Financial Aid
Department of Education closure
Many of you may have heard of the administration’s executive order directing the closure of the Department of Education (DOE). We want to assure our students and families that the order does NOT dismantle or abolish Title IV financial aid such as Pell Grants and student loans. Title IV aid is a federal obligation under the Higher Education Act of 1965 and is still available to our students. We will post updates as information changes.
Southwestern College offers several financial aid programs to assist students with their educational expenses to avoid financial barriers that might prevent them from attaining their goals.
It is recommended that students consider the total cost of education (fees, books and supplies, room and board, personal expenses, living expenses, and transportation) when enrolling in college. You are strongly encouraged to plan since financial aid does not always cover all your educational needs.
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”), March 27, 2020, directs institutions receiving CARES Act funding to submit a report to the Secretary of Education describing the use of funds distributed from the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund Reporting (HEERF).
How to apply for aid
Federal Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
The primary online application for Federal Student Aid facilitates access to grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study programs for higher education in the United States.
California Dream Act Application (CADAA)
The most appropriate financial aid application for students who are residents of the State of California and do not qualify to complete the FAFSA application., CADAA provides financial aid opportunities including grants, scholarships, and loans for eligible students pursuing higher education in the state.
California College Promise Grant
To apply for the CCPG, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the California Dream Act application. Do NOT use the CCCApply website to apply for the CCPG. Students must use the FAFSA or California Dream Act application to determine eligibility for the CCPG. For more information, see the CCPG page.
Our Financial Aid staff are here to help you complete your FAFSA or Dream Act application during our Super Tuesday events!
Workshop Information:
| Location: | 68-106 (Cesar Chavez Building) |
| Dates: | Every Tuesday during spring semester |
| Time: | 10:00 a.m. through 1:00 p.m. |
Drop in during these times to get one-on-one help. See you there!
For more information please contact the Financial Aid Office at financialaid@swccd.edu
Types of Financial Aid
Grants
A Grant is a form of financial aid that doesn’t have to be repaid (unless, for example, you withdraw from school and owe a refund). Financial aid awards, often need-based, are provided by institutions, governments, or organizations to support students' educational expenses without requiring repayment.
Scholarships
A scholarship is financial support awarded to a student, based on academic achievement or other criteria that may include financial need, to reach educational goals.
Work-Study Programs
Work-study programs offer the opportunity for students to earn money while gaining valuable job experience. Eligibility is determined by financial need as indicated on the FAFSA or CADAA.
Loans
A loan is money you borrow and must pay back with interest. If you apply for financial aid, you may be offered loans as part of your school’s financial aid offer. When you receive a student loan, you are borrowing money to attend a college or career school. You must repay the loan as well as the interest that accrues. It is important to understand your repayment options so you can successfully repay your loan.
Other Types of Financial Assistance
Diverse aid options such as tuition assistance programs, tuition waivers, fee waivers, and special scholarships tailored to specific demographics or fields of study (ex. SWC Cares, EOPS Textbook Assistance, etc.).
Financial Aid FAQs
Financial Aid "Quick Links"
Marketing Policy
Southwestern Community College has not and will not engage in fraudulent and unduly aggressive recruiting techniques on or off military installations. Furthermore, the institution has not and will not misrepresent, provide payment of incentive compensation for recruitment or any other benefit to the institution, or fail to meet State authorization requirements, consistent with the regulations issued by the Department of Education (34 C.F.R. 668.71-668.75, 668.14, and 600.9).
Southwestern College refrains from high-pressure recruitment tactics such as making multiple unsolicited contacts (3 or more), including contacts by phone, email, or in-person, or engage in same-day recruitment and registration for the purpose of securing Service member enrollments.
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