Financial Aid

The Southern Virginia Higher Education Center (SVHEC) helps you unlock opportunities for your future – right here locally. We know that money can be a challenge, but we don’t want that to stop anyone! Financial assistance is available to help students access the education and training they need, including a number of grants, scholarships, and financial aid programs. The Southern Virginia Higher Education Foundation has a scholarship program dedicated to students enrolled in programs at the SVHEC. Individual assistance also is available to guide students through the application process and help them access the resources needed to start or advance their career.

To get started, reach out to one of the following contacts:

  • Danville Community College and Southside Community College: (434) 572-5451 or (434) 572-5479
  • Old Dominion University: (434) 572-5556
  • Longwood University: 1-800-281-4677
  • Workforce Training Programs: (434) 572-5568

Tuition Assistance

The Pell Grant program, funded by the federal government, provides for-credit students with financial support. Additionally, Southside Virginia Community College students who co-enroll in approved SVHEC job training programs are eligible for the Pell Grant. To apply for federal financial aid (Pell grant, loans, etc.) you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). To successfully complete the application, you will need a copy of your (and your spouse’s) latest federal tax return(s) as well as your parents’ tax returns if you are a dependent student. If a tax return was not filed, please have information about any untaxed income received.

The TRIO Southern Piedmont Educational Opportunity Center (EOC) offers free assistance in completing the FAFSA form. The EOC also offers information on regional scholarship programs and the college admissions process. For more information or to make an appointment please call (434) 572-5479.

Grants & Scholarships

Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS)

Covers up to 100% of training costs for disabled individuals who meet eligibility and enrollment criteria. To learn more, visit the DARS website.

Clark Scholarship Trust

Provides scholarships to high school graduates from Halifax County, Virginia studying at the undergraduate level. Click here for the application.

G3: Get Skilled, Get a Job, Give Back

The G3 Program is a tuition assistance program for any Virginia resident who qualifies for in-state tuition and whose family income falls below an identified threshold. Eligible students may enroll in designated programs leading to jobs in high-demand fields. Click here for more information and a list of eligible programs.

Hyco Road Ruritan Club Scholarship

Provides scholarships to individuals furthering their education. Students may pursue a college degree or job training. Click here to download application.

J.T. – Minnie Maude Charitable Trust

Provides financial assistance for the pursuit of higher education to U.S. citizens who reside, and who have resided for a minimum of twelve (12) consecutive months at the time of application, in the Virginia counties of Halifax, Henry and Pittsylvania and the North Carolina counties of Caswell and Rockingham (including all towns or cities located therein). Click here for more information.

Microsoft IT Academy Scholars Program

Provides individuals from underrepresented populations with scholarships to fully fund their training in the IT Academy. The program also provides opportunities for job shadowing and externships. For more information visit www.svhef.org.

New Economy Workforce Credentials Grant Program (NEWCGP)

Funding available from the Commonwealth of Virginia allowing up to two-thirds of program costs to be covered for trainees in eligible programs. For more information contact LaVerne Taylor, Budget & Finance Administrator, at  or (434) 572-5485.

SVHEF Scholarships

The Southern Virginia Higher Education Foundation administers and grants several different scholarships for students pursuing their education at the Southern Virginia Higher Education Center. Amounts vary. For more information visit www.svhef.org.

Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission Funds

Provides up to 1/3 of program costs for eligible trainees. For more information contact LaVerne Taylor, Budget & Finance Administrator, at  or (434) 572-5485.

Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act

Funding from the South Central and West Piedmont Workforce Development Boards for dislocated workers who enroll in approved training programs. For more information contact LaVerne Taylor, Budget & Finance Administrator, at  or (434) 572-5485.

For additional scholarship resources, visit fastweb.