While there are many outside scholarship and loan sources available, we do not recommend fee-based services. However, the following resources are legitimate organizations from which you might qualify for need-based aid.

This private organization provides low-interest loans (up to $5,000) to students who are members of The Mother Church or one of its branches. For information and an application, write to: Albert Baker Fund, 777 Campus Commons Rd. Suite 165, Sacramento, CA 95825 or call (916) 643-9999/(800) 269-0388. Application deadline is August 1. Their website is www.albertbakerfund.org.

This organization provides full housing grants to Texas residents who are Christian Scientists and who attend a U.S. college or university. Contact: 8222 Douglas Avenue, Suite 501, Dallas, TX 75225 - 214-692-5686 or 888-663-8326 (sunnysidetexas@sbcglobal.net).

Residents of Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Missouri, and Wisconsin may be eligible for these grants. Contact: P.O. Box 11652, Champaign, IL 61826.

This interest-free loan program for undergraduates awards loans of up to $4500 annually. Loans are available to students who are permanent residents of the St. Louis metropolitan area or who live in specific counties in Missouri and Illinois. Contact: The Scholarship Foundation of St. Louis, 8215 Clayton Road, St. Louis, MO 63117 - 314-725-7990. For further information email the Foundation or visit their Web site

These four-year scholarships are based on academic tests taken in high school. Contact your guidance counselor for information.

Many firms and unions provide scholarships to employees and their children. Local philanthropic organizations also provide aid to residents. Contact your guidance counselor, union office, or company personnel office for information.

Books are available at public libraries with information on grant, loan, and scholarship programs across the country. Scholarship information can also be found online. Some Internet sites that might be helpful include www.finaid.org, www.fastweb.org, www.sunnysidetexas.org  and www.wiredscholar.com.

Since Principia aid does not cover 100 percent of the college costs, it is expected that you will come to Principia with enough funds to cover whatever remains after financial aid is applied. Many students find that vacation jobs — including Christmas break, which lasts six weeks for Principia College students — are vital to help them pay for expenses during the school year.