Types of Assistance

Federal & State Grants

Pell Grant
Federal Pell Grants are considered to be “need-based” gift aid. The Pell Grant is the foundation of many students’ financial aid packages. Grants do not have to be repaid. The maximum Pell Grant for the 2006-2007 academic year (July 1, 2006, to June 30, 2007) is $4,050. The actual amount of the award is determined by a standard formula and funding established by Congress. To apply, the student must submit a FAFSA.

Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG)
The Federal SEOG program provides up to $400 per academic year to students with exceptional need. Awards for this program are limited to the funds available. To apply, the student must complete a FAFSA.

Iowa Vocational-Technical Grant
The Iowa Vocational-Technical Grant Program provides need-based financial assistance to Iowa residents enrolled in career education (vocational-technical) and career option programs at Iowa community colleges. Grants range from $600 to $1200, depending on the length of program, financial need and available funds. To apply a student must submit a FAFSA by July 1.

Iowa Grant
The Iowa Grant is a need-based program to assist high-need Iowa residents. Recipients must demonstrate a high level of financial need to receive awards ranging from $100 to $1000. To apply the student must submit the FAFSA.

Scholarships

ECC Scholarships
ECC provides a variety of non-need based scholarships to gifted and well-qualified students. These scholarships may be combined with state and federal financial aid to ensure that students will find an Ellsworth Community College education within their budgets. A complete listing can be accessed by clicking on the Scholarship link on the Financial Aid homepage.

State of Iowa Scholarship Program
This program is designed to give recognition to Iowa’s top students. Awards are given to students that are attending college on a full-time basis. These awards are for the freshman year of study only and are not renewable. To apply, contact your high school guidance counselor during your junior year of high school.

Private/Community Based Scholarships
There are many scholarships available in your communities and by private sources. Check with your high school guidance counselor for the scholarships available in your community. You can also enter national scholarship searches such as Fastweb.com. These free services can provide scholarship information based on your interests, course of study, or other specific information that you provide. Be cautious of any scholarship or grant search that charges a fee for its services!

Federal Loans

Federal Stafford Loan Program
Subsidized Loans: Subsidized loans are low-interest loans from the federal government that are disbursed by ECC. The federal government pays the interest on the loan while the student is enrolled at least halftime and during a six month grace period after leaving the institution. All new loans disbursed after July 1, 2006, will be at a fixed interest rate of 6.80%. Students can borrow a maximum of $2,625 during their freshman year and $3,500 for their sophomore year (once they’ve earned 28 credits).

Unsubsidized Loans: This loan is like the subsidized loan except that interest begins accumulating immediately. The loan is also a low-interest loan from the federal government, which is disbursed to ECC students who are not eligible for subsidized loans. The borrower is responsible for all interest that accrues during any enrollment, grace or deferment period.

Federal Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students (PLUS)
This program for parents provides a long-term loan from the federal government up to the student’s cost of attendance less any financial aid. For all new loans disbursed after July 1, 2006, the interest rate will be fixed at 8.50%. Loan proceeds are distributed to ECC.

Alternative Loan Programs
There are other educational funding opportunities available to students and families. These types of loans were designed to assist families who do not qualify for adequate amounts of state and federal financial aid. If you are interested in finding out more about alternative loans, please contact the Financial Aid Office.

Work Study

Federal and Institutional Work Study
These programs provide part-time employment based upon the student’s financial need. A variety of work opportunities are available typically on campus. Work-study students are paid $6.00/hour and earn valuable job experience. Students are placed in positions that are related to their majors and interests.