How do I obtain a grant to attend SOWELA?

• Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) with SOWELA's school code (005467).
• Contact the financial aid office when notified that SOWELA has received your ISIR (results of your FAFSA information).
• Complete required paperwork with the Financial Aid Office.

What is SOWELA's school code?
005467

How do I apply for scholarships?

• Availability of SOWELA scholarships are publicized by posting on bulletin boards around the campus and in the program departments.
• Applications can be obtained at the Financial Aid Office when scholarships are available.
• Students who submit a Sowela scholarship application and apply for admissions by March 1st will be given priority consideration.
• Applications for private scholarships must be made with the specific grantors.

Can I use TOPS at SOWELA?
All TOPS awards can be used at SOWELA.
TOPS awards are limited to two academic years to attend SOWELA, regardless of type.
TOPS Tech award can only be used for technical programs, not academic.

What are the deadlines for applying for financial aid?

• The priority date to apply for the Fall semester is June 1st.  SOWELA's financial aid office will not impose deadlines other than those established by the funding program.  Completion of all required paperwork by the priority date will assist in ensuring that your financial aid will be available.
• Students who submit a Sowela scholarship application and apply for admissions by March 1st will be given priority consideration.

What happens if I resign or cease attendance after receiving financial aid?
In the case of Title IV (Pell Grants) aid, ceasing attendance or resignation prior to attending more than 60% of the term will result in an overpayment, which must be repaid (see Treatment of Title IV Funds).
Check with the funding agency, other than Title IV, as to the consequences of resigning or ceasing attendance prior to the end of the term.
How do I appeal if I lose my financial aid because I no longer meet Satisfactory Academic Progress requirements?
Submit a written appeal, along with supporting documentation, to the financial aid office.
Refer to the Satisfactory Academic Policy.

What does my income have to be in order to qualify for federal financial aid?

The Department of Education uses all the information that the student provides on the FAFSA to produce the Expected Family Contribution (EFC).  The school uses the EFC to determine the type of aid the student will qualify for.

Where can I go for help with my paper work?
The Financial Aid Office at Sowela is happy to assist you with the FAFSA application or any other financial aid paper work.  You should never pay anyone to help you apply for financial aid.  We are open Monday through Friday from 7:45-4:15.  Currently we are located in the main Sowela Administration Building in room 132.

Are there any programs that are NOT eligible for financial aid at Sowela?

The following programs are ineligible for financial aid:
General Studies
Nursing Assistant

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