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Education

Help paying for college or job training, and free preschool for young children. The FAFSA is the form for federal student aid, including Pell Grants. Many states use it for their own grants too.

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We show your state's programs. We remember your state in this browser only.

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Tell us more about what you need. We answer first, then show the programs that fit, then ask a few questions to narrow it down.

Federal programs

These work the same in every state. Each agency decides who qualifies.

  • U.S. Department of Education

    FAFSA, the federal student aid form

    One free form that opens federal grants, work-study and loans for college or trade school. Many states and schools use it for their own aid too.

    Fill out the FAFSA online at StudentAid.gov. It is free; never pay to file it.

    Apply on StudentAid.gov Call 1-800-433-3243

  • U.S. Department of Education

    Federal Pell Grant

    Money for college or trade school that usually does not have to be paid back, for students with financial need.

    There is no separate form. Fill out the FAFSA at StudentAid.gov and your school tells you what you get.

    Apply on StudentAid.gov Official pageCall 1-800-433-3243

  • U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

    Head Start and Early Head Start

    Free preschool, child care and family support for young children from birth to age 5 in families with low income, run by local programs.

    Find a program near you with the Head Start locator and contact it to apply.

    Find a program near you Official pageCall 1-866-763-6481

People to call

Checked on October 9, 2026