Content updated 11/20/2024
Everything You Need To Know About Financial Aid At East Ohio College!
As you embark on the journey of higher education, the decision to pursue college is a significant one. Among the critical choices you’ll make, financial aid stands out. It’s crucial to have a solid plan to finance your college degree before you enroll. 
At East Ohio College (EOC), our admissions and financial aid teams are dedicated to supporting students through each step in the enrollment process. We understand that navigating the financial aid process can be daunting, and we’re here to guide you from the first conversation to starting classes and everything in between, providing reassurance and support.
Do you want to learn more about the options to finance your education? Keep reading as EOC dives into the financial aid* process!
The Financial Aid Process
The financial aid process can be overwhelming and sometimes confusing. With so many different options for financing your education, it can be challenging to determine the best route for you. That’s why, at East Ohio College, you’re not navigating this unfamiliar process alone. As part of the enrollment process, you will connect with a financial aid team member who will walk you through your options.
“Financial aid can be complicated, with a lot of detail. It is completely fine if a student has no idea what types of financial aid they may qualify for. We walk each student through the process, from beginning to end,” said Parker Rhoads, Financial Aid Team Member.
After prospective students complete EOC’s admissions process requirements, they will meet with a financial aid team member who will guide them through completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), a requirement to apply for federal and state aid.
Once the FAFSA is completed, the EOC Financial Aid team will determine the student’s qualifications for various types of funding and create a personalized financial plan that meets individual needs. This plan will serve as a roadmap to paying for your degree.
“We strive to get students graduated with as little debt as possible,” said Parker. “Many students have attended college before, and it did not work out for them, so it’s very important for us to keep their debt low.”
East Ohio College’s small school atmosphere allows students to speak to a financial aid team member when needed. The student experience is our priority, and being available to answer questions or provide resources helps EOC support our students’ needs.
Completing The FAFSA
To qualify for financial aid, you must fill out the FAFSA. The federal government uses the information you provide in this application to determine what different types and how much financial assistance you may qualify for to fund your education. Everything must be up-to-date and accurate because these crucial decisions are made based on the information you provide. After submitting your FAFSA, you will receive a Student Aid Index (SAI) number based on the information you’ve provided that calculates your anticipated financial support needs. Federal financial aid professionals will take into consideration when you’re applying for financial aid.
The EOC financial aid team helps students complete the FAFSA or update an existing FAFSA that may be inaccurate or incomplete. Students must complete their FAFSA every year that they plan to attend college.
“We are here to help students every step of the way,” said Parker. For those who are considering college, Parker says that “it’s best to submit your FAFSA as soon as possible. Contact our financial aid department, and we will walk you through every step of the process.”
Types of Financial Aid*
During your financial aid appointment, as you review your personalized financial assistance plan, you will learn about all the different types of financial aid available to those who qualify. EOC’s financial aid team member will help you determine which of the following categories of financial assistance you may be eligible for and help build your personalized financial plan to pay for your college education.
- Federal Pell Grants: The federal government offers grant money to help fund education, which students do not have to repay.
- State Grants: Some states offer grant money students do not have to pay back to help pay for their education.
- Institutional Grants**: Students who meet specific criteria can apply for institutional grants from East Ohio College to help fund their education.
- Outside Scholarships/Grants: External scholarships or grants are from other sources that help students pay for their degrees. Students are encouraged to research and apply for as many grants and scholarships as possible.
- Student Loans: The federal government or third-party providers allow students to take out these loans to help pay for their education. While students do not have to pay on these loans while attending school, we encourage them to make cash payments to reduce their total debt.
- PLUS Loans: Parents can take out these loans to help pay for their college education as long as they qualify for the loans.
- GI Bill®: Veterans can use their tuition benefits to help fund their education.
- Employer Tuition Reimbursement: Some companies offer employee tuition reimbursement that students can use to help pay for their education.
- Cash Payments: Students can make cash payments toward their education to avoid borrowing large amounts in student loans.
- 529 Plan: Parents can set up this separate savings account for their children for educational purposes.
Join Us At East Ohio College!
East Ohio College offers career-focused college degrees so you can get trained quickly and start your new career faster. The EOC team is here to help you every step of the way as you gain the knowledge, skills, and experience to excel in your exciting new career.
Get started today by requesting information!
*For those who qualify.
**For those who qualify. See catalog for detailed eligibility requirements.