There are multiple grant and loan opportunities to support your education and training goals. Those listed here may not be exhaustive of everything available.
Note: If you are looking for financial aid for CSU undergraduate or graduate degree programs, please click HERE
Online Education Partner Certificates with Personal Loan or Payment Plan Options: CATALOG
Adults 18-24: Federal funding may be available for you to pursue workforce training. For more information click HERE
Compare Available Loans for Certificates: SEARCH
**CSU is not affiliated with nor does it endorse any of the options available for loans. This is a convenience tool only.
Employer Tuition Reimbursement: In Ohio, the average tuition reimbursement amount is $5,250 per year. Each company has its own rules related to how tuition reimbursement is made available and for what kind of education and training. Your HR benefits office may be the best place to inquire. For a list of companies considered to have excellent tuition reimbursement options, click HERE.
Foster Care Transitioning Adults: For information on assistance and access to degree options and non-degree job training certificates at Cleveland State University, please contact Jarrett Pratt, M. Ed., at j.g.pratt@csuohio.edu or by calling 216-687-9388.
State of Ohio Second Chance Grant: Are you a student who started, but did not complete an associate's or bachelor's degree? If so, this may qualify you for an Ohio "Second Chance Grant" of $2,000 toward tuition for new workforce certification training. Find Information: HERE
Please address questions to secondchancegrant@highered.ohio.gov.
Are you a U.S. Veteran interested in using service benefits for education? Please click HERE to contact CSU's Veterans' financial assistance office.
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Funding for dislocated and income-eligible workers. Cleveland State University is an Ohio WIET training provider. Link to the ODJFS Office of Workforce Development (OWD) HERE.
WIOA places a notable emphasis on serving vulnerable populations, including out-of-school youth, individuals with disabilities, low-income individuals, and others who face barriers to employment. It prioritizes providing extensive career services and training to enhance employability.
If you're looking to upgrade your skills, WIOA can help find the funding. There are two ways to establish eligibility:
1: Dislocated worker: If you've lost a job through no fault of your own (company closure, laid off, military spouse relocation), you can qualify. Your prior income does not affect your eligibility if you're a dislocated worker.
2: Adult income-eligible: If your household income is less than 250% of the Federal Poverty Level you may qualify to have your training funded through WIOA.
To check your eligibility contact OhioMeansJobs in your county.
Cuyahoga County: Contact Number (216) 777-8200
Lorain County: Contact Number (440) 324-5244
Medina County: Contact Number (330) 723-9675
Summit County: Contact Number (330) 633-1050
Or find your county on the map at the following link: OhioMeansJobs Contact Center MAP
Frequently Asked Questions WIOA Grants: HERE
With questions or for further assistance or if you are a United Labor Agency (ULA) career specialist needing information:
Email: wkfcdev@csuohio.edu | Phone: 216-875-9731