The FAFSA, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid, is the first step to qualifying for most forms of financial aid. The information supplied through this process helps determine the types and amounts of financial aid that a person may be eligible to receive.

The Missouri Department of Higher Education & Workforce Development strives to coordinate higher education policy that fosters a quality postsecondary education system, serving more than 450,000 students enrolled in public universities, colleges, and a technical college; independent colleges and universities; and proprietary and private career schools.

The Missouri Economic and Research Information Center (MERIC) conducts research on industries and workforce for the state and for each of its regions, providing a wealth of data to assist in the decision-making process. Data on in-demand occupations, growing industries and economic trends can help pinpoint long-term career opportunities.