Higher Education: Colleges and Universities

Young adults can continue their education in a two-year community or technical college or a four-year college or university after high school.These are called “postsecondary institutions” or “institutions of higher education.”
There are public and private institutions of higher education. Public colleges and universities cost less than private ones, especially for residents of the state where the college or university is located. Young adults can also choose to attend schools to learn specific jobs, such as repairing computers or being a healthcare assistant.
Students in higher education choose a specific subject to study in depth (this subject is called their “major”). Choosing a major helps prepare them for employment or further education in that field.
A college or university education can be expensive. Some schools provide financial help called “scholarships.”
The U.S. government also provides financial aid for students. Most students take out a loan or apply for financial aid or scholarships to help pay for their schooling. Certain scholarships and grants are limited to U.S. citizens.
Federal Financial Aid for College Students
The U.S. government provides financial help to students attending certain institutions of higher education. This aid covers many school expenses, including tuition, fees, books, room and board, supplies, and transportation.
Students qualify for this aid by their financial need, not their grades. There are three types of federal aid:
• Grants—money that you don’t have to repay.
• Work Study—money that you earn while you are in school.
• Loans—money that you borrow that you must repay later with interest.