When you're considering college-or some form of education after high school- financial aid almost always comes to mind. While you have the primary responsibility of paying for college, sometimes those funds just aren't enough and you need to look at other resources. The U.S. Department of Education provides more than $150 billion in federal student aid (grants, work-study, and loans) each year to students seeking a postsecondary education (a degree after high school). About 14 million students currently receive federal student aid with a majority receiving federal student loans. In addition to federal student aid, financial aid is also available from colleges, companies, private scholarship funds, or the state in which you live. So there are resources to help you pay for college, but you have to utilize them As you explore your financial aid options, make sure to consider federal student loans. These loans are a possibility for everyone because not all federal student loans are based solely on financial need. If you have any questions or concerns about getting a federal student loan, then make sure to review this publication.