Mitchell Technical Institute

Types of Aid Available

Grants
The Federal Pell Grant Program is a grant program funded by the federal government. The Student Aid Reports (SARs) from the processing center tell the MTI Financial Aid Office whether or not you qualify for this grant, and, if so, for how much. Awards are from $400 to $4310, depending upon the annual federal government funding of the program.

The Academic Competitiveness Grant Program is available to students who are eligible for a Pell Grant and who have completed a rigorous high school curriculum.

The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant Program is also a grant program funded by the federal government. Students who receive Pell Grants have priority for receiving this grant. Funding for this program is limited. Please apply early. Applicants typically receive funds from $100 to $600.

Work Opportunities
The federal government funds the Federal Work Study Program. The Financial Aid Office determines eligibility. If you qualify and funds are available, you are allotted an amount of money that you can earn during the academic year. Limited summer jobs during non-enrollment periods are also available. Contact the Financial Aid Office for details.

Off-campus employment opportunities are available. See the Student Services Office or the South Dakota Career Center (formerly Job Service) in Mitchell for listings.

Loans
Student loans are financial aid that must be repaid in the future. All types of loans are disbursed by the semester.

The Federal Perkins Student Loan is a campus-based loan that is federally funded with eligibility determined by the Financial Aid office. You must have exceptional need to qualify for this loan. Repayments begin nine months after you leave MTI.

The Federal Stafford Loan Program is a low-interest loan program that allows dependent students to borrow up to $3500 for their first year and $4500 for their second year. Independent students may borrow up to $7500 for their first year and $8500 for their second year. This program is either subsidized or unsubsidized. If the loan is subsidized, the interest does not accrue until six months after the time you leave MTI. If the loan is unsubsidized, interest is charged from the time the loan is disbursed. Your award letter will indicate the type of loan for which you qualify. Funds are borrowed from a bank, credit union, or other lender.

Federal Parent Loans (PLUS) is a program which provides an opportunity for parents of dependent students to borrow funds for their student’s educational costs. The Financial Aid office processes applications, but the money is borrowed from a bank, credit union, or other participating lender. Loan amounts may not exceed educational costs minus other financial aid.

Other Off-Campus Agency and Financial Aid Sources
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)—If you are in this program, check with your TANF coordinator to see what assistance you may receive to attend MTI.

Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA)—If you qualify for BIA funds, you should start by contacting your local BIA Agency. Paperwork completed early will ensure timely arrival of your funding.

Vocational Rehabilitation—Financial aid is available for mentally or physically disabled persons. Contact your local vocational-rehabilitation office.

Veteran’s Benefits—Contact the Veteran’s Center at (888) 442-4551 or the Financial Aid office at MTI to request information about the programs for which you may qualify.

National Guard Benefits—Members of the National Guard may qualify for 50% tuition benefits and monthly stipends under the Chapter 106 program. Contact your commanding officer.

Workforce Investment Act (WIA)—A program funded by the South Dakota Department of Labor. Economically disadvantaged students may qualify for grants in certain educational programs. Contact the South Dakota Career Center in Mitchell for details.

Scholarships—MTI accepts any outside scholarships and will provide assistance to students seeing scholarship opportunities. Contact the Financial Aid office for more details.