Ability to Benefit

How to Get Help Paying for College without a High School Diploma


 
If you do not have a high school diploma or GED, you may be able to get financial aid to help pay for college through Ability to Benefit. 

What is Ability to Benefit? 

It’s a federal financial aid rule that allows students without a high school diploma (or an equivalent like a GED or home school diploma) to qualify for financial aid if they prove they have the ability to benefit from a college education. Financial aid can help you pay for tuition, books, fees and other educational expenses for college-level classes. 

Who is eligible for Ability to Benefit? 

You may be eligible if you: 

  • Don’t have a high school diploma or GED
  • Are 16 or older (If you are 16-18, you must be formally released from high school before enrolling.)
  • Participate in an eligible career pathway program.

What are my options at EvCC? 

You can prove you have the ability to benefit from college in one of three ways:

Option 1: Pass an approved test. 

This option is not available at EvCC right now. If you’ve been approved for Ability to Benefit Option 1 at another college, let us know.

Option 2: Complete six college-level credits. 

Some popular options are COLL 101 College Success and H DEV 110: Career and Life Planning. Ask us whether you are eligible for assistance to pay for these credits without financial aid. See eligible programs. 

Option 3: Enroll in I-BEST and classes that lead to a high school diploma at the same time.

I-BEST classes are taught by two instructors, one to teach the content and one to provide support in writing, reading and math skills. EvCC has five I-BEST options: academic (leads to a bachelor’s degree), business and IT, welding, early childhood education, and manufacturing pre-employment. Your advisor will help you pick the best classes. See eligible programs. 

How do I apply? 

Meet with an ATB navigator. 

Email ATB@everettcc.edu to make an appointment with a navigator, who will guide you through the Ability to Benefit application. 

Fill out the FAFSA®or WASFA. 

Visit the financial aid webpage for step-by-step instructions. If you have questions, email Anita Radliff.