Financial Aid Menu
Financial Aid > Types of Aid
Federal PELL Grant
A federal PELL Grant, does not have to be repaid. PELL Grant program is federally funded with the purpose of helping financially needy students meet the cost of postsecondary education. This program is centrally administered by the federal government and is typically the foundation of a student’s aid package. Students must demonstrate financial need to qualify.
The Financial Assistance Office uses the PELL award as the foundation of the student’s financial aid package. Therefore, students requesting financial assistance during their enrollment are required to establish federal PELL Grant eligibility before additional determination of funds eligibility is made and/or awarded.
In order to determine eligibility for any federal financial aid program, students must file a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and have the results sent to WNC, by providing the WNC School Code on the FAFSA (013896).
Federal PELL Grant award amounts are based on the Federal Pell Grant Payment and Disbursement Schedules provided by the U.S. Department of Education. You can learn more about the PELL Grant at https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/node/6.
Students are notified of the amount of their PELL Grant through a financial aid offer letter. Students are directed to view their offer letters on myWNC.
Summer PELL Grant
Eligibility
To be eligible for a Summer 2020 PELL Grant, you must:
- Have completed a 2019-2020 FAFSA
- Be eligible for the federal PELL Grant
- Declare a financial aid eligible degree-seeking program
- Enroll in degree-applicable classes for the Summer
- Meet Satisfactory Academic Progress
- Have lifetime PELL Grant eligibility remaining
Check your Lifetime Eligibility
You can check for your remaining eligibility level online at nslds.ed.gov and logging on using your FSA ID. View your Lifetime Eligibility Units (LEU) on the financial aid review page.
Summer Awarding Timeline
Once you enroll in Summer classes and WNC’s Financial Assistance Office determines that your classes are degree-applicable, you will automatically be awarded the Federal PELL Grant for Summer, based on your Summer enrollment status.
Dropping, Withdrawing or Failing Classes
It is possible that you could owe money back for all or part of your Federal PELL Grant if you do not complete classes in which you enrolled for the Summer. The amount you may owe will be calculated based on the drop date, the number of credits that you did not earn and the last day that you attended classes. Review the Return of Title IV Policy page for more information.
PELL Grant Amount Depends on Enrollment
Your Summer PELL Grant amount will depend on the number of credits you enroll in for the Summer Session. If you have already received a PELL Grant Award for Full Time enrollment in both the Fall and Spring Semester, your Summer PELL Grant award will require you to enroll in a minimum of 6 degree applicable credits.
The PELL Grant amount will be adjusted just prior to the disbursement of your aid based on your enrollment level. Enrollment levels are defined in the following manner:
- 12+ credits = Full Time Enrollment and 100% of the semester PELL Grant amount
- 9–11 credits = ¾ Time Enrollment and 75% of the semester PELL Grant amount
- 6–8 credits = ½ Enrollment and 50% of the semester PELL Grant amount
Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
FSEOG, similar to a PELL Grant, does not have to be repaid. This federal program provides limited grant funding on a first-come, first-served basis to students who meet the April 1 priority filing deadline.
Recipients must be:
- Eligible for a Pell Grant
- Be enrolled in at least six units
- Demonstrate financial need
WNC begins awarding this fund after April 1 of each year and awards to student with the lowest EFC, enrolled in six units or more, and with the earliest FAFSA completion date.
Award amounts are based on remaining financial need and begin at $500 per semester.
You can learn more about FSEOG at: https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/node/41.
Silver State Opportunity Grant (SSOG)
The Silver State Opportunity Grant Program (SSOG Program) is a state-supported financial aid program created by the 2015 Legislature pursuant to Senate Bill 227 (Chapter 387, Statutes of Nevada 2015). Under the SSOG Programs, need based grants will be awarded to eligible low income student who are college-ready to pay for a portion of the cost of education at a community college or state college within the Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE). This unique program is built on a shared responsibility model and guided by a philosophy for awarding grant aid based on the total cost of attendance (tuition and fees, books and supplies, room and board, and other living expenses) being shared by partners (the state, federal government, family, and the student).
