There are four basic types of financial aid available:
Grants are available on the basis of financial need and do not have to be repaid. Sources of grant funds are the Federal Government, California Student Aid Commission, and CSULB. Grants are awarded to students who demonstrate the greatest financial need.
Loans are funds that you must repay. Most loans are based on financial need and are federally funded. Types of loans include Federal Perkins Loan, Stafford Loans, and Parent Loans for Undergraduate Students (PLUS).
Scholarships are private monies that are made available to students from various local community groups and corporate donors. You do not have to repay scholarships. Each scholarship usually requires a separate application.
Federal Work-Study is a federally funded program that provides employment opportunities to students with the highest financial need. Placement is limited.