Financial Aid

Federal Pell Grants
Need-based aid based on Student Aid Index (SAI) and other eligibility criteria. The maximum full-time award amount for the 2024-2025 academic year is $7,395 and the minimum is $740; however, students are not required to be full-time. Awards are prorated based on enrollment intensity, or the number of credits you are enrolled in that apply to your degree program. The Pell Grant is a fixed amount - what you receive in Pell at WNCC is the same you would receive at any other school. You do not have to meet the priority deadline to receive the Federal Pell Grant.

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant
Limited funds awarded to highest-need, Pell-eligible students. Awards range from $200-$800 depending on enrollment level.

Nebraska Opportunity Grant
Nebraska residency is required; awards must be approved by the State Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education before disbursement. This limited fund, up to $1,600, is need-based and awarded based on the priority deadline.

Scholarships do not have to be repaid and are awarded based on academic performance, special talents, participation in activities, financial need, community service, and other factors. Please view our Scholarships page for information about a variety of scholarships funded by WNCC, the WNCC Foundation, the Western Nebraska Education Endowment Association, and other organizations.

There are two types of Student Employment at WNCC: Federal Work Study and Institutional Employment. To learn more about the application process and requirements, please visit our Student Employment page.

Federal Work Study

Federal Work Study is an employment program funded by the U.S. Department of Education and WNCC; eligibility is determined by the FAFSA and the amount of Need you have. These positions pay at least minimum wage and allow students to work up to 10 hours per week during the Fall and Spring terms.

Institutional Employment
Any student can apply for Institutional Employment opportunities; the FAFSA is not required for these positions. International students who are enrolled in at least 12 credits hours may work up to 20 hours per week. All other students (full-time is not required) may work up to 15 hours per week.

Low-interest loans that are available to students enrolled in at least six credits each semester. These funds must be repaid. Find more information on loan options (including parent loans) and processes, please review our Student Loans page.

New students attending Western Nebraska Community College who are eligible for Educational Services through the VA, either through their own prior service or that of a family member, are encouraged to speak with members of the TRIO Veterans Upward Bound Program and the Military and Veterans Affairs Office for information on Educational Services. Services include assistance with applying for benefits and completing the FAFSA and scholarship applications, in addition to academic and career advising. Students are encouraged to contact 308.635.6120.