TEACH Grant Program

• The TEACH Grant Program provides up to $4,000 per year for perspective teachers to complete their bachelor's degrees. The grant requires the teachers to teach in high-need areas for at least four academic school years within the first eight years after completing their degrees. Failure to complete this requirement triggers repayment of the grant in full. Students interested in the TEACH Grant Program should contact their college's financial aid office.
  
  

Private Grant Funds

• Private grant funds are available to students interested in becoming teachers. For example, the Woodrow Wilson-Rockfeller Brothers Fund Fellowships for Aspiring Teachers of Color help minority students become teachers. Search for private grants at websites such as The College Grants Database to find grants for which you may be qualified. These grants may be for teachers or a demographic that you fit into, such as being a minority or single parent.
  
  

State Grants

• Many states offer grant programs for teachers. Search your state's website or contact your college financial aid office for information. Most state grants require you to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid to determine your need.
  
  

Loan Forgiveness

• Many prospective teachers have already started down the path of paying for college with student loans. There are programs offered to teachers that provide loan forgiveness. Many of the programs are aimed at teachers willing to teach in high-need areas for a number of school years. The American Federation of Teachers website maintains a list of loan forgiveness programs available.