After researching the Cal Grant, FAFSA and colleges themselves, the best sources of financial aid are local. 

For example, in Elk Grove, the Elk Grove Community Foundation, a non-profit organization, distributes thousands of dollars in aid to our graduating seniors each year.  Applications for these scholarships are available in February.  Visit http://www.egcommunityfoundation.org or contact your school’s counseling office for more information.

In addition to local scholarships, there are also scholarships offered nationally.  Information on nationally-offered scholarships is available in the counseling office at your school.  Increasing steadily each year, the web is now the source of national scholarship information.

If there is still a financial need after scholarship possibilities have been exhausted, the next step is to investigate loans.  Loans can be obtained through college, the federal government and private entities.

Throughout the process of applying for financial aid, it is very important to honor deadlines in order to maximize your chances of being awarded financial aid.

To aid in your scholarship search, here are a few locations to assist you: 

• EGUSD’s College/Career website: http://www.egusd.net/collegeandcareer/
Click the “Scholarships” link on the left sidebar.  Here you will find a complete section on scholarship information.
• The College Board: http://www.collegeboard.com
The College Board has various scholarship links to assist you. 
• Your high school career center
Don’t forget to visit your own high school career center for Sacramento area scholarship applications.