Financial need is the difference between the cost of attending college (cost of attendance) and the amount the student (and parents for dependent applicants) can be expected to contribute towards the cost of attendance. Okaloosa-Walton College (OWC) uses the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine financial need based on federal regulations and information supplied by you and your family. The FAFSA is available on the web at: www.fafsa.ed.gov.

Financial aid consists of grants, scholarships, loans, and/or part-time employment offered to help a student meet college expenses. Such assistance is provided by or through federal and state agencies, foundations, corporations, private donors, and the college.

The amount and types of financial assistance a student receives are determined through federal, state, and institutional guidelines. Awards are generally offered to students in combinations, or packages, which may consist of grants, scholarships, loans, and/or employment designed to help students meet their educational costs.

Grants and Scholarships are "gift" aid and need not be repaid. They usually contain certain provisions which students must adhere to in order to meet the criteria of the grant or scholarship.

Loans are available at low interest rates and can be repaid over an extended period of time, usually after graduation. At OWC, loans are regarded as a "last resort" source of financial assistance. Students are strongly encouraged to complete their program of education at OWC without student loans; however, if it becomes necessary to borrow, low-cost federal education loans are available to qualifying students.

A limited number of part-time jobs are also available each year to assist students. Students are paid an hourly rate for work performed. The college works closely with each student to arrange a work schedule that does not interfere with scheduled class time. See the Work-Study Program for details.

Contact the Financial Aid Office with any questions concerning financial aid.