More about paying for your training program

In addition to the tips listed above, make sure you ask your admission counselor how much a training program costs and if there are any special opportunities available to cover the cost of your tuition and fees. These opportunities may include:

Tuition remission – If the training program includes a work component, your employer may cover the cost of your training. Be sure to ask for a complete list of all covered expenses.

Tuition reimbursement – Sometimes, employers will pay you back for your training costs. Again, it is important to ask how the program works and what expectations the employer has for you if you accept the tuition reimbursement.

External grants and funding – Depending on your situation, you may qualify for funding from the Workforce Investment Opportunity Act (WIOA) or other grants available through workforce partners. Ask your admission counselor about grants and funding before applying for admission.

Payment plans – You may be able to pay your tuition and fees by making installment payments. Ask your admission counselor if this is an option and for all the details of how it works.

Financial assistance – Your training provider may participate in the federal financial assistance program through which you may qualify for grants ("free money") and/or loans to cover the cost of your training. Please note that not all training providers participate. It is important for you to ask your admission counselor before applying for admission. Following is a detailed description of how to apply for federal financial assistance:

Applying for college financial aid helps students pay for tuition, books, and other school expenses. The first step is to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online, which determines how much aid you qualify for. Financial aid can come in different forms, like grants (free money you don't have to pay back), scholarships, work-study jobs, and loans (which you must repay later). It's important to apply as early as possible since some aid is given out on a first-come, first-served basis. After applying, you'll receive a financial aid offer from your school, and you can choose which aid to accept. If you need more help, talk to a school counselor or the college's financial aid office.

Applying for financial aid can feel overwhelming, but plenty of resources are available to help guide you through the process. It's always a good idea to apply, even if you think you may not qualify—you might be surprised! There are numerous scholarships and grants that can provide free money for college, so take advantage of every opportunity. Don't hesitate to seek assistance from school counselors or financial aid offices to make the process easier.

• Set up a time to talk to the financial aid office at the school you plan to apply to, even some certificates will qualify for financial aid.
• The KHEAA webpage can be very helpful, especially if you are taking classes in a high-demand job area. (1. Healthcare 2. Manufacturing and Logistics 3. Construction 4. Education 5. Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services)
• You can also reach out to a KHEAA counselor, who can help you with the financial aid process!

The key takeaway is don't be intimidated by the financial aid process—help is available! Many people, including school counselors and financial aid officers, are ready to guide you. The best way to get started is to ask questions and take advantage of the resources around you.

If you are interested in a program but do not meet their admission requirements, ask a program representative what to do to become eligible to enter the program. Often, there are classes you can take to become eligible.