To be eligible for an SSOG award, a student must:
- Be enrolled in a program of study leading to a degree or certificate;
- Enroll in at least 15 credit hours that apply to the student’s chosen program of study;
- Be college ready based on placement or completion of entry-level, college-level mathematics and English*;
- Be classified as a resident for tuition purposes;
- Meet institutional Title IV financial aid satisfactory academic progress requirements; and
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and have an Expected Family Contribution (EFC) of 8500 or less.
*To be considered “college-ready” for the purpose of SSOG Program eligibility, a student must be 1) currently or previously enrolled in a 100 or above level mathematics and English course, 2) placed into a college-level course under institutional placement policies for placement into at least Math 120 and English 101, or 3) previously successfully completed remedial coursework (evident by a C or better in Math 96 and/or English 98).
Nevada Resident Award and Nevada Student Grant
These two state programs provide limited funding to Nevada residents on a first-come, first-served basis.
To be eligible for these programs, students must:
- Be a Nevada resident
- Have a complete financial aid file
- Demonstrate financial need
- Enroll at least six units
WNC begins awarding this fund after April 1 of each year and awards to students with the lowest EFC, enrolled in six units or more, and with the earliest FAFSA completion date.
Award amounts are based on remaining financial need and begin at $500 per semester.
Grant in Aid
This state program provides limited funding to Nevada residents on a first-come, first-served basis.
To be eligible for a GIA award, a student must:
- Have a complete financial aid file
- Demonstrate financial need
- Enrolled at least six units
- Have an expected family contribution of less than 200.
WNC begins awarding this fund after April 1 of each year and awards to student with the lowest EFC, enrolled in six units or more, and with the earliest FAFSA completion date.
Award amounts are based on remaining financial need and begin at $500 per semester.
Western Nevada Award
This institutional funded grant program provides limited funding to students on a first-come, first-served basis.
To be eligible for this programs, students must:
- Have a complete financial aid file
- Demonstrate financial need
- Enroll at least six units
WNC begins awarding this fund after April 1 of each year and awards to students with the lowest EFC, enrolled in six units or more, and with the earliest FAFSA completion date.
Award amounts are based on remaining financial need and begin at $500 per semester.
Wildcat Award
This institutional funded grant program provides limited funding to students on a first-come, first-served basis.
To be eligible for this programs, students must:
- Have a complete financial aid file
- Demonstrate financial need
- Enroll at least six units
WNC begins awarding this fund after April 1 of each year and awards to students with an EFC just over the Pell Grant eligible EFC and with the earliest FAFSA completion date.
Award amounts are based on remaining financial need and begin at $750 per semester.
WNC 15 to Finish
This institutional funded grant program provides limited funding to students on a first-come, first-served basis.
To be eligible for this programs, students must be:
- Have a complete financial aid file
- Demonstrate financial need
- Enroll at least fifteen units
WNC begins awarding this fund after July 1 of each year and awards to students with the lowest EFC, enrolled in 15 units or more, and with the earliest FAFSA completion date.
Award amounts are based on remaining financial need and begin at $1000 per semester.
Western Nevada College Foundation and Financial Assistance Office are please to announce the renewal of the the William N. Pennington Career and Technical Education Scholarship Application for 2020-2021. This generous scholarship will give Western Nevada College CTE students the opportunity to learn valuable skills to enter Nevada’s diverse workforce.
Apply Now!
WNC Foundation Scholarships
Each year, WNC Foundation awards scholarships to students on the basis of academic criteria or any combination of academics, field of study, financial need, activities, community service, and other criteria.
To be considered for a 2020-2021 General Foundation Scholarship Award, students needed to apply by April 15, 2020. The William N. Pennington CTE Scholarships application will remain open until funding is exhausted.
Generally, in order to be selected to receive a campus-based scholarship, a student must:
- Meet the specific selection criteria for a particular scholarship program
- Be enrolled in a minimum of six units, unless otherwise requested by the donor
- Have a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.0, unless otherwise requested by the donor
- Some scholarships require students to have a financial need. To be more likely to receive a financial need based scholarship, please make sure to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). For information on how to do this visit https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/
Students awarded a scholarship will have their award disbursed to their student account only when a thank you card has been received for the donor and in accordance with semester disbursement dates. Please be aware that scholarships of $500 and more will be disbursed in two equal payments (Fall/Spring) unless otherwise requested by the donor. Students must meet the minimum GPA criteria for a scholarship in order to receive the Spring disbursement.
