Financial Aid

A college education is one of the most important investments a student can make. The Office of Financial Aid is committed to helping students reach their educational goals who would otherwise not be able to do so.We offer federal, state and institutional financial aid resources to assist students in funding the costs associated with their education. Though it is felt that the primary responsibility for financing postsecondary education rests with students and their families, every effort is made to provide necessary supplemental funding to ensure that no student is denied the opportunity to attend LDCC because of financial limitations.

Federal financial assistance and scholarships are available for degree-seeking students. Students may be offered a single type of assistance or a combination package depending on the level of need and eligibility requirements. Aid may be provided by or through the college, federal and state agencies, foundations, or corporations. Apply early!

How to Apply for Federal Student Aid

Apply for Admission

Apply for admission at Louisiana Delta Community College. Students applying for financial aid at LDCC must be enrolled in a certificate and/or degree program to be eligible for financial aid.

Complete and Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

The FAFSA is free and quick, and it gives you access to the largest sources of financial aid to pay for college. Many states and colleges use your FAFSA data to determine your eligibility for state and school aid, and some private financial aid providers may use your FAFSA information to determine whether you qualify for their aid.

Typically, the FAFSA is available online at studentaid.gov starting on October 1st every year. You must submit a FAFSA every year you are in school in order for your eligibility to be determined for federal financial aid. You sign your application electronically using your Federal Student Aid Identification (FSA ID) and password. If you do not have a FSA ID and password, you can apply for one at the same time you complete your FAFSA. If you are dependent, your parent(s) should apply for a FSA ID also. Be sure to list LDCC’s school code - 041301 - on the application so LDCC can receive your results electronically. LDCC will not receive your FAFSA without the school code being listed on the application.

NOTE: Your FSA ID gives you access to certainU. S. Department of Education websites. Students, parents, and borrowers are required to use a FSA ID, made up of a username and password. You are not authorized to create a FSA ID on behalf of someone else, including a family member. To create a FSA ID you can go to https://studentaid.gov/fsa-id/ create-account/launch.

Review

Review your Student Aid Report (SAR) carefully. Once your FAFSA application is processed you will receive an email from the Federal Processor with access to your Student Aid Report (SAR). You should receive your SAR within 7 to 10 days after you submit the FAFSA. Be sure to check over your SAR for any errors. If you have to make corrections, you can do so electronically. Be sure both you and your parent(s) re-sign the corrections electronically with your FSA credentials. If you do not receive the SAR within 2 weeks after your first online submission, contact the Federal Processor at 1-800-433-3243.

What Happens Next?

Your FAFSA is shared with the colleges and/or career schools you list on the application. The Office of Financial Aid receives your FAFSA from the Federal Processor and we will use your information to figure out how much student federal aid you may receive. Once the Office of Financial Aid receives your FAFSA, you will receive notification via email to complete and submit student requirements.

Student Requirements (Also Called Unsatisfied/Satisfied Requirement in LOLA)

Monitor your LOLA Self-Service to view any documents requested. Allow a minimum of 3 to 4 weeks for your eligibility to be determined. If eligible, aid will be processed accordingly. Monitor your LOLA account regularly for updates.

Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP)

Click on the Satisfactory Academic Progress tab to view your SAP status. If you are not meeting SAP requirements and need to appeal, you may click on the link to access the SAP appeal form.

Accessing Financial Aid Information Through LOLA

The award notification will direct you to LOLA (our student self-service area) at my.lctcs.edu. You can use LOLA to monitor your financial aid status; eligibility, tracking requirements, and accept awards.

Office of Financial Aid’s Contact Information

MONROE - 318-345-9005

WEST MONROE - 318-397-6166

RUSTON - 318-497-6323

JONESBORO - 318-480-5016

BASTROP - 318-974-7045

WINNSBORO - 318-367-6236

TALLULAH/LAKE PROVIDENCE - 318-474-5236

Types of Federal Financial Aid

Federal Pell Grant

The U.S. Department of Education provides federal grants to undergraduate students who are U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizens. Pell Grants are considered a form of “giftaid” and do not have to be repaid. Pell Grants are awarded to undergraduate students who have not earned their first bachelor’s degree and who demonstrate exceptional financial need. Eligibility is determined with information provided on the FAFSA form and is a direct result of the students’ expected family contribution (EFC) and enrollment status. Delta must receive a valid Institutional Student Information Record (ISIR) which is generated and sent to us electronically if you listed Delta’s school code: 041301 on the FAFSA. Pell award amounts are determined annually by Congress and based on your anticipated enrollment status. If you are not enrolled full-time your Pell award will be reduced proportionately based on the number of hours you are enrolled in as of the census date of the semester.

Year Round Pell Grant Information

The U.S. Department of Education Appropriations Act, 2017, allows a student to receive Federal Pell Grant funds for up to 150% of the student’s Pell Grant Schedule Award (PGAS). This means, eligible Pell students may be able to receive a third disbursement of Pell Grant each academic year. Louisiana Delta Community College implemented “Year-Round Pell Grant” in the Summer of 2018.

Here is an example of how Year-Round Pell Grant will work:

A student with a Zero Student Aid Index (SAI) or a negative SAI is eligible for $7,395 in Pell Grant for the year, or $3,698 for the Summer 2024 semester and $3,697 for Fall 2024 semester (based on full-time enrollment both semesters). Under the old rules, that student would not receive any Pell Grant if they enrolled full-time (12 Hours) for the Spring 2025 semester. Under the Year Round Pell Grant initiative, that student would receive an additional $3,698 disbursement if they were to enroll full-time (12 credit hours) for Spring or up to a maximum of $11,093 for the entire award year (Summer, Fall, and Spring).

Listed is an example of how Year-Round Pell Grant will work:

NOTE: Students who enroll in less than 12 credit hours (full-time) will receive a lesser amount in their Pell Grant award.

