Tag Archives: financial aid

šŸŽ“ Fall ’24 Scholarship Deadline is Sat., Aug. 31

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Ndianor Gbandala at the podium, speaking during the 2024 Central Piedmont graduation commencementCentral Piedmont is here to help you achieve your academic goals with various scholarship opportunities. Make sure to apply before the deadlines!

šŸ“… Important Deadlines:

  • Fall ’24 Scholarships:
    • šŸ“† Deadline: Sat., Aug. 31
  • Spring ’25 & Summer ’25 Scholarships:
    • šŸ“† Deadline: Sun., Dec. 15

āœ… Eligibility Requirements:

  • šŸ“š GPA: Minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA
  • šŸ”‘ Login: Active Central Piedmont login

šŸ“ How to Apply:

ā—Important: Students who have already submitted a scholarship application for Fall ’24, Spring ’25, or Summer ’25 do not need to apply again for the 2024-25 academic year.

Navigating College Finances at Central Piedmont

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Understanding how to manage college finances is crucial as you start thinking about your future education. Here’s a guide to help you navigate payment due dates, financial aid, FAFSA, scholarships, and tuition payment plans. Classes start August 12!

student aid

Payment Due Dates

College tuition and fees must be paid by specific deadlines. For example, fall tuition and fees at Central Piedmont are due by Monday, July 29. If you don’t make a payment or arrange a payment plan by this date, your classes will be dropped. Mark your calendar and plan to avoid missing deadlines.

Financial Aid

Financial aid can make college more affordable. It includes grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study programs. Here’s how to get started:

Completing the FAFSA

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) determines your eligibility for federal financial aid. Complete the FAFSA every academic year to see how much aid you can get. Central Piedmont’s FAFSA code is 002915.

Scholarships

Scholarships are a fantastic way to reduce college costs. Central Piedmont offers over $3 million in scholarships. Here’s how you can apply:

  1. Search and Apply: Use the Central Piedmont scholarship portal to find and apply for scholarships.
  2. Meet Requirements: Most scholarships require a minimum GPA of 2.0 or 2.5. Ensure you are enrolled in a certificate, diploma, or degree program at Central Piedmont.
  3. Submit Essays: Many scholarship applications include essay questions about your educational and career goals. Write and proofread your answers carefully.

Next NC Scholarship

The Next NC Scholarship is a financial aid program that helps most North Carolinians from households making $80,000 or less pursue higher education by fully covering tuition and fees at any community college or more than half, if not all, of tuition and fees to attend any public college in the state. The best part? It’s money that doesn’t have to be repaid.

It combines the federal Pell Grant with the state-funded financial aid program to form a simplified and predictable scholarship award that is easier to understand. It makes education more affordable so more North Carolinians can pursue a degree.

Key Features of the Next NC Scholarship:

  • Tuition-Free Degree: Qualifying community college students will receive at least $3,000, covering 100% of tuition and fees at any of the 58 North Carolina community colleges.
  • Simple Application: Just submit the FAFSA form. If you’re eligible, you’ll receive the Next NC Scholarship without any additional forms. The priority filing date for NC community colleges is August 15, 2024.

Eligibility Requirements:

  • A North Carolina resident who is eligible for in-state tuition
  • A high school graduate (or high school equivalency completer)
  • From a household with an annual Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of $80,000 or less
  • Enrolled in an eligible undergraduate curriculum program for the 2024-2025 academic year
  • Taking at least 6 credit hours per semester (part-time students will receive a partial award)
  • Meeting the Satisfactory Academic Progress standards of the school you plan to attend
  • A student who has completed the 2024-2025 FAFSA with a resulting Student Aid Index (SAI) at or below 7,500

Tuition Payment Plan

A tuition payment plan is a good option if you can’t pay your tuition in full by the deadline. Central Piedmont offers a plan to pay in smaller amounts over time without interest or credit checks. Here’s how it works:

  1. Enroll Online: Sign up for the payment plan through the Central Piedmont portal.
  2. Down Payment: Pay a portion of your tuition upfront, plus a small enrollment fee.
  3. Monthly Payments: Your remaining tuition is divided into monthly payments, automatically drafted from your account.

Key Tips

  • Stay Organized: Keep track of all deadlines and required documents.
  • Apply Early: To increase your chances of receiving financial aid and scholarships, apply as early as possible.
  • Seek Help: Don’t hesitate to ask for help from financial aid counselors if you have questions.

Starting early and staying informed will help you manage college finances and focus on your education. Good luck!

