and information to explore careers, find colleges that match your interests, and discover ways to pay for college.
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Work Study
Studentaid.gov - Federal Work-Study jobs help students earn money to pay for college or career school.
CFNC.org - Undergraduate and graduate students with financial need are eligible to participate in work-study programs. This program allows students to work part-time jobs to help pay for their education expenses.
Goingmerry.org - If you’ve been granted a federal work-study award, your part-time employment could earn you more than just a few extra dollars. For some college students, a part-time job can actually improve focus, lead to higher grades, and teach valuable life skills that can’t be learned in a classroom.
Loans
While taking out a loan is often not the preferred option, it’s important to be fully informed and understand all the terms and responsibilities involved before making a financial commitment.
Families are encouraged to explore all student loan options including through their current banking institutions, as they may offer competitive rates or programs tailored for students.