Staff Report
One area of student funding underutilized as the Fall 2024 semester nears at Western Nevada College is the Silver State Opportunity Grant (SSOG).
With fall classes starting on August 26, the timing is right for students to take advantage of the grant. The Nevada Legislature created the grant in 2015 to provide need-based funding for students attending community and state colleges in the Nevada System of Higher Education.
“We have worked hard not only to keep costs low but also support scholarships to help students offset the cost of higher education,” WNC President Dr. J. Kyle Dalpe said. “I encourage all students to meet with our financial aid office to see what programs — like the Silver State Opportunity Grant — are available to them to support their education.”
WNC has nearly $368,000 to award to students through the Silver State Opportunity Grant, and WNC’s Financial Aid Office has already started awarding these funds to qualified students. In many cases, students will have their class fees (with enough funds for books) covered by the SSOG. Students could receive as much as $5,500 for the school year.
“WNC is committed to award SSOG and other types of financial aid to students to help them accomplish their educational and career goals,” WNC Executive Director of Student Services JW Lazzari said. “The 2024-25 Free Application for Federal Student Aid had some delays earlier in the year, but there have since been significant improvements to help students. Everyone interested in enrolling should not delay and complete the enrollment and financial aid checklists as soon as possible.”
Lazzari emphasized that students must first file their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to be considered for the SSOG. As soon as possible, complete the FAFSA at https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa to become eligible for the SSOG.
Students who enroll in at least 15 credits and apply to the student’s programs of study are given priority for the SSOG. Individuals must meet other eligibility criteria, including:
• Enrolling in a program of study leading to a degree or certificate.
• College readiness on placement or completion of entry-level, college-level mathematics and English.
• Classified as a Nevada resident for tuition purposes.
• Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.
• Having an Expected Family Contribution (EFC) of $8,500 or less.
• Meeting institutional Title IV financial aid satisfactory academic progress requirements.
Individuals interested in learning about WNC financial aid programs should visit www.wnc.edu/financial to schedule a phone appointment or visit virtual office hours. The Financial Assistance Office is also available to help in person Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., on the Carson City campus in Bristlecone Room 102 or by appointment on the Fallon campus.
For information about becoming a student at WNC, go to www.wnc.edu/starthere/. To learn more about financial aid at WNC, phone 775-445-3264, email [email protected], or visit virtual office hours through wnc.edu/financial.
Since 1971, Western Nevada College has helped students embark on the road to success by preparing them for various careers through associate and bachelor degree programs, industry certifications, and workforce training. WNC offers exemplary academics, affordability, and student satisfaction. Many Western grads become leaders in their communities and excel in their professions. Through multiple campuses, resource and learning centers, cohorts, and robust online offerings, Western can meet many students’ needs, whether residing in remote parts of Nevada or trying to fit in their education while raising a family. To learn more about WNC, visit wnc.edu or phone 775-445-3000.
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