Student Aid Programs
Student aid comes in many forms and from many sources. The federal government provides the bulk of student aid. Other sources of student aid are from the state, the school, and private organizations. To apply for federal and state aid, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Types of Federal student aid:
- Federal Pell Grant
- Academic Competitiveness Grant
- Federal Supplemental Opportunity Grant
- Federal Work Study
- Federal Stafford Loan (subsidized and unsubsidized)
Types of State aid:
- Cal Grant*
- California Chafee Grant
- Child Development Grant**
- Real Estate Scholarship
- Board of Governors’ Fee Waiver***
*GPA Verification Form is required for new applicants (see the financial aid office)
**Separate application form required
***FAFSA may not be required
Grants
Grants are student aid that does not need to be paid back. Eligibility is generally based on financial need.
Examples of grant aid are:
- Federal Pell Grant
- Academic Competitiveness Grant
- Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant
- Cal Grant
- Chafee Grant
Scholarships
Scholarships are student aid that does not need to be paid back. Eligibility is generally based on academic excellence, athletic abilities, etc. Examples of scholarships are:
- National Merit Scholarships
- Real Estate Scholarship
- San Jose City College Scholarships
Work Study
Work Study allows students to earn money to meet educational expenses while learning valuable work experience. Jobs are typical available on campus, but positions may be available at select nonprofit locations. San Jose City College participates in both Federal and State Work Study Programs
Loans
Loans are monies that are borrowed and must be repaid with interest. Funds may come from banks, credit unions, or other financial institutions. Loans should be used as a last resort to meet educational expenses.
San Jose City College participates in the Federal Family Education Loan Program (FFELP). Examples are:
- Subsidized Stafford Loans
- Unsubsidized Stafford Loans
Students who wish to borrow must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid and a promissory note.
Board of Governors’ Fee Waiver
Students who are California residents may be eligible to have their enrollment fees and student health fee waived and receive a discount for parking. Students can apply for the Board of Governors Fee Waiver (BOGFW) using the FAFSA or may complete the separate Board of Governors Fee Waiver Application.