Scholarship recipients are expected to attend a scholarship celebration held each March at Fuji Park Hall in Carson City.
FAQs
I don’t have sign in information for the scholarship website, how do I get one?
Click here, then on the “Set your Password” button to create a new account. You must use the same email address that you use to enroll with WNC in order to create an account.
I don’t have a MyWNC account, what email do I use?
If you do not have a MyWNC account set up, please click here to create a scholarship account. You may use any personal email; please make sure to use the same one when you enroll with WNC.
When I enter my email to create an account, I get the error this email does not exist. Why won’t it accept my email address?
You must use the same email address that is listed in your MyWNC account in order to create an account. If you do not have a MyWNC account, please click here to create a scholarship account. You may use any personal email; please make sure to use the same one when you enroll with WNC.
On the dashboard page of the application website it says X Applied Scholarships. What does this mean?
Based on the information you have provided, this is the number of scholarships that you potentially qualify for. You will be notified if you are awarded any of those scholarships.
Can I start my application today and finish it a different day?
Yes. The application will save as you work so you can finish it later.
I don’t know how to write a personal statement. Can you help me?
You can find details on how to write a personal statement at https://www.wnc.edu/foundation/statement/
I don’t meet the federal requirements to qualify for financial aid. Can I still earn a scholarship?
Yes, the WNC Foundation offers scholarships that are not based on financial need. You may qualify for one of those scholarships.
I am very busy. How long will it take to fill out the scholarship application?
The scholarship application saves as you work so you can leave the application and finish it later. You can take as much time as needed to complete the application.
Governor Guinn Millennium Scholarship
In 1999, Gov. Kenny Guinn’s Millennium Scholarship initiative was enacted into law by the Nevada Legislature. Each Millennium Scholarship is worth up to $10,000 over the lifetime of the award. There is no application for students to complete, however students should become familiar with the policies and procedures related to the Millennium Scholarship program.
Acknowledging your Millennium Scholarship Award
Students who meet eligibility requirements, as determined by the student’s high school and the State Treasurer’s Office, must acknowledge their award prior to the college awarding the Millennium Scholarship. Students should visit the State Treasurer’s Office website to learn how to acknowledge their award.
Determining your Millennium Scholarship Award Amount
A student attending WNC and using his or her Millennium Scholarship must enroll in a minimum of 9 degree applicable credits and can receive funding for up to 15 degree applicable credits. Students will receive a maximum of $40 per credit hour for lower-division credits (100-200 level) and $60 per credit hour for upper division credits (300-400 level).
Enrollment in courses under the 100 level are counted towards the minimum enrollment requirement of 9 credits, however these course are not eligible for funding.
Maintaining your Millennium Scholarship Eligibility
To remain eligible for the Millennium Scholarship each semester, student’s are required to complete at least 9 credits and maintain a SEMESTER GPA of 2.60 up to 29 credits and 2.75 once 30+ credits are accumulated.
Disbursement of Millennium Scholarships
Millennium Scholarships disbursements follow the same disbursement dates and process as all other financial assistance at WNC. Learn more at Disbursement and Refund page.
Millennium Scholarship Frequently Asked Questions
Coming Soon!
Questions regarding your Millennium Scholarship
Temple Campana
WNC Scholarship and Student Employment Coordinator
775-445-3260
temple.campana@wnc.edu.
Note: Additional scholarship information can be found at the State Treasurer’s website: Millennium Scholarship Information.
Nevada Promise
The Nevada Promise Scholarship is a last-dollar scholarship that was established by the Nevada State Legislature in 2017. The scholarship incorporates service learning and mentorship with academics, with the goal of increasing enrollment in higher education and improving overall student achievement, by eliminating financial barriers and allowing students to place greater emphasis on their education. This scholarship provides coverage of tuition and other mandatory fees not met by federal or state aid for up to three years. There are no income or high school GPA requirements, and it is open to all Nevada high school students graduating between August 1 and June 15 who begin classes at WNC in the fall immediately following graduation.
Visit the WNC Nevada Promise Scholarship page to learn how to qualify!
In 1999, Gov. Kenny Guinn’s Millennium Scholarship initiative was enacted into law by the Nevada Legislature. Each Millennium Scholarship is worth up to $10,000.
