The circumstances of millions of people in the U.S. changed in march 2020, with the arrival of the COVID-19 virus. The pandemic forced many people to work remotely or reassess their position for the future. Career changes are prompting millions of Americans to enroll in college to gain a fresh start in life. Colleges have traditionally used tax returns from two years ago to judge financial aid eligibility, with this being out of date for many.
1. Apply for a Scholarship
Whether you are a rising high school graduate or an experienced professional returning to college, scholarships are available. The Nancy Etz Scholarship is an example of a financial windfall for those studying the arts. The Nancy Etz Scholarship provides $1,000 for those who are accepted following the completion of a short essay. If you are not studying an arts-based subject, you can find scholarships for most majors and personal circumstances.
2. Complete the FAFSA
College applicants often balk at the mention of the FAFSA. However, there is more financial aid available than most new students believe. Upon applying for financial aid using the FAFSA, the new student will have access to a range of funding from federal and private sources, depending on their needs. Northwestern Mutual explains college will not be aware you require financial assistance if you do not apply through the FAFSA website.
3. Find a Flexible Job
The pandemic has forced the shutters on many businesses to close for the final time. Returning to college will mean you require money to maintain your standard of living. For students who are serious about their studies, a job does not need to interfere with their college work. Earnest lists several jobs that are available for remote work during the pandemic, including:
- Grocery deliveries
- Online tutoring
- Dog walking
- Managing social media accounts
4. Appeal Your Financial Aid Package
The pandemic has robbed millions of people of their livelihoods and limited their earning potential. Your eligibility for financial aid will be different if based on your current circumstances, with an appeal taking into account your current situation. Students who have been affected by a layoff from work or bereavement due to COVID-19 can have their financial aid package recalculated.
5. Ask for Financial Assistance
Individual colleges have begun offering financial assistance to students who are struggling because of the pandemic. Students suffering severe financial hardship can defer their housing and tuition payments because of the pandemic. Several colleges and universities have advanced the student loan payments already approved to students to help them make ends meet.
6. Look for the Help of Not-For-Profits
The pandemic has made more people reliant on the help of others. Not-for-profit organizations have developed new programs designed to help students who have lost work and financial assistance from their family members. Programs include assistance with school expenses, food, housing, and equipment to enable distance learning.
At the outset of the pandemic, the new normal we are now experiencing was unimaginable. The passing of the first anniversary of the first lockdowns in the U.S. shows help is needed by students who are finding themselves in financial difficulties.