Financial Aid

The Financial Aid Program at Carroll Community College is designed to assist eligible students with meeting their College-related expenses. Financial assistance is provided through scholarships, grants, and employment opportunities. An award package, consisting of one or more types of aid, is offered based on the level of the student’s financial need and the availability of funds. With the exception of Federal Work-Study, where payment is made through a bi-weekly paycheck, all awards are applied to the student’s tuition and fee bill. Any surplus balance is refunded to the student by check, usually during the sixth week of each regular term.

The basic criterion for qualifying for most financial aid programs is to demonstrate financial need. This is defined as the difference between the total cost of attendance at Carroll Community College and the student’s and parents’ (if applicable) ability to contribute to these educational expenses. Financial need is determined through a careful review of all information supplied on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This is a standard need analysis system which treats all students equally and fairly. The FAFSA can be completed at www.fafsa.ed.gov.

In compliance with federal regulations, a student may review any of the College’s accreditation documents by contacting the Financial Aid Office.

Note: All financial aid information is accurate as of the time of publication. However, due to periodic changes which occur in the various aid programs and in application procedures, students are encouraged to contact the Financial Aid Office for the most current information.

Carroll Financial Aid Programs

It is the goal of Carroll Community College to provide assistance to as many students as possible who demonstrate financial need and who meet individual program eligibility requirements. The types of financial assistance available to students attending the College can be divided into three major categories: Federal Student Financial Aid Programs, Maryland State Grants and Scholarships, and Institutional Scholarships.

Federal Student Financial Aid Programs

Students attending Carroll Community College may potentially receive assistance from four federal student financial aid programs, which are described in the following summaries. In general, to be eligible for assistance under these programs, a student must be a citizen or permanent resident of the United States, have a high school diploma or its equivalent, be enrolled or accepted for enrollment in an eligible program of study, and be a degree or certificate candidate. Renewal application materials are required each year for all federal student financial aid programs.

Federal Direct Student Loan Program

Carroll Community College participates in the William D. Ford Federal Direct Student Loan program which offers long-term, low interest loans from the U.S. Department of Education. This is the largest federal aid program and is the program most offered.

Note: Students must be enrolled at least half-time to be eligible for a direct loan disbursement.

Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans

There are two types of Federal Direct Student Loans: subsidized and unsubsidized. The primary difference is the point at which interest begins to accrue. Financial aid awards may include a combination of subsidized and unsubsidized loans. For example, a freshman with a subsidized loan of $500 may also receive an offer of an unsubsidized loan for $3,000 to meet the annual limit for a freshman.

Subsidized Loans

No interest will accrue on a subsidized loan, and no principal will be due until the end of the six-month grace period that will begin when the student graduates, leaves the college or drops below half-time enrollment (6 credits). Subsidized loans are awarded to students who demonstrate financial need.

Unsubsidized Loans

Interest on an unsubsidized loan begins on the day the loan is disbursed and continues until the day that the loan is repaid in full. The accumulating interest may be paid during school attendance; during the grace period; during deferment; or the interest may be capitalized (adding unpaid, accumulated interest to the total unsubsidized amount borrowed to delay repayment). Capitalizing the interest provides a way to postpone making interest payments, but it also increases the total cost of the unsubsidized loan.

The Federal Direct Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students (Direct PLUS Loan) Program

A Parent PLUS loan enables a parent to borrow for a dependent child. The U.S. Department of Education is the lender. A parent of a dependent student, may borrow if the parent does not have an adverse credit history. The lender will perform a credit check before approving the loan. Should the U.S. Department of Education deny any application, students may apply for an additional Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan. In addition, students for whom parents borrow must meet all general eligibility requirements. Borrowers do not have to demonstrate need to qualify for a Direct PLUS Loan. If students apply for student financial aid, the Financial Aid Award Letter from the Financial Aid Office will show the maximum amount borrowable. A Direct PLUS Loan offer equals the cost of attendance minus any other financial aid offered for the current academic year. Note: Parents do not have to borrow the full amount of the Direct PLUS Loan offered.

The interest rate for PLUS loans first disbursed on or after July 1, 2006, is a fixed 7.90%. Loans after this date have a variable interest rate that may change each year on July 1, but will never be more than 9.00%. The current interest rate for the period July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021 is 5.3%. This interest rate is fixed for the life of the loan. 

Annual and Aggregate Loan Maximums

Direct Loan Annual Limits

The Federal Pell Grant Program (PELL)

A Federal Pell Grant is a free grant that does not have to be repaid. Students must apply for a Federal Pell Grant using a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Federal Pell Grant eligibility is determined by the U.S. Department of Education.

