Alternative funding
Private student loans
Credit-based loans from private lenders are one source of funding that may help compensate for any shortfall. Families should shop around and consider their options before applying. Families and students should be aware that private loans may be a more expensive way of borrowing. Read all the information available on these loans and then select the lender with the most suitable terms.
Families should review and consider all federal student loan options first as federal loans are often more affordable and provide more flexible repayment options. View federal student loan options.
The requirements that a private lender may have for a student loan vary, but typically borrowers must have a good credit history or a credit-worthy co-signer. Students usually must be enrolled at least half-time to receive loan funds (exceptions may apply). The best source of information for private education loans is the lender. Programs and qualifying regulations are subject to change without notice.
If a borrower is approved for a private loan, federal regulations require lenders to provide borrowers with a 10- to 14-day right of rescission (or cancellation period) before the loan can be disbursed to SCAD. To avoid any delays in receiving funds, borrowers should plan ahead and begin their search prior to applicable billing due dates.
ELMSelect
ELMSelect is a free online tool to help find and compare lenders and student loans that match your needs. The listing found in ELMSelect is a comprehensive, historical listing of all lenders that SCAD students have used over the past three years.
This listing is neither exhaustive, nor an endorsement of any particular student loan lenders. Students and families are not required to borrow from a lender viewable on ELMSelect and should consider all options (including federal loans) before applying.
Outside scholarships
SCAD accepts scholarships from outside sources to help fund your education. If you're offered an outside scholarship, speak with your adviser about how to apply those funds to your student account and understand how it will impact other awarded or borrowed aid.
When searching for scholarship opportunities, identify reputable and relevant organizations to improve your results. Consider local community organizations, professional associations supporting your career field, and groups or companies specific to your major. Websites featuring scholarship search engines can be a good starting point, but specific online searches will often be more fruitful.
Verify the legitimacy of the scholarship provider by checking their website, looking for reviews, and ensuring they have a valid contact address. Avoid any scholarship that requires an application fee or asks for sensitive personal information, such as your Social Security number. Trust your instincts — if something seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Student employment
SCAD provides ways for students to apply the skills learned in the classroom to relevant professional settings through various on and off campus job opportunities.
Veterans aid
SCAD voluntarily participates in the Yellow Ribbon GI Education Enhancement Program, a provision of the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008.
Vocational rehabilitation aid
Many states offer vocational rehabilitation benefits to qualified students requiring these services. Any student who has a qualifying condition for vocational rehabilitation benefits should contact the appropriate state agency directly.
If the state agency requires a financial aid offer prior to determining or distributing state funding, eligible students must complete the financial aid process before that offer may be presented to the agency.