~Financial Aid~

How do I apply for financial aid?

Once you have been accepted and have sent in your $1,000 deposit, you will receive a Financial Aid Packet in the mail. This packet includes a cover letter, instructions, a Student Statement of Resources, and a Financial Aid Application Supplement. You will be required to return the following in order for ISE to consider granting you aid:
- Completed Student Statement of Resources
- Completed Financial Aid Application Supplement
- Copies of your parents most recent tax forms
- Student Aid Report (SAR) (this is what you receive after sending your FAFSA to the fed)
- Essay
Be sure that you re-check and check again that you have included all of the required documents, and that they are properly filled out. ISE reviews every application for aid, and it is imperative that they be completed properly. Your packet will have more detail on the process; questions can be directed to ISE's (extremely courteous!) Student Services Department @ 1-800-854-0195.

What kind of awards are available through ISE?

Work study grants - there are 26 positions available per voyage. Students receive a grant of $6,200.
Reduced Cabin Rates - grants are available in the amounts of $4,800 and $2,800 (for outside triples and inside doubles); based on eligibility.

What other kinds of aid can I use?

Federal Stafford Loans - long-term, low interest loans available to undergraduates, offering a maximum of $23,000 over 4 years, with repayment beginning 6 months after graduation.
(Parent) PLUS Loans - low interest loans that can be taken out by parents of dependant students, offering a maximum of $23,000 over a period of 5 years. Interest accrual begins immediately, and repayment begins in 60 days.
Pell Grants - based on your FAFSA, granted by the Department of Education
Private Loans - Educaid is offering an "International Student Loan Program" for US students who are studying abroad. Educaid can be contacted at 1-800-255-8374.
Other Grants/Scholarships - which you may be receiving; check appropriate offices for transferability (i.e., the provider of that aid).
Private Sources - some good resources are http://www.finaid.org and http://www.fastweb.com .. try a search on yahoo as well. Further, you can contact local businesses, schools, churches, and family - describe the trip, and see if you can work out a deal or a contribution.