LAKE CHARLES, La. (KPLC) – A big hurdle for many thinking about attending college is the cost. But before you give up because of your wallet, you should also consider what scholarships and financial aid are available. We spoke with Rachel Miseles with SOWELA this morning about how you can enroll at the technical community college without breaking the bank.
For starters, SOWELA accepts both TOPS and TOPS Tech.
Most know how TOPS works, but TOPS Tech criteria are different. Students with a minimum ACT score of 17 or the Silver level score on ACT WorkKeys, along with a 2.5 GPA in high school, can receive TOPS Tech at SOWELA. For example, students with TOPS Tech receive $3,200 annually to assist with college expenses. This covers the majority of SOWELA’s annual tuition of $4,265.
Federal aid is another option with year-round Pell. This award is based on financial need, with individuals receiving up to $4,500 to cover fall, spring, and summer semesters. Individuals must complete a FAFSA to determine eligibility, and SOWELA has experienced staff to help students with this process.
Finally, an often-forgotten source of financial support for college is scholarships made available through the SOWELA Foundation. These scholarships are based on a variety of criteria, but any SOWELA student can complete a simple, one-page scholarship application available on sowela.edu. A minimum 2.5 GPA is required for these.
SOWELA is currently enrolling for the Spring 2025 semester, with classes starting Monday, January 13.
For more information on the school or to start the enrollment process, visit www.sowela.edu/apply or email onestop@sowela.edu.
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