So, you’ve done the research and determined that becoming a chiropractor is the perfect career for you. Congratulations! Next up is looking into the best ways to pay for chiropractic college, and financial aid money is out there. Each year, more than $120 billion is allocated for students applying for colleges. Best of all, you don’t have to go at it alone – financial aid advisors are ready to help!
The best plans begin with creating a budget and gathering as much information as possible. With that in mind, let’s look at a few things that keep this career within reach for people just like you.
1. Loans and Grants
The Internet has a wealth of information about Federal Student Aid provided through the U.S. Department of Education. While you’re not eligible for government education grants as a chiropractic student, you could be eligible for student loans.
If you’re considering paying for chiropractic college with student educational loans, there are two categories: federal student loans and private education loans. Start with federal loans because they traditionally have lower interest rates, and then supplement any additional needs with private loans.
Simply create a Federal Student Aid ID (FSA ID) then wait for the confirmation email (please allow 1 to 3 days). Complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility. (Pay particular attention to any eligible minority status.)
Federal loans do not need to be repaid until after you graduate, leave school, or change enrollment status to less than half time. Your loan servicer will generally work with you to determine a repayment plan that works best with your status after graduation.
Depending on your situation, another financial aid option may be federal grants. Unlike loans, grants do not have to be paid back. Luckily, filling out the FAFSA should identify this possibility.
2. Scholarships
There are many scholarships available; you simply need to do some digging to find them. Some are career based, for those studying specific subjects in health care or other fields.
There are also scholarships for veterans, women, and minorities and many others. In addition, there are opportunities for scholarship monies from various groups, clubs, and associations at the local, state and national level. They are not all based on your GPA, and in fact many scholarships are need-based. That means you have little to fear if your grades are not as high as you would like.
3. Work Options
The Doctor of Chiropractic degree is an intense program that requires a great deal of focus and study. (Did you realize its equivalent to med school for the number of credit hours?) You’ll find going to school both invigorating and challenging. However, some students choose to maintain part-time jobs on or off campus so they can afford to pay for chiropractic college. With proper time management, that may be an option for you after you begin classes.
Another source of funds while in school is the Federal Work-Study program. Many colleges and universities offer part-time employment to full-time students funded by the government through the Work-Study program. If you’re good with explaining concepts and coaching people, know than universities and colleges are always looking for tutors in certain subjects.
Chiropractic Degree and Financial Aid Help at CUKC
You’ve achieved some impressive things so far, and helping people live healthier lives by showing them noninvasive ways and methods really appeals to you. Becoming a doctor of chiropractic – in just 3.3 years – is attainable for you in the College of Chiropractic at Cleveland University-Kansas City (CUKC). CUKC is located in Overland Park, Kansas, a large, highly rated suburb within the Kansas City metro area.
Financial Aid Assistance and a Free Ebook
Consult with the CUKC Financial Aid Office. They prepare students with a healthy understanding of their financial responsibilities, and we also have a free resource about navigating financial aid here.
As a result, CUKC students are among the lowest in the nation among chiropractic colleges for student loan defaults, yet their scores on the national chiropractic certifying exam are top tier. No wonder more than one of every 10 chiropractors in the U.S. today is a Cleveland College of Chiropractic graduate.
Find out about the Doctor of Chiropractic degree program at CUKC by downloading our free ebook: Your Complete Guide to the Chiropractic Profession.
