One of the best places to look for extra college money is in college grants for minorities. These are grants that are targeted specifically towards people who fall into minority categories. Unlike a scholarship, grants are not merit based. Unlike loans, you never have to repay a grant.

The best way to look for college grants minorities is to brainstorm all the different minority categories you might fall under, then research any grants that might be provided to people in those categories.

These are some categories to consider.

Hispanic American Grants

If you’re Hispanic American, there are quite a few options for you to choose from.

The Gilbert Rios Memorial Award gives $5,000 to one female and one male Latino every year. The Jose Marti Scholarship Challenge Grant Fund gives away $2,000 to over 60 Hispanic American students every year.

There are many, many foundations that are dedicated to funding Hispanic American studies. The best way to get a slice of the pie is to apply to all the ones that you qualify for.

Indian & Native American Heritage

The Bureau of Indian Affairs and the American Indian College Fund both offer grants for Native Americans and Indians.

Keep in mind that when you’re applying for these grants, you may be asked to furnish proof of your Indian heritage.

Black & African American

African Americans are another group that has a wide range of grant options.

The United Negro College Fund and the Ron Brown Scholarship Program are both programs that fund many African Americans every year.

Make sure you carefully browse their websites and get a good sense of what they’re looking for before sending in your application. You only get one chance to make an impression. There are a lot of people going after the same pile of money.

First in the Family

Are you the first person in your family going to college? If you come from an impoverished background and you’re the pioneering college-goer in your family, there’s a very good chance you’ll qualify for special grants and/or scholarships.

Disabled Grants

There are grants for just about every kind of disability. If you’re in a wheelchair, if you suffer from AHH or ADHD or if you’re dead, blind or mute, you’ll qualify for some sort of grant.

That said, keep in mind that just because you’re disabled doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll get the money. You still need to pour your heart into the application process, as these grants are also quite competitive.

LGBT Grants

If you’re lesbian, gay, bi-sexual or transsexual, there are also grants that cater specifically towards you.

With so many options on the table, it’s quite likely that you’ll be able to qualify for at least one college grants minorities fund.