FINANCING YOUR FUTURE IN THE TRADE
For higher education, you have two main loan options: federal and non-federal (private) student loans. At NLC, we focus on affordability and, therefore, do not participate in federal funding programs. This means we do not accept federal loans or student aid (FAFSA). However, we do accept private student loans, which have been a popular choice among many NLC students for financing their education.
Sallie Mae student loans
Sallie Mae Student Loans offers comprehensive information and resources to assist students, parents, and guidance professionals with financial assistance. Sallie Mae Student Loans is well established and has worked with students who attend Northwest Lineman College. Many lenders have ceased to offer or make private loans for various reasons. However, you are free to do research with other private loan lenders.
UECU
Northwest Lineman College is proud to partner with UECU to offer students Energy Trade School Loans with competitive rates and flexible repayment options. Students are able to finance the full cost of attendance (tuition, fees, room and board). Full deferment of payments are available while in school. Terms up to seven years. There is no origination or application fee.

Other Private Loans
Local banks and credit unions sometimes offer loans to those pursuing education, and can be a great resource. That said, it’s important to know the following when seeking untraditional private student loans:
- NLC does not receive, participate, or qualify for Title IV Funding (anything requiring a FAFSA application—Pell Grant, Stafford Loan, etc). As such, NLC does not provide 1098-T tax forms. Pass this info on to your loan officer to help them find the best option for you.
- Not all banks offer student loans, but don’t be discouraged—ask them to help you explore all options.
- Private student loans are becoming more and more common, and most can be applied for online. An Internet search using keywords like “private student loans,” “non-federal student loans,” or “career training loans” may generate useful results.
Scholarships & Grants
Scholarships can require time and effort, but it’s worth it. Many students receive financial assistance for tuition, fees, and related expenses – every little bit helps!
Below you will find current scholarships and grants available to ELP students and links to community foundations:
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Explore All Your Funding Options
Make sure to search for power industry and trade scholarships online and in your community. Consider reaching out to:
- Guidance counselor or counseling center (high school students)
- Local groups like Rotary Club, Elks Club, American Legion, and churches
- Your employer or your parent’s employer
- City and state organizations
- Power and utility companies
Trade Adjustment Assistance provides services and benefits to workers who lose their jobs because of increased imports or because their employer shifted production to certain countries outside the United States. It is a federal program administered by the applicable state’s Department of Labor. Click to learn more about Trade Adjustment Assistance in the following states:
NLC does accept 529s. Please contact your Certified Public Accountant (CPA) to discuss your specific plan and how to move forward.
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Ready to take the next step in your career? Reach out and let us help get you there.