Types of Financial Aid

Federal

Federal Pell Grant -- Students may apply for this federally-funded program by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. This non-repayable grant is available to eligible curricular students. Maximum award for 2008-2009 academic year is $4731 for full-time students. Award amount is determined by enrollment status.

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant -(FSEOG) Students with exceptional financial need who otherwise would not be able to attend college may receive this non-repayable grant. FSEOG awards generally range from $100-$500. Pell grant eligibility is normally required for receipt of FSEOG.

Federal Work-Study - (FWS) Numerous jobs are available during the summer and academic year for eligible students. Students usually work no more than 10 hours weekly while taking classes and up to 40 hours weekly during the summer.

State

College Scholarship Assistance Program- (CSAP) These awards are available for eligible Virginia residents. Minimum award for a full-time student is $400.

Commonwealth Award- (COMA) - Students receiving the COMA must be domiciled in Virginia, show financial need by means of needs analysis and be enrolled on at least a half-time basis(at least six credits). Funding is provided solely by the Commonwealth of Virginia. Awards Range from $200 to $1,800 and are for tuition and fees only. Award amount is determined by enrollment status.

Virginia Guaranteed Assistance Program (VGAP)- Students receiving VGAP must meet requirements similar to COMA recipients. However, students must have achieved a 2.5 G.P.A in high school, have exceptional financial need and maintain full-time enrollment as a dependent student. Awards vary from $400 to $1900 for tuition, fees and books. Renewal students must maintain a 2.0 G.P.A. and continuous full-time enrollment.

Part-Time Tuition Assistance Program - (PTAP) This VCCS-funded grant provides tuition assistance only to students in a degree or certificate program who enroll in 1 to 6 credits.

Student financial aid at Virginia Highlands Community College is awarded on the basis of financial need as determined by the formula set forth by Congress. The Department of Education's Central Processing System (CPS) is responsible for analyzing all FAFSA information and calculating an Expected Family Contribution (EFC) for each student.


How to Apply for Financial Aid or contact the Financial Aid Office in the ISC Building for more information.