Funding Options

Grants

The Pell Grant, designed for undergraduate students, is the foundation source for all other need-based assistance programs. A student’s Pell Grant award is directly related to the family’s ability to contribute toward his/her education. The “Expected Family Contribution” is a direct result of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). No other need-based assistance (grants, loans, work-study) can be awarded until the student’s eligibility for the Pell Grant is determined.

The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) is another federal grant intended for undergraduate students with exceptional levels of financial need, as determined by the FAFSA. Those students with the lowest “Expected Family Contribution”, who also qualify for Pell Grants, will receive priority in the awarding process.

The Texas Public Education Grant (TPEG) is based on state provided funding sources and is available to students attending at least half-time on the LIT campus. Texas residents meeting the January 15 Priority Deadline will be given priority in the awarding process. Students with exceptional need as determined by the FAFSA may be awarded one of these grants.

The Set-Aside Grant (TSAS) may be available to students attending at least half-time on the LIT campus. Students meeting the January 15 Priority Deadline will be given priority in the awarding process. Students with exceptional need as determined by the FAFSA may be awarded one of these grants.

The Texas Educational Opportunity Grant (TEOG) may be available to Texas residents enrolled at least half-time in an associate’s degree or certificate program on the LIT campus with no eligibility for the original TEXAS grant.

Employment

Employment opportunities under the College Work-Study Program and other employment programs of the Institute are available to students as part of the financial assistance program. The Institute, local businesses and industries provide a number of part-time jobs that enable students to earn part or all of their expenses while attending the Institute. Students interested in the work study program should apply online Federal Work Study Application.

Student Loans

Students interested in qualifying for federal Student Loan Programs may do so after eligibility levels have been determined through submission of the FAFSA. Students may be required to submit a Loan Request Form to the Financial Aid Office to indicate interest in a Student Loan. These long-term loans, with repayment scheduled after graduation, may be obtained under the William D. Ford Direct Loan Program, with Subsidized and/or Unsubsidized Loans available.
First-time borrowers at LIT are required to complete an online Entrance Counseling session. All required paperwork should already be completed for determination of eligibility for other types of aid. Loan Request Forms will be accepted ONLY for those students who have successfully completed preliminary paperwork and passed the Entrance Counseling requirement. Federal guidelines require a mandatory 30 day delay on initial disbursement of any loan funds for first-time borrowers.