Many people worry when they think about their children's college education. This should not be the case. Student loans were designed for anyone who wants to go to college or continue their education. The programs established are adapted to all income levels. There are many programs to choose from. There are steps you should take to ensure you get the funding you need for your higher education. Regardless of family income, there is a loan program that will put you or your child through college. You may be eligible for scholarships, grants or loans. There are many types of loan programs. There are student loan programs like the Stafford Loan. You may be eligible for college aid. There are also private loans and parent loans. Student loans are low-interest loans that must be repaid once you have completed your studies. Interest rates for student loan programs are determined by the federal government. Interest rates are generally extremely low. Reimbursement generally begins within six months of completion of studies. There are programs that allow you to defer payments. Grants are considered free money. These programs offer money to students who meet certain criteria. This free money can be offered by individuals, groups and organizations, and even some colleges. Scholarships are also offered free of charge to students. These do not have to be repaid, just like grants. With scholarships and grants, it is usually mandatory that the student maintain a certain grade point average. With all funding available, certain criteria must be met.1) Student must have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED) children in school are middle of paper......includes unborn children and children whose custody has been changed. For adult applicants who are pregnant or whose spouse is pregnant, the baby counts as part of the family. One last thing that can affect the student loan application is dependency status. There are many ways to claim your independence. You can either be married before or during the application year or be 24 or older. These two details will ensure you are declared independent. Parents are often mistaken when they think that by not demanding the child, they will demonstrate independence. This is not the case. The child must provide proof of substantial regular income. This is also the case if the child lives at home and pays rent. Quite simply because he or she pays for their place. If the income is not sustainable, the child is still considered a dependent..