The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant Program (FSEOG)

Federal SEOG is a free grant that does not have to be repaid. This program provides assistance to undergraduate students enrolled in at least six billable hours and who demonstrate exceptional financial need. Priority is given to Pell Grant recipients. Grants from this program may range from $100 to $4,000 per year. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is used as the application for this campus-based program.

The Federal Work-Study Program (FWS)

This program provides jobs for students who have financial need and who must earn a part of their educational expenses. Students enrolled for at least six billable hours may be employed under the program. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is used as the application for this campus-based program.

Maryland State Grants and Scholarships

Students attending Carroll Community College may be eligible for one or more of the numerous grants and scholarships sponsored by the State of Maryland. Applicants (and their parents, if applicable) must be Maryland residents to receive financial assistance from the State (except for the Nonresident Tuition Reduction Program for Nursing). Recipients must enroll as a degree-seeking student in a two-year or four-year Maryland college or university. Enrollment requirements vary by program. Awards are made directly to the student by the Office of Student Financial Assistance (OSFA) at the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) unless otherwise noted. OSFA applications can be obtained at www.mhec.state.md.us. See below for specific program information.

The Howard P. Rawlings Guaranteed Access Grant Program

Applicants must be current high school seniors who will complete a college preparatory or articulated technical preparatory program. All applicants must have an unweighted cumulative high school grade point average of 2.500 or higher and must meet the family income requirements established by the State. Recipients must be full-time. Awards range from $400 to $14,300, and may be held in conjunction with all other State awards, except the Educational Assistance Grant. Awards are automatically renewed if the student maintains satisfactory academic progress and reapplies on time. Students should submit both the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by March 1.

The Howard P. Rawlings Educational Assistance Grant Program

Recipients must enroll as full-time undergraduate students. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by March 1. Awards range from $400 to $3,000 and will be automatically renewed if the student maintains satisfactory academic progress, resubmits the FAFSA by March 1 each year, and continues to show financial need.

The Maryland Community College Promise Scholarship

Applicants must enroll in a Maryland community college within two years of high school graduation or completion of a GED in Maryland. Applicants must have a high school GPA of at least 2.3 on a 4.0 scale and enroll as a candidate for a credit certificate or an associate degree. If an applicant is single or resides in a single-parent household, their annual adjusted gross income (AGI) may not exceed $100,000. If an applicant is married or resides in a two-parent household, their annual AGI may not exceed $150,000. Credit students must enroll full time for at least 12 credits per term. For those who qualify, scholarship awards are limited to $5,000 per recipient per year, or actual tuition (whichever is less). Tuition means the basic instructional charge for courses offered and includes mandatory fees. Initial tuition awards will be provided to recipients based on greatest financial need.

The Senatorial Scholarship Program

Recipients may enroll as full-time or part-time students. Applicants should demonstrate financial need and must submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by March 1. Students should contact their Senator directly in February for further application instructions. Students who attend a community college, have 24 completed college credit hours, or who have been out of high school for five or more years do not have to take the SAT or ACT. The minimum annual award is $400. Some are automatically renewed if the student maintains satisfactory academic progress. Students must contact their Senator about renewal procedures.

The Delegate Scholarship Program

Recipients may enroll as full-time or part-time students. Applicants must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by March 1. Students should contact their delegate directly in February for further application instructions. The minimum award is $200. Students must apply to their delegate each year for renewal.

Distinguished Scholar Award

This competitive program has three categories: Academic Achievement, National Merit Scholarship and National Achievement, and Talent in the Arts. Students should visit the MHEC website for more information on each category. Applications for Academic Achievement are submitted to the high school guidance counselor in the student’s junior year of high school. The annual $3,000 award is not based on financial need. The award is automatically renewed if the student maintains an annual grade point average of 3.000 or higher and meets the other criteria set forth by MHEC.

Distinguished Scholar Community College Transfer Program

This program is for full-time undergraduate students who have completed at least 60 credits or an associate degree program with at least a 3.000 grade point average at a Maryland community college and are transferring to a 4-year Maryland college or university. This award is not based on financial need and is $3,000 per year. The award is automatically renewed for one year if the student continues to meet the eligibility requirements.

Charles W. Riley Fire & Emergency Medical Services Tuition Reimbursement Program

Applicants must be an active career or volunteer firefighter, ambulance or rescue squad member enrolled in a degree or certificate program in emergency medical technology. Applications are available at www.mhec.state.md.us and must be completed by July 1. Awards may be renewed if the student maintains satisfactory academic progress and remains enrolled in an eligible program. This award has a service requirement.

