As a part-time student, you may already have a job, along with family and financial obligations. Grants may be the first step to keep from becoming the 'starving student' type while you complete your educational program.

Here's some good news. Under most circumstances, grant money never has to be repaid. Your grant eligibility is established using information you submitted on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You can begin filing the FAFSA as early as January before classes begin in the Fall. Contact your financial aid office for specific deadlines. As a part-time student, you're eligible for many of the same Federal and State grants awarded to students attending class full time.

Federal Pell Grants
As an undergraduate student, you may be eligible for a Federal Pell Grant based on your income, student enrollment status, and educational costs. The Pell Grant is a need-based grant, and doesn't have a GPA requirement. It's possible to apply for a Pell Grant every year you're in school. Find more information on the Pell Grant here.

State Grants
You state of residence may have an educational grant program you can use for your online education. You typically apply for these programs using the FAFSA. Contact your school or your state education department for more details. 

Institutional Grants
Funding for institutional grants can come from the Federal government or directly from the school's own funding. The information you provided on the FAFSA determines the award level for these grants. Of course, you must also meet your school's funding deadlines.

Filling out a FAFSA is the first step in applying for most grants. It is now possible to complete and submit the form online. You'll need basic tax, income, and identification information. Look for the FAFSA to be available in mid-October. It is possible to complete and FAFSA and submit it beginning in January for the Fall academic year.