Aid Options

Although Forest's tuition and fees are among the lowest in the country, students should not assume that guaranteed federal student loans will cover all costs of attendance. Students are encouraged to explore other sources of funding such as work-study, scholarships (both internal and external), or employment to offset the expenses related to graduate education.

1. Federal Work-Study Program
   Forest Institute participates in the Federal Work-Study Program which funds part-time employment opportunities for students. The program is based on financial need as determined by the Cost of Attendance (C.O.A.) budget remaining after Stafford loans are applied. Work-study is also available to students who wish to reduce dependence on loan money by working. A limited number of positions are available and are filled on a first-come first-served basis. For more information on this program, click here to go to the Work-Study page.
2. Subsidized Federal Stafford Loan
   The Subsidized Stafford Loan is a low-interest loan provided by the federal government through a student loan lender. The student does not make any payments nor pay interest as long as he/she is continuously enrolled in a program on at least a part-time basis. The federal government pays accrued interest on the loan while the student is enrolled; however, if the student's enrollment ends or drops below half-time status the student immediately enters a six month grace period which leads to repayment and accrued interest charges. This loan is awarded on the basis of financial need. Eligibility depends on expected family contribution (EFC) which is determined by information submitted on the FAFSA. A .5% federal origination fee will be deducted from each disbursement of this loan.
3. Unsubsidized Federal Stafford Loan
   The Unsubsidized Stafford Loan is NOT based on financial need. Unlike the Subsidized Loan, the student is responsible for all interest which accrues on the loan from the date of disbursement. Interest payments may be made in installments or allowed to accrue and be added to the principal (capitalized). Students are STRONGLY encouraged to pay the interest on this loan AS IT ACCRUES (i.e. monthly or quarterly depending on the lending agency). This can significantly reduce a student's overall loan debt and result in a much more manageable loan payment upon graduation. A .5% federal origination fee will be deducted from each disbursement of this loan.
4. Scholarships
   A variety of opportunities exist for students to receive financial assistance for tuition-related expenses. The Board of Directors awards three scholarships annually of varying amounts to incoming students who demonstrate a significant propensity to contribute to the spirit of advocacy, diversity, and service to the community while at Forest Institute. Additional scholarships may be offered depending on availability of funding sources. Click here for additional information on scholarships or for links to external scholarship sites.