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Pursuing your dreams as a health care professional will require a financial commitment. Scholarships are available to assist you with expenses, while financial aid offers various types of assistance through grants, student loans and work study. These types of aid are awarded to students of all ages, and eligibility is based on many different factors including financial need, academic achievement, civic involvement, athletic ability, and other skills and interests. However you finance your education, remember that you’re investing in your future!

A variety of financial aid is available to help students and families pay for college. It is important to look into all types of student financial aid – from federal and state government, colleges and universities, community organizations, private businesses, and other sources. Students should apply for scholarships and grants every year they plan to attend college.

The Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development administers a number of state grants. To be eligible for most Missouri student financial aid, initial and renewal students should have a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Awarded state financial aid is based on funding availability.

The U.S. Department of Education offers several federal grants to help with higher education costs. To qualify for federal financial aid, students must meet all eligibility requirements and complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year they attend college.

The cost of an education varies depending on the type of school you choose and your study program. If you’ll be working toward a bachelor’s degree, you may want to spend your first two years at a community college and then transfer to a four-year school. Community colleges are typically less expensive. Make sure your courses will transfer to the school you want to attend.

Remember that scholarships may make a more expensive school affordable.

Some degrees will allow you to earn while you learn. For example, in nursing, you can earn LPN certification in one year or become a registered nurse in two years. While you are working as a nurse, you can continue your education.

Organizations all across Missouri offer apprenticeship opportunities. Don’t miss this chance to connect with employers, learn valuable skills in a variety of industries and get a head start on your future! Missouri Apprentice Connect makes it easy for you to find apprenticeship opportunities—and for apprenticeship opportunities to find you. Sign up today to create your profile and search for apprenticeships based on your region, skills and area of interest.