If you choose school
How to pay for school without drowning in debt
College isn't the only way, but if you go (university, community college, or a trade program), there's a lot of free money most families never ask for.
Step 1, every year
Fill out the FAFSA — it's free
The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is the key that unlocks federal grants, state grants, work-study and many school scholarships.
- 1
Make a StudentAid.gov account
The student and each parent who needs to add info make their own account. Parents without a Social Security number can still make one. - 2
Apply as early as possible
A new FAFSA opens around October 1 each year for the next school year. Some state and school money is first come, first served. - 3
Let it pull your tax info
You give permission for the IRS to share tax info directly, which saves time and mistakes. - 4
List every school you're thinking about
Schools use it to build your financial aid offer. Compare offers before you pick.
Undocumented or DACA student? You usually can't get federal aid, but some states have their own application. In Minnesota it's the MN Dream Act application.
Free money
Pell Grant — money you don't pay back
• For undergraduate students with financial need who don't have a bachelor's degree yet.
• Up to $7,395 for the 2026–27 school year. Your amount depends on your Student Aid Index (SAI) from the FAFSA, your school's cost, and if you're full- or part-time.
• Starting in 2026–27, if your SAI is $14,790 or higher you don't get a Pell Grant.
• Works at eligible community colleges, universities, and many trade and career schools. You must fill out the FAFSA every year to keep it.
Federal Pell Grants (StudentAid.gov)New in 2026
Workforce Pell — for short job-training programs
Great news for the trades.
Since July 1, 2026, Pell Grants can pay for approved short-term training programs (some as short as 8 weeks) that lead to in-demand jobs.
Not every program qualifies. Ask the school's financial aid office: "Is this program eligible for Workforce Pell?"
U.S. Dept. of Education announcementMinnesota
North Star Promise — free tuition in Minnesota
• Covers up to 100% of tuition and required fees at all Minnesota State colleges and universities, all University of Minnesota campuses, and Tribal Colleges.
• For Minnesota residents with a family adjusted gross income (AGI) under $80,000. For dependent students in 2026–27, that counts the student's and parents' income together.
• Works for 4-year degrees, 2-year degrees, certificates and trades. Part-time and evening classes count.
• It's "last dollar": it pays what's left after Pell, the Minnesota State Grant and scholarships. It doesn't cover housing, food, books or transportation.
• Apply with the FAFSA or the MN Dream Act application. Funding is limited, and for 2026–27 the state set a priority deadline of June 1, so apply early.
Other states
Free or cheaper tuition in other states
About two dozen states have a free community college program. Most cover tuition only, have income or age rules, and pay after other grants.
Michigan Reconnect
Free in-district community college tuition for residents 21+ without a degree, for associate degrees or skill certificates.
Michigan ReconnectNew York SUNY & CUNY Reconnect
Free community college tuition, books and fees for residents ages 25–55 with no degree, in high-demand fields.
NY ReconnectTennessee Promise
Last-dollar free community or technical college for recent Tennessee high school grads, with mentoring and service hours.
Find your state
Every state has a higher education agency with grants. Search "[your state] state grant" or use this list.
State aid programs listSmart order
Use money in this order
- 1
Grants and scholarships
Free money first: Pell, state grants, school and local scholarships. - 2
Work-study or a job
Many schools offer part-time campus jobs through the FAFSA. - 3
Federal student loans only if needed
Federal loans have fixed rates and income-based options. Borrow only what you need. - 4
Private loans last
They usually have fewer protections. Talk to the financial aid office first.
Not sure school is for you? A paid apprenticeship or a cheap certification can get you earning faster. See Trades.
Protect yourself
Student aid scams
Red flags
- • Anyone charging a fee to fill out the FAFSA. It's free.
- • "Guaranteed" scholarships you have to pay for.
- • Schools pressuring you to sign loan papers the same day.
- • Never share your StudentAid.gov password.
RealWay is for education only and is not financial, legal, or tax advice. Program rules, limits, and prices change — always confirm with the official source before you apply. Last checked October 2026.