Get started with this simple Financial Aid checklist:
Student loans are borrowed funds that must be repaid with interest. Typically, a bank or the government acts as the lender, and you need to meet certain criteria to qualify. RMCAD participates in the Direct Loan Program, wherein the U.S. Department of Education is the lender. Loan applications and Promissory Notes are completed online, and funds are distributed via electronic funds transfer (EFT) from the lender to RMCAD to be applied directly to the student’s tuition account. Both student Stafford Loans and Parent PLUS loans are available through this program.
Grants are considered “gift aid,” generally based on financial need, and they do not have to be repaid. They are awarded based on financial need. Commonly awarded grants include Federal Pell Grants, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG), and Colorado Student Grants.
Scholarships are like grants in that they do not need to be repaid; but they are awarded based on merit or ability. Learn more about scholarships and start applying today.
These programs provide a limited number of paying part-time jobs, either on campus or with a community service organization, to help pay for educational expenses. You may obtain Federal and Colorado state work-study applications from the Financial Aid office at the start of each term. Eligibility is determined by FAFSA results, and positions are limited, so apply as soon as possible.
While loans are common, it is important to take the decision of accepting a student loan very seriously. There are consequences for not making payments on time, so be sure to research and apply for as many grants and scholarships as you can. Make sure to understand the terms that accompany each loan, grant, or scholarship.
The first step in applying for financial aid is to complete the FAFSA as early as possible. The FAFSA will determine your eligibility for Federal grants, state aid, and student loans. Occasionally, we’ll require additional information to finalize your aid; you’ll be notified in writing if this is the case.
When completing the FAFSA, reference RMCAD’s school code: 013991. Make sure your FAFSA is 100% complete. Do not leave blanks—always answer “N/A” or “None” if you are unsure. We encourage completing your FAFSA online to reduce processing time by the Department of Education.
