Financial Aid is need based and non-need based.
Need based aid takes into consideration your family's income and assets. It can take the form of grants, scholarships, loans, and work study.
Non-need aid is awarded based on your talent, ability, accomplishments, and performance. It usually takes the form of scholarships or grants.
Seniors apply for need based financial aid by completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) in January of their senior year.
Prior to your senior year, you should begin searching for scholarships so you know what's available and what the requirements are. Here are some places to start.