As a father of three children, I know first-hand that paying for college and graduate school is often difficult and overwhelming. But, as I found out, help is available.

The following information will help guide you through the process of obtaining assistance from the Federal government, State of Florida, and private grants and scholarships that can help make college possible for you or your loved one.

• Federal Financial Aid. The U.S. Department of Education provides more than $60 billion annually in federal financial aid to students wishing to attend college or graduate school. To learn about how the federal government can help make college a reality for you or a loved one, click here.
  
  
  • To go directly to the Federal Financial Aid web page, click here.

• State of Florida Financial Aid.The Florida Department of Education provides millions of dollars in low interest loans and grants to college bound students. To learn about how the State of Florida can help you pay for college, click here.

• Universities and Colleges in Florida. The State of Florida is home to 10 state universities, 28 community colleges, 10 law schools, 13 medical or dental schools, and numerous private and independent colleges and universities. To see a list of links to the many higher education facilities in Florida, click here.

• The College Board Information Center. The College Board is a national nonprofit membership association whose mission is to prepare, inspire, and connect students to college success and opportunity. The College Board's website offers students and parents with a vast array of information on the college application and financial aid processes. For more information,click here.

• College Is Possible. The Coalition of America's Colleges and Universities recognizes that American families are extremely concerned about the cost of college and the process of finding ways to pay for a college degree. It has launched a comprehensive national education campaign to address these concerns: College Is Possible. The Coalition's website consists of a comprehensive list of resources that families can use when navigating through the application and bill paying processes. To learn more, click here.

• Mapping Your Future. Mapping Your Future is a website sponsored by a group of guaranty agencies who participate in the Federal Family Education Loan Program (FFELP). It provides users with an array of information about getting into college and paying for it. To learn more, click here.

• FinAid. FinAid is a website designed to provide you with information about the college admissions process, as well as the steps you will need to take to obtain financial assistance. To learn more, click here.