(ARA) –  In a competitive job market, earning a degree can be the biggest single step one can take to enhance career value and earning potential. As many bask in the glow of making plans to increase their career potential, the prospect of paying for college is a sobering reality.

Few of us have funds set aside for this endeavor. In addition, the College Board's annual "Trends in College Pricing" reports a rise in tuition costs at public and private institutions for the 2009-2010 school year. According to the report, annual tuition and fees at private four-year colleges rose 4.4 percent to $26,273, and public university costs rose 6.5 percent to $7,020.

Prospective students often don't know where to start. But take heart; Darlene Violet, director of Financial Aid at Brown Mackie College – Akron, Ohio,  offers advice on funding your education. "The U.S. Department of Education distributes $96 billion a year in grants, work-study assistance, and low-interest loans," Violet says. "Every student begins the process of seeking financial aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid form, known as the 'FAFSA.'" Information submitted on the FAFSA form determines the amount a student may receive through a federal Pell Grant, which is based on financial need. The recent economic stimulus program increased Pell Grant funds by $500 per student. Financial aid is available for those who qualify.

Beyond completing the FAFSA, many turn next to student loans. "An education is always a good investment," says Violet, "but many people don't realize the loans must be paid back starting six months after leaving school. I advise students to seek out and apply for scholarships." Wide varieties of organizations offer scholarships, from fraternities and sororities to community groups, foundations, and corporations. Winning candidates receive funds based on a vast spectrum of criteria, including ethnicity and cultural heritage. "Students just don't take the time to find them," Violet continued. "It can be a lot of work." Read this article »

Many people don’t realize that you can obtain college scholarships, grants and student loans for accredited online degree programs, just like traditional on campus programs. In fact, there are grants and scholarships for single mom’s and working mothers, too.

The process is the same, you have to file the Federal Student Aid FAFSA form that most schools and scholarship granting entities use to determine need.  Although not all scholarships and grants are based on need, you should still file the FAFSA to find every dollar for which you qualify and are entitled.

One really great way to find all the financial aid programs for which you may qualify is to use a scholarship/grant matching service such as FastWeb.com. These matching services can help you find grants and scholarships all in one place, rather than having to research each school and each separate entity.  You probably qualify for more than you think, so get started now!

Heading Back to School? – Don’t forget to find scholarships for college at FastWeb.com