Paying for your education is a big decision, but you don’t have to approach it alone. At ACC, we understand that many students worry about how they’ll afford a healthcare education. That’s why our Financial Aid Planners are here to help you understand your financial aid options.
Whether you're just starting your journey or picking up where you left off, this guide walks you through the financial aid process—from filling out the FAFSA to identifying grants, scholarships, and loans that may help you fund your future.
What Is Financial Aid?
Financial aid is any funding that helps you pay for college-related expenses, including tuition, books, fees, supplies, and sometimes even living costs. Financial aid may come in the form of:
- Grants – Money you don’t need to repay, based on financial need
- Scholarships – Awarded based on merit, need, or special criteria
- Federal loans – Low-interest loans from the U.S. Department of Education
- Private loans – Additional borrowing from third-party lenders
- Work-study – Part-time employment opportunities for eligible students
With numerous options available, it can be difficult to know where to begin. The good news is you don’t have to figure it out alone. ACC’s Financial Aid Planners can help you explore your options and guide you through the application process.
Completing the FAFSA
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is your gateway to most forms of financial assistance. It determines your eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities.
What You'll Need to Submit the FAFSA:
- Your Social Security Number (or U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Number if you're not a U.S. citizen)
- Federal income tax returns, W-2s, and other records of money earned
- Bank account balances and investment records (if applicable)
- List of schools you're applying to
It’s important to submit the FAFSA as early as possible each year as some aid is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
Need Help with the FAFSA?
Filling out the FAFSA can be confusing so it’s smart to utilize the resources available to you. ACC’s Financial Aid Planners can walk you through the questions, helping to ensure that you're submitting the correct documents.
Types of Financial Aid to Fund Your Education
1. Federal Grants
Federal grants are need-based and don’t have to be repaid. If your FAFSA indicates financial need, you may qualify for:
- Pell Grant – One of the largest sources of need-based aid for undergraduates.
- Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) – Additional funds awarded to students with exceptional need.
These funds can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expenses. The ACC financial aid team can help you determine your eligibility. You can also review these financial aid eligibility requirements to help better understand what you need in order to qualify.
2. Scholarships
Scholarships can help reduce the cost of your education, and unlike loans, they don’t need to be repaid. Scholarships fall into two main categories: institutional and external.
Institutional scholarships are awarded by the colleges or universities themselves whereas external scholarships are provided by organizations such as private foundations, corporations, non-profits, or community groups.
ACC Financial Aid Planners can help you identify institutional scholarships and program-specific awards. They can also offer guidance on external scholarships and point you towards resources that help you find/apply to scholarships.
Learn more about ACC scholarships and grants.
3. Federal Student Loans
Federal student loans from the U.S. Department of Education are available to students who meet all the eligibility criteria, regardless of income or credit history. These loans tend to have lower interest rates and more flexible repayment plans than private loans.
Types of federal student loans include:
- Direct Subsidized Loans – Granted based on need; the government pays the interest while you're in school at least half-time.
- Direct Unsubsidized Loans – Interest begins accruing as soon as the loan is disbursed.
- PLUS Loans – Available to parents of dependent students or graduate students.
4. Private Loans
Private loans can fill gaps left after grants, scholarships, and federal loans. These are issued by banks, credit unions, or online lenders. Because terms vary, it’s important to weigh your options and compare interest rates (fixed vs. variable), repayment timelines, fees, and penalties. ACC Financial Aid Planners use a private loan aggregator, Elm Select, to help students compare private loans.
5. Federal Work-Study Program
If you're eligible, the Federal Work-Study Program allows you to earn money through part-time employment, often right on campus or in related healthcare settings. These jobs are designed to accommodate your class schedule and provide relevant work experience. It can be a great way to reduce reliance on loans while building your resume.
Questions to Ask Before You Enroll
Before making a financial commitment to your education, it’s smart to ask the right questions. At ACC, we encourage students to schedule a financial aid consultation and ask:
- What is the total cost of tuition, fees, supplies, and certifications?
- Are there other fees or additional expenses I should prepare for?
- Are payment plans available?
- Will I be assigned a financial aid advisor to help me through the process?
4 Ways to Reduce the Cost of a Healthcare Education
Earning a degree or diploma in healthcare is a valuable investment. Here are some ways to keep costs under control while furthering your education:
- Apply Early for Grants and Scholarships. Many funding opportunities are limited, so apply early and often.
- Live at Home or Share Living Expenses. Reducing housing costs can make a big difference in your overall budget.
- Explore Work-Study or Part-Time Work. Earn while you learn and gain experience in the process.
- Create a Smart Budget. Our planners can help you plan for books, transportation, and other expenses so there are fewer surprises.
Financial Aid FAQs
Is financial aid available for all programs at ACC?
Yes, financial aid is available for those who qualify. Connect with an ACC Financial Aid Planner to help confirm your eligibility.
What if I’m an adult learner or returning to school?
Many ACC students are adult learners. Financial aid is available regardless of age.
What happens if I don’t qualify for grants?
You may still be eligible for scholarships, federal loans, or private funding. The financial aid team can help you explore all available options.
Can I make payments instead of taking out loans?
Yes. ACC offers customized payment plans to help reduce loan dependency. As individual situations vary, a Financial Aid Planner can help walk you through your options.
When will I know how much aid I’m eligible for?
You will learn how much aid you’re eligible for during your ACC packaging appointment with an ACC Financial Aid Planner.
Why Students Choose ACC for Financial Aid Support
At American Career College, you’ll work with real people who care about your success.
Our financial aid team is available to:
- Provide personalized, one-on-one support
- Help you navigate paperwork and deadlines
- Explain your options
- Assist in creating a financial plan that works for your goals
Ready to Take the Next Step?
The sooner you explore your financial aid options, the sooner you can start training for a career in healthcare. Whether you’re interested in nursing, dental assisting, surgical technology, or any of our other programs, ACC is here to support your success from day one.
Explore ACC's financial aid resources and request more information today.