It is important to note that this change will not result in extra Pell Grant being awarded to a student over the course of their undergraduate enrollment. The maximum timeframe that eligible students may receive Pell Grant is for the equivalent of twelve full-time semesters or 600%. In the past, a full-time student could receive only two disbursements per year. Now, students will be able to receive up to three Pell disbursements in one academic year if they are enrolled in the correct number of hours.

Federal Direct Student Loan Program

Since Fall 2014, Louisiana Delta Community College participates in the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program. Student borrowers obtain loan funds directly from the federal government (U.S. Department of Education). The official website is studentaid.gov. This site is the source for information from the U.S. Department of Education on how to apply and manage student loans. When a student submits the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), they are applying for all federal aid programs for which they may be eligible, including Federal Direct Student Loans.

Federal Direct Student Loans are available for students meeting certain qualifications. A student enrolled in a degree-seeking program with at least six financial aid credit hours, not in default on a federal loan or owe a repayment on a federal grant, and meet all other eligibility requirements such as Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP), may qualify for a Federal Direct Student Loan. The Office of Financial Aid has Federal Direct Student Loan information and forms online at https://www.ladelta.edu/admissions/financial-aid/federal-direct-student-loans.

Federal Supplemental Education Grant (FSEOG)

FSEOG is considered gift-aid that does not have to be repaid. Each year, unlike Pell Grants, the amount of FSEOG a student receives depends not only on his/her financial needs but, also, on the amount of other aid the student receives and the availability of finds. Each school participating in FSEOG receives a certain amount of FSEOG funds each year from theU.S. Department of Education. Students who demonstrate exceptional need will be considered first for these funds. This is why it is important for students to apply early to be considered for these funds. Not everyone who qualifies for FSEOG will receive the grant. The amount of an individual’s award is based on the availability of funds and the student’s demonstrated financial need. The maximum award for the academic year is $500, with the usual award being $250 for the fall and spring semesters. The FSEOG award will be credited to the student’s account and will appear on the student’s LOLA account. If you completed a FAFSA, you have applied for the FSEOG grant. Funds are limited.

Federal Work Study Program

This program is subsidized by the Federal Government and provides part-time work through the various departments on campus and through public or private non-profit organizations off campus for qualifying students. In order to qualify, students must demonstrate financial need for the earnings from part-time employment. Under the United States Office of Education guidelines, priority must be given to the students having the greatest financial need. Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid to qualify. Funds are limited; therefore, students need to complete the FAFSA by the priority deadlines and submit a Federal Work Study Application.

Go Grant

The Louisiana Go Grant Program is provided to support nontraditional and low to moderate-income students who need additional aid to afford the cost of attending college. The Go Grant award is a state grant and does not have to be repaid. To be eligible for a Louisiana Go Grant, you must meet the following criteria:

1. Be a Louisiana resident
2. File a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
3. Receive a Federal Pell Grant
4. Have remaining financial need after deducting Student Aid Index (SAI) and all federal/state/institutional grant or scholarship aid (“gift aid”) from student’s Cost of Attendance (COA)
5. Be enrolled as a regular student enrolled in an eligible program on at least a half-time basis (minimum of 6 hours)
6. Be meeting LDCC’ Satisfactory Academic Progress requirements for receipt of Title IV aid; or be approved through the appeals process

Award Amounts

Award amounts to eligible students are based on the institution’s allocation and their packaging policy. Awards may vary with each academic year.

Awards will not be paid for summer sessions.

In order to meet the needs of our students and to award a greater number of students, eligible LDCC students will be awarded the maximum and/or minimum amount in Go Grant.

Maximum and minimum annual award amounts for the 2024-2025 academic year:

Maximum Annual Award $2000

Minimum Annual Award $300

Award Calculations

In order to receive Go Grant at LDCC, a student must have remaining financial need at the time the Go Grant award is packaged to the student.

Example:

Cost of Attendance = $17,500

EFC = $1,500

= Need $16,000

Examples of gift aid and need-based aid include Federal Pell Grant, Federal SEOG, TOPS, TOPS Stipends, and Institutional scholarships.

Packaging Policy

The Louisiana Go Grant is awarded to students who meet the Go Grant eligibility requirements. Due to the limited amount of funding received for the Go Grant program, students may receive a maximum award up to $2,000 per award year if enrolled 6 or more credit hours. The basis of a $2,000 award year maximum ensures that the greatest number of students are awarded. Enrollment level is determined as of the 14th class day. Availability of Go Grant is subject to funding by the State of Louisiana. Go Grant is not available for the summer semester unless the state allocates excess funds. Go Grant distributions are awarded during the Fall and Spring semester as follows:

• Full-Time (12 credit hours or more) and Less than Full-Time (6 to 11 credit hours) = $1,000 per semester (up to $2,000 annually)

Priority of packaging will be given to those students who:

1. are 25 years of age or older.
2. Students under the age of 25 with an SAI of 0 or negative SAI to the maximum EFC amount for the award year.
3. Transfer and re-entering students will be awarded on the same basis as continuing students.
4. LDCC will award Go Grant funds until all allocated funds have been exhausted.

All students meeting the eligibility criteria and receiving Pell Grant are reviewed for Go Grant according to the priority of packaging. Eligibility criteria does not automatically eliminate students receiving TOPS, nor eliminate students on the basis of any academic criteria other than SAP for receipt of Title IV aid.

Renewal Requirements

1. Must file a FAFSA or the renewal FAFSA at least annually
2. Continue to receive a Federal Pell grant
3. Have remaining financial need after deducting Student Aid Index (SAI) and all federal/state/institutional grant or scholarship aid (“gift aid”) from student’s Cost of Attendance (COA).
4. The award can be renewed for subsequent years to a maximum Lifetime award that correlates to that of the Federal Pell grant

For additional information on the Louisiana Go Grant and other state aid programs, please visit www.osfa.la.gov or contact LDCC’s Office of Financial Aid at 318-345-9005.