Reminder: FAFSA Night at Cato Campus šŸŽ“

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FAFSA Federal Student Aid logoDon’t miss out! Join us for FAFSA Night to unlock your financial aid potential. Get hands-on help completing your FAFSA, ensuring you don’t miss out on any financial support.

šŸ—“Ā Date:Ā Wed., May 29, 2024
šŸ“Ā Location:Ā Cato Campus, Building I, Rooms 220/221
šŸ¤Ā Inclusivity: Spanish-speaking staff available
šŸš€Ā Secure Your Spot:Ā Registration is required

šŸ“… Why Attend?

  • Personalized assistance with FAFSA applications
  • Get access to federal, state, and institutional financial aid, including grants, loans, work-study, and scholarships
  • Ensure you meet the Aug. 15 priority deadline for the 2024-2025 academic year

Have YOU Taken Advantage of the Next NC Scholarship? šŸŽ“āœØ

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The Next NC Scholarship offers a fantastic opportunity for North Carolina residents toNext NC logoĀ pursue higher education by fully covering tuition and fees at any community college. And this moneyĀ does not have to be paid back. Here’s what you need to know:

Who is eligible?

  • North Carolina residents eligible for in-state tuition
  • High school graduates or equivalency completers
  • Households with an annual Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of $80,000 or less
  • Students enrolled in an eligible undergraduate program for the 2024-2025 academic year
  • Individuals taking at least 6 credit hours per semester
  • Students who have completed the 2024-2025 FAFSA with a resulting Student Aid Index (SAI) at or below 7,500

What does it cover?

  • Community Colleges: At least $3,000, which often covers full tuition and fees
    • Funds can also be used for things like books, food, housing, and other educational expenses.

How to apply?

  • Complete the FAFSA: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is essential. If you’re eligible, you’ll receive the scholarship; there are no additionalĀ forms to fill out.
    • Ensure it’s submitted by August 15, 2024, for priority consideration. Funds are disbursed until they are exhausted.

Why apply? The Next NC Scholarship simplifies the financial aid process by combining state and federal resources, making college more accessible and affordable for many North Carolinians. This initiative is part of North Carolina’s commitment to investing in education and supporting its residents in achieving their academic goals.

For more details, visit the Next NC Scholarship website and start your application today!

šŸ” Uncover Your Financial Aid Potential at FAFSA Night šŸ’¼

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FAFSA Federal Student Aid logo

šŸ“š Overcome financial barriers to your education with expert guidance from CentralĀ Piedmont at FAFSA Night. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is key to accessing federal, state, and institutional financial aid, including grants, loans, work-study, and scholarships.

What To Expect: A hands-on workshop focused on the 2024-2025 FAFSA Application.
Assistance Available For: State residency, college application, and creating your Federal Student Aid ID.
šŸ—“ Date: Wed., May 29, 2024
šŸ“ Location: Cato Campus, Building I, Rooms 220/221
šŸ¤ Inclusivity: Spanish-speaking staff available.
šŸš€ Secure Your Spot: Registration is required.

Take control of your educational financing by attending this essential workshop. Donā€™tĀ miss out on the chance to get personalized help with your FAFSA application to support your college journey. Join us and pave the way to your academic and financial success!

šŸŽ“ NextNC: A Game-Changing Scholarship Program šŸŒŸ

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Next NCThe NextNC scholarship is a groundbreaking program established by the NC General Assembly that can transform students’ futures. This initiative is designed to significantly reduce financial barriers to higher education for eligible students within the North Carolina community college system, including those at Central Piedmont, and for students aiming to attend UNC System institutions.

Key Features of the NextNC Scholarship Program:

  • Free College Opportunity: NextNC offers community college students an incredible opportunity to receive a free education in Pell-eligible programs.
  • Generous Funding: Eligible students could receive up to $3,000 per year, covering tuition, fees, books, and more at community colleges.
  • Accessibility: Families with an annual income of less than $80,000 can apply for this grant without strings attached.
  • FAFSA Requirement: Students must complete the FAFSA to qualify for this grant.
  • Enhanced Support for UNC System Students: While offering substantial support to community college students, NextNC also provides $5,000 to those wishing to attend UNC System institutions.

Why NextNC Matters:

  • Breaking Financial Barriers: NextNC acknowledges that financial considerations are the primary factor in pursuing higher education and aims to make college more accessible.
  • Boosting Enrollment: By alleviating the financial burden, NextNC is expected to increase enrollment rates at community colleges like Central Piedmont.
  • Encouraging FAFSA Completion: The program motivates students to complete their FAFSA, ensuring they access all available financial aid.

