Financial Aid at Central Louisiana Technical Community College

It’s no secret that higher education is expensive. However, the initial cost should never deter prospective students at Central Louisiana Technical Community College. We encourage students to take advantage of numerous financial aid resources, and our dedicated office is proud to help you secure the funding you need for your education. Learn more about college financial aid and how we assist students in Alexandria, Ferriday, Winnfield, Jena, and Cottonport, LA.

Understanding Your Tuition and Fee Requirements

Before seeking financial aid, it’s a good idea to understand your tuition and fee requirements for each semester. CLTCC aims to keep costs as low as possible so you can take the courses you need to build your career. Tuition is determined by credit hours, and many other fees vary depending on how many classes you take. Be sure to consult this year’s fee schedule to get a better picture of what to expect.

Types of Financial Aid

Everyone has different needs when it comes to educational programs, and the same is true for financial aid. One size doesn’t always fit all, so we offer various types of financial aid to our students. We recommend researching the following sources to secure college financial aid:

Federal—Federal aid is granted by the U.S. government and comes in the form of Pell Grants and work study programs. Pell grants rarely have to be repaid after graduation.
State—State aid comes from state governments. Past students have received financial aid from TOPS and the Louisiana Go Grant.
Scholarships—Our students have a wealth of scholarship opportunities to choose from. Eligibility sometimes depends on your chosen field, while other scholarships emphasize GPA and volunteer work. Our office can direct you to scholarships that you may be eligible for.

Important Dates for Student Financial Aid

If you’d like to receive student financial aid, pay attention to specific deadlines for each type of funding. Below are important dates you will need to remember*:

Fall Semester

Approximately three (3) weeks prior to classes beginning—First day to request book vouchers.
Approximately ten (10) days prior to classes beginning—Must have authorized aid on student account or set up a payment plan in Cashnet.
First Thursday OR Friday of classes—Last day to request and use book vouchers for the Fall semester.
October 1—FAFSA for next academic year opens.
Approximately one (1) week prior to B-term—First day to request book vouchers for B-term.
First Friday after B-term begins—Last day to request book vouchers for B-term.
November 1—Priority deadline for completion of FAFSA for Spring semester.

Spring Semester

Approximately three (3) weeks prior to Spring classes beginning—First day to request book vouchers for the Spring semester.
Approximately three (3) days before classes begin—Must have authorized aid on student account or set up a payment plan in Cashnet.
First Thursday OR Friday of classes—Last day to request book vouchers for the Spring semester.
Approximately one (1) week prior to B-term—First day to request book vouchers for B-term.
First Friday after B-term begins—Last day to request book vouchers for B-term.
May 1—Priority Deadline for Summer aid AND priority Deadline for completion of next academic year FAFSA.

Summer Semester

Approximately two (2) weeks prior to Summer classes—First day to request book voucher for the Summer semester.
Approximately three (3) days before classes begin—Must have authorized aid on account or set up a payment plan in Cashnet.
First Wednesday OR Thursday of classes—Last day to request book vouchers for the summer semester.

*Please see the Academic Calendar for the exact dates each year.

FAQs About College Financial Aid

Applying for financial aid may seem complicated, but our dedicated office is here to help. We get lots of questions every day about how students can minimize their cost of attendance. Take a look at some of our FAQs, or reach out to us to learn more.

What Is Financial Aid?

Financial aid is a broad term referring to any funding that helps cover the costs of higher education. This can include grants, scholarships, work-study programs, and loans. Financial aid helps make college more affordable by reducing the amount you need to pay out-of-pocket.

What Is a Pell Grant?

A Pell Grant is a type of federal financial aid awarded to undergraduate students who demonstrate exceptional financial need. Unlike loans, Pell Grants do not need to be repaid. The amount awarded can vary based on factors such as financial need, school costs, and student status.

Am I Eligible for Financial Aid?

At Central Louisiana Technical Community College, students must meet the following requirements to apply for Title VI Federal Financial Aid:

Be a degree-seeking student.
Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
Be enrolled at least half-time.
Not be in default on prior student loans or owe a refund on a federal grant.
Be making Satisfactory Academic Progress.
Have a valid Social Security number.
Be registered with the Selective Service if required to do so.

How Long Can I Receive Financial Aid?

The duration of financial aid eligibility depends on the type of aid. Federal Pell Grants are typically available for up to six years of full-time study. Loan eligibility may differ, so it’s important to check with the financial aid office for specific time frames.

What Information Do I Need to Fill Out a FAFSA?

To complete the FAFSA, you’ll need to provide personal and financial information, such as your Social Security number, federal income tax returns, W-2s, and other records of money earned. If you’re a dependent student, you’ll also need your parents’ financial information.

How Do I Apply for Financial Aid?

Applying for financial aid starts with completing the FAFSA. This form is available on the Federal Student Aid website and should be submitted as soon as possible after October 1 of the year before you plan to attend college.

What If My Financial Situation Changes?

If your financial situation changes significantly after submitting your FAFSA, contact our financial aid office immediately. We may be able to adjust your aid package based on your new circumstances.

How Do I Get My Financial Aid Funds?

Financial aid funds are typically disbursed directly to your college to cover tuition and fees. Any remaining funds are given to you to cover other educational expenses, such as books, housing, and transportation.

What If My Financial Aid Is More Than My Tuition?

If your financial aid exceeds your tuition and fees, the surplus funds can be used to cover other educational expenses. You will receive this excess amount as a refund from CLTCC.

Get in Touch With the Financial Aid Office

Securing college financial aid can be complicated, but it shouldn’t feel impossible. With help from our financial aid office, many students find sufficient funds to cover their education. Call your campus or visit our office in person to learn more about your funding options