Step 4: Get Paid While You Study

If your child is eligible for financial aid, then she is eligible to be part of your school's federal work study program. Your child will earn at least the minimum wage, but might make more depending on skill, previous work experience and the school's budget.

Most college institutions pay their students once a month directly with a check. You or your child can request to have the check sent directly to the financial aid office to be put towards tuition, or you can have it automatically deposited into a student checking account.

Next step: Apply for a Grant