How to Benefit from NextNC:

  • Eligibility Check: Ensure your program is Pell-eligible and your family’s income exceeds the $80,000 threshold.
  • FAFSA Application: Complete your FAFSA as a critical step to qualify for the NextNC scholarship.
  • Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with Central Piedmont’s financial aid office for guidance and support throughout the application process.

Take the Next Step: This is your chance to pursue your educational dreams without the weight of financial constraints. NextNC represents a pivotal moment for prospective and current Central Piedmont students, offering a pathway to higher education that was previously out of reach for many.

šŸ“š Financial Aid Guide: Navigate Your Aid at Central Piedmont

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Students on laptops and in the Parr Center lobbyCentral Piedmont students, stay informed and maximize your financial aid potential! Here’s a concise guide to understanding the financial aid process for the 2023-2024 award year:

  • Stay Updated: Review the terms and conditions of receiving financial aid to advocate effectively for yourself.
  • Eligibility & Awards: Understand the requirements and how awards are determined based on your need and cost of attendance.
  • Key Resources: Access details on student financial aid programs, how aid affects tuition charges, and managing unclaimed funds.
  • Protect Your Data: Keep copies of all financial aid documents and communications for your records.
  • Changes Ahead: Be aware of updates in the 2024-2025 FAFSA, which simplify the process and introduce the Student Aid Index (SAI) in place of EFC.

Accessing Your Award:

  • MyCollege Account: Log in to view your award, including any required documents for completing your financial aid package.

Making the Grade:

  • Academic Progress: To remain eligible for financial aid, maintain satisfactory academic progress, understanding the criteria and appeal processes if needed.

Be Informed: Your rights and responsibilities as a financial aid recipient are crucial for a seamless educational journey.

Next Steps: The FAFSA is changing, so be ready to adapt and ensure youā€™re prepared for the new procedures.

Stay proactive and well-informed about your financial aid with Central Piedmont to keep your academic goals on track.

For further details on navigating your financial aid, visit Central Piedmont Financial Aid Guide. Your education is an investment, and weā€™re here to help you make the most of every opportunity.

 

šŸ“… Central Piedmont Opens Doors on Saturdays for Session Kickoffs

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A student works on their laptop.Central Piedmont Community College is excited to announce specialĀ SaturdayĀ openings to better accommodate the needs of our students, faculty, and the broader community. Mark your calendar for these key dates, each strategically scheduled right before the start of new academic sessions.

Available Services:

  • Admissions
  • Registration assistance
  • Financial aid guidance
  • Academic advising

Key Dates:

  • Ā Spring Short Session:
    • Ā Begins: Mar. 11
    • Ā Campuses Open Sat., Mar. 9, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
  • Summer Session:
    • Begins: May 20
    • Campuses Open Sat., May 18, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
  • Fall 24 Session:
    • Begins: Aug. 12
    • Campuses Open Sat., Aug. 10, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
  • Fall 24 12 Week Short Session:
    • Begins: Sept. 9
    • Campuses Open Sat., Sept. 7, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
  • Fall 24 8 Week Short Session:
    • Begins: Oct. 14
    • Campuses Open Sat., Oct. 12, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Why Visit Us onĀ Saturday?

  • Convenience: Access campus services without disrupting your weekday schedule.
  • Preparedness: Get everything set before your session starts.
  • Support: Our staff can answer any questions and help you navigate your academic journey.

Libraries:

  • Central Campus Library will remain open on Saturdays during the fall and spring semesters for current students and employees from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
  • All other campus libraries are closed on Saturdays.

Central Piedmont is committed to providing flexible options to support our students’ success. Whether you’re enrolling in a new session, need last-minute assistance, or have questions, we’re opening our doors extra wide to welcome you.

Your Success Starts Here:Ā Take advantage of these specialĀ SaturdayĀ openings to ensure you’re fully prepared for the upcoming academic session.

See You on Campus!

FAFSA Nights: Unlock Your Financial Aid Potential

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FAFSA Federal Student Aid logošŸ“š Finances shouldn’t be a barrier to your education. Central Piedmont is here to guide you through the FAFSA application maze with our FAFSA Nights.

  • What’s Happening: Hands-on workshops for the 2024-2025 FAFSA Application.
  • Get Help With: State residency, college application, and your Federal Student Aid ID.
  • Where & When:
  • Inclusivity: Spanish-speaking staff on-site.
  • RSVP Required: Registration is mandatory.