A student attending WNC and using his or her Millennium Scholarship must enroll in a minimum of 9 degree applicable credits and can funding for up to 15 degree applicable credits. Students will receive a maximum of $40 per credit hour for lower-division credits (100-200 level) and $60 per credit hour for upper division credits (300-400 level). Contact the Office of the Nevada State Treasurer to request complete information and all eligibility criteria.
Outside Scholarships
Western Nevada College does not post links for external scholarships at this time. We do encourage students to explore scholarship opportunities by using free scholarship sites such as:
There are many other similar search sites – just make sure you never pay money to apply and avoid searches that want to link to your social media or ask for private personal information such as your social security number, as these are often scams.
Big companies and large corporations often offer scholarships so it’s a good idea to search those sites too! Other places to check out include your or your parent’s places of employment as well as local financial institutions.
We do support known local organizations who offer scholarships and often have hard copy applications in the Financial Assistance Office. Applications are in our lobby or posted on our lobby bulletin board.
In 1999, Gov. Kenny Guinn’s Millennium Scholarship initiative was enacted into law by the Nevada Legislature. Each Millennium Scholarship is worth up to $10,000.
A student attending WNC and using his or her Millennium Scholarship must enroll in a minimum of 9 degree applicable credits and can funding for up to 15 degree applicable credits. Students will receive a maximum of $40 per credit hour for lower-division credits (100-200 level) and $60 per credit hour for upper division credits (300-400 level). Contact the Office of the Nevada State Treasurer to request complete information and all eligibility criteria.
Important Student Employment Announcement - July 1, 2020
- WNC’s Student Employment Hiring process is under construction. The new Job Board and application process will be launched later in July so please check back for more information and a list of jobs.
- If you have been awarded work study or any type of student employment funds and these funds are part of your 2020-2021 Financial Aid Award Summary, please contact our Student Employment Coordinator via email at Temple.Campana@wnc.edu for a list of campus departments that are hiring.
- If you have done a FAFSA and have not been awarded work study you can email finaid1@wnc.edu to be added to the waiting list. Please include your student ID number in your email request.
Student Employment
Listings of on-campus, off-campus and tutoring opportunities for students of Western Nevada College. These programs help students earn part of their college expenses while attending school. To be considered for the majority of student employment funds, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Federal Work-Study Program is a federally funded program designed to help provide employment for qualified students who demonstrate a financial need as determined by the FAFSA. These are on-campus jobs that are located on the Carson City, Fallon and Douglas campuses. The hours worked are arranged around the student’s class schedule, not to exceed 20 hours per week. Students must be enrolled at least half-time to be eligible for this program.
Nevada Student Employment Program is a state-funded program based on financial need as determined by the FAFSA. Students must be a Nevada resident and enrolled at least half-time. Like federal work-study, these are on-campus jobs that are located on the Carson City, Fallon and Douglas campuses. The hours worked are arranged around the student’s class schedule, not to exceed 20 hours per week.
Western Student Employment Program is a Nevada access employment program for students who have demonstrated financial need as determined by the FAFSA and is designed to help provide employment for qualified students who demonstrate a financial need. These are on-campus jobs that are located on the Carson City, Fallon and Douglas campuses. The hours worked are arranged around the student’s class schedule, not to exceed 20 hours per week. Students must be enrolled at least half-time to be eligible for this program.
Regents Service Program is a state funded program based on criteria established by the Nevada System of Higher Education Board of Regents. To be eligible, Nevada residents must be enrolled at least half-time and must meet at least one of the following criteria:
- Head of household.
- Single parent who has never attended college or has had a break in enrollment of two years or more.
- First person in their immediate family to pursue a certificate or degree beyond high school.
- Not receiving support from parents or family.
- Have unusual financial circumstances.
WNC uses the funds from this program to support literacy by providing reading tutors to the elementary schools within our service area. These tutors provide individual and group tutoring at the elementary schools. A FAFSA is not required for this program. Applications are available in the Financial Assistance Office.
FAQs
How do I apply for a job?
- WNC’s Student Employment Hiring process is under construction. The new Job Board and application process will be launched later in July 2020, so please check back for more information and a list of jobs.
- If you have been awarded work study or any type of student employment funds and these funds are part of your 2020-2021 Financial Aid Award Summary, please contact our Student Employment Coordinator via email at Temple.Campana@wnc.edu for a list of campus departments that are hiring.
