Financial Aid Help

I am a college sophomore planning to transfer from an expensive private school in the fall. I recently decided to pursue my degree in elementary education and am transferring because I have recognized that I will have a hard time paying back loans as an elementary-school teacher. Still in need of financial assistance, I am having a hard time finding scholarships specifically for education majors, although I am convinced they are out there. Do you know of any such scholarships? -- Hopeful Future Teacher
Answer: Right now, there is a teacher shortage, so money is being funneled to meet that need. The first step that you must take is to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (www.fafsa.ed.gov). It is the driver behind eligibility for federal, state and institutional money. Be sure to get this form in early, as there is a priority deadline for many aid programs. Besides looking for scholarships, search for grant money, as this form of financial aid does not have to be repaid.
Begin your search for money by finding out if the department of education at the new school you will be attending has any scholarships or grants that you might be eligible for. Next, go to the school's Web site and investigate what scholarships or grants are available. You also should visit your state's Department of Education Web site to investigate if there is any financial aid for college students majoring in elementary education. To get this money, you may have to agree to work as a teacher in certain schools or subject areas after graduation. Finally, go online and use a free scholarship search engine to look for scholarships for elementary-education majors.
Don't rule out paying for your education with some loans. Many states now have loan forgiveness programs for teachers who work in certain subject areas or types of schools. After just one year of service, the states will usually pay off part of your loans. With additional years of service, loans can be reduced even further.