I am a financial aid counselor at a university in NJ and the best advice I can give you in regards to increasing your chances in getting more financial aid each year is to always fill out your FAFSA by the schools priority deadline. Although you can fill out your FAFSA at anytime during the year, some schools have a priority deadline. Schools usually have a set amount that they can award students with and once that money runs out your out of luck. Always fill out the FAFSA ASAP to increase your chances of getting everything that is available to you based on your EFC. I have seen students who are eligible for certain grants not receive them because they filled out the FAFSA late and the school does not have any more funds available. You can also check directly with the education department to see if they have any scholarships that you can apply for. I would also recommend for you to apply for as many outside scholarships as possible. Also, ask your school if they participate in the Teach Grant Program