- If you have done a FAFSA and have not been awarded work study you can email finaid1@wnc.edu to be added to the waiting list. Please include your student ID number in your email request.
What is the Work Study Program?
Work Study Programs provide funding for part-time jobs for students with financial need, allowing them to earn money to help pay education expenses. These programs encourage work related to the student’s course of study. Most students will work 10-15 hours per week with the maximum being 20 hours. Students can earn the amount listed on their award letter.
The Financial Assistance Office at WNC supports the Nevada Attorney General’s Office with regards to college student loan conduct. Please read the WNC College Student Loan Code of Conduct for more information.
Definition
Student loans are money that must be repaid. Loans are legal obligations. Students are required to repay ALL student loans regardless of whether they didn’t like the education received, ability to get a job in a preferred field of study, or financial difficulty.
Before taking out a student loan, it is wise to think about the amount of money being borrowed and the amount of money to be repaid over the years, with interest.
Be conservative. Only borrow what is absolutely needed.
Types of Loans
- Federal Direct Stafford Loans (Subsidized and Unsubsidized)
- Direct Subsidized Stafford Loan – This loan is need-based aid (need is determined by FAFSA). Eligibility is determined based on credits taken, degree program declared, and past borrowing. Interest is subsidized while in school attending at least half time (six units).
- Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loan – This loan is non-need based aid. Interest begins to accrue immediately from the date the loan is disbursed, like a credit card purchase. The borrower is responsible for the interest that accrues on the loan. Students are encouraged to pay the interest while in college.If the borrower does not pay the interest that is accruing on the Unsubsidized loan while in college and when the Unsubsidized loan goes into repayment, the lender will take the principle borrowed, all the interest that was not paid, add them together and then determine what the payment will be with interest!
- Direct Parent Loan for Student (PLUS) – This loan is a low-interest student loan for the parents of dependent students and for graduate/professional degree students. Unlike Subsidized and Unsubsidized loans, this type of loan requires the borrower to pass a credit check. Interest begins to accrue from the date the loan is disbursed, just like a credit card purchase!!Parents can apply online at: www.studentloans.gov. A WNC Federal PLUS Loan Request form can be found here. Parents must complete this WNC PLUS request form every year.
Exit Counseling
The federal government requires that student borrowers complete Exit Counseling. Exit Counseling is required before you withdraw, graduate or drop below half-time attendance (even if you plan to transfer to another school). This can be completed at: https://nslds.ed.gov/nslds/nslds_SA/.
Interest Rates
On or after July 1, 2019 and before July 1, 2020
The Subsidized loan is 4.53% (when you go into repayment).
The Unsubsidized loan is 4.53% (accruing immediately once loan is disbursed).
The PLUS is fixed at 7.08% (accruing immediately once loan is disbursed).
THERE IS NO PENALTY FOR PAYING YOUR FEDERAL DIRECT STAFFORD LOAN(S) EARLY!!!
National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS)
- This is a National data bank that houses every federal stafford loan ever borrowed. You can:
- Track your loans from disbursement to payoff
- Track your total student loan indebtedness
- Track your loan status & interest rate
- https://nslds.ed.gov/nslds/nslds_SA/
- As part of receiving a Direct Stafford Loan, loan disbursement information is reported to the National Student Loan Database (NSLDS) and is accessible to view by authorized agencies, lenders, and other institutions.
Loan Default – Consequences of Default!!!!
- Full amount of loan is due INCLUDING collection costs and all interest that has accrued
- You are subject to federal & state offsets
- Wages and tax refund may be garnished
- Credit will be tarnished
- Will Lose deferment & forbearance options
- Will Lose eligibility for future financial aid
- May lose eligibility for certain federal or state jobs
- May lose professional license
Private Education Loan
There are several lenders that provide education loans. All private education loans are credit based.
- Available through private lending institutions.
- Loans are credit based.
It is in the best interest of the borrower to review each lender’s interest rates and types to ensure the borrower chooses the best one for his or her needs.
Steps to Apply for a Federal Direct Stafford Loan
Please Note: The 2020-2021 Loan Request Form will open June 1, 2020.
- Complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
- Complete your WNC financial aid file.
- Complete a Master Promissory Note (MPN) at www.studentloans.gov. Sign in with your FSA ID and choose Complete MPN from the menu on the left side of the page.