Take the First Step: Secure your financial future by registering for a session that fits your schedule.

Your opportunity to demystify the financial aid process and advance your academic ambitions awaits.

FAFSA Day: A Step Towards Your Future

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Levine campus students

Central Piedmont Community College is excited to announce an invaluable opportunity for its students and their parents. We are hosting a specialĀ FAFSA Day, in collaboration with the College Foundation of North Carolina, designed to provide crucial assistance in securing your financial aid. Here’s what you need to know:

Event Overview

  • Date: Saturday, January 27, 2024
  • Time: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
  • Location: Levine Campus, Levine Building 1, Room 2100

About the Event

  • This event is an excellent chance for one-on-one or small group support in completing your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).
  • We welcome all Central Piedmont students and their parents to register for this free event.
  • Our expert team from the Financial Aid Department, in collaboration with the College Foundation of North Carolina, will be there to guide you through the process.

Preparation for the Event

  • If you still need to, please create yourĀ StudentAid.gov AccountĀ (formerly FSA ID) before the event. This will ensure a smooth and quick login process, allowing you to submit your FAFSA efficiently at the event.
  • We recommend using this handyĀ cheat sheetĀ to keep your account information organized.Ā 

What to Bring for FAFSA Completion

  • Bringing theĀ necessary itemsĀ will expedite the completion of your FAFSA. Make sure to have all your required documents ready for the event.

Central Piedmont is committed to helping you navigate your educational journey. ThisĀ FAFSA DayĀ is a step towards ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder your academic aspirations. We look forward to seeing you there and assisting you in unlocking the doors to your future!

Use your financial aid money at the Campus Store

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Checking out at the Levine Campus BookstoreDid you know that you can use your financial aid to buy supplies, books & access codes, and even bus passes at the Central Piedmont Campus Store? Check out the online store for even more shopping options. Orders over $50 ship free!

Dates to use available funds (prior to release for your refund):

  • AugustĀ 7-31
  • September 15-29
  • October 2-31
  • November 16-30

Not all financial aid is available at the bookstore,Ā read more about financial aid policies.

Campus StoresĀ are located at Cato, Central and Levine Campuses.Ā Smart Lockers are availableĀ at Harper, Harris and Merancas Campuses for delivery after online purchases.

Use your financial aid money at the Campus Store

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Did you know that you can use your financial aid to buy supplies, books & access codes, and even bus passes at the Central Piedmont Campus Store?

Dates to use available funds (prior to release for your refund):
January 3-31
February 21-28
March 8-31
April 24-28

Not all financial aid is available at the bookstore, read more about financial aid policies.

Campus Stores are located at Cato, Central and Levine Campuses. Smart Lockers are available at Harper, Harris and Merancas Campuses for delivery after online purchases.

Need money for college? Central Piedmont can help!

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Student being helped at a counter in Parr Center by an employee.

We offer financial aid help in person and online.

There still could be financial aid money available to you for the spring and summer 2023 semesters. Donā€™t miss out on that money ā€“ fill out the FAFSA!

Itā€™s the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) ā€“ Central Piedmontā€™s FAFSA code is 002915 ā€“ and it is your key to money for college. Weā€™re here if you need help completing it or want to learn more about options for paying for college.

Central Piedmont offers free, virtual or in-person FAFSA workshops with group and individual appointments available.FAFSA Federal Student Aid logo

If youā€™re already set with financial aid for this current school year, get a head start on the 2023-2024 academic year. The earlier you complete and submit your FAFSA, the sooner youā€™ll get peace of mind knowing how much aid you can get.

Fill out the FAFSA or sign up for a workshop today ā€“ the earlier you submit your FAFSA documentation, the earlier you can be awarded. Need additional help? Contact 704.330.2722 or navigate@cpcc.edu.

Saturday hours for registration help

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The fall semester starts in one week so if you need any final help with registering for class ā€“ or with any other enrollment steps ā€“ weā€™re open this Saturday to provide service! You can get in-person help this Saturday (Aug. 13) from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at ANY Central Piedmont campus.

During this Saturdayā€™s hours of service, navigators and advisors will be available to help with any of the enrollment and registration steps ā€“ including financial aid ā€“ at these locations:

Moving forward, weā€™ll have Saturday hours from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at our Central Campus in the new Parr Center at the Welcome Center on the ground floor level. Thatā€™s also where you can get assistance with student services during extended weekday hours, from 8 a.m until 7 p.m.

