Do you have a dream education to pursue and have no idea where to get the funds? Do you have a research proposal that you know will further the frontiers of knowledge but are worried about funding your passion? Regardless of what you wish to study, are you aware that there are a large number of government and private organizations offering substantial free grants to fund a wide range of educational and research options?

First of all, be very specific in your search in terms of exactly what kind of grant you are looking for. This will eliminate unnecessary waste of time, sifting through grants that you are not interested in or may not even be eligible for. When choosing the grant you wish to apply for, it may be wise to make a shortlist of agencies that give preference to the specific type of funding/area of study that you have a demonstrated aptitude for.

The process for application varies significantly from program to program, so ensure that you completely comprehend all the application formalities necessary for the specific grant you are applying for. If you are applying for a government sponsored grant, ensure that you submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) within the deadline specified on the FAFSA website, complete with all details and required paperwork. Also, since you may be applying to a number of funding agencies, double check to make sure that you are submitting the application form to the correct organization as per its specific criteria.

Some applications may require you to keep additional documentation such as ethnicity verification or residential permit etc., to be produced immediately upon demand. Please be aware of all such additional documents required and keep them ready in any case.

Ensure that your proposal is well written and communicates clearly your purpose. This is the most important document that will be perused, so take time and do this with care.

While many grants are need-based, most funding organizations do require a mandated GPA. IT is, therefore, important to maintain a consistently proficient academic record to further your chances of being selected.

Often, the criteria for funding and also the amounts available as grants in a specific field may vary periodically. So, do stay in touch with your academic or financial aid counselor.

Lastly, try to keep your options open, for a significant amount of funding is available across the USA to subsidize the deserving student.