- Complete the Entrance counseling at: www.studentloans.gov. Sign in with your FSA ID and choose Complete Entrance Counseling from the menu on the left side of the page. ENCOURAGED TO COMPLETE EVERY YEAR.
- Log on to the National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS) at https://nslds.ed.gov/nslds/nslds_SA/ using your FSA ID and print a summary report of your financial aid history. You must attach your financial aid history summary to your Loan Request Form. If this is the first time you have requested financial aid, you must attach a printout of the NSLDS web page proving you have accessed your NSLDS account.
- Complete and submit the Student Loan Request Form.
- Must complete the Exit counseling at: https://studentloans.gov in the last semester you are in attendance at WNC or drop below 6 credits.
- If you decide to cancel your loan(s), you need to submit to the Financial Assistance office a completed Loan Revision Request form and/or return the loan funds to your lender. To avoid penalty, you must cancel your loans as soon as possible or no later than 14 days after disbursement of funds.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON DIRECT FEDERAL STAFFORD LOANS GO TO:https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/
Loan Disbursements
Federal regulations require loans to be disbursed in two equal payments. One in the Fall semester and one in the Spring semester. Beginning with the Spring 2019 semester, Federal Student Loans will begin disbursing after the Financial Assistance Census Date.
IF you are a First Time Freshman AND First Time Borrower (that means the borrower has never attended college or does not have transfer credits AND has never borrowed a loan), you will have a 30-day delay on your first disbursement.
Loans for one semester will still have the two disbursements one after the Financial Assistance Census Date and the second disbursement midway through the semester.
If you are enrolled in all online classes, the financial assistance office could verify participation and attendance, prior to disbursing financial aid funds.
FAQs
How Much Can I Borrow Each Academic Year?
Annual (Yearly) loan limits are regulated by the government and are as follows:
| Class Standing |
Credits Earned |
Base Eligibility |
Additional Unsubsidized Eligibility |
| Freshman | 0-29 credits | $3,500 | $6,000 ($2,000 Dependent Students) |
| Sophomore | 30 – 59 credits | $4,500 | $6,000 ($2,000 Dependent Students) |
| Junior/Senior * | 60 or more credits | $5,500 | $7,000 ($2,000 Dependent Students) |
* Funding only applies to students in the Bachelor of Technology program.
What is an Academic Year?
A typical academic year is the Fall and Spring semesters. You can use your loan to help pay for the Summer semester, however, if you have borrowed all you are eligible for between the Fall and Spring semesters, you will not have any money left to borrow in the summer.
How Much Can I Borrow for a Lifetime?
Aggregate (lifetime) loan amounts are set by the federal government. Undergraduate levels are as follows:
| Dependent Students | $31,000 (of which no more than $23,000 can be subsidized) |
| Independent Students | $57,500 (of which no more than $23,000 can be subsidized) |
The aggregate amounts are Lifetime limits from earning an Associates and/or Baccalaureate (Bachelor) degree.
Be careful when Borrowing Loans!!!!! This is all you have to work with!!!!
AmeriCorps Vouchers are available to complete on-line at www.nationalservice.gov/programs/americorps. Once you fill out the voucher on-line, AmeriCorps will forward it to our office and we will complete the school portion electronically. This process takes two to three weeks. If you qualify for these funds, half of the requested amount will be disbursed toward the beginning of the semester and the other half will be disbursed mid-way through the enrollment period.
Once WNC receives the AmeriCorps funds, they will be applied to your student account. If the balance is paid in full, a residual check will be issued and mailed to the address on file with Admissions and Records unless you have Direct Deposit set up with the Business Office. If WNC does not receive the AmeriCorps funds prior to the beginning of the semester, you will need to pay for your classes and books on your own and then you will receive the full AmeriCorps amount once we receive it.
Students who are NOT eligible to file the FAFSA are considered Non-FAFSA Filers and may still be eligible for other types of non-federal student aid.
Non-FAFSA Filers are encouraged to complete WNC Non-Federal Aid Application to be considered for other non federal grant awards. Additionally, Non-FAFSA Filers are encouraged to complete the WNC Foundation Scholarship Application to become eligible for donor based scholarships.
