Financial Aid

Grant

A grant generally does not have to be repaid and is issued by the federal government in the form of Pell Grants, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG), Federal Work-Study (FWS), and grants for ex-military service, among others. Grants are also available from the state where the student resides. There are some instances when a grant does have to be repaid, so be sure to check with the organization who issues the grant.

Student Loan

A loan is an agreement that has to be repaid. You will be provided with a payment schedule and cost breakdown. When applying, be aware of the repayment schedule and make sure you are able to honor the agreement. Loans are available through the federal government, states, and private or non-profit organizations.

Scholarship

An amount designated to those with a particular talent in any field, awarded on the basis of merit by private organizations, religious organizations, place of employment or union affiliation, ethnic-based organizations, local businesses, or civic groups.

• Individuals living in a halfway house, or participating in a reentry program. If you are residing in an institution other than a federal or state institution, eligibility for a federal grant is possible
• Individuals released to the community, after program completion
• Individuals released on parole or probation

• Individuals currently incarcerated in a federal or state institution are not eligible for federal grants
• Individuals convicted of a crime while receiving financial aid
• Individuals currently incarcerated for sexual crimes
• For further explanation of eligibility for financial aid after incarceration please click here.

How Aid is Appropriated

If you do qualify to receive financial aid, the amount of money available is determined by several factors that include income level, family responsibilities, or military service from you or a family member. Depending on a variety of factors, individuals can receive full or partial amounts. If you are applying for federal financial aid, check with your financial aid advisors to see if your state has any options to supplement the aid.

Application Process

Most financial aid considerations will begin by submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) at: https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa. This form will determine your eligibility and is usually the first step in seeking financial aid whether it be on the federal or state level. It is important to have a social security card number and any additional paperwork on hand that will confirm your identity. If you have reentered the community and selected an academic or trade school, fill out the FAFSA® form and check with the financial aid office at the school for information and suggestions concerning applications. The FAFSA® can be complicated, so getting assistance from those with knowledge of financial aid at the school of your choice is important.