Education is an Investment, Not a Barrier
At National Career College, we firmly believe that financial constraints should not hinder your educational aspirations. We are committed to helping you navigate the financial aspects of your education, ensuring you have access to various financial aid options that make pursuing your dreams possible.
Navigating Financial Aid with Ease
Embarking on your financial aid journey begins with completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) available at studentaid.gov. This initial step opens the door to a wide array of financial aid opportunities. The Federal Financial Aid program guidelines are set by the United States Department of Education.
Explore Diverse Financial Aid Options
Our Financial Aid Department is ready to assist you in understanding and applying for:
Federal Pell Grant
The Federal PELL Grant Program provides a foundation of assistance to which other forms of aid may be added. Eligibility for the Federal PELL Grant Program is determined by a standard formula that is revised and approved every year by the federal government. Unlike loans, grants do not have to be paid back.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
The Federal PELL Grant Program provides a foundation of assistance to which other forms of aid may be added. Eligibility for the Federal PELL Grant Program is determined by a standard formula that is revised and approved every year by the federal government. Unlike loans, grants do not have to be paid back.
Federal Subsidized Direct Loan
Federal Subsidized Direct Loans are available to students with financial need. The interest is paid by the federal government while students are in school and for six months after students cease their enrollment. Regular payments begin six months after students cease enrollment or fail to carry at least one-half of the normal full-time school workload. For loan repayment options please visit: https://studentaid.gov/h/manage-loans
Federal Unsubsidized Direct Loan
Unsubsidized direct loans are available for students to borrow for education costs. Borrower responsible for all interest; students must be at least half-time; financial need not required; fixed rate (set annually) for new borrowers. Regular payments begin six (6) months after students cease enrollment or fail to carry at least one-half of the normal full-time school workload. For loan repayment options please visit: https://studentaid.gov/h/manage-loans
Direct Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students (PLUS)
Federal Parent Loans for Undergraduate Students provide additional funds for credit-worthy parents to help pay for students’ educational expenses. The borrower is responsible for all interest and repayment begins immediately after the loan is fully disbursed. For loan repayment options please visit: https://studentaid.gov/h/manage-loans
Cal Grant
Cal Grant is a California-specific financial aid allocation that does not need to be paid back. Cal Grant programs are administered by the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC). Applicants to Cal Grant programs must apply using the FAFSA or CA Dream Act Application by the deadline and meet all eligibility, financial, and minimum GPA requirements of either program. National Career College is eligible for all three types of Cal Grants — A, B, and C. Your eligibility will be based on your FAFSA or CA Dream Act Application responses, your verified Cal Grant GPA, the type of college you list on your application, and whether you’re a recent high school graduate.
Private Loans & Scholarships
Students and parents who do not qualify for Title IV funds or who need additional funds to cover educational expenses beyond what is covered by Title IV funds may apply for private loans and/or scholarships. In addition to private loans, a wide array of scholarships is available to students. National Career College does not offer any scholarships. Scholarship eligibility criteria vary. The Financial Aid Department will be happy to assist students who wish to apply for scholarships.
Start Your Journey with NCC Today
Don’t let financial worries hold you back from achieving your educational goals. Reach out to our Financial Aid Department to discover how we can assist in making your education at NCC both achievable and affordable.
Visit our campus or contact us to learn more about how NCC supports your financial needs, ensuring that your journey to a brighter future is well within reach.
Financial Aid Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Financial aid for college in California: What does NCC offer?
NCC offers several financial aid options including federal loans (Subsidized and Unsubsidized Direct Loans, PLUS Loans), federal and state grants (Pell Grant, Cal Grant), scholarships, and private loans. The Financial Aid Department assists with identifying the best options based on student eligibility and financial needs.
NCC Cal Grants: Does NCC offer Cal Grants?
National Career College (NCC) offers access to all three Cal Grant types (A, B, and C) for eligible students. These grants help cover tuition, books, supplies, and other educational costs. Eligibility is determined through FAFSA or the CA Dream Act.
Cal Grant vs. Pell Grant: What’s the difference between them?
