Post offers the help you need to explore your college financial aid options!
Are you dreading the financial aid process? It can be a bit daunting, but we are here to help! Your student experience team includes a student finance specialist who is available to help you and your family understand the process and make the most of your financial aid package for the greatest return on your investment in your education.
Grants vs Loans
Financial aid packages often include both grant and loan options. Both are useful in helping you pay for your college education, but there is a significant difference:
Grants:
A grant is a set monetary award, often based on merit or need, that can be applied to your college tuition and living expenses. The biggest plus of a grant is that it requires no repayment; it is gift assistance. Grants offered through Post include Federal Pell Grants, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants, and Grant in Aid (which is only available to Main Campus students).
Loans:
A student loan is a loan you take out to pay for your education. They will need to be repaid. Federal student loans offer low interest and payments are deferred until six months after you leave school or graduate. Student loan types include Federal Direct, Subsidized and Unsubsidized, and Private Student Loans.
Your student finance specialist can provide more detailed information about student loans,
or you can find more at the U.S. Department of Education website.
Loan Options
At Post, you could be eligible for several different federal loan options, including:
Federal Direct Subsidized
These loans are based on need. They provide interest-free funding during your enrollment at Post. Eligible freshmen can borrow up to $3,500 a year. Repayment begins 6 months after you leave school.
Federal Direct Unsubsidized
Unlike subsidized loans, these are not based on need. However, they begin accruing interest the moment you take them. Eligible freshmen can borrow up to $2,000 a year.
Repayment can begin any time, but you will start getting notices to do so 6 months after you leave school.
Federal Parent Plus Loan
In some cases, grants and student loans can cover most college-related expenses, but not all. Although not based on need, a parent plus loan can provide some relief. Parents or guardians can borrow up to the cost of attendance, less other aid. Repayment begins 6 months after you leave school.
Work Study Programs
We offer employment opportunities on-and-off campus for those who qualify for work-study. To be considered, you will need to complete the FAFSA. Wages are paid directly to you to help you pay your education expenses.
We also offer on-campus jobs for students not on the work-study program. These campus jobs can be found in several university departments. We also partner with QuadJobs, a virtual “odd job” board, that connects you with opportunities in the Waterbury community. Register with the app for local babysitting gigs, office work, yard work, catering, and more! You could also get assistance from our Center for Career and Professional Development.
Learn More about Financial Aid
and Scholarships
How you will pay for your college education is a consideration that may weigh heavily on your mind. Thankfully, our team of advisors is ready to help you find scholarships, grants, and other financial aid opportunities available. You may be surprised by everything out there and just how much you qualify for!
Explore Everything Post Has to Offer!
Contact us today to learn more, to talk about financial aid options, save your spot for the upcoming semester, or just to talk with an admissions advisor and get answers to your questions!