Online degree programs are typically much less expensive than programs found at traditional brick-and-mortar college, but education of any kind if never cheap. If you’re interested in getting your degree but are worried about the cost, scholarships and other forms of financial aid can make it possible for you to attend school without paying any out of pocket costs.

Types of Financial Aid

Scholarships are perhaps the best known of the different types of financial aid, but they aren’t your only option. If you’re interested in finding money for school, it helps to know the different kinds available. Since they’re so popular, let’s start with scholarships. This form of financial aid is given to students based on merit. Typically, you have to write an essay when you apply for scholarships, and the organization might also take into account your grades, whether or not your participated in any school activities, your volunteer work, and other achievements.  Grants are similar to scholarships. However, instead of the underlying factor being merit, with grants, you have to show financial need. Some grants are available for tuition while other grants are available for specific research projects. Student loans are also available – though these have to be repaid when you graduate, unlike scholarships and grants. If you’re already working in your field, you might also be able to find tuition assistant programs, where your employer helps you pay for school in exchange for your work commitment.

Where to Find Financial Aid

Going to school online doesn’t disqualify you from the vast majority of financial aid programs out there as long as the college you attend is accredited. Accreditation allows scholarships committees to be assured that the money they give you for school is actually going to a legitimate educational program.

So where can you find scholarships and other forms of financial aid? Start with your college. Most colleges have financial aid departments that offer both scholarships and grants to their students. You can also find funds available with the government. Many departments offer major-specific scholarships, and you can also apply for the federal Pell Grant, a general program that helps all students in financial need. Lastly, don’t forget to check out organizations and groups specific to your major, like the American Cancer Association if you want to be a nurse. Many offer scholarships and grants to students.