Paying for College

How Will You Pay For College?

Saving is the first step.
Saving for an education is a good investment in yourself!

Look for grants and scholarships.
North Carolina has more than $600 million a year available for students and there's federal and college or university "gift aid" too.

Consider part-time work.
The right balance of study and work can help you meet expenses and gain experience.

Check out low-interest federal and state loans.
Loans are a valuable resource to help with college costs as long as you borrow only what you really need.

Borrow private loans as a last resort.
Private (or alternative) loans may seem easier to get than federal loans, but their higher interest rates can make them harder to pay back.

Get Started with the FAFSA

Tips for Completing Your FAFSA

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is used to determine your eligibility for federal and state financial aid. Apply soon after January 1st of your senior year. Apply.

Already saving or Paying for College with CFI?

View My Loans
View My 529 Savings Account
View My Installment Payment Plan
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Tools and Resources

A Financial Aid Primer: Answers to the most frequently asked questions
Financial Literacy: Money management and ways to pay for college
Financial Aid Estimator: Potential Aid prospects at NC colleges and universities
Smart Borrower: Reasonable borrowing tips
Student Financial Aid for North Carolinians: Many state programs available
Calculators: Calculate your monthly loan payment, estimate financial aid, compare lenders, and more.

Academic Common Market: Enables North Carolina residents to pursue certain graduate (not undergraduate) degree programs in other states at reduced tuition rates when the program is not offered through the University of North Carolina, and is an approved participating program. To learn more, visit the UNC Academic Common market at: http://acm.northcarolina.edu/.