How to find state grants for college

College students can often locate state grants by visiting their state's department of higher education website or their school's financial aid department website. Unlike loans, you don't have to pay state grants back. However, program availability and eligibility requirements depend entirely on the state. Below, we've explained the basics of these grants and provided a comprehensive list of resources for each state.

What are grants for college students?

Grants for college students are a form of gift aid that doesn't have to be paid back, unlike loans. However, in some cases, if the student fails to meet the obligation or eligibility requirements of the grant, they do have to pay the money back. For example, if you accept the federal TEACH grant but don't complete your service obligation after graduation, you'll need to pay it back plus interest.

Grants can be need- or merit-based. The amount depends on the individual program. Some have strict amounts, while others vary depending on your demonstrated need and academic achievements. Federal and state governments, private organizations, and schools offer grants.

What are college state grants?

State grants are financial awards for college students within that state, sponsored by its department of higher education or similar office. Some states call them scholarships rather than grants. Here's a few quick facts about them:

• States usually have at least one state-sponsored grant program.
• Most state grants are solely for public colleges, but some have programs or reduced monetary amounts for private schools.
• Most of these awards are solely for current residents of the state. However, some offer regional grants or programs for out-of-state students.
• State grant programs can vary year-to-year. Regularly check your state's or college's financial aid website to get up-to-date information on available awards.
• They can cover anywhere from a few hundred dollars to a full ride, depending on the award.

How can you apply for state grants?

Almost all state grants will require you to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year. Colleges use the form to determine your need and offer you financial aid packages that could include scholarships, grants, and loans.

As with scholarships, qualification requirements vary. Read over the guidelines carefully and reach out to your high school academic advisor or college's financial aid office to learn more.

Some states also require a state-specific financial aid application. As with the FAFSA, complete this form every year as financial need requirements can change.

How to find state grants for college

You can find information about state grants for college on your school's website or through your state's higher education department.

Below, we've put together a comprehensive list of resources for each state to help you learn about your area's grant options.

• Alabama: Alabama Commission on Higher Education
• Alaska: Alaska Commission on Post Secondary Education
• Arizona: Arizona Board of Regents
• Arkansas: Arkansas Department of Higher Education
• California: California Student Aid Commission
• Colorado: Colorado Department of Higher Education
• Connecticut: Connecticut Office of Higher Education
• Delaware: Delaware Department of Education
• Florida: Florida Student Scholarship Grant Programs
• Georgia: Georgia Student Finance Commission
• Hawaii: Hawaii doesn't currently have a department of higher education but does have several state grants and scholarships. You can find more information on University of Hawaii's websites.
• Idaho: Idaho State Board of Education
• Illinois: Illinois Student Assistance Commission
• Indiana: Indiana Commission for Higher Education
• Iowa: Iowa Department of Education
• Kansas: Kansas Board of Regents
• Kentucky: Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority
• Louisiana: Louisiana Office of Student Financial Assistance
• Maine: Finance Authority of Maine
• Maryland: Maryland Higher Education Commission
• Massachusetts: Massachusetts Office of Student Financial Aid Assistance
• Michigan: Michigan Student Aid
• Minnesota: Minnesota Office of Higher Education
• Mississippi: Mississippi Office of Student Financial Aid
• Missouri: Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development
• Montana: Montana University System
• Nebraska: Nebraska Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education
• Nevada: Nevada System of Higher Education
• New Hampshire: New Hampshire State Treasury
• New Jersey: New Jersey Office of Grants Management
• New Mexico: New Mexico Higher Education Department
• New York: New York Higher Education Services Corporation
• North Carolina: North Carolina State Education Assistance Authority
• North Dakota: North Dakota University System
• Ohio: Ohio Department of Higher Education
• Oklahoma: Oklahoma College Start
• Oregon: Oregon Student Aid
• Pennsylvania: Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency
• Rhode Island: RI.gov
• South Carolina: South Carolina Commission on Higher Education
• South Dakota: South Dakota Board Of Regents
• Tennessee: College for TN
• Texas: Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board
• Utah: Utah System of Higher Education
• Vermont: Vermont Student Assistance Corporation
• Virginia: State Council for Higher Education for Virginia
• Washington: Washington Student Achievement Council
• Washington, DC: DC.gov Office of the State Superintendent of Education
• West Virginia: College For West Virginia
• Wisconsin: State of Wisconsin Higher Educational Aids Board
• Wyoming: Wyoming Department of Education

If you have any questions about your state's grant and scholarship options, you should reach out to your school's financial aid website. Your school can help you navigate the requirements and learn more about your state's programs.

Scholarships and grants are just a start. Learn more about ALL the ways you can help pay for college. Visit the Citizens Student Hub today to get started.