WVU Online | Wednesday, March 13, 2024
Alright, so you're thinking it's time to mix things up a bit. Whether it's leveling up at work or taking a whole new career path, you've got a feeling that some extra training is on the horizon – maybe a certificate or diving into an advanced degree.
Continuing your education might hit the wallet, but guess what? You can go back to school without surplus cash. Here’s how.
One of the most familiar ways to receive aid is through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid or FAFSA.
Applying for the FAFSA allows colleges to determine your federal aid eligibility and it also opens the door to federal grants, work-study options and loans. FAFSA can be used for online classes or on-campus classes at accredited universities.
Before you begin your application, have the following documents ready:
The key to the FAFSA is applying early. Applying early ensures your best opportunity for receiving financial aid. Here are FAFSA deadlines to know:
To be eligible for grants, work-study funds, and loans, learners must complete the FAFSA each academic year.
Pell Grants are familiar to most and are typically for undergraduates with financial need who haven't earned a higher degree. Work-study funds provide part-time employment to undergraduate, graduate and professional students who exhibit financial need.
As for loans, sometimes they are included with financial aid, but loans need to be paid back with interest. You can find out more about student loan types and requirements to apply, by visiting the student aid page.
Aside from the Pell Grant, there are state-specific grant programs to explore.
For example, many states fund programs for students who need to return to college or tech schools for job-specific training. Some programs are designed to assist low-income adults or displaced workers.
Each state will have its own tools and opportunities ranging from direct education grants to tuition reimbursement programs.
Here are a few examples of grant opportunities offered in states near and including West Virginia:
Keep in mind that private companies and organizations also offer grant opportunities as well. Be sure to explore options located or headquartered in your state.
While grants focus on financial need, most scholarships focus on academic and personal accomplishments, and they are another way to receive financial aid.
A scholarship may fully cover your tuition expenses or provide a one-time award amount. Either way, applying is worthwhile and it can significantly lower your overall education expense.
Here are a few places to explore scholarship opportunities:
Once you find your fit, be sure to read all about requirements and deadlines.
As you can imagine, scholarships are highly sought after. When writing your scholarship essay, remember that being unique is crucial. Personalize your essay, explore your passion for your subject, and craft a response that is distinctly yours. Your individuality is what makes you stand out and catches the judge's eye. Here are some helpful tips:
As you search for financial aid, consider looking into your employer's tuition assistance. Many companies reimburse employees upon successful course completion. However, since every company policy is different, it’s important to reach out to your HR team to understand the specifics of what your company has to offer.
If your company doesn’t have a tuition reimbursement program, it may be good to inquire about the possibility of starting one. Many companies see this as an opportunity to reward employees for their drive and determination to enhance their skill set.
Your college choice also affects cost. Community colleges lessen the financial burden for students, with many saving nearly $6,800 over typical public university costs.
While lower tuition, lower cost of living, and an increased opportunity to earn money are enticing, community colleges also offer students opportunities for self-discovery. Typically boasting excellent faculty capable of preparing students for advanced courses.
Often, students at these colleges receive more individualized attention and assistance while deciding on what’s next. For those students who are planning to obtain a bachelor’s degree, keeping open lines of communication between both schools is key. This will avoid unsuccessful course transfers and repeat coursework.
WVU has wonderful resources available for students interested in transferring, along with staff to make the transition as smooth as possible.
While WVU Online has a variety of certificates and degrees to explore, some of our programs that seem to appeal to many working adults include the following: Regents Bachelor of Arts (RBA), Safety Management M.S., Occupational Safety and Health PH.D., Engineering Management M.S., MBA, DBA, and Executive Sport Management M.S. Interested in learning something new or starting small? Certificates and microcredentials are viable options to consider.
Remember there are additional expenses incurred in continuing your education. Those costs include housing, technology and electronic needs, books, transportation, food, childcare, and emergencies.
While FAFSA, grants, and scholarships may cover some of these additional costs, it’s important to explore ways to save money.
Some cost-saving tips include:
The most important way to save money is to prepare and research.
While there are educational tax breaks for those who have saved for their college investment, there are also tax credits and deductions to consider for current students.
You can totally swing a personalized college experience, with some research and planning. Start by exploring all the scholarships, grants, and financial aid opportunities available to you to fund your education. Check to see if your employer has any tuition assistance programs. Employ the cost-saving options that make the most sense for you. Still need to talk through your financial options? Our financial aid office is always available to discuss personalized options.
Interested in learning more about what WVU Online has to offer? Connect with one of our coaches.
Call us, write us, or fill out the request information form. Whichever communication style you prefer, there will be someone from WVU Online on the other end waiting to help.
Be a decision maker. First, your degree. World-class academics at an exceptional value.
Occasionally a student will encounter an issue with an online course that he or she doesn’t know how to resolve. Should this occur, please visit the link below.