The findings gathered from Public Agenda’s recent study and the responses we’ve gotten indicate that the education system is in dire need of change. However, not many of us are currently in the position to make those changes, which is a big reason why everyone should try their best to finish school.

In the meantime, there are many things you can do to beat the system and get the education you deserve. The internet has a wealth of resources available to students hoping to score some extra financial aid; there’s about $3 billion in scholarships out there, all with varying requirements and deadlines, so you’re bound to be eligible for some of them!

Collegeboard’s Scholarships Search lets you input your information — such as ethnic background and religious affiliation — and it’ll give you a customized list of scholarship suggestions based on your unique profile. Again, thousands of opportunities exist out there, and each one carries different guidelines. There are scholarships for just about everything (minority background, military status, state of residence, career interests, family circumstances — you name it), and it won’t hurt to do some research and get help paying for college.

Here’s a few more online resources to get you started: FastWeb and Scholarships.com. Also check out the Find Scholarships section on GetSchooled.

Have your own ideas on how to help fund your college education? Give us your tips in the comments below, or tell us on camera!