Worried about how to pay for trade school? You’re not alone — and the good news is, you can get financial aid for trade school in Texas, just like you would at a college or university.
Whether you’re pursuing CDL training, HVAC certification, or a healthcare program, there are financial resources available to help you start your journey without overwhelming debt.
What Financial Aid Is Available for Trade School?
1. Federal Aid (FAFSA)
Trade schools like STVT accept the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which can help you qualify for:
- Pell Grants (free money you don’t repay)
- Federal student loans
- Work-study programs
Pro Tip: You can complete your FAFSA online in under an hour at studentaid.gov.
2. State Grants and Scholarships
Texas residents may qualify for:
- Texas Public Educational Grant (TPEG)
- Texas Equalization Grant (TEG)
- Local community scholarships
Ask your STVT admissions advisor for region-specific options in Brownsville, McAllen, Weslaco, San Antonio, or Corpus Christi.
3. School-Based Scholarships
Many vocational schools offer their own scholarships, especially for:
- First-generation college students
- Women in trades
- Military veterans or dependents
- Bilingual or Spanish-speaking students
STVT Specific Scholarships
| STVT Scholarship | Campuses Where Offered | Who It’s For | Requirements to Apply (and Remain Eligible) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compassionate Care Scholarship | Arlington, Brownsville, Corpus Christi, McAllen, Weslaco. stvt.edu | First-time students enrolling in the Medical Clinical Assistant program. stvt.edu | • Meet the program admissions requirements • Complete the scholarship application • Submit an essay of 150+ words on why you’re passionate about the healthcare field • To remain eligible: maintain satisfactory academic progress, adhere to STVT’s Code of Conduct, and stay continuously enrolled until completion. stvt.edu |
| Empowering Equality in Trade Professions Scholarship* | Arlington, Brownsville, Corpus Christi, McAllen, San Antonio, Weslaco. stvt.edu | First-time students enrolling in skilled trades programs (at Arlington this includes HVAC & Basic Refrigeration and CNC Machinist). stvt.edu | • Meet the program admissions requirements • Complete the scholarship application • Submit an essay of 150+ words on why you’re passionate about the skilled trades • To remain eligible: maintain satisfactory academic progress, adhere to STVT’s Code of Conduct, and stay continuously enrolled until completion. stvt.edu |
4. Payment Plans & Employer Assistance
Some STVT students use flexible monthly payment plans or employer tuition assistance to help cover costs.
Next Steps: How to Apply
- Complete your FAFSA as soon as possible
- Schedule a financial aid appointment at your nearest STVT campus
- Ask about scholarships, grants, and flexible payments
→ Speak to a Financial Aid Advisor at STVT
FAQ: Financial Aid for Trade School
Q: Do I need to repay Pell Grants?
A: No — grants are free money. You only repay loans.
Q: What if I don’t qualify for FAFSA?
A: You may still qualify for scholarships or alternative financing.
