Types of Financial Aid
Financial aid comes in many forms, which means you may be tapping into multiple sources of funding when you pay for college. Most need-based aid comes from federal and state programs and requires that you fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Other aid can be awarded based on your academic merit, background, or through work study programs. Each student's financial status is different. Discover what your options are by viewing our resource list below.
Grants
Grants are gifts awarded based on your level of financial need as determined by the information you provide in your FAFSA. They do not need to be paid back.
Learn more about applying for grantsStudent & Parent Loans
Loan aid is money that you borrow from the government to help pay for college. Loans will eventually need to be paid back.
Learn more about the different kinds of loansScholarships
Scholarships can be awarded based on merit, need, or other achievements. When you receive a scholarship that you've applied for it does not need to be paid back.
Learn how to apply for scholarshipsWork Study
Through the Federal Work-Study program, Mesa students with a demonstrated financial need can take advantage of on and off-campus employment opportunities and earn money that can be put toward paying for tuition and school fees.
Learn how to apply for work studyLearn more about work study opportunities