Financial Aid Sources & Resources
Explore comprehensive financial aid resources to help fund your education at Tougaloo College. From federal aid programs to scholarship search engines, these trusted sources can help you find funding opportunities that match your needs and qualifications.
Getting Started with Financial Aid
- Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) first
- Research and apply for scholarships early and often
- Explore state-specific financial aid programs
- Consider work-study opportunities and employment options
- Never pay for scholarship search services - legitimate searches are always free
- Be wary of financial aid scams and always verify sources
Featured Financial Aid Resources
Start with these essential resources for maximum financial aid opportunities.
FAFSA
Complete your Free Application for Federal Student Aid to access federal grants, loans, and work-study programs.
Apply NowUNCF Scholarships
Access hundreds of scholarships specifically for students attending HBCUs and minority students.
Search ScholarshipsFederal Student Aid
Official U.S. Department of Education resource for all federal student aid programs and information.
Learn MoreFederal & Government Resources
Official government sources for financial aid information, applications, and programs.
Federal Student Aid Programs
State & Regional Resources
Scholarship Search Engines
Free scholarship search services to help you find funding opportunities that match your profile.
Major Scholarship Databases
Specialized Search Services
Educational Resources
College Planning & Financial Information
Comprehensive resources for college planning, financial literacy, and educational guidance.
College Planning Resources
Additional Financial Aid Resources
Explore more specialized resources and tools to maximize your financial aid opportunities.
Tips for Using Financial Aid Resources
- Start Early: Begin your financial aid search at least a year before you plan to attend college
- Cast a Wide Net: Apply to multiple scholarship sources and don't limit yourself to large awards
- Read Requirements Carefully: Make sure you meet all eligibility criteria before applying
- Keep Records: Maintain a spreadsheet of applications, deadlines, and requirements
- Follow Up: Contact financial aid offices if you haven't heard back within reasonable timeframes
- Beware of Scams: Never pay fees for financial aid applications or "guarantee" services
Important Deadlines to Remember
- FAFSA: Submit as early as October 1st for the following academic year
- CSS Profile: Check individual college deadlines (typically November-February)
- State Aid: Deadlines vary by state, often earlier than federal deadlines
- Institutional Aid: Check with each college for their specific deadlines
- Private Scholarships: Deadlines vary widely, many are in fall and winter
Types of Financial Aid Available
- Grants: Need-based aid that doesn't need to be repaid (Pell Grant, state grants)
- Scholarships: Merit-based aid that doesn't need to be repaid
- Work-Study: Part-time employment to help pay for education expenses
- Federal Loans: Low-interest loans that must be repaid (subsidized and unsubsidized)
- Private Loans: Higher-interest loans from private lenders (use as last resort)
Need Help Finding Financial Aid?
Tougaloo College Financial Aid Office
financialaid@tougaloo.edu | (601) 977-7769
Office Hours:
Monday - Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Location: Administrative Building, 2nd Floor
Our financial aid counselors can help you navigate these resources, understand your options, and maximize your financial aid package. Don't hesitate to reach out for personalized assistance.