Going to a college or four-year university isn’t the only way to get a degree and advance your career, as you can do so with technical college too.
For some reason, though, people tend to think that tech schools involve tons of out-of-pocket costs, and since they’re not traditional, college is a better route to take. Luckily, that’s not true, as you can get free money for tech school via the various avenues in this article.
What Can You Learn at a Technical School?
Tech or trade schools offer several options when it comes to fields of study. For instance, you can study to become the following with your technical degree or certificate:
- Chef
- Computer technician
- Cosmetologist
- Dental hygienist
- Electrician
- HVAC technician
- Massage therapist
- Mechanic
- Nurse
- Paralegal
- Pharmacy technician
- Plumber
- Welder
- And more
What’s the main difference between a trade school and college? The fact that training is more direct and specialized, and it focuses more on your career instead of general studies.
Financial Aid for Tech School
If you’re worried about the costs associated with getting a tech school degree or certification, there’s good news: Just like college, you can get free money for your education.
You may have to dig a little to see if the program you’re interested in has financial aid options. Generally, as long as the program is accredited, you should receive similar aid as if you were attending a four-year college. Here are some of the types of assistance that could be available.
Tech School Grants and Scholarships
Both grants and scholarships are similar in that they’re basically free money for school. As long as you follow some guidelines, they don’t have to be paid back like a student loan. Where these forms of free money tend to differ is how they are awarded.
Grants are often need-based. This means that they are given to those who show a financial need, or who are first-generation students, minorities, etc. On the other hand, scholarships are generally merit-based and given according to grades, extracurricular activities, etc.
Where do grants and scholarships come from? The first source is the federal government, which offers the famous Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), etc.
The second source is your state. The third source comes from the school you’re looking to attend. You can find these grants and scholarships by visiting the school’s website or contacting their financial aid office.
Finally, you can get grants and scholarships for technical school from unions and trade organizations. For example, if you want to work in plumbing, heating, or cooling, the PHCC Educational Foundation’s awards can make your schooling more affordable.
Start Searching for Tech School Grants and Scholarships Today
If you already have a tech school in mind, contact their financial aid office to see the available options. As far as federal grants go, you should fill out your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your financial need. This will open the door for not only federal grant opportunities, but also those from your state and school once it’s complete.
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