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Stay on top of financial aid every year that you’re in college. First, be sure you know what you need to do to keep the aid you already have! Then take these steps:

1. Research scholarship, grant, and employment options. Loans are an option, but focus first on finding “free” money.
2. Ask your school's financial aid office or your department of study about scholarships available to students in your major.
3. Apply for every form of aid you may qualify for regardless of the amount. Even a small grant will help pay for lab fees or books. Remember, small scholarships add up!
4. Reapply for aid you didn't receive last year if your personal situation has changed, such as a sibling starting college or a drop in family income due to a job loss. "Finding more aid after a change in your situation" will give you some tips on how to do that. 
5. Circle the dates! The most common mistake students make when applying for financial aid is missing deadlines. Mark important dates on your calendar so you don't miss them.
6. Talk to your financial aid office. The professionals in the financial aid office are there to counsel and advise you! "Communicating with your financial aid office" offers tips on working with our financial aid office.