As a college student, you’ve worked hard to attend a university and earn a degree. However, a conviction of driving under the influence (DUI) can threaten the results of that effort. If you’re wondering whether or not you can still receive financial aid while working on a DUI defense, and what your other options might be, below is more information.

How Does a DUI Affect Financial Aid Eligibility?

Even after enrolling in school, you must fill out a new free application for federal student aid (FAFSA) form each year to renew your loans. This form specifically asks about any drug charge convictions, but not a DUI. However, if you were pulled over for driving under the influence, and the officer found illegal drugs in your vehicle, you could receive a drug possession charge, as well. In some cases, a DUI can be a felony, such as if you’ve had multiple DUI charges.

If the courts convict you of a felony DUI or drug charge while receiving financial aid from the federal government, or while enrolled in a work-study program, you might be ineligible for aid for a year. You can regain eligibility by taking and finishing a government-approved rehabilitation program, which requires you to pass two drug tests.

What Aid Can You Still Receive?

If you lose federal student aid due to a drug charge or felony DUI, you cannot receive aid from the federal government, especially if you had to serve time in jail. However, you can still apply for a work-study program or a Federal Supplemented Educational Opportunity Grant, but your chances of approval are low.

Luckily, you can still seek out scholarships from private donors or non-profit foundations. These entities make their own rules regarding criminal charges and convictions. While they may turn away applicants with felony convictions, an initial DUI charge is a misdemeanor in Ohio.

If you receive a DUI or drug charge, turn to James F. Bogen, Attorney at Law in Cincinnati, OH, for help. This DUI defense lawyer has been in practice since 2002, and he is committed to standing up for every client’s rights and best interests. Whether you’re hoping to head back to school or have your charges dismissed, you can rely on him to treat your case with personalized attention. To learn more about his practice areas, visit the website. Call (513) 503-7251 to schedule a consultation for your DUI defense.