Over Award Policy

1. The Louisiana Go Grant is packaged on a need basis and sometimes the student is inadvertently awarded over need allowed due to the addition of need based aid later on in the year. In order to find these inadvertent over awards, prior to billing, all GO Grant recipients are reviewed to determine if they still meet the eligibility requirements for the grant.
2. If the student’s total aid exceeds his/her financial need or the cost of attendance, any federal loan aid included in the total aid package is reduced first, then institutional and other aid in accordance with institutional practice, then the Louisiana GO Grant, then a TOPS award, if applicable, shall be reduced by the amount of any remaining over award.
3. If the receipt of additional gift aid occurs during the fall semester theGOGrant award for the spring semester will be reduced. If the receipt of additional gift aid occurs during the spring semester, no reduction is required per LOSFA guidelines. The reason for the excess award will be noted on the student file. If an over award occurs during the fall semester and the GO Grant has already been billed, a refund will be processed to LOSFA to return any funds that the student was ineligible to receive.
4. Go Grant eligibility is based on enrollment levels as of the 14th class day. If the student was eligible for the award on the 14th class day, no refund is due to LOSFA. Pell adjustments after the 14th class day will not impact the level of GO Grant funding. If a student withdraws from the University prior to the 14th class day and the Financial Aid office does not become aware of the withdrawal until after it has already billed for the student, then a refund will be due to LOSFA since the student did not meet the enrollment criteria to receive the grant.
5. Go Grant eligibility is subject to the student receiving a Pell Grant. If a student loses their Pell Grant eligibility for a specific semester, then they will also lose their GO Grant eligibility. For example, if a student never attends ALL of their courses for a given semester, then they are no longer considered Pell eligible for that semester, and therefore, is ineligible for the GO Grant. In these such cases the GO Grant will be refunded to LOSFA.

For additional information on the Louisiana Go Grant and other state aid programs, please visit www.osfa.state.la.gov or contact LDCC’s Office of Financial Aid at 318-345-9005.

Types of Federal Direct Student Loans

Subsidized Direct Loan

Subsidized Direct Loan is based on financial need as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The government pays the interest as long as a student remains enrolled at least half-time (six credit hours) in a degree-seeking program and meets all other eligibility requirements. The amount a student can borrow during each academic year is based on their grade level.

Unsubsidized Direct Loan

Unsubsidized Direct Loan is available to students regardless of demonstrated need (determined by the FAFSA). For independent students, this loan may supplement the funds obtained through subsidized loans. Students are responsible for all interest payments, including the time that a student is in deferment. It is advisable; if possible, the student should make the interest payments while in school. The student does, however, have the option of capitalizing the interest. This means that the unpaid interest will be added to the principal amount of the loan at regular intervals, and the student will ultimately owe more money.

Federal Direct Parent PLUS Loan

Federal Direct Parent PLUS Loan is an unsubsidized loan for parents and stepparents of a dependent student. The dependent student must be enrolled at least half-time (six credit hours or more), in a degree-seeking program, meeting Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP), and meet all other eligibility requirements. If a student is considered dependent, then the income and the assets of the parent must be reported on the FAFSA. The borrower will be subject to a credit check. The parents and their dependent student must be U.S. citizens or eligible noncitizens, must not be in default on any federal education loans or owe an overpayment on a federal education grant, and must meet other general eligibility requirements for the federal aid programs. The borrower is responsible for all interest payments; however, the repayment period is determined by your lender. Parents may request a PLUS loan at studentaid.gov.

Federal Direct Student Loan Interest Rates and Fees

Interest rates will be determined each June for new loans being made for the upcoming award year, which runs July 1 to the following June 30. Each loan will have a fixed interest rate for the life of the loan. You will also pay an origination fee of the loan to the government. Because of this deduction, you will receive slightly less than the amount you borrowed. Go to studentaid.gov/ for current year interest and fee rates.

Federal Direct Loan Counseling

Direct Loan Entrance Counseling

If you have not previously received a loan, you must complete the entrance counseling session before the college can make the first disbursement of your loan. This applies to all borrowers, except Parent Plus borrowers. The entrance counseling session can be completed at studentaid.gov/. The session will help you understand your responsibilities regarding your loan.

Direct Loan Exit Counseling

Students who have received a subsidized, unsubsidized or PLUS loan(s) under the Direct Loan Program, must complete exit counseling each time they drop below half-time enrollment, graduate, or leave school. Exit counseling can also be completed at studentaid.gov/.

Federal Direct Student Loan Master Promissory Note (MPN) and Credit Check

MPN is a legal document in which you promise to repay your loan(s) and any accrued interest and fees to the U.S. Department of Education. It also explains the terms and conditions of your loan(s). In most cases, once you have submitted the MPN and it’s been accepted you will not have to fill out a new MPN for future loans. You can borrow additional loans on a single MPN for up to ten years. It is very important that you completely read and understand all of the information on the MPN before you sign it. It takes approximately 30 minutes to complete.

• You are not required to accept the full amount that LDCC may award to you.
• You may notify the Office of Financial Aid, if you want to borrow a lower amount.
• You can decline the entire loan amount.

To complete the entrance and/or exit counseling session and the MPN go to studentaid.gov/. You will be required to use your Department of Education-issued FSA ID. If you do not have a FSA ID, you may request one from the website at studentaid.gov/.

For parents completing the Parent PLUS Loan, LDCC Office of Financial Aid will receive an approval or denial based on the credit evaluation done by the Department of Education.