A Cal Grant is a state-funded program for California residents, requiring a minimum GPA, while the Pell Grant is federally funded and does not consider GPA. Both are non-repayable.
Can I get both Pell Grant and Cal Grant?
There are a few varying factors between a Pell Grant vs Cal Grant. However, despite these differences, it is possible for certain students to qualify to receive both, and while a Cal Grant is a state grant and requires a minimum GPA score, a Pell Grant is a federal grant and is not determined by your GPA.
Both grant programs are available through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) process. However, the Cal Grant application is also available via the CA Dream Act Application (CADAA) portal.
How are Pell Grants disbursed?
Pell Grants are disbursed directly to the school, which applies the funds to tuition, fees, and other costs. Any remaining amount is provided to the student for educational expenses.
Do I Qualify For a Cal Grant?
Cal Grants are administered and maintained by the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC), which determines your eligibility through your FAFSA or CADAA application. Here at NCC, all of our educational courses are eligible for all three types of Cal Grants available – tiers A, B, and C.
While the CSAC Cal Grant website provides detailed information on how to qualify for Cal Grant, in addition to meeting the CSAC qualifying financial criteria, Cal Grant eligibility is also dependent on students1:
- Submitting the FAFSA or CA Dream Act Application and your verified Cal Grant GPA before the set deadline
- Being either a U.S. citizen, eligible noncitizen, or meeting AB540 eligibility criteria
- Being a resident of California for at least one year
- Attending a qualifying California college
- Not having a bachelor’s or professional degree
- Having financial needs at the college of your choice
- Having family income and assets below the minimum levels
- Being enrolled or planning to enroll in a program leading to an undergraduate degree or certificate
- Being enrolled or planning to enroll at least half-time
- Do not owe a refund on any state or federal grant or be in default on a student loan
- Not being incarcerated
- Maintaining the Satisfactory Academic Progress standards as established by the school.
Our dedicated Financial Aid Department is here to help guide eligible students through the FAFSA and CADAA Cal Grant application processes. Fortunately, the CSAC automatically determines all eligible students’ Cal Grant Bandings (A, B, and C) via these applications.
How Much Will I Receive and What Can My Cal Grant Money be Used For?
Based on the Cal Grant tier you are allocated, the CSAC will determine both the amount of financial aid awarded and which educational expenses it can be spent on. Depending on your allotted Cal Grant tier, these funds may be used to pay for:
- Class tuition fees
- College books and supplies
- Housing
- Food
- Transportation costs to and from school
For further details about the CSAC Cal Grant award amounts and allowed expenditures check out What are the Cal Grant Award Amounts from CSAC.
Can I receive financial aid as a military veteran?
Yes, NCC accepts GI Bill Benefits and other military-related educational aid programs. Contact the Financial Aid Department for personalized assistance. Visit our Military and Veterans page for more information.
What’s the difference between subsidized and unsubsidized loans?
Subsidized loans are need-based, and the government covers interest while you're in school. Unsubsidized loans accrue interest from the time the loan is disbursed, regardless of financial need.
What is the FAFSA and how do I apply?
The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is a form used to determine eligibility for federal financial aid. You can apply online at FAFSA.gov
Can I still get financial aid if my family’s financial situation has changed?
Yes, if your family’s financial situation has changed significantly, you can appeal for a reevaluation of your financial aid package by contacting NCC's Financial Aid Department.
Do I have to repay financial aid?
Grants and scholarships generally do not require repayment, but loans (subsidized or unsubsidized) must be repaid with interest. Work-study funds earned do not need repayment.
Can I lose my financial aid?
Yes, you can lose financial aid if you fail to meet satisfactory academic progress, do not meet enrollment status requirements, or default on previous loans.
What happens if my financial aid doesn’t cover all my expenses?
If your aid package doesn’t cover all expenses, you may explore options such as scholarships and private loans.
What happens to my financial aid if I withdraw from a course or the school?
Withdrawing from a course or the school may affect your financial aid. You may have to repay a portion of your aid, and your eligibility for future aid could be impacted. Contact the Financial Aid Department for guidance before withdrawing.
