How to Find Financial Aid for Vocational Schools
"Vocational education programs are typically designed to prepare students for employment more quickly and affordably than a traditional associate or bachelor's degree. Even with a lower price tag, financial aid may still be available for students in vocational programs," U.S. News & World Report writes.
... "Whether a student qualifies for aid depends on the length of the program. A student enrolled in a program that is at least 600 clock hours – equivalent to 16 semester or trimester credit hours or 24 quarter credit hours – may be eligible for the same type of funding as those earning an associate or bachelor's degree, such as Pell Grants, work study, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants and direct loans, says Jill Desjean, senior policy analyst at the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators."
... "Scholarship availability for vocational students depends on the state, program or third-party organization. However, 'there wouldn't be anything that would prohibit a student in a short-term program from getting a scholarship,' Desjean says."
"Some funding may be restricted to students in certain states. For instance, CDM Smith offers two $5,000 vocational-technical scholarships per year for students interested in electrical, automation, instrumentation and controls, and cybersecurity programs. To be eligible, applicants must have at least a 2.5 GPA and reside in California, Colorado, Florida or Texas."
... "While outside scholarships are available, institutions and programs may offer funding options of their own. Additionally, some companies partner with local institutions to help cover the cost of their employees' education."
"For students considering a short-term vocational program, a better path 'might be to find the job you want first, go through the employer and find out (if they) offer job training for this job that (you) want,' Desjean says. 'They may be involved in an industry partnership with local community colleges or something where they can cover the full cost or the difference between the cost and whatever (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act funding) or other state funding is available.'"
NASFAA's "Notable Headlines" section highlights media coverage of financial aid to help members stay up to date with the latest news. Articles included under the notable headlines section are not written by NASFAA, but rather by external sources. Inclusion in Today's News does not imply endorsement of the material or guarantee the accuracy of information presented.
Publication Date: 6/28/2024
