Paying for College

Paying for College  

There are many factors that determine the cost of your education, including tuition and fees, textbooks & supplies, transportation, housing, etc. All students are encouraged to apply for financial aid. However, the primary responsibility for financing an education rests with the student and his/her family. Therefore, financial aid should be viewed only as a supplement after resources of the student and family are used.

What is Financial Aid?
Financial aid is money to help students pay for their educational expenses at a post-secondary school. Some types of financial aid do not need to be repaid and some types do.

What kinds of financial aid are available?
Grants – These are financial aid funds that do NOT have to be repaid. Grant eligibility is based on the student’s financial need.
Loans – These are financial aid funds that you must repay with interest. Student loans are low-interest and affordable. There are limits on the maximum amount you are eligible to receive each academic year. Students must be enrolled at least part time (6 credits or more) to qualify each semester.
Work-Study – Work-study is an hourly wage earned through a job on campus while attending school and does not have to be repaid. The hours a student may work depends upon the student’s financial need, class schedule and their particular job. Students must be enrolled at least part time (6 credits or more) to qualify each semester.

How to apply for financial aid?
To apply for financial aid complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for every academic year that you attend.

Steps to apply for Financial Aid:

  • Complete an SCC Admissions Application.
  • Complete the FAFSA at www.fafsa.gov.
  • Enter 005537 for SCC’s school code.
  • Check your eServices account for information regarding your financial aid file
  • Submit additional documents to the college, if requested.
  • Review your financial aid award information through your eServices account.
  • Accept your loan eligibility, if you determine you will need a college loan. Since loan money is paid back, with interest, you get to decide if and how much you would like to borrow each term.
  • Complete orientation and register for classes.

What other financial assistance is available?
Scholarships are a type of gift aid that does NOT need to be repaid. Thanks to the generosity of area businesses, individuals, South Central College staff and faculty, our Foundations award over $300,000 in scholarships to qualifying students. You can visit our website at www.southcentral.edu/scholarships for more information and to complete an application. The deadline is in March of each year to be considered for the following academic year.

All SCC students are eligible to apply!
Other scholarship opportunities:

  • Organizations (including professional associations) related to your field of interest
  • Your employer or your parents’ employers
  • Your church or community organizations, local businesses, or civic groups
  • Your high school

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