If credit is approved:

• In most cases, once you have submitted the MPN and it’s been accepted, you won’t have to fill out a new MPN for future loans you receive to pay for the educational expenses of the same student. You can borrow additional Direct PLUS Loans on a single MPN for up to 10 years.
• You will receive a disclosure statement from the U. S. Department of Education that gives you specific information about any loan that the college plans to disburse under your MPN, including the loan amount and loan fees, and the expected loan disbursement dates and amounts.

If credit is denied:

• The PLUS Loan applicant who has an adverse credit history still may be able to receive a loan by obtaining an endorser who does not have an adverse credit history. If the applicant does not wish to obtain an endorser, the PLUS loan will be deleted and the student may request an additional Unsubsidized Direct Loan. However, the amount may be less than the PLUS loan due to federal limits.

Repaying Your Federal Direct Student Loan Debt

Enrollment Status and Other Changes

It is important to keep your loan servicer informed of any changes in your status, so that your loan information is up-to-date. This is your responsibility. You must notify the loan servicers if you; change your address or name, do not enroll at least half-time (six credit hours), stop attending school or drop below half-time, transfer from one school to another, or graduate. Until you graduate or leave LDCC, you must keep the Enrollment Services Office at LDCC informed of any of these changes.

After you graduate, leave school, or drop below half-time enrollment, you MUST complete the exit counseling session at www.studentloans.gov/. You will then receive information about repayment and your loan provider will notify you of the date your loan repayment begins.We cannot emphasize enough the importance of making your full loan payments on time either monthly (which is the usual pay cycle) or according to your repayment schedule. If you do not make your payments, you could end up in default, which has serious consequences. Student loans are real loans-just as real as car loans or mortgages. You must pay back your student loans.

Consequences of Default

You are legally required to repay your educational loans, even if you drop below half-time status, don’t finish college, can’t find a job right away, or are dissatisfied with the education you received. Your education loan must be repaid when your grace period expires. If you don’t fulfill your end of the agreement, the entire unpaid amount of the loan, including interest may be due immediately. Here are some other problems you may face if you default on a student loan:

• Loss of federal and state income tax refunds
• Legal action and assessment of collection charges including attorney fees
• Loss of eligibility for other student aid and assistance under most federal benefit programs
• Loss of eligibility for deferments
• Loss of professional license
• Negative credit reports
• Garnishment of wages

Grace Periods

Each type of loan has its own requirements regarding grace periods (amount of time until your first payments), repayments options, and repayment periods:

• Federal Direct Loans
  • You have a grace period of six months until your first payment must be received.
  • Repayment information from the Department of Education at studentaid.gov/ explains available repayment options for direct loans, includes examples of monthly payments for different loan amounts, and covers other topics you need to consider when managing your loans.
• Federal PLUS Loans
  • The repayment period for PLUS loans begins on the date the loan is fully disbursed, and the first payment is due within 60 days of the final disbursement.
  • Parent PLUS Loan borrowers may choose to have repayment deferred while the student for whom the parent borrowed is enrolled at least halftime and for an additional six months after the student is no longer enrolled at least half-time.

If you have an in-school deferment on a Direct Subsidized or Unsubsidized Loan that entered repayment at an earlier date (before you returned to school) and you graduate, drop below half-time enrollment, or withdraw from school, you will be required to immediately begin making payments on the loan because the six month grace period has already been used up, there is no second grace period.

• Reservists Called Active Duty
  • If you are called or ordered to active duty for more than 30 days from a reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces, the period of your active duty service and time necessary for you to re-enroll in school after your active duty ends are not counted as part of your grace period. However, the total period that is excluded from your grace period may not exceed three years. If the call or order occurs while you are in school and requires you to drop below half-time enrollment, the start of your grace period will be delayed until the end of the excluded period. If the call or order occurs during your grace period, you will receive a full 6-month grace period at the end of the excluded period. If you are a reservist called to active duty with the U. S. Armed Forces for more than 30 days, contact your loan servicer to let them know your status.

Deferment and Forbearance

If you are having temporary problems repaying your federal student loans, contact your loan servicer to see if you are eligible for deferment or forbearance. A deferment or forbearance allows you to temporarily stop making payments or reducing loan payments on your federal student loans. Note: Interest will continue to be charged on your Direct and Plus Loans. If you do not pay this interest during the deferment/forbearance, it will be capitalized at the end of the deferment/forbearance.

Consolidation

If you make multiple education loans, you can consolidate them into a single Direct Consolidation Loan. Thismay simplify repayment if you are making separate loan payments to different loan holders, as you’ll only have one monthly payment to make. There may be tradeoffs, however, so you will want to learn about the advantages and possible disadvantages. To learn more, go to www.studentaid.ed.gov/.

Loan Cancellation (Forgiveness or Discharge)

Under certain circumstances, you may have all or part of your loan cancelled or discharges. To learn more, go to www.studentaid.ed.gov/.

Loan Disbursements (Paid Out)

Generally, your loan(s) will cover a full academic year. Based on Federal Guidelines, there is a 30 day hold on disbursement of loans for first-time loan borrowers. For first time loan borrowers, LDCC will disburse your loan, after 30 days, from the date of the college’s first disbursement date by crediting it to your account to pay tuition and fees and other authorized charges. If the loan disbursement amount exceeds your school charges, LDCC will pay you the remaining balance via EFT based on the students selected refund option (i.e. BankMobile or personal checking or savings account). Check you LOLA for disbursements. One semester only loans are disbursed in two disbursements. Half of the one semester only loan will be disbursed at the time of the college’s first disbursement date and the second half will be disbursed after 30 days.

Note: If you change your mind, a loan can be canceled, even if the MPN agreeing to the loan terms has already been signed. LDCC will notify you whenever it credits your student account with your Direct Loan funds. You may cancel all or a portion of your loan if you inform LDCC Office of Financial Aid within 14 days after the date LDCC sent you this notice, or by the first day of your payment period, whichever is later. If you have received funds from the loan to your student account, you will have to return the funds to the college.

