Financial Aid
Our dedicated financial aid staff is here to guide you through the financial aid process and help you get the best value for your education. Keep reading to learn about your options and please contact our Financial Aid Office if you have any questions along the way.
Getting Started
To be considered for any need-based financial aid (including student loans), you are required to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Completing the FAFSA
Step 1: Create an FSA ID to electronically sign the FAFSA. The student and one parent will need their own FSA ID.
Step 2: Complete and submit your FAFSA at the FAFSA website. Compass College’s school code is: 041633.
If you have any questions when completing the application, you can contact the Federal Student Aid Information Center at 1-800-4-FED-AID (1-800-433-3243) or the Compass College Financial Aid Office at 616-988-1000.
Once the FAFSA is submitted, you and Compass College will receive a Student Aid Report (SAR) within 2-3 days. A member of the Compass College Financial Aid Office will be in contact with you regarding your options and any additional documents needed.
Types of Aid
The different fund sources range from need-based gift aid to student loans. Here is a list of the types of commonly used aid at Compass College:
Grants
Are awarded automatically, usually based on need. Most grant eligibility is determined based on the information provided on the FAFSA. Grants are a form of gift aid and do not have to be repaid.
Scholarships
Are usually awarded based on academic achievement and other criteria such as diversity or program of interest. Most scholarships require an application. Like grants, they are considered gift aid and do not need to be repaid.
Loans
A loan is funding you can borrow that must be repaid once you either graduate or enroll in college less than half time. Lenders include the federal government or private lenders.
Military Benefits
Students who have served, are still serving, or have parents or a spouse who served in the United States military may be eligible for military education benefits.
Work Study
You may be able to help cover college expenses by taking advantage of the student job opportunity on campus or in the Grand Rapids area.
MAINTAINING ELIGIBILITY
To be eligible for Federal Student Aid you must meet Basic Eligibility Criteria as a continuing student, you must satisfy the following criteria to maintain Federal Student Aid eligibility:
- Continue to meet basic eligibility criteria
- Make Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP)
- Fill out the FAFSA each year
If any of the above criteria are not met, you will not be eligible to receive awarded disbursements.
MILITARY BENEFITS
Compass College of Cinematic Arts is honored to acknowledge the service and contributions made to our country by the members of our Armed Forces. It is our pleasure to serve veterans and military personnel by helping you further your education and transition into a career as a filmmaker. Compass College staff and faculty are committed to assisting you in receiving educational benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. We proudly accept the GI Bill®, and we are a member of the Yellow Ribbon Project. Learn more about enrolling at Compass College and activating your educational benefits by contacting our Admissions & Financial Aid Offices at 616.988.1000.