The FSEOG Program Awards College Grants Based on Significant Financial Need

Finding sources for paying college tuition can be an extremely frustrating task. There’s a lot of competition for scholarships, and most students would rather not take out a loan that they’ll spend the first years of their career paying back. There are others who would really like to attend college but don’t think they can afford it at all. The good news is that there is money out there for every college student. It just takes knowledge on where to look. Luckily, there are numerous federal grants out there to apply for, such as the FSEOG program.

The Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant is awarded to undergraduate students each year based on their financial aid needs. These students may receive an amount between $100 and $4,000 a year depending upon the extent of their need. In 2009, the FSEGO program awarded a total of $958,816,000 to undergrad students across the country. About 4,000 colleges and universities receive money from the FSEOG every year.

These grants are available to both full-time and part-time students, but those who attend school full time will receive larger amounts than those will a lighter course load. Since more than one grant may be awarded by this and other programs, the amount awarded also depends on what other grants the student qualifies for. If you are awarded an amount under the FSEOG program, you will be notified through either postal mail or email. The money can go toward your tuition, boarding, or other charges.

The incredible ease of applying for this grant is one of the details that makes it so appealing. All you have to do is fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which most college students will fill out each semester anyway to see if they are eligible for loans of other financial aid. If you are deemed eligible for this particular needs-based grant, then you will either receive a check through the mail or the amount may be credited to your school. Be sure to apply in a timely manner, as the money is limited and may run out quickly.

Make sure to fill out your FAFSA each year, because you are not automatically guaranteed to receive the money every year once accepted. Don’t be discouraged if you aren’t accepted for the grant. Keep applying each year for this and other great programs that will assist you in paying for your college education.