Loan Proration - Per federal regulations the college is required to prorate an undergraduate student’s annual Direct Loan limits, when they are enrolled in their final period of study that is shorter than an academic year. The maximum loan amount would be determined by the number of credit hours enrolled for the final semester. In some cases, the actual loan amount that a student is eligible for (based on costs, EFC and other aid) may be less than the prorated loan limit.

Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP)

The federal government mandates that students must maintain SAP toward the completion of their degrees within a reasonable period of time in order to be eligible for Title IV financial aid programs.

Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) for federal financial aid is defined as:

• Pace of progression - Earning (passing) a required number of hours (67% of all hours attempted) and
• Grade point average - Achieving and maintaining at least a 2.00 grade point average and
• Maximum timeframe -Total overall attempted hours must not exceed 150% of the published length of the students’ degree program. Refer to the LDCC academic catalog at www.ladelta.edu for program requirements.

The SAP policy includes both a qualitative (such as the use of cumulative grade point average) and a quantitative (such as a maximum time-frame for completion) component.

The minimum progress evaluation (SAP) is reviewed at the end of each payment period (Fall, Spring and Summer).

Your entire academic record is reviewed, including semesters when you did not receive federal financial aid.

Academic Amnesty does not affect or alter the student’s financial aid records financial aid eligibility. Student who are granted Academic Amnesty must also submit a financial aid appeal, if not making Satisfactory Academic Progress.

Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) Appeal Procedure

Students who do not meet SAP standards have the right to submit an appeal to the college’s Financial Aid Appeals Committee. Appeals must be submitted by the college’s established deadlines, which is published on Louisiana Delta Community College’s website. Appeals are typically based upon mitigating circumstances such as prolonged illness, accidents that required hospitalization of the student or a close family member, death of an immediate family member, or other extreme documented incidents. All appeals must include documentation that: (1) substantiates claims being made in the appeal and (2) demonstrates a change in current circumstances, making academic success likely if the appeal is granted. Appeals can only be made once per payment period.

If an appeal is approved, the student must complete an Academic Plan in LOLA and they will receive Degree Audit Summary via email. Students changing majors or who have exhausted all of the remaining hours to complete their degree must submit another SAP Appeal.

The student will then be evaluated at the end of each payment period based on their academic plan. SAP appeal decisions are final and cannot be overridden. If an appeal is denied, the student is not eligible for federal aid and must attend at their own expense until (1) the student meets the academic standards as outlined in the SAP policy or (2) the student successfully appeals and is approved to be placed on an academic plan in a future payment period. If you are appealing because you did not meet the requirements of the Academic Plan, your extenuating circumstance must have occurred during your most recent semester.

Academic Renewal/Amnesty

Academic renewal does not affect or alter the student’s financial aid records for purposes of determining financial aid eligibility. All hours attempted and grades received will continue to be counted for purposes of federal financial aid and satisfactory academic progress.

Transfer Students

Transfer students are required to meet the same standards as native students in order to receive federal financial aid. All transfer students shall initially be coded “TRANS” until the end of the first payment period when they are evaluated for SAP. At the time of the SAP evaluation only transfer credits transcribed by the college will be counted (as both attempted and completed hours) in the cumulative GPA, pace of progression, and maximum allowable hours components of the SAP determination.

Return to Title IV

Return to Title IV Funds Process for Federal Financial Aid

Students who receive Title IV financial aid will be subject to the Return of Title IV Funds Policy if they withdraw before completing 60% of the semester in which they were disbursed Title IV financial aid.

The Return of Title IV Funds Policy calculates the student’s percentage of earned aid by using the following formula: The pro-rated percentage of earned aid = number of calendar days attended/number of calendar days in the enrollment period.

The number of calendar days attended is calculated by counting from the first day of the semester to the student’s official withdrawal date. The number of calendar days in the semester is calculated by counting from the first calendar day of the semester/summer session to the last calendar day of the semester/summer session.Weekends and holidays are included in the number of calendar days. Excluded are scheduled breaks of five days or more AND days that the student was on an approved leave of absence.

Students who stop attending classes and do not officially resign from LDCC will also be subject to this policy. The students last day of attendance will be based on the last day of attendance as reported by the student’s instructor(s). Students who are awarded financial aid and withdraw from their classes, officially or unofficially, will be required to pay back all or a portion of the financial aid they receive. Additional information on R2T4 can be found on our website at http://www.ladelta.edu/Admissions/Financial-Aid/return-of-title-iv-funds/

Return to Title IV Funds Policy- All Campuses

According to the Federal Student Aid Handbook, “Title IV funds are awarded to a student under the assumption that the student will attend school for the entire period for which the assistance is awarded. When a student withdraws, the student may no longer be eligible for the full amount of Title IV funds that the student was originally scheduled to receive.

If a recipient of Title IV grant funds withdraws from a school after beginning attendance, the amount of Title IV grant or loan assistance earned by the student must be determined. If the amount disbursed to the student is greater than the amount the student earned, unearned funds must be returned. If the amount disbursed to the student is less than the amount the student earned, and for which the student is otherwise eligible, he or she is eligible to receive a post-withdrawal disbursement of the earned aid that was not received.”

Effective fall 2008, LDCC will use the “Return of Title IV Funds Policy” in accordance with the 2008 Reauthorization of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended. The law defines the amount of Title IV grants and loans that the student has earned the right to use. The amount a student has earned is directly related to the length of time he or she has maintained attendance during the semester. The law requires that if a recipient of Title IV assistance withdraws/resigns from an institution before completing more than 60% of the semester in which the recipient began attendance, the institution must calculate the percentage and amount of Title IV assistance the student earned. Unearned Title IV funds must be returned to the Title IV programs by the school and/or the student.

