The Federal PELL Grant program provides foundational assistance to all students to which other forms of aid may be added. Eligibility for the Federal PELL Grant Program is based on a student's financial need and 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 Stafford Loans are available to students with financial need. Students may borrow up to $3,500 for their first academic year, and $4,500 for their second academic year, at a fixed interest rate of 6.0 percent (established annually by the US Department of Education). 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.

Unsubsidized Stafford Loan programs are available for students to borrow for additional education costs. Students can borrow up to $9,500 for their first academic year as a combined total with the Federal Subsidized Stafford loan, and up to $10,500 for their second academic year, at a fixed interest rate of 6.8% (established annually by the US Department of Education). With the exception of demonstrating financial need, borrowers must meet all eligibility criteria of the Federal Subsidized Stafford Loan program. Interest payments begin immediately after the loan is disbursed or may be capitalized and 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 provides additional funds for credit-worthy parents to help pay for student educational expenses. The interest rates are fixed at 8.5 percent (established annually by the US Department of Education) and repayment begins after the first disbursement. Federal PLUS loans may be obtained from lenders that participate in the Federal Family Education Loan programs.

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants are available to a limited number of students with exceptional financial need. Grants are based on available funds and do not have to be repaid. Need is determined by the financial resources of the student and parents along with the cost of attending school.