Uga Financial Aid
Getting Started with UGA Financial Aid
As with any student aid program, obtaining UGA financial aid begins with completing your FAFSA requirements. This gets you started with the federal grant and loan process, for your Pell Grant or Work-Study Program; as well as your William D. Ford, Stafford, FFEL, Perkins and Plus loans. You will also be required to complete your entrance counseling before receiving your loan. It is very important that you understand your rights and obligations in regard to your federal loans.
State of Georgia UGA Financial Aid
There are several scholarship opportunities available for UGA financial aid. The HOPE Scholarship will cover a portion of your tuition and is offered by the Georgia Student Finance Commission. The Zell Miller Scholarship has the same requirements for approval as the HOPE except that you must maintain a 3.3 GPA instead of a 3.0. The Georgia Hero Scholarship is available for military reservists, National Guardsmen and their children. An ROTC Scholarship is for Air Force and Army families. LEPD Grants are for children of law enforcement personnel. The Georgia Public Safety Memorial Grant is for children of officers killed or permanently disabled while on duty including; law enforcement, fire fighters, prison guards, EMTs and corrections officers. The UGA financial aid office can direct you to website resources where you may find additional sources for funding.
Federal Grants for UGA Financial Aid
The federal government has grants in addition to loan sources for students. Most people are aware of Pell Grants, but there are several others that could assist with your needs if you qualify. The work-study program will pay you an hourly wage while you work on campus. You may apply this money to your college costs or living expenses. There are some other federal grants that are specific to certain areas of study that you may also be eligible for.
Other Forms of Financial Aid
A college savings plan or 529 Plan can help you and your parents to save for your education in advance. These plans are available through colleges and are administered by the state treasurer or an investment company. They are a very good way to save because there is no tax or penalties until the money is withdrawn to pay for college expenses. Everyone has the option to take a direct loan from the lending institution of their choice. Many lenders will offer lower interest rates on student loans than on other types of loans. Students without credit or employment will need a co-signer for this type of loan. Sponsorship might be an option depending on your course of study. Companies or organizations will sometime help finance a student's education in exchange for a portion of their salary after graduation. There are many private scholarships and research grants offered by organizations and individuals that could help with your UGA financial aid efforts.