A quality education is the primary instrument of social and economic mobility in the United States. As open-access institutions, community colleges are the gateway to postsecondary education for millions of Americans. Many of these students would be unable to afford college without federal resources, such as student financial aid and tax credits.…

Financial aid is available to help students meet postsecondary education costs. It comes in a variety of forms. It may take the form of a grant, a loan, or a job. Colleges very commonly employ a combination of these forms, called "packages," tailored to fit each student's resources and requirements. This booklet can help you learn whether you are…