Last Updated on June 3, 2021 5:42 pm
Class of 2021 high school graduates in North Carolina have received a boost for their college plans this fall.
North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper recently announced $31.5 million in federal COVID-19 aid will be used for Longleaf Commitment Grants to help eligible 2021 North Carolina high school graduates from low- and middle-income families attend any of North Carolina’s 58 community colleges, including Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute. High school graduates can use the grant to cover tuition and fees toward a degree or to earn transfer credit.
“The Class of 2021 had to overcome so many obstacles caused by the pandemic, and we hope this opportunity helps those graduates to get back on track with their college and career plans,” CCC&TI President Dr. Mark Poarch said. “We’re excited to welcome these students to CCC&TI this fall.”
Full-time eligible students are guaranteed to receive $700 to $2,800 per academic year, for a total of two years. Less than full-time students may receive a partial award. The Longleaf Commitment Grant ends at the conclusion of the 2023 spring semester.
To be eligible, students must:
Graduate from a North Carolina high school in 2021
Be a North Carolina resident for tuition purposes
Be a first-time college student [Career & College Promise (CCP) and Early/Middle College High School students are eligible]
Enroll in a Title IV eligible curriculum program during the 2021-2022 and 2022-2023 academic years.
Enroll in at least 6 credit hours per semester
Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and all verification requirements, if applicable, for the 2021-2022 academic year.
Have an Expected Family Contribution (EFC) from $0 – $15,000 (“EFC” is based upon a student’s FAFSA determination)
Renew the FAFSA for the 2022-23 academic years and meet Satisfactory Academic Progress Requirements of the college
The Governor also announced an additional $12.5 million in federal COVID-19 aid will be focused on college students whose education has been interrupted during the pandemic. This funding, called the Longleaf Complete, can be used by UNC System students, North Carolina community college students, or students at independent colleges and universities to help them complete their degree.
Students or parents wanting more information about either program should contact the Financial Aid Office at CCC&TI by calling 828-726-2200 (Caldwell) or 828-297-2185 (Watauga), or email: finaid@cccti.edu. Information also is available at www.cccti.edu/longleaf
