Financing Your College Education
The Art Institute of Atlanta understands the significant financial commitment a college education requires. The student financial services staff works one-on-one with students and their families to develop a personal financial plan, based on each individual's particular financial needs, that allows students to reach their educational and career goals. The college's financial aid officers guide families through the process of assessing educational costs, applying for financial aid programs, completing financial aid paperwork (including the Free Application for Federal Student Aid or FAFSA), and developing a payment plan.
Financial Aid at The Art Institute
The Art Institute of Atlanta offers a comprehensive financial aid program for those who qualify. Each year the college oversees the administration of more than $22.5 million in financial aid, including federal and state loans and grants and institutional scholarships. The college provides customized payment plans for those who wish to spread their financial commitment out over time.
The Art Institute of Atlanta participates in federal, state and other financial aid programs. Financial aid is divided into three general categories - gift aid, loans, and work.
Gift Aid
These are grants, scholarships, and other benefits that do not have to be repaid. Most grants are based on financial need, as determined by a federal formula, and are given by federal or state governments. Most scholarships are based on criteria such as grades or affiliations or other criteria, and may or may not also include a financial need component. Most benefits are based on a combination of criteria.
- Federal Pell Grant
- Federal SEOG (Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant)
- Georgia State Grants and Scholarships, including HOPE
- Art Institute Scholarships
- Other scholarships
- Vocational Rehabilitation
- Veterans Benefits
- Tax Benefits
Loans
Loans must be repaid; repayment can usually be delayed until several months after the student leaves school. Some loans, such as Federal Stafford Loans and Federal Perkins Loans, are given to students in their own names. Some, such as Federal PLUS Loans, are given to parents of dependent students. Some loans are based on the student's financial need, while others are available regardless of income. Some loans require a credit check. There also are alternative education loans, given by private lenders to students, that may or may not require a co-signer.
- Federal Stafford Student Loan Program
- Federal PLUS Loan (Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students)
- Federal Perkins Loan
Work
Some students choose to work to help to pay their living expenses while attending college. The Art Institute of Atlanta participates in the Federal Work-Study Program, and also assists students in finding part time jobs in the community.
- Federal Work-Study
These are earned work funds. The Federal Work-Study program provides students the opportunity to meet part of their education expenses by working part-time on or off campus. Students can earn up to the amount of their unmet need (the difference between expenses and all resources). A limited number of assignments are available and priority is given to students with the greatest need.
- Part-Time Job Assistance
The Art Institute’s career services office a ids students in finding suitable employment, posts part-time job opportunities (updated daily), hosts quarterly job fairs, offers regularly scheduled on-campus recruiting events, and offers referrals for freelance jobs.
Other Financial Aid Options:
Veterans Education Act
The Veterans Education Act provides varying levels of assistance to eligible veterans, disabled veterans, and their dependents. Enrollment forms are completed through the registrar's office.
Vocational Rehabilitation Programs
For people whose disabilities prevent them from working, the State of Georgia offers retraining programs. Contact your state Vocational Rehabilitation Office for details.
For more information about state-sponsored financial aid programs, please call or write to:
Georgia Student Finance Authority
State Loans & Grants Division
2082 East Exchange Place, Suite 245
Tucker, Georgia 30084
770.414.3008
Alternative Loan Programs
Students who do not qualify for federal loan programs may wish to take advantage of private alternative loan sources, such as the Creative Education Loan program. Contact your financial aid officer for more information.