Students who wish to resign from the College should follow Admissions resignation procedures found in the LDCC Catalog. An electronic version of the Catalog is located online at: http://catalog.ladelta.edu/

For official withdrawals, the Return of Title IV funds calculation must be performed and the student notified of any overpayment within 30 days of the date the institution determined the student withdrew. In many cases, students will owe money to the federal aid program(s) and to LDCC. (See “Return of Title IV Funds Formula in Detail” below for information regarding deadlines and repayment procedures)

For the purposes of this policy, the words “withdrawals, withdraw” and “resignations, resign” may be used interchangeably.

Unofficial Withdrawals/Resignations

Students receiving Title IV aid who stop attending all classes and receive all F’s will be treated as unofficial withdrawals. For unofficial withdrawals, the withdrawal date is defined as either the midpoint of the semester or the last documented date of attendance at an academically-related activity, as defined by Federal Regulations.

Upon issuing an ‘F’ grade, Instructors are required to submit the last date of attendance or academic activity for the student. The latest date reported is used in the Return of Title IV funds calculation to determine the percentage of aid earned.

An institution must determine the withdrawal date for a Title IV recipient who unofficially withdraws no later than 30 days after the end of the semester in which the student unofficially withdrew or the end of the academic year in which the student unofficially withdrew, whichever is earlier.

Number of Days in Semester

The percentage of time the student completed for the semester determines the “earned percentage.” The earned percentage is based on calendar days in the semester, including weekends. Only scheduled breaks of at least 5 days will be excluded. The length of the break is determined by counting from the first day of the break up to the next day on which classes are offered. The weekends preceding and following the break are counted as part of the break, unless Saturday classes are scheduled. If Saturday classes are scheduled in the weekend preceding the break, only the Sunday would be counted as part of the break. If Saturday classes are scheduled in the weekend following the break, neither Saturday nor Sunday is counted as part of the break.

Additional Information about LDCC’s Return of Title IV Funds Policy

A Return of Title IV funds calculation must be performed if a student resigns (officially or unofficially) before completing more than 60% of the semester in which any of the following Title IV funds were disbursed or could have been disbursed, as defined by Federal Regulations: Pell Grant, FSEOG, Federal Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans, and Federal Direct Parent PLUS Loan.

LDCC uses the payment period for the calculation of the Return of Title IV Funds formula. The payment period is the semester in which the student received Title IV funds.

Regarding class attendance, based on our LDCC catalog: Each instructor keeps a permanent attendance record for each student in each class. These records are subject to inspection by appropriate College officials at any time. Once Return of Title IV funds are complete, students are notified of such calculations. The notification will include the amount of funds returned, notification of students official or unofficial withdrawal date, and notification that student may owe the school for tuition and fees no longer covered.

Institutional Charges

LDCC defines institutional charges as tuition, fees, and books. These are the amounts that were initially assessed the student before any institutional refund was applied.

These charges include tuition and required fees, including required program and course fees, for the appropriate semester. Since students utilize their federal financial aid to purchase books, books are included as institutional charges. Books must be purchase at the Barns & Noble Bookstore on campus or on-line at: https://ladelta.bncollege.com/shop/ladelta/home

Refunds Due to LDCC’s Institutional Refund Policy

LDCC’s institutional refund policy is stated in the LDCC College Catalog at each school year. If a student is due a refund based on LDCC’s institutional refund policy, that refund will be applied first to the student’s portion of Return of Title IV funds. Any remaining portion will be applied toward the school’s portion of Return of Title IV funds. If any portion remains after applying toward Return of Title IV funds, it will be used to repay LDCC funds, state funds, other private sources, and the student in proportion to the amount received from each of these sources.

Accounts Receivables (Financial Obligations) for School’s Portion of Return of Title IV Funds

If LDCC is required to use institutional funds to pay the school’s portion of Return of Title IV funds, LDCC will set up an “accounts receivable” for the student’s account. The student will then owe a debt to LDCC to reimburse LDCC for the amount LDCC was required to return to the Title IV programs due to the student’s resignation. The student’s account will have a hold on it until the debt is satisfied. The Financial Aid Office will send a letter to the student to notify him/her of this debt and how to resolve it.

Return to Title IV Funds Formula in Detail

1. Determine the amount of Title IV Aid received by the student.
   
   This includes aid that has been disbursed and aid that could have been disbursed. “Aid that could have been disbursed” is defined as aid for which the student was eligible to receive at the time of withdrawal.
    
2. Determine percentage of aid earned (Percentages are rounded to three decimal places. For example, .4486 would be .449 or 44.9%)
   
   This requires several steps:

   1. Determine student’s withdrawal date. (LDCC is required to take attendance) For official withdrawals, the withdrawal date is the date the student began the withdrawal process (as noted on the “Resignation Form” ) or otherwise provided official notification of intent to withdraw. The official withdrawal process is stated in our electronic Academic Calendar: https://www.ladelta.edu/academics/academic-calendar each semester.
      
      For unofficial withdrawals, the withdrawal date is the last date of attendance at an academically-related activity as documented by the school.

   2. Determine the percentage of payment period (semester) completed
      
      Divide the number of days attended by the number of days in the semester. This percentage is the percentage of payment period (semester) completed and the percentage of Title IV aid earned for the semester. For example, if the semester consisted of 103 days, and the student attended for 43 days, he completed 41.7% of the semester; therefore, he earned 41.7% of his Title IV aid.

3. Determine the amount of aid earned by the student.
   
   Determine the amount of Title IV aid that was disbursed and that could have been disbursed as of the withdrawal date. Multiply the percentage from step 2B (earned aid) by this amount. The amount that could have been disbursed includes late disbursements for which the student qualifies.
    
