Federal Financial Aid Programs

The following federal programs are available to eligible students:

Federal Pell Grant – Need-based grant that doesn’t require repayment

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) – Additional need-based grant funding

Federal Work Study (FWS) – Part-time employment program for students with financial need

Federal Direct Loan – Low-interest loans for students and parents

Federal Perkins Loan – Campus-based loan program for students with exceptional financial need

How to Apply:

Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at studentaid.gov.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for federal financial aid, you must meet ALL of the following criteria:

Citizenship & Residency

For Federal Aid: Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen with permanent resident documentation

For State Aid: Be a U.S. citizen, eligible non-citizen, or classified as an AB 540 student

Academic and Enrollment Requirements

Have a high school diploma, GED certificate, or equivalent

Be enrolled as a regular student in an eligible certificate program

Maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress in your studies

Financial Standing Requirements

Demonstrate financial need (required for most programs)

Not be in default on any federal student loans (Perkins, Stafford, Direct, or SLS loans)

Not owe overpayments on federal grants (Pell, FSEOG, ACG, SMART, or Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant)

Have resolved any drug conviction issues

Additional Requirements

Have a valid Social Security Number

Be registered with Selective Service (if required)

File federal income tax returns (if required)

Student Dependency Status

Your dependency status determines whose financial information you’ll need to provide on your FAFSA or California Dream Act Application.

You Are INDEPENDENT If You Meet Any of These Criteria:

Age and Life Status

Born before January 1, 1991

Married (as of the date you submit your FAFSA)

Military Service

Currently serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces (other than training)

Veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces

Educational Level

Enrolled in a master’s or doctoral program

Family Responsibilities

Have children who receive more than half their support from you

Have dependents (other than spouse/children) who live with you and receive more than half their support from you

Special Circumstances

Both parents deceased since age 13, OR you were in foster care or a ward of the court since age 13

Currently an emancipated minor or in legal guardianship (court-determined)

Determined as an unaccompanied homeless youth by:

High school or school district homeless liaison

Emergency shelter or transitional housing program director (HUD-funded)

Runaway or homeless youth center director

You Are DEPENDENT If:

If you DO NOT meet any of the criteria, you are considered dependent and must provide both your and your parents’ financial information.

Special Circumstances Exception

In very limited situations, dependent students may qualify for an exception due to special circumstances such as:

Incarcerated parents

Abusive family environment requiring you to leave home

If you believe you qualify for a special circumstances exception, contact our Financial Aid Office. Documentation will be required to verify your situation.

Student Responsibilities

Application Process

Submit all financial aid applications and documents by specified deadlines

Complete all forms accurately and completely to avoid delays

Provide a valid Social Security Number to the Admissions & Records Office

Declare and update your educational goal with Admissions & Records

Ongoing Obligations

Read and understand all financial aid information and retain copies of submitted documents

Notify appropriate entities of changes in:

Name or address

School enrollment status

Transfer to another institution

Cannot receive financial aid from multiple institutions simultaneously (except BOG Fee Waiver)

Financial Responsibilities

Repay federal aid funds if determined ineligible for any reason

Report any changes that may affect aid eligibility

Never misreport information – this is a federal crime subject to criminal penalties and aid denial

Academic Requirements

Maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) standards

Review the SAP Policy in the college catalog

Important Notes

⚠️ Fraud Warning: Intentional misrepresentation on federal financial aid applications is a criminal offense under U.S. law. All suspected fraud cases are reported to the Office of Inspector General.

📞 Need Help? Contact ABCO Technology’s Financial Aid Office for personalized assistance with your financial aid questions and applications.

This guide provides general information about federal financial aid programs. Specific program details and requirements may change. Always consult with the Financial Aid Office for the most current information and personalized guidance.