Financial aid is monetary assistance to help the student meet the expenses of attending college. Aid may be in the form of grants, student employment, loans, scholarships, types of outside assistance or a combination thereof.
Grants
Federal Pell Grant
The Federal Pell Grant is available to undergraduate students and is based on the financial need of the student. The Federal Pell is applied for through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Only Master of Arts in Teaching post-baccalaureate students may be eligible for the Federal Pell Grant. Master of Arts in Teaching post-baccalaureate students eligible for the Federal Pell Grant must enroll (and attend) at least half-time within the semester to maintain Pell Grant eligibility for that semester.
A student may be eligible for the Pell Grant with less than full time enrollment depending on student’s award. Students may not receive Pell at more than one school at a time. Pell Grant recipients are limited to six scheduled awards (maximum amount for full-time enrollment for a full academic year).
Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant
This is a grant for post-baccalaureate students whose parent or guardian died as a result of military service in Iraq or Afghanistan after 9/11/01. Students who, at the time of the parent’s or guardian’s death, were less than 24 years old or were enrolled at least part-time at an institution of higher education. The amount varies and is determined annually by the federal government.
Student Employment
The College provides jobs for students on campus through institutional and federally-funded programs. Student employment is limited based on positions that are available. Students are paid minimum wage or above. Information is available from the Student Employment Coordinator, Human Resources.
Federal Work-Study Program
This program provides jobs for students who demonstrate financial need through a federally-funded program. Federal Work-Study Program has jobs on campus and through specific community service entities.
College Work Program
College Work Program provides jobs for students on campus through an institutionally-funded program.
Loans
A loan is a type of financial assistance that must be repaid when a student graduates or is no longer enrolled at least half-time in college, depending on the terms of the loan. Students must sign a promissory note (legal agreement to repay) for any loan monies received. The promissory note contains detailed information about terms, responsibilities and repayment of loans.
Direct Loan Program
This program provides unsubsidized loans to eligible students who complete the Free Application for Federal Aid annually. The student is responsible for paying back the principle of the loan along with any interest that accrues.
Direct PLUS Loan Program
This is a credit-based unsubsidized loan made to graduate students (Graduate PLUS) and parents of dependent post-baccalaureate students. This loan must be repaid. Students must access their Direct Loan eligibility first before they are eligible for the Graduate PLUS loans. Graduate PLUS loan award amounts are available for the difference between the Cost of Attendance less other aid and Direct Loans. Graduate PLUS Loans are only available to Full and Conditional Admit graduate students.
Private, Credit-Based Loan (Also Known as Alternative Loans)
These loans can provide financing for a student beyond federal aid. The student does not have to complete the FAFSA to apply for and receive a private, credit-based loan. Various products are available for students.
Outside Sources
Vocational Rehabilitation Benefits
Students with physical or mental disabilities may be eligible to receive benefits from the Department of Vocational Rehabilitation. Assistance may include counseling; training for vocational, technical or professional employment; and funding for books, supplies, maintenance, medical services and transportation. To apply, contact the regional Department of Vocational Rehabilitation. Missouri residents may contact the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, Jefferson City, MO 65101.
GI Educational Benefits
Columbia College is approved for enrollment certification of students eligible to receive educational assistance (GI Bill) from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Eligibility requirements vary for veterans’ education benefit programs. For additional information and application materials contact the Ousley Family Veterans Service Center, (573) 875-7504 or vacert@ccis.edu.
Scholarships
Scholarships, awards and grants are forms of “gift” assistance that do not require repayment. Institutional aid is generally intended for tuition assistance. Endowed scholarships and awards are made through the generous gifts of alumni and friends of Columbia College. These awards are competitive and are primarily based on academic performance. Generally, scholarships, awards and grants are non-need based forms of financial assistance.
Due to federal regulations, scholarships and awards may be affected if you are receiving federal and/or state financial aid.
If you have questions about the College’s financial aid program, call the Enrollment Service Center for assistance at (573) 875-7252.
Additional financial aid information is available at the Columbia College’s website: http://web.ccis.edu/offices/financialaid.
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