4. Compare the amount earned to the amount disbursed.
   
   If earned aid exceeds disbursed aid, a post-withdrawal late disbursement is due the student. If disbursed aid exceeds earned aid, funds must be returned to the Title IV programs.
    
5. Determine if the student is due post-withdrawal disbursement or if Title IV aid must be returned.
   
   Subtract the Title IV aid actually disbursed from the amount of Title IV aid earned. If aid disbursed is greater than aid earned, funds must be returned to the Title IV programs. If aid disbursed is less than aid earned, the student may be due a post-withdrawal disbursement.
   1. Title IV funds to be returned to Title IV programs
      
      ​​The school and the student may be required to return unearned Title IV funds to the Title IV programs. Amounts to be returned by the school are actual amounts and are not rounded, except for loans.
       
      • Title IV funds to be returned by the school and student must be credited to outstanding balances for the semester for which a Return of Title IV funds is required in the following order:
        1. Unsubsidized Direct Loan
        2. Subsidized Direct Loan
        3. PLUS Loan
            
      • If unearned funds remains to be returned after repayment of all outstanding loan amounts, the remaining excess must be credited to any amount awarded for the semester for which a Return of Title IV is required in the following order:
        1. Pell Grant
        2. SEOG
        3. Other Title IV aid
            
6. Amount due from school (actual amounts):
   1. Determine the amount of institutional charges the student incurred for the current semester.
   2. Multiply the unearned aid percentage by the amount of institutional charges.
   3. School is responsible for returning the lesser of the two amounts (a or b).
   4. School must return funds as soon as possible but no later than 45 days after the date the institution determines the student withdrew.
   5. If LDCC is required to use institutional funds to pay the school’s portion of Return of Title IV funds, LDCC will set up an “accounts receivable” for the student’s account. The student will then owe a debt to LDCC to reimburse the College for the amount LDCC was required to return to the Title IV programs due to the student’s resignation.
       
7. Amount due from student
   1. Determine the amount of institutional charges the student incurred for the current semester.
   2. Multiply the unearned aid percentage by the amount of institutional charges.
   3. School is responsible for returning the lesser of the two amounts (a or b).
   4. School must return funds as soon as possible but no later than 45 days after the date the institution determines the student withdrew.
   5. If LDCC is required to use institutional funds to pay the school’s portion of Return of Title IV funds, LDCC will set up an “accounts receivable” for the student’s account. The student will then owe a debt to LDCC to reimburse the College for the amount LDCC was required to return to the Title IV programs due to the student’s resignation.
       
8. Post-withdrawal disbursements
   
   These disbursements will be made in accordance with Federal Regulations. If a student is due a post-withdrawal disbursement, the disbursement must be made from available grant funds. The disbursement must be made within 90 days of the institution’s determination that the student withdrew. After the eligible post-withdrawal disbursements are credited to the student’s outstanding current semester charges, the institution must follow specific steps, outlined in Federal Regulations, in offering the remaining balance to the student.

MJ Foster

The MJ Foster Promise Award is a financial assistance award available to Louisiana residents who are 20 and older to help pay for tuition and fees at a Louisiana two-year post-secondary educational institution or Louisiana Board of Regents approved proprietary school in order to pursue a course of study that leads to a high demand job in a field that meets Louisiana’s workforce needs.

The maximum award amount is $3,200 per year for a full-time student to be applied to tuition and fees only. The Award amount for students attending less than full time will be proportional to the number of hours in which the student is enrolled. A recipient may receive a maximum of $6,400 over a period of 3 years. Some recipients may receive the full $6,400 in one year, provided that the student is enrolled in certain high-cost programs that are less than one year long.

The qualified program of studies are construction, health care and social assistance, information technology, manufacturing, and transportation and warehousing. Reference LDCC’s website for a list of eligible programs.

To be eligible you must meet all of the following:

• Louisiana resident two years prior to applying.
• Be a U.S. Citizen
• Be at least twenty-one years of age.
• Have a High School Diploma or a GED OR enroll in a GED program at the same time you pursue an Award-eligible course of study.
• Not have earned an associate degree or higher.
• Not be incarcerated.
• Not been convicted of any crime of violence (click here for the complete list of crimes of violence as defined in Louisiana law),
• Must have completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
• Have completed the on-line MJ Foster Promise Application
• If a veteran of the U. S. Armed Forces and been separated from the service, have received an honorable discharge or a general discharge under honorable conditions,
• Meet the admission requirements of the institution
• Maintain enrollment in an eligible program of study through the 14th class day
• Agree to work full time in Louisiana for at least one year following the completion of the academic program.
• They have a family income that does not exceed 300% of the federal poverty level guidelines, or certify that they are currently unemployed or have been underemployed for a period of at least six months prior to the date they would receive an award.

What you must do to keep the MJ Foster Promise Award?

You must:

• Maintain steady academic progress:
  • If enrolled full-time, make progress sufficient to graduate within 100% of the time allotted for completion of the award. For example, if completion time is one academic year, you must complete sufficient coursework to complete the program within that year.
  • If enrolled part-time, make progress sufficient to graduate during the time period for which you may receive an award. The maximum time period that you may receive an award is three years, so you must complete sufficient coursework to complete your program within this time period.
• Remain in good standing at your school.
• Maintain continuous enrollment unless granted an exception by LOSFA:
  • Earn at least one short-term credential per year if enrolled in a program other than an associate degree program.
  • Enroll in the fall and spring semester if enrolled in an associate degree program.
• Maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 2.00 calculated on a 4.00 scale in a program for which grades are issued.
• Maintain steady academic progress in a qualified program for which letter grades are not issued.
• Not be incarcerated.
• Have no conviction for a crime of violence.
• Have received an honorable discharge or a general discharge under honorable conditions.
• Have received the award for less than three years.
• Have earned not more than 60 hours of credit while receiving the Award.
• Annually complete the FAFSA
• Annually complete the MJ Foster Promise on-line application.
• A recipient may continue to receive an award under this section after they have completed one or more qualified programs of study other than an associate degree if:
  • They continue to meet all of the continuing eligibility requirements
  • They have not exhausted the maximum award eligibility of $6400
  • They have not received the award for 3 years

