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missysfahrney · May 13, 2009, 01:23 PM

I have recently been released from prison on a judicial release. I was in college before I was arrested, and I want to go back to school. I lost my financial aide until I pay for at least 2 quarters of college and I really can't afford it with just coming out of prison and would like to go back to school and try to make somehting out of my life is there any grants for felons that I can receive to return to school?

JudyKayTee · May 13, 2009, 01:30 PM

There are no special grants for felons in most States.

Also, please don't post your email address. You will get your answers on this board.

Clough · May 13, 2009, 02:01 PM

Hi, missysfahrney!

There might be some federal student aid available but not any grants that I know of, simply because someone is a former felon.

I have heard something about the possibility of money being available through FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) for those who have been convicted of a felony. However, it would depend on what the conviction was for and an applicant's compliance with certain stipulations in order to be eligible. For more information, please visit FAFSA - Free Application for Federal Student Aid

Once a person has done their time been on probation or parole, basically paid their debt to society, then they are free to apply for monies just like anyone else does in the form of loans or financial aid from educational institutions, banks, municipalities and others.

But, like I said above earlier, in order to be eligible for money from certain programs that are designed to help those who have been convicted of a felony, then it might depend on what the conviction was for and that certain conditions must be met.

Thanks!

lesmily · May 29, 2009, 06:15 PM

I am also a felon and recently registered for college in az. Financial aid was still available here as long as it was not drug related.

JudyKayTee · May 29, 2009, 06:25 PM

Originally Posted by lesmily

I am also a felon and recently registered for college in az. Financial aid was still available here as long as it was not drug related.

Grants or loans? OP is interested in grants.

lesmily · May 29, 2009, 06:42 PM

Grants

Fr_Chuck · May 29, 2009, 06:48 PM

Felons can apply for all the same grants and loans as everyone else, but there are some crimes ( such as drugs) that stops you from some of the loans and grants.

There are a few programs for felons while still in prison,but they are limited progras

Tj100 · Jun 9, 2009, 10:15 AM

There is grants available for felons as long as it is not drug related. I am in college with a felony not related to drugs and receive grants so it is possible. They will ask you on your Fafsa if you have been convicted of a drug felony if you have not then you might qualify for a grant based on your Estimated Family Contribution. It is usually based on your income to know if you qualify for a grant or not. Plus, it depends on which state you are in and which grants you qualify for. Hope that helps to anyone who wanted to know.

excon · Jun 9, 2009, 10:31 AM

Hello:

Just an editorial comment.

I just it strange that in this great country of ours, you can murder somebody and get a college loan... But, God forbid you should sell him a joint...

excon

jtbarnes3rd · Jun 17, 2009, 07:55 AM

FAFSA has no grants for felons but you can apply for loans. Inmates are told by the DOL not to put the felony but then state that they won't admit to it if asked, but this is fraud so do so at your own risk. WIA has grants for schooling so long as you haven't had any college courses for 2 years, best time to get in is Jan when they are appropriated the money for the year. GED courses, if needed, are provided regardless. There are other programs that provide tax incentives for employers that last I heard was $2000 tax credit. Also the DOL (I think it was them it might be the federal goverment) provides up to $10,000 bonding to guarantee the felon won't steel or rob the company, not performance. If a bond is needed for more than that amount the felon can apply in person and it may be considered. The DOL has special counselors for this and all the tasks related to getting a felon working and productive and has all the information. Call you local DOL and ask for the felony specialist/counselor (? I can't remember the exact title.) They can provide you with all the details for the particular year, since it changes from year to year. As for starting businesses the small business association has good information and so does UGA. Also Dekalb business development has a toolbox that is excellent and a must read. As for housing there is some housing available if the felon was homeless previous to incarceration otherwise they can try to get into a diversion center but not if the felon is maxing out. In this case the only help is the $25 and the bus ride. Hope this helps, and Good Luck.