Need-based Federal State and KCTCS Awards

Need-Based Awards

Overview

Grants, education benefits, and tuition waivers or reductions are considered gift aid, meaning you do not need to repay them.

Most need-based awards are non-competitive and are determined by:

• Financial need
• Basic eligibility criteria

Important:

• Tuition waivers (from any source) count as financial aid and may reduce your eligibility for other aid.
• In addition to grants, you should also explore scholarships offered by agencies, companies, civic organizations, and individuals that support higher education.

How to Apply

To be considered for need-based funding:

1. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student aid (FAFSA)
2. Be admitted to Gateway Community and Technical College

No additional application is required unless specifically noted.

Award decisions are based on:

• Financial need
• Program-specific eligibility criteria
• Availability of funds

Awards are typically prioritized based on their importance to student funding.

Federal Need-Based Awards

Federal Pell Grant

One of the most widely awarded forms of financial aid.

• Available to undergraduate students
• Students must not have earned a bachelor’s or professional degree
• Based on financial need
   

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)

Provides additional funding for students with exceptional financial need.

• Priority is given to students who also receive a Federal Pell Grant
• Limited funding availability
   

Federal College Work-Study (FCWS)

A program that allows students to earn money through part-time employment.

Key features:

• Available to eligible students with financial need
• Requires acceptance into the program
• Jobs are arranged through the college
• Pays at least federal minimum wage

Benefits:

• Helps cover tuition and other educational expenses
• Provides work experience while in school

State Need-Based Awards

College Access Program (CAP) Grant

The CAP Grant supports eligible Kentucky residents pursuing higher education.

Eligibility Requirements

• Must be a Kentucky resident
• Enrolled at least half-time (6 credit hours)
• Program must be at least 2 years in length (minimum 48 credit hours)

For full details, visit the College Access Program (CAP) Grant webpage.

How CAP Grants Are Awarded

• Complete the FAFSA to apply
• Awards are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis
• Apply as early as possible after October 1st to meet priority deadlines

(Financial Aid > Grants and Scholarships)