WCU participates in several types of Title IV Federal Financial Aid programs, many of which are based on financial need. Students seeking financial assistance must first complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) www.fafsa.ed.gov. You will also need to apply for a Personal Identification Number (PIN) www.pin.ed.gov. The University’s Financial Aid Officer uses this form to determine your eligibility and to assist you in deciding what resources are best suited to your circumstances. Students must meet all eligibility requirements to qualify for Federal Student Aid.
Financial Aid Advising. Government guaranteed loans are an important part of financing your educational expenses. West Coast University provides you with information and counseling to assist you in managing your loans effectively. Confidential loan counseling is available upon request.
Financial Aid Eligibility Requirements. To be eligible for Federal Financial Aid, you must be: 1. A citizen of the United States or an eligible permanent resident; 2. Enrolled in an eligible program; 3. Making satisfactory academic progress toward graduation; 4. A high school graduate or have obtained a GED or the equivalent; 5. Not in default on a financial aid loan nor owe a refund to a financial aid grant received at any postsecondary college or institution; 6. Registered with the U.S. Selective Service or, if applicable.
Federal Financial Aid Programs. The following is a description of the Federal Financial Aid programs available at West Coast University. Additional information can be obtained through the Financial Aid Office.
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): Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants are available to a limited number of students with exceptional financial need. Grants are based on funds available and do not have to be repaid. Need is determined by the financial resources of the student and parents and the cost of attendance.
Federal Work-Study (FWS): The Federal Work-Study program provides jobs for graduate and undergraduate students with financial need, allowing them to earn money to help pay education expenses. The program encourages community service work related to your course of study. Funds under this program are limited.
Federal Family Education Loan Program (FFELP): Federal Family Educational Loan Programs (FFELP) are administered by the state guaranty agency in conjunction with participating lending institutions. Qualified students and their parents can borrow money for school through federally-subsidized low interest loans. The Federal Stafford, Federal Unsubsidized Stafford, and Federal Plus loans are available through FFELP.
Federal Subsidized Stafford Loan: Federal Subsidized Stafford 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 the normal full- time school workload.
Federal Unsubsidized Stafford Loan: Unsubsidized Stafford loan programs are available for students to borrow for additional education costs. With the exception of demonstrating financial need, borrowers must meet all eligibility criteria of the regular Federal Stafford loan program. Interest payments begin immediately after the loan is fully disbursed or may be added to the principal balance. Regular payments begin six months after students cease enrollment or fail to carry at least one-half the normal full-time school workload.
Federal 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 interest rates for these loans are competitive and the repayment schedules differ. Federal PLUS loans may be obtained from a bank, savings and loan, or other institution participating in the Federal Family Education Loan programs.
West Coast University has carefully chosen the five lenders below based on their excellent customer service, competitive rates and borrower benefits. Please review the Lender Fact Sheet and choose the lender that you feel will provide you with the best product and benefits. Note - if you prefer to use a lender that is not listed below, simply notify the Financial Aid Department, who will be happy to comply with your request.