In-person FAFSA Friday workshops

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FAFSA Federal Student Aid logo

Need financial aid help? In-person group workshops are ongoing on Fridays for Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) assistance.

Available on Fridays from 2ā€“4 p.m, on the following campuses:

  • Cato Campus: Cato I, Room 232
  • Harris Campus: Harris I, Room 2113
  • Levine Campus: Levine I, Room 2213
  • Merancas Campus: Merancas IV, Room 104

All sessions are held in-person and on a first-come, first-served basis. AdvanceĀ registration is not required; walk-ins are welcomed.

Learn what to bring to your FAFSA workshop.
Need help, but can’t come in person? Virtual workshops are also available.

Your key to money for college is… the FAFSA! We can help you with it.

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Central Piedmont students at Cato Campus.

Do you need money for college? There are millions of dollars in grants, work-study options (starting at $15 an hour!), and scholarships are waiting for you. Donā€™t leave that money on the table ā€“ fill out the FAFSA!

Itā€™s the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) ā€“ Central Piedmontā€™s FAFSA code is 002915 ā€“ and it is your key to money for college. Weā€™re here if you need help completing it or want to learn more about options for paying for college.

Central Piedmont offers free, virtual FAFSA workshops with group and individual appointments available at cpcc.edu/events/fafsa-workshop.Ā Ā Ā 

Fill out the FAFSA or sign up for the workshop today ā€“ the earlier you submit your FAFSA documentation, the earlier you can be awarded. Need additional help? Call 704.330.2722 or email navigate@cpcc.edu.

Explore Debt Free Options with Scholarships

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There’s still time to apply and qualify for scholarships to help cover your education costs. Central Piedmont has over 250 scholarship opportunities available each year. Need-based and merit-based scholarships are awarded for a host of reasons ā€“ choice of major, community involvement, special interests, creative talents ā€“ and thatā€™s just to name a few.
Regardless of your economic situation, take every opportunity to lessen the financial burden of college.Students can access a number of these opportunities by completing theĀ General Scholarship Application onĀ Academic WorksĀ for summer and fall.
Important Upcoming Deadlines:
  • TheĀ Summer 2022 application deadline is April 30, 2022.
  • The Fall 2022 & Spring 2023 priority application deadline is May 15, 2022.

Discover Your Future This Spring – Register Today!

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Registration is now open for all new and returning students. High-demand sections are beginning to fill up – register now to save your spot this spring!Ā The college continues to offer a variety of classes – in-person, online, and hybrid- Ā so you can find the right fit for your schedule.

Save your seat today! Hereā€™s how:

  1. Plan your schedule online with a Central Piedmont advisor at cpcc.edu/academic-advising.
  2. Apply and pay your tuition with a scholarship, grant, or emergency funds at cpcc.edu/financial-aid.
  3. Download the Central Piedmont app to register and access services, your schedule, and financial aid award.
If youā€™re having trouble with registration or need assistance, call 704.330.6100, or email fye@cpcc.edu.

Has your income changed since 2019? Complete a Financial Aid Reconsideration Form

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tutoring session with student and teacher reviewing book materialEconomic hardship is a reality for many families at this time. Central Piedmont recognizes special circumstances may impact your eligibility for federal financial aid. Did you know the 2021ā€“22 FAFSA uses income information from 2019? Many things have changed in the last two years, and we want to help qualify all eligible students for financial aid. If you or your parent(s) income has drastically changed for 2021, please complete and submit the 2021ā€“22 financial aid reconsideration form.Ā 

The Financial Aid office will review your information and let you know if you are eligible for additional financial aid.

  • If a student would like to request consideration of special circumstances, please submit a Reconsideration Request (Professional Judgment).

Questions? Visit Financial Aid online to learn more.

New FAFSA Rules Make Applying Easier

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Good news for students: applying for financial aid just got a little easier! To provide relief to millions of students facing challenges this year, the Department of Education is waiving verification of the 2021-2022 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Students are no longer required to verify household size or federal tax filing information. This means when you apply for your FAFSA ā€“ the one form that makes you eligible for almost every scholarship and financial aid opportunity ā€“ you and your parents will not have to submit tax documents and other forms of verification that could slow down the process.

If you have already submitted your FAFSA, please check your Central Piedmont email to see if youā€™ve been awarded financial aid.

Some students may still have additional documentation required.Ā  If you have questions, please check with the Financial Aid Office or MyCollege to get the most recent status update on your FAFSA.