Can You Get Financial Aid for Trade School?

You don’t need to pursue a four-year college degree to qualify for financial aid. As a trade school student, you may be able to access many of the same federal, state, and private aid options as university students. That means you can train for a hands-on, in-demand career without being buried in debt.

Financial aid exists to help you bridge the gap between your savings and the total cost of your trade school education. Whether you’re interested in fields like automotive technology, HVAC, welding, healthcare, or electrical systems, there are grants, loans, and scholarships designed for trade school.

If money has ever made you hesitate about pursing a trade, it’s time to take a closer look. Financial aid can open the door to a career you love, and it’s easier to access than you might think.

What Is Trade School Financial Aid?

Financial aid is money that helps you pay for education expenses. It can come from the federal government, your state, or private sources. The best part is that not all aid has to be repaid.

There are four main types of aid you can apply for:

• Grants – Money from the government based on financial need
• Scholarships – Awards based on merit, need, or career interest that you don’t repay
• Loans – Borrowed money that you repay with interest after you finish school
• Work-Study Programs – Part-time jobs that help you earn money while gaining experience

You can apply for these through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which determines your eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study.

Yes, Trade Schools Qualify for Federal Aid

Many people assume financial aid only applies to four-year colleges, but that’s not true. As long as the trade school you attend is accredited and participates in federal programs, you could qualify for aid. Schools accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) must meet the same federal standards that make their students eligible for Title IV financial aid programs.

Types of Financial Aid for Trade School Students

Federal Grants

Grants are one of the most desirable forms of aid because they don’t need to be repaid. The most common is the Pell Grant, which provides up to $7,395 per year based on financial need¹. If you qualify, these funds can go toward tuition, books, and other costs associated with attending trade school. Depending on your situation, you may also qualify for additional federal or state grants that help adult learners or career changers.

Scholarships

Scholarships reward your effort, skill, or career interest. There are hundreds of scholarships specifically for students pursuing skilled trades.

You might be able to find scholarships through:

• Industry organizations like the American Welding Society (AWS)
• State workforce development programs
• Private foundations or employers that support trade education

Scholarships can cover part or all of your tuition. Some schools even have internal scholarship funds or partner with local employers to make training more affordable.

Federal Loans

If grants and scholarships don’t fully cover your expenses, federal student loans can help you fill the gap. The Direct Subsidized Loan is based on financial need, while the Direct Unsubsidized Loan is available to most students regardless of income. Federal loans generally have lower interest rates and more flexible repayment plans than private loans. You won’t need to start repaying them until after you finish your program.

State and Local Aid

Many states offer additional funding for career and technical education. Some provide grants, while others offer tuition assistance to residents in high-demand job fields. You can explore opportunities through your state department of labor or education office, which often list available programs for trade school students.

Veterans Benefits

If you’ve served in the military, you may qualify for tuition assistance under the GI Bill. Many trade schools, including Lincoln Tech, are approved for veterans’ education benefits. These programs can cover tuition, housing, and even supplies, helping veterans transition to civilian careers in high-demand trades.

How to Apply for Trade School Financial Aid

Applying for aid is a straightforward process. Here’s what to do:

• Complete the FAFSA – Fill it out at https://studentaid.gov as early as possible each year.
• Research State and School Aid – Each school and state may have different aid programs or deadlines.
• Submit Scholarship Applications – Apply early and often.
• Review Your Award Letter – Compare offers and make sure you understand any loans before accepting.

Most trade school financial aid offices can guide you through each step.

Why Financial Aid Matters

Financial aid helps you start training now instead of waiting until you’ve saved up enough money. For many students, it’s what makes career training possible. Most trade school programs can be completed in under two years, meaning you enter the workforce faster and start earning sooner. Many graduates find that their monthly loan payments are more manageable because their total cost of education is lower.

Tips for Maximizing Your Aid

Even if you don’t think you’ll qualify for aid, it’s worth applying. Many students are surprised by how much they can receive once they complete the FAFSA. Here are some ways to increase your chances of receiving aid, if you qualify.

• Apply early to increase your chances for limited funds. Applications typically open in the fall with a deadline of June 30. Be sure to check the dates to ensure nothing has changed.
• Stay organized with deadlines for FAFSA, scholarships, and school paperwork.
• Keep your grades up to maintain eligibility.
• Reapply each year — many grants and scholarships renew annually.

Money shouldn’t stand in the way of your goals. Al Lincoln Tech, we believe in our students and we’re willing to invest in them. We are awarding $25 million in scholarships to eligible students across the country in 2026. Are you ready to take the next step? Contact us to learn more about how financial aid can change your future and explore programs that fit your goals at Lincoln Tech.

¹ Federal Pell Grants Award Amounts, Retrieved 1/7/2026 from https://studentaid.gov/understand-aid/types/grants/pell#award-amounts