How to Pay for College

April 27, 2026

Paying for college is one of the most pressing concerns for prospective students and their families. Whether you are preparing to earn a bachelor’s degree or pursuing graduate education, understanding how to apply for school aid and the different types available can meaningfully reduce what you pay out of pocket.

Apply for School Aid: Scholarships, Grants, Federal Aid, and More

Start with the FAFSA

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the foundation of any financial aid strategy. Submitting it is free and opens the door to the largest source of financial aid for college students, including federal grants, work-study programs, and federal student loans. States and institutions also use FAFSA data to award their own aid packages, making it an essential step no matter where you plan to study.

The FAFSA opens each fall for the upcoming academic year, and applying as early as possible is strongly advised. Many states and schools set priority deadlines well before the federal cutoff. You will need to resubmit the FAFSA each year you seek federal aid.

Grants vs. Scholarships: What’s the Difference?

Grants

Grants are typically need-based awards. They generally do not need to be repaid, making them among the most valuable forms of aid available. The Federal Pell Grant is the most well-known example, awarded to undergraduate students who demonstrate financial need and have not yet earned a bachelor’s degree. Other federal grants include the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), directed at students with exceptional financial need, and the TEACH Grant for students preparing for careers in education.

Scholarships

Scholarships are primarily merit-based, awarded on the basis of academic achievement, talent, leadership, or other criteria, though some also carry a financial need component. Unlike grants, scholarships are typically applied for directly through the awarding institution, organization, or foundation, and they often offer more flexibility in how funds can be used. Both grants and scholarships are considered gift aid, meaning money that does not need to be repaid, and should be prioritized before turning to loans.

Other Types of Aid to Explore

Beyond federal grants, students have access to several additional categories of support.

Institutional aid is awarded directly by the college or university, and may include merit scholarships, need-based grants, or a combination of both. Completing the FAFSA by your school’s priority deadline is often required or strongly recommended to be considered.
State aid varies by location and is frequently tied to FAFSA submission. Many states automatically consider filers for state grant programs, so completing the application is especially valuable for in-state students.
Private scholarships are offered by foundations, businesses, religious organizations, and community groups. These are applied for separately from the FAFSA and can considerably supplement other aid. Searching early and applying to multiple opportunities increases your chances.
Federal student loans are borrowed funds that must be repaid with interest. While common in aid packages, they should be accepted thoughtfully only after exhausting grants and scholarships.

Military Education Benefits

Active-duty service members, veterans, and eligible dependents may have access to additional education benefits, including the GI Bill and Military Tuition Assistance, that can significantly reduce the cost of a degree. Eligibility and coverage vary by branch and service history. Regent University is proud to be a military-friendly institution, and our Military Resource Center can help you understand how to apply your benefits and coordinate them with any other aid you receive.

Tuition Reimbursement Programs

Beyond the options above, it is worth checking with your current employer. Many companies offer tuition reimbursement programs as part of their benefits package, and some will cover a significant portion of your degree costs. Be sure to review the guidelines and requirements, as programs vary by employer and may have conditions related to your field of study or grade performance. Regent University also partners with a number of organizations through its Corporate Partners program, which may offer additional tuition benefits for eligible employees.

Paying for College at Regent University

Taking time to understand your options and applying for aid early are among the most impactful steps you can take toward funding your education. From scholarships and grants to military benefits and corporate partnerships, Regent University has resources to help you pay for college.

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