Financial Aid
More than 80% of COA students receive need-based aid
We are committed to affordability
Opening doors to a COA education
More than 80% percent of COA students receive need-based financial aid. We offer merit scholarships as well as need-based aid, and it is always our goal to make COA affordable for all students, regardless of income.
COA is proud that our students have repeatedly ranked us among the top schools in the nation for financial aid, and we consistently do our best to make it possible for all students to afford the college.
Our net price calculator is one way to see how financial aid might reduce your out-of-pocket costs, but the best way to get a sense of the true net cost of a COA education is by applying for financial aid.
Basic info
If you’re new to financial aid, findaid.org is a great resource for understanding the process and getting started. And our staff are always here to answer your questions—now and throughout the process.
Research & travel support
COA provides each student up to $1,800 to support expeditionary learning. This includes COA courses with a travel component as well as independent studies and residencies. These funds support both domestic and foreign travel.
Work-study
The vast majority of COA students have a work-study job included as part of their financial aid package—and at COA, work-study is a big part of the student experience and campus life. More information on the work-study program can be found here.
Need-based aid
Determined by your family’s financial situation, this may include federal grants, work-study, and COA institutional aid. More than 80% of COA students receive need-based financial aid, and the college meets 99% of demonstrated need.
Merit scholarships
Automatically awarded for academic excellence or community leadership. No separate application required. Additional named scholarships are available for Maine educators’ children and community college transfer students.
Work-study
Most students hold a paid campus job — a great way to gain experience while helping offset expenses. International students are also eligible for on-campus work-study positions.
Veterans & Service members
COA participates in the GI Bill®, Yellow Ribbon Program, and Tuition Assistance. Visit our Veterans Info page for full details.
Wabanaki tuition waiver
Covers 100% of tuition for enrolled members or direct descendants of Maine’s Wabanaki Nations. Eligible students also receive need-based aid with no loans. Learn more about the Wabanaki Tuition Waiver
We’re here to help
We know that applying for financial aid can feel intimidating. We’re here to help guide you through the process.
Financial hardship
If your family is experiencing financial hardship due to loss of job, medical bills, disaster, or similar, please contact our office for additional information and help.
Help with Financial Aid
Willow Gibson
Financial Aid Assistant and Work-Study Coordinator
wgibson@coa.edu
207-801-5646
Amy Mcintire
Director of Financial Aid, Advisor for Service Members
amcintire@coa.edu
207-801-5645
Calculator
This calculator is a tool to estimate the net price and eligibility for financial aid
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