 TITLE: How to Get a Student Loan to Help Pay for College CONTENT: Other Ways to Pay for College\n-----------------------------\nWhile student loans can be a convenient way to help you get through school, reducing how much you borrow can make a huge difference for your financial security down the road. Here are some other ways you can pay for college that don't require you to pay the money back at a later date.\n*   **Scholarships**: Check your school's website to see whether it offers scholarships for academic, athletic or other reasons, and if you're eligible. Also, search for scholarships on websites like Scholarships.com and Fastweb. You'll be able to filter millions of opportunities to find ones designed for you.\n*   **Grants**: Part of the financial aid process includes grants for students who have the financial need, so filling out your FAFSA is always a good idea, even if you don't plan to borrow money. Also, check with your school and explore private scholarship websites to research other grants. Some grants may only be available to students involved with certain college programs, or in specific fields of study, so it might be helpful to ask a professor or academic advisor you think would be knowledgeable.\n*   **Part-time work**: If your class schedule allows it, search for on-campus or off-campus jobs to help you pay for tuition, fees or other educational and living expenses. Even if you only work a handful of hours a week, your income can add up over time and help you avoid thousands of dollars in debt over the course of your college career. Your financial aid package may include work-study programs for your college, which can make the process of finding a job easier.\nIt's also important to keep in mind that picking a less expensive school and looking for other ways to keep your costs down while you're in college can go a long way in helping you reduce your reliance on student loans. END