Scottsdale Culinary : Financial Aid

Financial Aid Information

Begin the Financial Aid process:

1. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

NOTE: ACI's FAFSA school code is 041209

To apply for financial aid you must first complete the FAFSA to determine your eligibility for the Federal Pell Grant, Federal Stafford Loan, Federal PLUS Loan and other scholarship programs. This free application can be filled out online by visiting http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/. This website will walk you through the application process- please remember to enter ACI's school code (041209) on the form. Shortly after you receive electronic confirmation from the federal processing center, an ACI Financial Aid Representative will send you a letter outlining your awards and requesting additional information for you to submit. You must respond to this request and honor all deadlines to avoid losing your eligibility. (FAFSAs are reviewed for accepted students only)

2. Apply for Student Loans

Enrolled students who have completed their FAFSA and received an award letter from ACI may use one of the links below to apply for their Federal and Alternative Loans. Please remember that your award letter was accompanied by a financial aid packet which included instructions for completing the Master Promissory Note applications for Stafford Loans, Parent PLUS Loans, and Signature Student Loans as well as an optional lender list. Have this packet on hand for reference while applying for loans below.

Finanical Aid Options

Learn about Federal Loans, Grants, and Alternative Loan Options:

Federal Pell Grant

Federal Pell Grants are awarded to eligible students with financial need who are pursuing their first undergraduate degree. During the 2008-2009 academic year, Federal Pell Grants for full time students rages from $400 to $4,731.

Federal Stafford Loans

Subsidized Federal Stafford loans are loans that the federal government pays the interest on while you are enrolled in school. Interest is also paid during perids of grace and deferment. Payments on this loan begin six months after finishing school.

Unsubsidized Federal Stafford loans are available as an additional source of funding for independent and dependent students or for those who do not qualify for the Subsidized Stafford loan (as determined by FAFSA). Dependent students can qualify for additional Unsubsidized Stafford loans funds if their parents are denied the Federal PLUS loan. Dependent students can receive between $2,000 to $6.000. Independent students may borrow up to $6000.

Federal PLUS Loans

Parents of dependent students can use the PLUS loan to cover any costs not already covered by the student's financial aid package, up to the full cost of attendance. Beginning July 1, 2008, PLUS loans will have a fixed interest rate of 8.5%. Repayment on these loans begin 60 days after the funds are fully disbursed however parents may request a deferment. PLUS loans are the responsibility of the parent and are credit based.

Alternative Student Loans

Alternative Student Loans, also known as Private Education Loans, can be applied for and used to supplement other financial aid when there is a remaining balance. Alternative Student Loans are offered by private lenders and use their eligibility criteria.

ACI Scholarships

Arizona Culinary Institute awards scholarships to students who have achieved academic excellence, have been recognized for culinary achievements, and/or are distinguished career changers. Students can contact the Financial Aid department to obtain an application for consideration. ACI encourages students to look outside the Institute for scholarship programs that may help fund their educational expenses as well. Below are a few suggested websites that may be helpful in your search for scholarships:

Tribal Benefits

Students who are members of a Native American tribe or nation in Arizona may be eligible for scholarships or tuition fee waivers as a result of their membership. Please contact the financial aid department for additional information.

Veterans Benefits

Arizona Culinary is approved to offer our veteran students (and their dependents) veteran benefits. Students that are eligible for veteran’s benefits may contact the Financial Aid department or go online to www.gibill.va.gov to begin the application process.