1. Grants

Federal Grants: These are need-based awards that do not need to be repaid. The most common federal grant is the Pell Grant. Other federal grants include the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG).
State Grants: Many states offer grant programs for residents attending in-state colleges.
Institutional Grants: Colleges and universities may offer their own grants based on need, merit, or a combination of both.

2. Scholarships

Merit-Based Scholarships: Awarded based on academic achievement, talent, or other criteria (e.g., athletics, arts).
Need-Based Scholarships: Awarded based on the student’s financial need.
Private Scholarships: Offered by private organizations, corporations, and foundations. Students typically apply for these scholarships independently.

3. Work-Study Programs

Federal Work-Study Program: Provides part-time jobs for students with financial need, allowing them to earn money to help pay education expenses. The program encourages work related to the student’s course of study.

4. Loans

Federal Student Loans: These are loans provided by the federal government. They typically have lower interest rates and more favorable repayment terms than private loans.
Direct Subsidized Loans: For students with demonstrated financial need. The government pays the interest while the student is in school.
Direct Unsubsidized Loans: Available to all students regardless of need. Interest accrues while the student is in school.

5. Direct PLUS Loans:

For graduate students and parents of undergraduate students to cover education costs not met by other financial aid.

6. Perkins Loans:

A discontinued program that offered low-interest loans to students with exceptional financial need.
Private Student Loans: Offered by banks, credit unions, and other private lenders. These usually have higher interest rates and less favorable repayment terms than federal loans.

7. Tuition Assistance Programs
Employer Tuition Assistance:

Some employers offer tuition assistance to their employees as part of a benefits package.
Military Tuition Assistance: Available for active-duty military members, veterans, and their dependents through various programs like the GI Bill.

8. Education Tax Benefits
Tax Credits:

The American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC) and the Lifetime Learning Credit (LLC) are tax credits that can reduce the amount of tax owed on your federal tax return based on qualified education expenses.

Deductions: Interest on student loans and qualified tuition and fees can sometimes be deducted on federal tax returns.

9. Other Forms of Aid
State-Sponsored Programs:

Some states offer specific aid programs, like loan forgiveness or tuition waivers, especially for students pursuing certain careers (e.g., teaching, nursing).

10. Institutional Payment Plans

Many colleges offer payment plans that allow students to spread tuition payments over the course of the semester or year, making it easier to manage payments.