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From FAFSA to Loans: The Top 4 Ways to Pay for College

Published: March 28, 2025

From FAFSA to Loans: The Top 4 Ways to Pay for College

Let’s face it – no one is accepted to college and thinks, “I can’t wait to pay my tuition bill!” College is a significant investment, which is why it’s crucial to explore your options, plan ahead, and make informed decisions when funding your education. The first step to securing financial aid is completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Use the "free, cheap, gap" method to responsibly pay for college and set yourself up for a strong financial future.

1. Take the “Free” Money First – Scholarships and Grants

Start by seeking out scholarships and grants, which are essentially FREE money for college. These forms of financial aid don’t require repayment as long as you meet the conditions set by the provider. Although these resources can significantly reduce your expenses, they may not fully cover your costs, meaning you'll likely need additional options for funding your education.

2. Take “Cheap” Money Next – Work-Study Programs

Work-study programs are another form of federal aid that allows students to work part-time jobs on campus to help cover education-related expenses. Common positions in these programs include library staff, IT specialists, and office assistants. Work-study jobs are often linked to the student’s field of study or offer community-focused roles. Be sure to check with your school to see if they participate in work-study programs, as not all colleges offer this option.

3. Federal Student Loans Come Next

After scholarships and grants, consider federal student loans, which provide benefits not always available through other types of loans. These loans are typically included in your award letter from your college. Before taking out any loans, remember that they are a legal obligation, and repayment will be required. To learn more about the types of federal student loans, visit studentaid.gov.

4. Filling the “Gap” with Private Student Loans

When scholarships, grants, and federal student loans fall short, you may need to consider private student loans. These loans, which are provided by private institutions like banks and credit unions, have terms and conditions set by the lender. Since each lender’s offerings can vary, it’s essential to compare rates, repayment options, and other conditions before committing to a private student loan.

At USSFCU, we’ve partnered with Student Choice to provide a competitive private student loan solution. Through Student Choice, we offer a trusted, member-focused lending option that puts your financial needs first. Our private student loans provide:

  • Affordable rates
  • Flexible repayment terms
  • Educational resources
  • One-on-one application assistance and counseling

Ready to get started? You can learn more about our private student loan options and apply online with ease. We make the process simple, so you can focus on what really matters – your education.

Let Us Help Answer Your Questions

If you have additional questions about paying for college, USSFCU offers personalized guidance. Our College Counselor is here to help, providing free, expert advice on how to navigate your options and pay for college.

Article content is provided for informational purposes only.

All loans are subject to credit approval. Rates and/or credit limits are based on creditworthiness, income and debts. Not all applicants will qualify.

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