Types of Aid
Explore Your Options to Fund College
Paying for college can feel overwhelming, but we’re here to help. Mid-State helps students access a variety of financial aid options—including grants, loans, scholarships, veterans benefits, and student employment—to make your education more affordable. Explore the options below to find what fits your situation best.
Scroll or follow these links to learn more about the key funding sources available:
Grants
Grants are need-based funds that normally do not need to be repaid, making them one of the best ways to fund your education.
After you complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid), if you are eligible for grants, you will receive information from Mid-State in your award package about the grants you qualify for.
Federal Grants
Pell Grants are awarded to undergraduate students enrolled for a minimum of one (1) credit with high financial need based on the student's Student Aid Index (SAI). The actual awards vary based on the number of enrolled credits.
The Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG) is awarded to undergraduate students enrolled for a minimum of six (6) credits with exceptional need based on the student's Student Aid Index (SAI).
State Grants
The Wisconsin Higher Education Grant (WHEG) is available to students who are Wisconsin residents and enrolled at least half-time. This grant is based on financial need.
The Talent Incentive Program (TIP) is designed for first-time students who are economically and/or academically disadvantaged. Students who feel they may qualify for this additional funding may contact the Wausau office of the Wisconsin Educational Opportunity Program for further information.
Native American Grants (WIA, BIA) are available through the Wisconsin Higher Educational Aids Board and the Bureau of Indian Affairs. The grant amount is based on need. In addition to completing a FAFSA, students must also complete a separate Indian Scholarship Application which is obtained from their tribal education office for the purpose of certifying the student's degree of Indian blood.
Loans
Student loans can help you pay for college now, with repayment beginning after you leave school. Keep in mind that loans must be repaid with interest, even if your job situation changes after graduation. Before you borrow, take time to understand your repayment responsibilities and plan for the future.
Until you enroll, your reward package will assume full-time enrollment, then be adjusted down as needed. For all federal loans, students must be enrolled in school at least half-time (6 or more credits) in order to be eligible. If you drop below half-time or terminate your enrollment, you may not be eligible to receive your loan disbursement.
After you complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid), if you are eligible for loans, you will receive information from Mid-State in your award package about the loans you qualify for.
Federal Stafford Subsidized Loans
Based on need. The government pays the interest while the student is enrolled in school at least half-time (6 or more credits).
Federal Stafford Unsubsidized Loans
Not based on need. The interest accrues from the time the money is disbursed to the student. The student can either make interest payments or let the interest accrue and capitalize it (have the interest added to the loan balance) when they begin repayment.
Parent Loan to Undergraduate Students (PLUS)
Parents of "dependent" students may apply for a loan to assist their child with educational expenses. Detailed information is available at studentaid.gov. For this type of loan, students need to let Mid-State know they are interested in the PLUS Loan by completing the Parent PLUS Request Form. The Financial Aid Office can then send a school certification to the Federal loan servicer. Funds will be transmitted to Mid-State electronically once these steps above have been completed. Funds will be used to pay the student account balance. Once the student has a zero balance, any remaining funds will be sent to the parent.
Scholarships
Scholarships are awarded funds that do not need to be repaid. Students apply for scholarships through the Mid-State Technical College Foundation, Inc., separate from the federal financial aid (FAFSA) process. They’re based on criteria like academic performance, financial need, or community involvement.
Everything you need to apply for scholarships is below. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact the Foundation.
The Mid-State Foundation awarded 315 different scholarships to Mid-State students in 2023 alone. These awards totaled nearly $219,800 and ranged from $250–$2,000 per student, with the average award in the $500–$1,000 range. For most, receiving a scholarship of this amount is an important piece of the debt-free puzzle and well worth the time it takes to apply.
One general application gives you access to many awards funded by the Foundation’s generous donors.
When to Apply for Scholarships
Be sure to apply during an active application window. Find yours below by choosing the school year you wish to attend.
2027–28 SCHOOL YEAR
Spring 2027
For all new and continuing students and high school students graduating from high school in 2027 and enrolling in classes for fall 2027.
- Opens: Monday, January 25, 2027
- Closes: Friday, March 19, 2027
- Awarded: The week of April 19, 2027
- Disburses: September 2027 with financial aid disbursement
Fall 2027
For all new and continuing students for spring semester 2028.
- Opens: Monday, August 24, 2027
- Closes: Friday, October 16, 2027
- Awarded: The week of November 7, 2027
- Disburses: February 2028 with financial aid disbursement
2026–27 SCHOOL YEAR
Fall 2026
For all new and continuing students for spring semester 2027.
- Opens: Monday, August 25, 2026
- Closes: Friday, October 17, 2026
- Awarded: The week of November 17, 2026
- Disburses: February 2027 with financial aid disbursement
Complete just one general application to apply for the majority of scholarships available. Once submitted, you will automatically be considered for all of the Mid-State scholarships you are eligible for.
To apply for Foundation scholarships, follow the link below, and log in with your Mid-State credentials.
A variety of additional scholarships are funded by individuals, businesses, industries, or organizations. These opportunities are not connected with the Mid-State Foundation, and each scholarship has its own unique application process and criteria for selection.
Mid-State’s Sponsor a Scholar program connects students with local employers eager to invest in their future. Receive up to $10,000 toward your education and gain hands-on experience that leads directly to full-time employment after graduation.
Help Completing a Scholarship Application
Contact or visit a Mid-State Academic Learning Center at any Mid-State campus for assistance.
Financial Assistance
In need of financial assistance? Schedule an in-person or virtual appointment with Mid-State’s financial wellness coordinator.
Veterans Benefits
Mid-State proudly supports those who have served. Veterans, active-duty military, Selective Reserve, and National Guard members may qualify for a range of state and federal education benefits.
Most Mid-State programs are approved for both state and federal benefits. Our dedicated student financial aid and veterans advisor, Tracy Bliese, can help you understand eligibility, apply for benefits, and stay certified for continued funding.
Federal Benefits
Programs such as the Post-9/11 GI Bill®, Montgomery GI Bill®, Dependents Educational Assistance, Selective Reserve, National Guard, and VA Vocational Rehabilitation provide funding for tuition, housing, and educational expenses.
State Benefits
Eligible Wisconsin veterans and dependents may qualify for the Wisconsin GI Bill® Tuition Remission and other state-supported education programs through the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs.
Student Employment
Working on campus is a great way to connect, grow, and gain real-world experience while you study. As a Mid-State student employee, you’ll:
- Meet new people and build connections with faculty and staff.
- Strengthen leadership and career skills.
- Reduce student debt—every position pays at least $13 per hour.
- Add valuable experience to your résumé.
Our supervisors understand that school comes first and will work around your class schedule.
Explore a variety of opportunities below—from student government and tutoring to federal Work-Study positions.
On-Campus Jobs
On-campus positions for student employees are available across the College. These positions are open to all students interested in working part-time at the College. (On-campus student employment positions are not guaranteed.)
Off-Campus Work-Study Jobs
Off-campus positions with community nonprofit organizations are available for students in the Federal Work-Study Program. This program provides jobs for full- or part-time students with financial need. (A college Work-Study award does not ensure a job will be available.)
Student Leadership
Mid-State appoints up to 10 student representatives to serve on the Student Leadership Board (SLB). As part of this team, you’ll help shape the student experience, share student perspectives, and represent Mid-State with pride in the community and beyond.
Mascot Actors
Do you have the energy, enthusiasm, and school pride to bring Mid-State’s mascot, Grit, to life? We’re looking for people who can embody Grit’s spirit of hard work, determination, and pride—on campus and in our communities. Apply to audition today, or encourage a friend who fits the role!
