Attending technical college is a great way to obtain practical skills that can translate into a fulfilling career. Of course, like all types of higher education, technical colleges and trade schools charge tuition and fees. Student loans, grants, and scholarship programs can help to cover these educational expenses. Learn more in this post from NYADI The College of Transportation Technology, based in Jamaica, NY.

Federal and State Loan Programs

The U.S. Department of Education has several programs to help students offset the cost of attending trade school. Federal aid programs include:

• Federal Parent Loans for Undergraduate Students (PLUS): This loan program is available to parents of college students as well as graduate and professional students. Eligibility for this type of loan is contingent upon a credit check.
• William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program: The U.S. Department of Education is the lender in this program, which helps students cover the cost of higher education. Direct subsidized loans are available for students who demonstrate financial need; direct unsubsidized loans are available to all students regardless of need.
• Federal Pell Grant: Unlike loans, grants do not have to be repaid. Pell grants generally are available for students in financial need. The maximum Federal Pell Grant award available from July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, is $6,895.
• Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG): This grant program is for students who demonstrate exceptional financial need. Not all technical colleges participate in this program, and funding availability may vary from year to year. FSEOG grants typically are between $100 and $4,000 per year.
• Federal College Work-Study (FCWS): This program helps enrolled students earn money for college by providing part-time jobs on or off-campus. Eligibility is based on financial need and the student’s college or technical school must participate in FCWS.
• Veterans Benefits: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Education Benefits program provides tuition for military veterans, their widowed spouses, and their dependents.

Students in New York State also can apply for the following programs:

• Tuition Assistance Program (TAP): This grant program helps NYS residents cover the cost of tuition at approved colleges, universities, and technical schools. Both part-time and full-time students can qualify, depending on the school they attend.
• Vocational and Educational Services for Individuals with Disabilities: NYS offers vocational rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities through the NYS Education Department. Eligible individuals can receive vocational counseling, as well as financial assistance for higher education costs, including tuition and textbook fees.

Students also can apply for private scholarships and loans to offset the cost of college. If you are considering applying to trade school, ask the admissions office if they offer grant or scholarship opportunities.

Eligibility for Student Loans

Typically, to qualify for federal student aid, you must meet the following criteria:

• You must be a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen.
• You must have a valid Social Security number.
• You must hold a high school diploma or equivalent, such as a GED.
• You must be enrolled in a school or program that is eligible to participate in Title IV Federal Financial Aid Programs and maintain satisfactory academic progress while enrolled.
• You cannot be in default on any existing student loans.
• You must demonstrate financial need and certify that the aid you receive will be used only for education.
• If you are male, you must be registered with the U.S. Selective Service.

How to Apply for Financial Aid

To see if you qualify for federal or New York State (NYS) financial aid, you will need to complete two online applications:

• Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): NYADI’s FAFSA school code is 035373.
• NYS Tuition Assistance Program (TAP): If you are an NYS resident applying to an in-state school, you will be prompted to complete the TAP application upon completing your FAFSA. NYADI’s TAP code is 2322.

There is no fee to complete either form. Make sure you have the following information ready before you begin the FAFSA:

• Social Security number
• Driver’s license number
• Information on your bank accounts
• Your recent tax returns, as well as your parent’s returns (if you are their dependent) or your spouse’s returns (If you are married)

Explore Financial Aid Options at NYADI

Looking for a technical college where you’ll get hands-on, career-focused training? Choose a degree or certificate program at NYADI in Jamaica, NY. With small class sizes, one-on-one tutoring services, and support from career services, you can graduate prepared for roles in the automotive industry. Plus, our staff is available to help you complete the FAFSA. For more information about NYADI’s programs and how to apply for student loans, contact an admissions representative today.