12 Ways To Get Money for College Fast

If you're thinking about going to college, the cost may seem overwhelming at first. You may start considering whether you'll be able to afford it, but you also need to decide quickly so you can submit your application. You might wonder, ''Are there any ways to secure funds for college quickly?''

There are many ways high school students or recent graduates can quickly obtain money for college costs, such as filling out the FAFSA early, learning about the different types of financial aid, joining a work-study program, and pursuing online crowdfunding opportunities. These methods may allow students to get the money in a short timeframe.

Read on to learn more about the steps to obtain money for college quickly.

Tips for Getting Money for College Fast

There are many different ways to fund your college education. If you need money for college fast, check out the 12 tips below.

1. Complete the FAFSA Early

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) allows students to access various funds through state and federal programs. Grants, loans, federal work-study programs, and other financial aid awards are all available.

Completing the FAFSA form is essential if you're looking for help to cover your educational expenses. FAFSA funds are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so completing the application process early can ensure you receive the maximum aid amount you qualify for.

2. Consider Emergency Aid Programs

Many schools offer emergency aid programs for students who experience a sudden change in circumstances, such as unexpected job loss or a death in the family. These emergency funds ensure a student can afford to continue their studies even during periods of financial hardship.

Common types of emergency aid include grants, completion scholarships, loans, vouchers, food assistance plans, emergency housing, and discounted internet services. Check with your school's financial aid office to find out what specific emergency aid options are available.

3. Explore Scholarship Opportunities

Scholarships are merit-based financial awards. Like grants, they don't have to be paid back, but they usually have stricter or more specialized requirements you'll have to meet.

Many businesses and nonprofit organizations provide scholarships; they may also be available through your school. Some scholarships require you to submit the FAFSA along with a separate application, while others may require an essay, high school transcripts, or some other demonstration of merit.

4. Apply for Federal Student Loans

When you complete the FAFSA, the federal government will automatically consider you for federal student loans. Both unsubsidized and subsidized loans are available.

With unsubsidized loans, you are responsible for all of the interest that accrues; with subsidized loans, you don't have to pay interest until you graduate. While you should view student loans as a last resort, they are a dependable way for college students to get money for their degrees fast.

5. Join a Work-Study Program

Work-study programs enable students to make money for college by working a part-time job for the school they attend. The FAFSA funds most work-study jobs, and if you qualify for a work-study position, this will be noted on your financial aid offer.

To ensure you receive the work-study funds you qualify for, you'll have to find an eligible job on campus. You'll also need to work enough hours each semester to earn the maximum funds available.

Learn more: Make the Most of Your Work-Study Position

6. Employer Tuition Assistance

If you already have a job off-campus, you may be eligible for tuition assistance benefits through your employer. If your company offers a tuition assistance program, it may fund some or all of your education.

Check with your employer to see if tuition assistance is an option. If you're looking for a new job so you can work while in school, find out ahead of time if tuition assistance is available as part of the benefits package.

7. Apply for State Grants

Need-based grants may be available through your state government. These programs provide money for students who need it.

To be eligible, you'll need to complete the FAFSA, just as you would for federal aid. Your state will use this to evaluate your financial situation and determine what type of aid package you may qualify for.

8. Crowdfund Online

A great way to earn money fast is to start an online crowdfunding campaign through a website like GoFundMe. These campaigns allow people to donate money to support various causes.

Once you've set up a campaign, you can ask friends and family to spread the word on social media. This will help you reach more people and potentially earn more money to help cover the cost of attendance at your school.

9. Ask for Family Support

If your parents are not already planning to help fund your education, you may want to consider asking them for financial assistance. Even if they are unable to contribute a lot of money, they may be able to provide support in other ways, such as allowing you to live at home rent-free while in school.

You may also want to ask other relatives for assistance as well. Though asking for help can be difficult, you may find that grandparents, siblings, aunts, uncles, and cousins are more than happy to help however they can as you pursue higher education.

10. Seek Immediate Payment Plans

Some schools offer tuition payment plans, making it possible to pay small monthly installments throughout your education. This can be a great option for students who can afford large lump-sum payments but will be able to make smaller payments over a long period.

Check with your school's financial aid office to see if payment plans are available and what options might work best for you.

11. Look for Institutional Aid and Discounts

Colleges and universities often provide tuition discounts and other forms of aid for students in certain groups. For example, military education discounts are common for veterans and active-duty service members.

Each school will provide different funding options, so check with your financial aid office. Even if you don't expect to qualify for school-based aid packages, it doesn't hurt to find out.

12. Explore Online Learning Options

Finally, attending college online can be more affordable than attending in person. Schools often charge the same tuition rate for all online learners regardless of residency, and those rates may be lower and include fewer fees than on-campus rates.

Studying online can help you save money in other areas as well. Since you can study from anywhere, you will likely save on transportation costs. If you're able to live with family or rent an affordable apartment while in school, you may save on room and board costs.

FAQs About Covering College Expenses Quickly

Do you still have questions about getting money for college quickly? Read on for answers to frequently asked questions.

Is There a Way to Get Paid to Go to College?

Yes, you can get paid while going to college. Options include tuition assistance benefits, work-study programs, scholarships, and need-based financial aid; each is discussed in detail above.

What Is Financial Aid for College?

Financial aid refers to any money you receive to help you pay for college. Financial aid options include grants, scholarships, loans, work-study programs, tuition waivers, and discounts.

Are Private Student Loans Worth It?

Private loans come from sources other than the government and don't all offer the same interest rates or repayment policies. While some private loans can be beneficial, it's important to compare various options and choose the loans with the best interest rates and borrower protections in place.