Everyone Can Afford College

How Do I Pay For It?

While college is expensive, the fact is that most families receive financial aid.

Financial aid helps pay the cost of attending college, which includes:

  • Tuition and fees
  • Room and board
  • Books and supplies
  • Transportation
  • Miscellaneous personal expenses
  • Required loan fees
  • Study abroad costs
  • Dependent care expenses
  • Expenses related to a student's disability

Some financial aid is based on financial need.

Some financial aid is awarded based on merit.

Financial aid includes grants and scholarships -- called "free money" because they don't have to be paid back. It also includes student loans.

Financial aid comes from a variety of sources:

  • Federal government
  • New York State
  • Colleges
  • Community organizations, associations and other groups

Learn more about how colleges award financial aid.