If you’re looking to advance in your career at your current job or learn a new industry altogether, money should never get in the way. 

There are several opportunities worth looking into, and getting a grant in education is one of them. 

This is free money from the government to help you pay for college. So let’s take a look at some of the top programs you can apply to so you can get to the next level. 

The Best Thing About Grants?

You don’t have to pay them back.

Unlike a loan, where the money you borrow you have to pay back plus interest, a grant is funded by the government or a private/nonprofit organization. 

Grants are often issued based on a person’s needs, which is different from scholarships, which are usually based on a person’s achievements. 

Most Popular Federal Grant Programs

Pell Grant

A Pell Grant is for undergraduate students in financial need. The amount of the grant is based on each individual’s financial situation, the total cost of the college they’re attending, and whether they’re full or part-time. 

Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)

The FSEOG program is for students with the most financial need. Grant recipients can receive  from $100 to $4,000 per year. 

The school’s financial aid office works directly with the individuals awarded this grant, and the earlier they apply the better chance they have of receiving it. 

Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education Grant (TEACH)

TEACH grants are for people looking for a career in the education field and they must be enrolled in specific classes for a certain degree so they don’t have to repay anything. 

Students can get up to $4,000 if they complete their courses that are specific to a teaching career. 

Military Service Grants

Students that have parents or guardians who were a member of the U.S. Military and died during service are eligible to receive this grant. 

Students could receive up to $5,920 towards their education expenses. 

State Grants

Another good option to explore for students is state grants. 

These are available in most in-state schools, but it’s also possible for students to use grant money they have earned for out-of-state schools as well. 

The best way to get started in applying for state grants is to fill out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). 

This application will be the first step for any school to assess your overall financial situation, so it’s definitely important to complete for all students looking for grants. 

The big picture with education grants is that they’re worth applying for. If you have goals in life and want to use school to get there, why not take a shot at applying for grants? 

You won’t have to pay them back, so it’s basically free money towards your education.