The financial aid landscape in higher education is undergoing significant transformation, with new funding models emerging alongside traditional scholarships and loans. This comprehensive analysis examines current trends including income-share agreements, last-dollar programs, and need-blind admissions policies. We explore how institutions are adapting to student debt concerns, the growing role of corporate-sponsored education benefits, and innovative approaches to improving access for underrepresented groups. The guide provides actionable insights for students navigating aid applications and compares international approaches to financing higher education in an era of rising costs and changing workforce demands.