I will be graduating from a community college with an AA degree. I will be getting this degree because I am very close to receiving it, only 4 credits away. But really I am interested in renewable energy development. Yes, I know I changed my mind at a really bad time. A nearby community college has this degree which is an associates, but will I still receive pell grants and stafford loans to get a second Associates degree? If I do not I was considering transferring to the other community college before I graduate from my current one and then after graduating with the associates degree in renewable energy I would pay out of pocket to take the last few credits for the AA degree. Would this work as an alternative?

1. Andrew Says:
   May 2nd, 2010 at 3:21 am

   My understanding of Pell is that it is largely NEEDS based. Meaning, if you are of the small percentile that meet its “needs” criteria… you essentially get the aid. There are other minor conditions as well (for example, you have to maintain a certain GPA; but it is set VERY low, you’d have to screw up pretty bad to lose your Pell). Etc. And as far as I know, there is no “cap” on degrees. If you finish this degree, and go to get the next degree, it should only come down to your financial need at the time. But I would highly recommend consulting a financial aid expert (ie: your college’s financial aid department) to confirm this; they’ll know the answers/rules/laws! [if the person at the desk doesn't know or seems incompetent, because many are; just ask to speak to a supervisor/manager]

   But I’d really like to offer you encouragement to reconsider your plans. If your intent is to use these degrees to acquire a job, career, etc… please consider my advice (if you are only doing this for enjoyment, learning, etc; disregard it). Having 2 associates will not compare to having one bachelors. If you want to capture a career, you will be A LOT more marketable with a bachelors verses 2 associates, no matter what the associates are. I would strongly encourage you to consider putting the time/effort into going on to a university to get a bachelors in something you enjoy! Given you are almost done with your associates, you’re practically half way there!

   Best of luck!

2. Suba Says:
   May 2nd, 2010 at 4:06 am

   When you reach 150% of the credits required for a degree at the school you are attending, then your federal aid stops. You may have enough credits left to cover the few classes you have left for a degree in re newel energy.

   You must take at least 6 credit hours to receive federal aid.