Preparatory coursework
A page within Financial Aid
Academic Year
Preparatory coursework (sometimes referred to as Foundation Courses) refers to courses that a student is required to take in order to enroll into an eligible degree program. The courses are preparatory to the degree, not a part of the degree requirements. Applicants who need to take preparatory coursework at UW-La Crosse prior to being eligible for final admission into a degree program may be able to receive a limited amount of funding through the Federal Direct Loan program.
- Applicants must be enrolled in preparatory coursework REQUIRED for final admission to a regular undergraduate or graduate/professional degree program. Only those courses REQUIRED may be considered when determining enrollment status and student aid eligibility.
- Applicants must complete the regular financial aid application process and meet all federal eligibility requirements (except for being enrolled in an eligible degree or certificate program) for the Federal Direct Loan program.
- Applicants must be enrolled at least half-time per semester (6 credit hours).
- Applicants who are taking preparatory coursework to enter an undergraduate program may apply to receive a Federal Direct Loan for up to $2,625 for one 12-consecutive-month period. Additional eligibility in the Unsubsidized Direct Loan program, up to $6,000, may be available for independent students.
- Applicants who are taking preparatory coursework to enter a graduate program may apply to receive a Federal Direct Loan for up to $5,500 for one 12-consecutive-month period. Additional eligibility in the Unsubsidized Direct Loan program, up to $7,000, may be available for independent students.
- The student and a representative from the appropriate Academic College Dean's Office must complete the 2024-25 Preparatory Coursework Form and return it to the Financial Aid Office for approval.
