Federal & State Aid
Federal Programs
All federal awards are determined by financial need as calculated using the information supplied on the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).
- Grants: Two programs provide outright grant funds, which do not need to be repaid. Federal Pell Grants provide a maximum award of $5,550 for the 2011-2012 award year; Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants range from $100 to $4,000 annually.
- Work-Study: These funds provide a portion of the wages paid to students who are awarded campus jobs as a part of their financial aid packages. Students apply for positions during orientation. Employees work approximately 9 to 10 hours per week and are paid bi-weekly.
- Stafford Student Loans: These 6.8%, fixed rate loans enable students to borrow directly from banks, credit unions, savings and loan associations and other participating lenders. Amounts range from $5,500 to $7,500 for undergraduates. Interest is paid by the government on subsidized Stafford loans, which are need-based. Interest accrues on the unsubsidized Stafford loans, while the student is in school. Student loan repayment is deferred until six months after graduation or a student stops attending college at least half-time.
State Programs
- Georgia: Georgia residents who recently have graduated from high school with a 3.0 average or better may qualify for a HOPE Scholarship of $3,600 (2011-2012 amount). What’s more, as a full-time student you may qualify for an additional $700 in the form of a Georgia Tuition Equalization Grant.