Financial Aid Policies at Trade Schools

Financial aid comes with rules. Know them before you enroll so you can plan your schedule and budget.

Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP)

• Minimum GPA and pace of completion requirements
• Consequences of not meeting SAP: warning, probation, or loss of eligibility
• Ask how SAP is measured for your program

Withdrawals and Refunds

• Schools follow specific refund schedules; federal aid recalculations may apply when you withdraw
• Ask for an example calculation based on your program’s calendar

Payment Periods (Clock‑Hour Programs)

• Aid is often released when you complete a set number of hours and weeks
• Ask when the next disbursement occurs and what you must complete to receive it

Policies to Read

• Catalog: attendance, grading, SAP, and refund sections
• Enrollment agreement: costs, schedule, and cancellation terms (see Enrollment Agreement Guide)

Related Guides

• Funding: Financial Aid Guide
• Costs: School Comparison Checklist

Explore Related Topics:

• Accessibility and Accommodations in Trade School
• Accreditation and Approvals for Trade Schools
• Trade School Admissions Checklist
• Apprenticeship vs. Trade School
• Automotive Technology: Training and Entry-Level Certifications