Financial Aid 101: Maximizing Scholarships at ACTC
As the cost of higher education continues to rise, scholarships and financial aid play a crucial role in making college more affordable and accessible for students. In the state of Kentucky, community colleges provide a wealth of opportunities for students to pursue their educational goals without breaking the bank. In this blog post, we will explore the various scholarships and financial aid options available in community colleges across Kentucky, helping students make informed decisions about financing their education.
Work Ready Kentucky Scholarship
The Work Ready Kentucky Scholarship is a valuable financial aid program available to students in Kentucky who are pursuing workforce training programs at eligible institutions. This scholarship aims to support individuals in acquiring the skills and credentials needed to succeed in high-demand industries. The Work Ready Kentucky Scholarship covers the cost of tuition for approved certificate and diploma programs in fields such as healthcare, advanced manufacturing, construction trades, transportation, and business services. It provides an excellent opportunity for students to gain industry-specific training without the burden of tuition expenses. By investing in the development of a skilled workforce, the Work Ready Kentucky Scholarship not only benefits individuals seeking better career opportunities but also contributes to the economic growth and prosperity of the state.
Institutional Scholarships and Grants
ACTC offers dozens of scholarships. Some are general scholarships for students in any field while some are dedicated to students in specific majors. The ACTC Foundation also offers a range of scholarships funded by generous donors and organizations. These scholarships have different criteria and eligibility requirements, such as academic achievement, financial need, field of study, or specific demographics. Find the scholarship application here.
Kentucky Educational Excellence Scholarship (KEES)
The Kentucky Educational Excellence Scholarship (KEES) is a merit-based scholarship program available to Kentucky residents who have achieved a certain GPA in high school. The scholarship provides funding for tuition and fees at eligible Kentucky colleges, including community colleges. The amount of the scholarship varies based on the student's GPA, and it can be a significant source of financial aid for community college students pursuing further education.
Federal Financial Aid (FAFSA)
Community college students in Kentucky are eligible to apply for federal student aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This application determines eligibility for grants (such as Pell Grant), work-study opportunities, and federal student loans. Filling out the FAFSA is a crucial step in accessing financial assistance for college, as it takes into account factors such as income, family size, and assets to determine the level of aid a student may receive. Community colleges often have financial aid offices that can guide students through the FAFSA process and provide information on available grants and loans.
External Scholarships
In addition to institutional and state-based scholarships, community college students in Kentucky can also explore external scholarship opportunities. Many organizations, foundations, and businesses offer scholarships specifically for students pursuing higher education. These scholarships may be based on a variety of factors, such as field of study, financial need, or specific demographic criteria. Students can search for external scholarships through an online scholarship database, community organizations, a scholarship search and professional associations.
Scholarships and financial aid options in community colleges across Kentucky can make a significant difference in making higher education accessible and affordable. From the KCTCS scholarships and the KEES program to federal financial aid and institutional scholarships, students have a variety of avenues to explore when seeking financial assistance. It is essential for students to research and apply for these opportunities, as they can alleviate the financial burden associated with pursuing a college education. By taking advantage of scholarships and financial aid, students can focus on their studies and build a solid foundation for future success without worrying excessively about the cost.
You can find ACTC's price calculator here. If you have additional questions, you can reach out to the Office of Financial Aid.
