Consortium Agreement

What is a Consortium Agreement?

A consortium agreement is a formal arrangement between two or more colleges that allows a student to take courses at a different institution (the host school) while still receiving financial aid from their primary institution (the home school), which in this case is Renton Technical College (RTC).

This agreement ensures that the credits earned at the host school count toward the student’s RTC Title IV program and that financial aid eligibility is maintained.

Steps to Apply for a Consortium Agreement 

1. Meet Eligibility Requirements
   • Be a active in a Eligible Title IV Program at RTC.
   • Enroll in at least one course at RTC.
   • Have a current FAFSA or WASFA application on file.
   • Show eligibility for Federal and State Grant funding.
   • The course at the host institution must be required for the students program at RTC
2. Valid Reasons for Requesting a Consortium Agreement
   • The required course is not offered at RTC.
   • The course is not available in the needed term.
   • There is a scheduling conflict with other required courses or personal obligations (e.g., work, childcare).
3. Initiate the Process
   • Discuss your plan with your academic advisor at least one semester in advance.
   • Complete the Consortium Agreement Form  
4. Submit Required Documents
   • The form must be signed by you and your advisor.
   • If completing the form digitally it will be sent to RTC’s Financial Aid Department.
   • Students must submit either an enrollment verification document from host school or submit an unofficial transcript of enrolled classes before the agreement can be completed.
   • Students must submit official or unofficial transcripts of course completion with grades to the Financial Aid department to review for future Financial Aid eligibility.
5. After Approval
   • RTC will process your financial aid based on your total enrollment (RTC + host school).
   • Students are responsible for paying tuition at the host school by their deadline.

Important Notes

• Student must complete either a FAFSA or WASFA application for the current academic year (and show Financial aid eligibility).
• Students who are participating in Consortium Agreements are still subjected to RTC’s Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy.
• Only courses that apply to your RTC eligible Title IV program of study are eligible.
• Financial aid may be prorated based on your total credit load.

 Note: Financial Aid terms including limits, eligibility, interest rates and repayment options, are regulated by the U.S. Department of Education and are subject to change. For the most recent information and updates, consult the Federal Student Aid Office of the U.S. Department of Education website. Our content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal, tax or financial advice.