Free sources of student aid

The financial aid office at  your college or career school
Be sure to ask about institution aid (funds from the school itself).

A high school counselor

The U.S. Department of Education at www.studentaid.ed.gov
This site tells you everything you need to know about getting federal student aid. Access Department publications, such as The Student Guide and Funding Your Education. Access College Opportunities On-Line (COOL), where you can directly link to more than 9,000 colleges and universities and get information about their programs, costs, and curricula. Get federal school codes for schools you want to list Also get current student loan interest rates and learn what to do if your loan is in trouble. Here you can fill out and transmit the free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), available in English or Spanish. SEE BELOW.

The Florida Department of Education at www.FloridaStudentFinancialAid.org
This site describes the various scholarship and grant programs available to students enrolled in an eligible Florida institution. It also includes the Florida Financial Aid Application, which can be completed online.

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at www.fafsa.ed.gov
Many schools and states rely on the FAFSA as the single application for student aid. Schools use this information to prepare a financial aid package to help students meet their financial needs. We now require it as well.

The reference section of your school or public library

Foundations, religious organizations, community organizations, local businesses and civic groups

Organizations (including professional associations) related to your field of interest

Ethnicity-based organizations

Your employer or your parents' employers

Free scholarship search services
Financial Aid Search Through the Web: www.fastweb.com
Peterson's College Quest: www.petersons.com
Scholarship Resource Network: www.srnexpress.com
The Smart Student Guide to Financial Aid: www.finaid.org
Student Gateway to U.S. Government: www.students.gov.

Check with all of these sources before considering paying for a scholarship search or other financial aid service. Many scams abound. Do not pay for services you can obtain free.