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One of the toughest parts about getting an education is paying for it.

First, you apply for as much federal aid as possible, and then you may have to turn to private student loans. You go to college. You graduate (congratulations!). And then it’s time for loan repayment.

Tough, but not impossible.

Make paying for college as little of a hassle as possible by arming yourself with all of the essential financial aid information and financial aid help available. Use the following 8 financial aid web sites to fully prepare yourself and make the best decisions when paying for your education:

1. Student Aid on the Web, U.S. Department of Education: Learn more about the different types of federal financial aid including grants and student loans. The most helpful sections of this site are Federal Student Aid Programs and Repaying Your Loans.
2. FAFSA, U.S. Department of Education: To qualify for federal financial aid, every student must fill out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Discover how federal aid is allocated to schools and students and get tips on how to make the FAFSA application process as smooth as possible.
3. Students.gov, U.S. Department of Education: If you’re looking for information about state federal aid, use the government’s list of state financial aid sites. 
4. Pay For College, College Board: Search for scholarships and compare your financial aid options with these student-focused tools from the College Board.
5. Sallie Mae: Learn this name because you’ll most likely be paying your student loans back with its aide. Sallie Mae is a loan management company focused on helping students save and pay for college.
6. FastWeb: Fastweb is all about financial aid and scholarships. Search through an extensive database of scholarships that are specifically recommended for you and read through dozens of helpful college loan articles. The biggest benefit this site provides you is access to financial aid experts as well as students just like you.
7. Planning and Preparing for College, blog: Recognized by FedEx, the College Expo, and more, this blog is a must-read for undergraduate and graduate students, especially for minority students. New scholarships are posted all of the time, and there are in-depth college preparation materials for students and parents.
8. The Student LoanDown: This Wells Fargo blog has the 411 you need on student loans. Each post features numerous helpful links, and get financial aid help directly from loan experts.

Are there other financial aid information sites that are on your must-visit list?

Filed under: Site of the Day: Online Student Resources

Tags: financial aid, student loans