The majority of students are eligible to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). If you are a U.S. citizen or non-citizen who is eligible to receive Federal Student Aid, you should complete the FAFSA at fafsa.gov.
Students who are deferred action for childhood arrivals (DACA) are asked to also complete the FAFSA. Completion of the FAFSA could help you become eligible for certain state and institutional awards. Students who have DACA status, should be prepared to present the WNC Financial Assistance Office with their I-797 after the completion of the FAFSA.
Related forms:
Education Benefits
The determination of eligibility for veteran educational benefits rests with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The Veterans Certifying Official helps veterans and other eligible students to access their benefits by certifying their enrollment each semester.
Education Benefit Programs
- Montgomery GI Bill®(Chapter 30)
- Veterans Vocational Rehabilitation Program (Chapter 31)
- Post-9/11 GI-Bill® (Chapter 33)
- Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (Chapter 35)
- Montgomery GI Bill® for Select Reserve (Chapter 1606)
For a detailed explanation of each of the programs, go to VA Benefits Page.
NOTE: ‘‘GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site at http://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.”
Getting Certified at WNC
If a student wishes to use VA Education Benefits at Western Nevada College, he or she must complete the following steps:
- Complete the application for VA education benefits. This application can be completed through VA Benefits Page. After completing the application, if eligible for VA Education Benefits the Department of Veteran Affairs will generate a Certificate of Eligibility and mail to the applicant.
- Complete the WNC Application for Admission and all required new student steps.
- Send all transcripts from previous colleges and universities, including military transcripts, to WNC Admissions and Records. Once your transcripts have been sent, you must complete the Petition for Transfer Credit Evaluation. It is the student’s responsibility to have transcripts sent to WNC. If a student does not have this done by the start of their second semester, they will not be certified again until all transcripts have been evaluated.
- Meet with or contact the WNC VA School Certifying Official, located in the Financial Aid Office (Bristlecone Room 102 or at 775-445-3263). You will be required to submit your Certificate of Eligibility and DD214. You will also be required to complete the Veterans Data Form (must be completed each semester in order to be certified for VA Education Benefits). Financial Aid Staff and the VA School Certifying Official are available to help you complete these requirements.
- Meet with a counselor, located in Counseling Services (Bristlecone Room 103 or at 775-445-3267). Counselors are available to help students with degree selection, class schedules, and provide career counseling. A counselor signature is required on the Veterans Data Form.
- Meet with the Veterans Resource Center Coordinator at the Veterans Resource Center (Cedar Room 330 or at 775-445-3001). Learn more about the VRC on their website.
2018-2019 Veteran Satisfactory Academic Progress Requirements (Catalog Amendment)
In order to maintain Veteran Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) at Western Nevada College, students must maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0. If a student fails to meet this standard, they will be placed on Academic Probation and VA education benefits may be suspended.
WNC VA SAP Appeal Process
Students wishing to continue using VA education benefits at WNC while on Academic Probation, must meet with an Academic Counselor and file a VA SAP Appeal E-Form. If a student’s appeal is approved, the school will resume the normal certification process for the student. If the appeal is denied students may continue.to take classes at WNC at their own expense. Once they reach a 2.0 cumulative GPA on their own, they will again qualify for certification of VA Education Benefits.
Late Fees
Western Nevada College does not penalize students using VA Education benefit programs under Chapters 33 and 31 while waiting for payment from the Department of Veterans Affairs providing they submit a Certificate of Eligibility, a written request to use such entitlement (Veterans Data Form) and any additional information needed to certify enrollment.
Students will continue to have access to all WNC classes and services as outlined in our catalog. No late fees will be assessed and student accounts will be placed on hold to avoid classes being dropped for non-payment. Title 38 USC 3679 (e).
The Veterans Resource Center
The Veterans Resource Center lives by its motto “Veterans Helping Veterans” and is home to many beneficial Veteran programs. They include VA benefit counseling, tutoring, academic advising, peer-to-peer mentorship and more.
CARES Act
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was passed by Congress and signed into law by President Trump on March 27th, 2020. The CARES Act includes emergency grant funding to assist qualifying students with expenses related to disruption of campus operations due to COVID-19. The U.S. Department of Education has provided guidance on student eligibility requirements.
