A decision to go for a college degree is appreciable but it should also be kept in mind that it is very expensive and would require financial aid as a support. Students, single mothers or even the people with a family to support should consider options of additional funds to meet the costs of their education.
The basic thing to be known is that the aid is essentially of two kinds. Financial aid in the mode of a student loan is subject to repayment with interest rates applicable, while financial aid in the form of scholarships or grants are available for free and do not need repayment.
Student loans such as Stafford loan or private loans will have to be paid back. However, both the types need to be applied for. The respective application forms should be filled and submitted in the time span allotted. Scholarships are awarded on the basis of merit for academic achievements or sports excellence but anyone can apply for it.
You may apply for any form of aid but the offers and terms and conditions should be studied properly. The capability of repayment of the loan should be considered. Additional part time jobs can solve some amount of financial problems. With all the possibilities in mind, the decision to study further can be rewarding.
Planning to give the best shot in both is a challenge.The key word here is balancing! 
Parents get frightened by the fact of to pay thousands of dollars for an education. 
For post secondary education, Federal government has launched loan program. 
Scholarship scams - because many students competing for scholarship.