Scholarships

Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS) and TOPS TECH

TOPS is a merit-based scholarship program administered through the Louisiana Office of Student Financial Assistance (LOSFA) in Baton Rouge. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) must be completed by students who are applying for TOPS. LOSFA updates a master roster. This roster identifies TOPS eligible students based on FAFSA information, high school core curriculum requirements, ACT scores, and GPA. An official offer will come from LOSFA if you are eligible. You can check your current eligibility status at www.ofsa.la.gov.

Students who are eligible to receive a TOPS award must be enrolled full-time (12 or more hours) unless you have been approved for an eligible part-time status. If you are eligible for a TOPS Tech award, you must enroll in a Technical Major. TOPS pays for tuition only and students are responsible for any additional mandatory fees. TOPS Performance and Honors awards are eligible for an additional stipend each semester.

You must maintain continuous full-time enrollment or earn at least 24 hours for each academic year to keep your TOPS. If you do not earn 24 hours your TOPS award will be cancelled. The following minimum cumulative GPAs must be maintained:

If your award is suspended because of GPA or steady academic progress, you may have your award reinstated upon achieving the required cumulative GPA, if the period of ineligibility is not over two years (one year for the TOPS Tech award or students using Opportunity, Performance or Honors to pursue a technical program). Cancellation of a TOPS award due to failure to earn 24 hours per academic year, is permanent unless you are granted an exception. Students must apply for the exception within 6 months of the award cancellation date. If you are granted an exception through LOSFA, you must submit a copy of your exception letter to the Office of Financial Aid. Go to the TOPS portal at www.osfa.la.gov/ or contact a LOSFA representative at 1-800-259-5626 for more information.

Foundation Scholarships

Every Fall and Spring semester Delta offers a number of Foundation Scholarships that cover all or a part of the tuition and fees for eligible students. Applications and more specific eligibility criteria are available on Delta’s website at http://www.ladelta.edu.

Outside Scholarships

If you applied for a scholarship from a private foundation, company or community group, you must contact the Accounting Office or the Office of Financial Aid. These scholarships are awarded based upon criteria designated by the donor. If a donor wishes to send a check on your behalf directly to Louisiana Delta Community College, please request that the check be made payable to Louisiana Delta Community College and mailed to Accounts Receivable, 7500 Millhaven Road, Monroe, LA 71203.

Tuition Waivers

Louisiana Delta Community College (LDCC) Employee/Dependent Tuition Fee Waiver

This program is designed to encourage employees and dependents of employees to continue their education through completion of an associate’s degree. It provides tuition assistance for employees and dependents of employees. Employees must have been employed at Delta for at least one year in a permanent position. Full-time employees can receive tuition exemption, up to 6 hours, but are responsible for all fees. Employee dependents are charged $25 per hour, plus all applicable fees. Applicants must complete the LDCC Employee/Dependent Tuition Fee Waiver form available on Delta’s website at www.ladelta.edu

Louisiana National Guard Tuition Exemption

Members are exempt from tuition at any state-funded college or university for 5 years or a bachelor’s degree; whichever comes first. For more information visit www.la.ngb.army.mil or call 1-800-GOGUARD.

Louisiana Vocational Rehabilitation Grants

Vocational Rehabilitation provides assistance with educational costs for students with permanent disabilities that constitute a job handicap. This program usually covers the expense of tuition and fees. Eligibility is based on an individual with a disability benefiting from vocational rehabilitation services in terms of achieving employment, including supported employment. Students may apply at the Monroe Region VIII Office, 24 Accent Dr. Suite 105, Monroe, LA 71201 or call 318-362-3232 or 1-800-737-2973.

Strategies to Empower People (STEP) Program

Strategies to Empower People (STEP) Program: STEP is a family case management program designed to help all work-eligible recipients of the Family Independence Temporary Assistance Program (FITAP) move toward financial independence. The Office of Family Support works with a network of community resources to connect these individuals with the resources they need in order to receive training to gain employment, improve workplace skills and move up the career ladder.

STEP participants may attend any Community or Technical College within the Louisiana Community and Technical College System (LCTCS). The cost of tuition, fees, books and supplies are covered for eligible STEP participants. Interested students should apply with their local Office of Family Support to determine if they are eligible for this program.

SGA Waivers for Officers

Student Government Association waivers of in-state tuition, exclusive of student self-assessed fees may be granted to the four highest ranking SGA officers. These officers include President, Vice-President, Secretary and Treasurer. The waivers for the officers cannot exceed the cost of four full-time equivalent students.

FFA, SkillsUSA, and JAG

These scholarships are awarded to Louisiana High School Graduates that were members in the FFA, SkillsUSA USA, and JAG organizations.

These are one-time, Fall or Summer only scholarships. Students who do not enroll as of the Fall semester following their High School graduation date, forfeit their eligibility for the award. A student who applies for Summer will be considered for the Summer award.

Students that are confirmed members of the respective organizations are eligible for $500.00. Students that were state champions within the SkillsUSA USA and/or FFA programs are also eligible for a one-time $1000.00 scholarship.

Students that were members of multiple organizations are eligible for the scholarship associated with each organization. Therefore, a student that was an FFA champion, SkillsUSA champion, and a member of JAG would receive a $1500 FFA scholarship, $1500 SkillsUSA scholarship, and a $500 JAG scholarship.