You may already know about the types of financial aid. But here’s a refresher just in case.
Financial aid comes in four basic types: scholarships, grants, loans and work-study.
You have to fill out a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to qualify for any of this aid.
Even if you didn’t fill out a FAFSA or qualify for aid last year, it’s still worth your time to try again this year. Why?
- Financial circumstances change.
- You may want to take out loans, which require you to submit the FAFSA.
- You may want to apply for additional scholarships, many of which require the FAFSA.
Scholarships
Scholarships are awarded based on all kinds of things — good grades or whether you’re majoring in astronomy. You don’t have to repay scholarships.
Grants
Grants are usually need-based. No repayment required. They can come from the federal or state government, UToledo or a private organization.
Loans
A loan is money you borrow and pay back with interest. Generally, federal government loans have lower interest and offer more flexibility than loans from banks or other sources. Always — and we can't stress this enough — do your homework. Know the terms and conditions and who is making the loan.
Work-study
You may qualify for a federal work-study job based on your financial need. Many of our campus employers hire work-study students. You also may find other jobs on or off campus to help pay tuition.
Summer Financial Aid
Are you thinking about taking summer classes? Most financial aid can be used for summer semesters. But you'll need to fill out a summer aid application.
Learn more about summer aid requirements and eligibility
What If My Financial Circumstances Change?
Sometimes your financial circumstances change mid-year. You may lose a job or have an unexpected emergency. Or we could be in the middle of a pandemic!
Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
- File a Special Circumstances Application to appeal your aid if you or your family’s financial circumstances change after you file your FAFSA. The Financial Aid office will review your financial aid in light of the new information. This application is available only for undergraduates.
- Apply for emergency funds. All you need to do is fill out a Rocket Aid application. The UToledo team will work
with you to identify options to assist you. This includes funding available through
federal relief programs and donors.
- Rocket Aid is an emergency financial assistance fund available to those experiencing financial hardship.