Most student financial aid comes from the U.S. Department of Education grant, work-study, and loan programs you'll read about here. We award almost all aid based on your demonstrated financial need; your grades or class ranking are not considered.

See here for more information on our programs. You can also go to our Web site: www.studentaid.ed.gov for greater detail.

Learn about state aid programs by contacting your state higher education agency (click here for a list of agencies' phone numbers).

Check with your high school counselor or the college or career school you plan to attend to learn about other aid programs.

Check the reference section of your local public library or check the Web—for both sources, use key words such as "financial aid," "student aid," or "scholarships."

Research organizations, including foundations, religious organizations, fraternities or sororities, and town or city clubs. These groups often offer financial assistance. Include in your search community organizations and civic groups such as the American Legion, YMCA, 4-H Club, Elks, Kiwanis, Jaycees, and the Girl or Boy Scouts.

The U.S. Armed Forces also offer financial aid opportunities if you choose to serve. For more information on recruitment incentives, visit the U.S. Department of Defense Defenselink Web site at www.todaysmilitary.com. Click on "What You Get" at the top of the site. Then go to "College Help." You can also contact your local recruiter for information.

What about scholarship search services?

Many private scholarship search services provide sources of financial assistance. We do not evaluate those services. If you decide to use a service, check its reputation by contacting the Better Business Bureau or a state attorney general's office.

How can I tell these search services aren't scams? Are there any signs I should look for?

Estimates show that families lose millions of dollars to scholarship fraud every year. The College Scholarship Fraud Prevention Act provides protection against fraud in student financial assistance. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) cautions students to look for these telltale lines: "The scholarship is guaranteed or your money back." "You can't get this information anywhere else." "I just need your credit card or bank account number to hold this scholarship." "You've been selected by a 'national foundation' to receive a scholarship," or "You're a finalist" in a contest you never entered.

When searching for information on student financial aid, make sure information and offers are legitimate. Don't fall prey to fraud. To file a complaint, or for free information, call 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357) or visit www.ftc.gov/scholarshipscams.