How do I pay for school?

Sometimes the almighty dollar can be a tremendous deterrent to returning to college. It is especially hard if you are raising college age children, trying to save for retirement and keeping your household budget afloat. But don’t worry – where there’s a will, there’s a way.

You have several options in paying for school and the financial aide office can help you find them. Many people do not visit the financial aide because they think they won’t qualify or be eligible for any funds. Each year thousands of educational dollars are left unused simply because nobody applied. You can apply for grants or scholarships that do not have to be repaid. Not all scholarships are based on financial need. You may be eligible for funds based on previous professional affiliations, academic excellence, volunteer experience, being a single mom, or as a member of specific ethnic group. Fastweb.com is a terrific online resource to match up the unique you with scholarships.

Participating in a campus club or program may also open up scholarship opportunities. Trusted advisors or teachers may know of upcoming scholarships. I wasn’t sure that I would be able to pay for school and at 40 years old, I never dreamed I would be eligible for a scholarship (see my story) but with hard work, perseverance, marvelous mentors, and some hearty prayer…it all came together. It can for you too.

 

How much does school cost?

Maricopa Community Colleges

"Lack of money is no obstacle. Lack of an idea is an obstacle."

-Ken Hakuta