Clock Hour Programs
Overview
Clock hour programs lead to certificates and workforce credentials in high-demand fields, such as healthcare, public safety, skilled trades, and building services. These programs are structured differently from traditional credit-hour programs. Instead of earning credits, students earn hours for their learning time in class and hands-on training over a required number of weeks.
Students enrolled in clock-hour programs may be eligible for grants, scholarships, loans, or work-study to help cover the cost of their education. For more information, visit the "Ways to Pay" page.
青青草视频 offers the following clock hour programs:
- Automotive Service Technology
- Dental Assisting
- Diesel Service Technology
- Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning/Refrigeration Technology
- Building Maintenance and Management
- Law Enforcement Officer
- Practical Nursing鈥�&苍产蝉辫;
- Surgical Technology
- Welding Technology
- Advanced Welding Technology
How do I apply for financial aid for a clock hour program?
Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to receive federal financial aid, SF Scholarships, and some state aid programs. Complete the FAFSA as early as possible. Some students may be required to complete verification or provide other documentation before a financial aid offer will be posted in the portal. Visit the Get Your Aid page for more information about the financial aid process.
All students are encouraged to apply for institutional and foundation scholarships by visiting the SF Scholarships page.
When will I receive my financial aid funds?
Financial aid for clock-hour programs is disbursed differently than traditional credit-hour programs. In these programs, students 鈥渆arn鈥� their aid based on the number of clock hours completed over the required number of weeks for the program. Disbursement timeframes are not based on standard academic semesters. Instead, disbursements occur at the end of program-specific payment periods, which are determined by the number of weeks required to complete the necessary clock hours for each portion of the program.
Programs Longer Than One Academic Year (More than 900 Clock Hours)
Clock hours earned are evaluated at the end of each payment period. For these programs, the payment period is typically 13 weeks. A student must complete 450 clock hours in that time to receive a disbursement. Hours will be reviewed again at the end of the following payment period.
Pell Grant eligible students may qualify for a partial disbursement of grant funds at the beginning of the program once the instructor confirms initial attendance.
Programs Shorter Than One Academic Year (Less than 900 Clock Hours)
Clock hours earned are evaluated at the end of each payment period. Payment periods for these programs vary in length, as they are half the weeks required to complete the program. The first disbursement is paid if the student has earned half the hours needed for the program at the end of the first payment period. A student is eligible for a second disbursement if they complete the remaining half of the required program hours in the second payment period.
Pell Grant eligible students may qualify for a partial disbursement of grant funds at the beginning of the program once the instructor confirms initial attendance.
What if I miss class or take longer to complete my hours?
Missing hours can delay your aid. You must meet both the hour and week requirements for the payment period to be eligible for funding. If attendance is inconsistent or progress slows down, disbursements may be delayed.
Students who will not complete enough clock hours to receive another disbursement must budget the aid they have already received to cover tuition and fees for the next semester.
What happens if I stop attending or withdraw from my program?
Students who stop attending or officially withdraw may be required to repay part of their financial aid. The amount is based on the number of clock hours you completed. If you鈥檙e struggling to keep up, please speak with your instructor immediately.
What do I need to do to keep my financial aid?
Students must make progress in their program to remain eligible. That means attending consistently and completing their scheduled hours and weeks. Eligibility is reviewed at key milestones, especially before a new disbursement. Students who fall behind may have their aid suspended. An appeal can be submitted in certain situations.