//Planning for College Expenses

It’s never too early to start planning for college or trade school expenses. The following free resources are available to help in your search for financial aid:

• Speak to the financial aid administrator at each school you’re interested in, and ask what aid programs are available.  
• The state higher education agency can provide state aid information — including aid from the Leveraging Educational Assistance Partnership (LEAP) Program.  
• The AmeriCorps Program provides full-time educational awards in return for work in community service. Information is also available at www.americorps.org.  
• Students.gov, the student Internet gateway to the U.S. government, provides access to government resources to help you plan and pay for your education.
• Check with your parents’ employer (or labor union) to see if they offer programs to help pay for education.  
• Other sources of aid also include foundations, religious organizations, and fraternities or sororities. Include community organizations and civic groups such as the American Legion, 4-H Club, and the Girl or Boy Scouts in your search.

Don’t forget to check with your credit union! They may offer scholarships or have resources to help you find scholarships in your community.