Can FAFSA Help Pay for Vet Tech School?

by Kelsey Wirt, MS, LVT and Josh L. Clark, MS, RVT

Vet tech programs, like many post-secondary education programs, can come with considerable costs. Students in these programs need to know how they are going to finance their education in order to become a veterinary technician/nurse. This leads many to wonder, "Can FAFSA help pay for vet tech school?" The answer is a resounding yes.

FAFSA, which stands for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, is the primary tool used by students in the United States to access federal financial aid for higher education. This includes grants, which do not have to be repaid, work-study funds, which provide part-time jobs to help students earn money to pay for school, and low-interest federal student loans.

How FAFSA Applies to Vet Tech Programs

FAFSA can be used to help pay for a vet tech degree program. The amount and type of aid you receive will depend on several factors, including your family's financial situation and the cost of the program. It's important to note that while FAFSA can help offset the cost of your education, it may not cover all of your expenses.

Visit the Purdue FAFSA website to learn more about applying for financial aid. 

Submitting Your FAFSA Application

To make the most of the financial aid available to you, it's crucial to submit your FAFSA application as early as possible, as some funds are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. Also, remember that FAFSA is not a one-time process; you need to fill out the FAFSA application every year you're in school to continue receiving aid.

Additional Financial Aid Opportunities

In addition to federal aid, filling out the FAFSA application can also open doors to state and school-specific financial aid. Many scholarships, grants, and other forms of aid may use the information on your FAFSA application to determine your eligibility.

Read more about additional funding sources specific to veterinary medicine. 

Conclusion

FAFSA can help pay for vet tech school and is a vital resource for any student seeking financial assistance for their education. It's always advisable to explore all of your options, including scholarships, grants, work-study opportunities, and federal and private loans, to fund your vet tech degree.