Financial Aid for Technology Programs
Financial aid can reduce the cost of technology programs. The mix of grants, loans, scholarships, and employer support varies by school.
$22,796Bachelor's Median DebtCollege Scorecard
$83,443Bachelor's 5yr EarningsCollege Scorecard
69.6%Programs OnlineCollege Scorecard
Quick Answers
What types of aid are common?
Common options include federal grants, student loans, scholarships, and employer assistance.
Do online students qualify for aid?
Eligible online students may qualify for the same federal aid as campus students.
What should I compare between schools?
Compare total cost, net price, and available aid packages.
At a Glance
- Aid sources: Federal, state, institutional, and employer options
- Eligibility: Depends on school accreditation and enrollment status
- Key metric: Net price is more useful than sticker price
- Employer aid: Some employers offer tuition assistance
For a full overview of program options, start with the Technology Program Guide.
Common financial aid types
| Aid Type | Description | Repayment Required |
|---|---|---|
| Federal Pell Grant | Need-based federal grant for undergraduates | No |
| Federal Direct Loans | Fixed-rate federal student loans | Yes |
| Institutional Scholarships | Merit or need-based awards from the school | No |
| Employer Tuition Assistance | Employer-funded education benefits | No (typically) |
| State Aid Programs | State-specific grants or scholarships | Varies |
| Work-Study | Part-time employment through the school | No (earned wages) |
Cost elements to review
When comparing aid packages, ask about:
- Total credits required for the degree
- Mandatory fees (technology, lab, or practicum)
- Scholarship renewal requirements
- Payment plan options
Compare total program cost, net price after aid, and any fees not covered by tuition.
Technology graduates with a bachelor’s degree carry a median debt of $22,796 and report median earnings of $83,443 five years after graduation (College Scorecard). Financial aid can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Debt vs earnings by degree level
| Degree Level | Median Debt | 1yr Median Earnings | 5yr Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certificate | $9,105 | $46,815 | $57,494 |
| Associate | $14,321 | $43,896 | $52,772 |
| Bachelor’s | $22,796 | $56,372 | $83,443 |
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, latest academic year.
Related pages:
- Affordable Technology Programs
- Technology Accreditation (accreditation affects aid eligibility)