Your Education is Within Reach at Southwest Schools

Let’s face it: higher education can be expensive. However, when education is viewed as an investment, the costs of attending college do not seem as large of a sacrifice. It's best to have a long term rather than short term perspective. Salary increases associated with obtaining more education often offset the cost of returning to school. In addition, many opportunities exist to help you along the way including financial aid.

What is Financial Aid

Financial Aid is money that can help you pay for college or a career school. It can come from multiple places, including the federal government, the state you live in, or the college you attend. There are also diverse types of Financial Aid, such as grants and loans. Financial Aid can help you to pay for tuition and fees or related expenses. Certain things are taken into consideration when it comes to eligibility for aid such as your income.

The whole reason Southwest Schools exists is to help people climb the educational ladder to a better future, and we will do everything in our power to put you on that ladder. Our knowledgeable and caring financial aid staff will work with your current financial situation, assist you in applying for financial assistance, and answer any questions you may have regarding eligibility, status, loan payback information or the application process. We have many financial aid options for those who qualify, including:

• Federal Pell Grant

• Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)

• William D. Ford Direct Subsidized Loans

• William D. Ford Direct Unsubsidized Loans

• William D. Ford Direct Parent Loan (PLUS)

• Southwest Schools Scholarships

How to Get Started

Even if you think you won’t qualify, it is recommended that you apply for Financial Aid just in case. The application is free to submit and available online at www.fafsa.gov. It does take time for the school to receive it, so do not procrastinate on applying. You will then receive an email with your eligibility information. If you have questions before or after this application, be sure to make an appointment with your school’s Financial Aid office to learn more. You do not have to accept all the money offered or any of it, but this is a chance to educate yourself on the resources you qualify for.

Questions to Ask Your Advisor

It is very important to speak with your school’s Financial Aid advisor, even if it is briefly, just to be sure you understand the Financial Aid process. Some aspects of the process can be frustrating, but we are here for you! Ask your advisor about eligibility requirements, the amounts that are available, and interest rates. Also, ask how this will affect you on a month to month basis and how you can begin preparing for early repayment. There is no question that is too simple or difficult.

Your friends at Southwest Schools want to be your support system. We never want you to have to wonder what you’re signing up for. We encourage you to reach out and schedule an appointment. Ask about our $2,000 On Time Graduation Tuition Reward that is only available for a limited time. The answers to your questions are just a phone call away. Contact us today to learn more!