There are four different types of free education grants: need based, academic, extra-curricular, and athletic. An education grant is a form of scholarship provided to successful applicants by a wide range of charitable and faith based organizations. The primary purpose of free education grants is to provide funding to students who would be unable to afford a post-secondary education.
In order to qualify for free education grants, candidates must complete the application process. This varies widely by organization, as do the actual application requirements. In general, all agencies that offer free education grants require applicants to be accepted at a recognized post-secondary educational institution in a program that leads to certification. The program itself can be anything from an undergraduate degree to an auto mechanic certificate.
Need based grants are aimed at students who have achieved academic success and have obtained admission to a post-secondary institute but are unable to attend due to financial constraints. In most cases, the grant does not cover the entire cost of tuition, but a portion of the overall cost. The student is typically expected to apply for other grants, scholarships, and loans to finance his or her education.
Grants based on academic performance are among the most generous. These programs are aimed at students who have achieved top marks, but need financial assistance to obtain further education. Many of these grants are organized through the school itself, as there is a great deal of competition for students who have excellent academic credentials.
Extra curricular activity is often a requirement of granting agencies. A commitment to community, dedication to service, and being generous of spirit are all character traits many organizations wish to encourage. When applying for these types of grants, be sure to include a reference or supervisor from each organization, so they can validate your information quickly.
There is a strong tradition of athletic based scholarships and grants in many institutions. The primary motivation is often to enrich the schools athletic teams and performance in competition. However, it is also a great way to obtain funding for your post-secondary education. Students who are excellent athletes are well advised to actively purse grants and scholarships through this avenue.
Many students rely on free education grants to pay their tuition fees. It is important to read the fine print in the agreement, as there are often specific annual requirements that must be met for the funding to continue. For example, most grants have a specific number of credits the student must take, and some require a copy of the course marks to determine ongoing funding eligibility.