Financial Aid
The training you want is remarkably affordable. But make no mistake about it, finding the funds necessary to enroll in the adult technical education training programs at Southwest Tech can still be a challenge for many adults who have families or other obligations to consider.
The good news is there is financial aid for adult students who need help “paying the bill” for these affordable short-term education and training programs. Where to start can be confusing so we're providing you this list of options to help make it easier to access the funding you need.
Generally speaking, over 80% of our students qualify for some form of financial aid to help cover their tuition and associated costs.
VSAC- Vermont Student Assistance Corp.
This organization provides grants and scholarships to many adult students who enroll at Southwest Tech. This is money that you don't have to pay back. We always encourage you to start with VSAC.
1. Advancement Grant- This is the main source of financial aid for adult students. This grant can cover the entire tuition in many cases up to $3,000. Eligibility is determined based on your income and many students qualify so it's worth investigating this opportunity.
2. Curtis Credential of Value Scholarship- Valued at up to $3,000 this scholarship is awarded to adult students who seek a license, certificate or credential of value in a high demand field and must be nominated by a VSAC EOC Counselor.
3. Vermont Trades Forgivable Loan Program- An interest-free forgivable loan that covers up to full tuition (maximum $23,000) for qualified recipients (Vermont residents or non-residents) enrolled in industry-recognized training and certification programs that lead to a career in select building, mechanical, industrial or medical trades; emergency services; energy; transportation; and other high-demand sectors. Must agree to work full-time in their profession in VT for a minimum of one year following licensure or certification completion for each year of assistance received.
Martha McCaughin is our regional adult student and EOC advisor. She helps adult students consider what program is right for them as well as completing and submitting VSAC's grant and scholarship applications. She can be reached at 802-542-2616 or 802-300-4510 (text only) [email protected]. Don't hesitate to contact her to set up an appointment to discuss your financial aid options.
Vermont Department of Labor
If you are a job seeker in need of assistance, the Department of Labor can help you. If you are working directly with one of there staff members, you may be eligible to receive funding through WIOA to cover the cost of your training program. Additionally, they offer the Vermont Youth Employment Training Fund which is meant to financially support job training for people up to 24 years of age. Contact the Bennington Office at 802-442-6376 to set up an appointment.
HireAbility
This state agency is dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities gain meaningful employment. As part of that process, they can help fund training programs like those at Southwest Tech if it will lead to enhanced job skills and opportunities. Contact their Bennington Office at 802-447-2780 for more information or to set up an appointment.
Program Specific Scholarships
Commercial Driver's License- The Vermont Agency of Transportation offers a scholarship valued up to $1500 to help women and minorities launch a career in the trucking industry. This is a good option for those who don't qualify for any of the above mentioned funding sources.
Local Scholarships and Loans
Scott Thomas Scholarship Fund- This funder provides scholarships for adult students who are pursuing a career in a trade or high need career field. Preference is given to students in the Northshire of Bennington County though all county residents are eligible. Contact the Adult Tech Ed Coordinator for an application.
Cooper Kelley Foundation- This organizations has a limited amount of 0% interest loans it can lend to adult students who are pursuing vocational and trades education. Loans are typically limited to $2000. Contact the Adult Tech Ed Coordinator for an application.
Employer Sponsorship and Tuition Reimbursement
Many employers offer tuition reimbursement programs for employees who enroll in training programs to upskill. Talk to your supervisor or HR department to see if they will help pay your tuition. Many Southwest Tech adult students receive help from their employer.
Veteran and Senior Citizen Discount
We offer a 10% discount for military veterans as well as people aged 60 and older (online programs excluded). It is the student's responsibility to alert Southwest Tech Adult Education if you identify as either and provide documentation.
We are not a GI Bill approved school unfortunately.