Money Matters

Financial Aid

Students who qualify for financial aid may use loan or grant awards for many study abroad programs. Awards may be used to pay program fees, tuition, and/or personal expenses.

Financial Aid offices may consider the higher cost of study-abroad programs when student award amounts are determined. This may result in increased funding during the quarter you study abroad. Check with the Financial Aid office about eligibility requirements.

Students may apply for financial aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), available on-line at http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/. Contact the Financial Aid Office to see if other documentation is required to complete your file.

The school year begins summer quarter for some campuses, and for others it begins fall quarter. If you plan to study abroad summer quarter, it is very important to make sure you use the application for the correct school year, and that you meet with a financial aid officer and let them know of your intention to study abroad during the summer quarter.

If possible, complete your financial aid file by the school's priority deadline. The earlier you apply, the more likely you are to be awarded all the funds needed for your study-abroad program. Make sure to meet with your study-abroad program coordinator for details on the program costs and payment deadlines.

It may take several months to have your financial aid application approved and to receive your funds and many program fees are due in advance, so start planning early!

Scholarships

The Washington Community College Consortium for Study Abroad (WCCCSA) has a great list of scholarships opportunities for study abroad programs. Check it out at: http://www.wcccsa.com/Scholarships/index_scholarships.htm