Western Nevada College provided the U.S. Department of Education with notification of the intent to award CARES Act Emergency Grant funds through the submission the Certification and Agreement on April 15, 2020. The college was awarded a total of $681,734.50 in total CARES Act Emergency Grant funds.
Automatic Qualification for funding from the federal CARES Act
Based on the guidance from the US Department of Education, the college has developed a formula to identify students who have had a significant disruption to their education due to the movement of in-person courses to an online format. Additionally, the college is using guidance from the U.S. Department of Education and using the FAFSA to ensure student eligibility for Title IV federal assistance. Students identified through this process will not need to apply.
If you meet these eligibility requirements, you do not need to apply for funding; the college will process funds automatically for you:
- Had been enrolled as a degree-seeking student in one or more in-person courses for Spring 2020 semester;
- Completed the 2019/2020 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) listing WNC’s school code (013896);
- Meet all of the following eligibility requirements to receive Federal Student Aid (referred to as Title IV). These requirements include, but are not limited to, the following:
- You are a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen;
- You have a valid Social Security number;
- If you are male, you are registered with the Selective Service;
- You have a high school diploma, GED, or completed high school in an approved homeschool setting;
- Meet Satisfactory Academic Progress requirements;
- Completed your Financial Assistance Checklist and have no outstanding To Do List Items;
- Not already be completely withdrawn from the Spring 2020 semester;
- Not be included in one of the following student groups: Apprenticeships, Prison Groups, JumpStart/High School Dual Enrollment, Winter Session Only, Faculty/Staff or their dependent using Grant in Aid.
Non-Automatic Qualification/Application Process
The college has allocated a portion of CARES funds to help otherwise qualifying students who are not identified through the automatic awarding process. To be eligible, students must meet the following criteria:
- Had been enrolled as a degree-seeking student in one or more in-person courses for Spring 2020 semester;
- Completed the 2019/2020 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) listing WNC’s school code (013896);
- Meet all eligibility requirements to receive Federal Student Aid (Title IV, HEA);
- Meet Satisfactory Academic Progress requirements;
- Complete Financial Assistance Checklist and have no outstanding To Do List Items;
Students who were not identified as part of the formula, will need to apply through the CARES Act Emergency Grant Application. The application will open May 4, 2020.
If students aren’t approved for CARES Act Emergency Grants, the college will automatically review applications to see if the student is eligible for other campus emergency funding options that may not have the same restrictions.
CARES Act Emergency Grant Application
Award Amounts
Award amounts will vary based on Enrollment Level and Estimated Family Contribution. Award amounts begin at $100 and are capped at $1000.
Fund Distribution
The college will apply CARES Act Emergency Grant funds similar to other financial assistance. The Controller’s Office will process a payment through the general student refund process using the student’s preferred fund delivery method. Students are encouraged to ensure Direct Deposit Accounts or Mailing Address are up-to-date in the myWNC Student Center.
CARES Act Emergency Grant funds will not be applied to any outstanding balance students have with the college or be included on on the 1098T tax documentation.
CARES Act Emergency Grant funds will begin being released via direct deposit and checks May 6, 2020.
Required Reporting Requirements for CARES Act Emergency Grant Funds Distribution
- Certification and Agreement Submission Date – April 15, 2020
- Total CARES Act Funds Available – $681, 734.50
- Total Title IV Eligible Students – 1,262
- Total Amount of CARES Funds Distributed to Students – $555,600 (as of 5/8/2020) / $565,900 (as of 6/8/2020) / $565,000 (as of 7/8/2020)
- Total Number of Students Awarded in Automatic Qualification Process – 762
- Total Number of Students Awarded in Application Process -12 (as of 7/8/2020)
- Awarding Method – Awarding methodology is provided in the in Qualification Methods referenced in the above sections of the webpage.
- Instructions/Notification to Students:
- Press Release – May 1, 2020
- Student Award Letter Example – May 3, 2020
- Wildcat Happenings Newsletter – May 4, 2020
- KOLO News Channel 8 Story – May 5, 2020
- Carson Now Article – May 6, 2020
Note: Information reported above is in compliance with U.S. Department of Education guidance provided on May 6, 2020.
Reporting information updated on the following dates: May 8, 2020 / June 8, 2020
Questions
WNC’s Financial Assistance Office can help answer questions related to the CARES Act Emergency Grant process. Please contact the office at finaid1@wnc.edu.