Grants are need-based funds that do not need to be repaid, provided students meet all attendance and academic requirements.

Types of Grants Available:

• Federal Pell Grant: For undergraduate students with financial need who haven’t earned a bachelor’s or professional degree.

• FSEOG (Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant): Awarded to students with exceptional need, prioritized for those with a 0 Expected Family Contribution (EFC).

Visit studentaid.gov for details on federal grants.

Student loans help cover the cost of tuition, supplies, and living expenses. Unlike grants, these must be repaid with interest.

Available Loan Options:

• Direct Subsidized Loans: For students with financial need; the government pays the interest while you’re in school.

• Direct Unsubsidized Loans: Available regardless of financial need; interest accrues while you’re enrolled.

• Direct PLUS Loans: For parents of dependent students; credit-based with optional deferment while the student is in school.

Note: Students must complete all documentation and entrance counseling before loan funds can be disbursed.

Eligible students may qualify for part-time, on-campus or community-based jobs to help pay for education-related expenses while gaining valuable work experience.

If you’ve been laid off or are considered economically disadvantaged, you may qualify for state-sponsored funding through programs like the Workforce Investment Act (WIA). These funds can help cover tuition, books, and other training costs.

Contact our Financial Aid Office to see if you qualify for state assistance.

Rockford Career College proudly supports veterans and military families.

• GI Bill® and VR&E (Chapter 33 and Chapter 31) students may attend classes for up to 90 days while VA payments are pending.

• No additional charges or penalties will be assessed due to delayed VA payments.

• Students must report all previous postsecondary education and submit official transcripts for evaluation.

Speak with our Veterans’ Affairs Certifying Official to confirm whether your program is VA-approved. Not all programs are approved for the training of Veterans. See our Veteran & Military Student Benefits page for more information. 

Some employers offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing career-relevant training. If you’re currently employed, check with your HR department to learn if you qualify for education reimbursement benefits.