Colleges or universities you are applying to can offer financial aid. Along with their aid packages you can get financial aid through government subsidized loans. For either you have to apply with the FAFSA form. This form shows your financial resources and those of your family upon which your need is calculated. What you are offered in a financial aid package from the school directly or through the federal government is based on your need.
If you would like an estimate of how much student aid you qualify for now, so you can plan ahead, use the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) Calculator at the College Board website.
It’s a valuable tool!