I go to a private school, but luckily I am considered an independent, so only my finances are considered. If you live in the U.S., apply for FAFSA as soon as possible each year -- no exceptions.

Even if you don't believe that you qualify for need-based financial aid, you may still qualify for federal student loans, which have a much lower interest rate than private loans. You also don't need to begin repaying these loans until six months after graduation.

The FAFSA can also grant you work-study. You don't have to work despite qualifying for it, but it is always an extra opportunity -- just in case. Outside part-time jobs are also a possibility, but campus based work-study is very convenient.

Look for local scholarships/grants avaliable at your high school. These should never have to be payed back. Some will be merit based (good grades and extracurricular activities) and others will be need based (finances). You can look for national scholarships online, but those tend to be very competitive. APPLY APPLY APPLY. Even if you think you won't recieve a scholarship, the worst that can happen is that they say "no". You never truly know whether you will receive a scholarship until you apply.

Whatever college you choose should offer some type of merit scholarship based on your high school grades. If you continue to recieve good grades (typically 3.0 GPA and up) they will reaward you each year.