Workforce Shortage Student Assistance Grant Programs

This program provides assistance for training in the following fields: child care, human services, teaching, nursing, physical and occupational therapy, and public service. To apply for assistance in one of these fields, the student must complete the Workforce Shortage Student Assistance Grant application by July 1. The minimum award is $1,000 and recipients must sign a promissory note agreeing to a service obligation in the field upon graduation. More information can be obtained at www.mhec.state.md.us.

Edward T. Conroy Memorial Scholarship Program

This program provides assistance to full-time or part-time students who are dependents of a deceased or 100% disabled member of the U.S. Armed Forces, dependents of a deceased victim of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, and dependents of deceased public safety employees or volunteers who were killed in the line of duty. Disabled veterans and public safety officers may also qualify. Students should visit the Carroll Financial Aid Office for more information on this program. The awards are not based on financial need. The OSFA Edward T. Conroy Memorial Scholarship application must be submitted by July 15.

Veterans of the Afghanistan and Iraq Conflicts Scholarship Program

This program provides assistance to veterans of Afghanistan or Iraq and their dependents who are entering into or already in an undergraduate program at a Maryland postsecondary institution. The application deadline is March 1. The award may be renewed for up to four years if the recipient renews the FAFSA by March 1 and maintains at least a 2.500 cumulative grade point average.

Nonresident Tuition Reduction and State Aid Program for Nursing

Residents of a state other than Maryland may apply for this program that assists students who have been accepted into an undergraduate nursing program at a Maryland public college or university. Students may enroll full-time or part-time. Awards are not based on financial need and are used to decrease tuition costs to those paid by a Maryland resident. Awards have a service obligation and are renewable. The OSFA Nonresident Tuition Reduction application is accepted throughout the year.

Tuition Waiver for Foster Care Recipients

This program is available to students who are under 21 and: (1) resided in a foster care home in Maryland at the time of high school graduation or GED^® completion, or (2) resided in a foster care home on their 14th birthday and were adopted after their 14th birthday. The program pays for tuition and fees that are not already covered by other grants and scholarships. Contact the Financial Aid Office to have the waiver activated.

Part-Time Grant Program

Funding for this program is provided to Maryland colleges and universities to disperse to students who are enrolled for 6-11 credit hours and who can demonstrate financial need as per the FAFSA. Awards range from $200 to $2,000 and are based on the availability of funds.

Campus-Based Educational Assistance Grant Program

Funding for this program is provided to Maryland colleges and universities to disperse to full-time students who have not received any other State award. Awards are restricted to students who did not submit the FAFSA by March 1. Students must demonstrate financial need. Awards are based on the availability of funds and are not renewable.

Institutional Scholarships

Scholarships offered at Carroll Community College vary each year and are governed by the contributions of individuals, corporations, and local community organizations. Typically, awards are available to new, returning, and transfer students; to students pursuing particular programs of study; and to members of special population groups.

Not all awards are based on need. All institutional scholarships are announced during the academic year through postings on both the College’s website and on the Financial Aid Office scholarship bulletin board. Each program requires a special application, which can be secured from the College’s website. For those programs requiring a demonstration of financial need, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) must be filed prior to submitting the scholarship application.

Application deadlines are indicated when the scholarships are announced. Recipients of institutional scholarships are selected by the College’s Scholarship Committee. All applicants are contacted by email approximately one week after the Scholarship Committee meets.

Qualifying For Need-based Aid

Application Procedure

1. Apply for admission to Carroll Community College and complete the admission process as early as possible.
    
2. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and include Carroll Community College (Federal School Code: 031007) in the College Release Section. The FAFSA is available online at www.fafsa.ed.gov. For maximum consideration of need-based funds by the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC), submit the FAFSA by March 1. Many of the grant and scholarship programs that are offered through MHEC require a separate scholarship application that can be obtained at www.mhec.state.md.us.
    
3. Apply for Carroll Community College scholarships.
    
4. Resubmit the FAFSA each year to re-establish eligibility for Federal and State Student Financial Aid Programs.

All students must reapply each year for all Federal Financial Aid Programs and for those State Grant and Scholarship Programs which require annual submission of application materials (see program descriptions). Awards are reviewed annually and adjustments are made each year to accommodate any changes in family circumstances. Please contact the Financial Aid Office at Carroll Community College for assistance in completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Student Eligibility Requirements Common to all Programs

In order to be eligible to receive funds from any of the Federal Student Financial Aid Programs, a student must be a citizen or permanent resident of the United States; must have a high school diploma or its equivalent; must be enrolled or accepted for enrollment in an eligible program of study; and must be pursuing a credit degree or certificate. Each program also has specific requirements regarding such factors as financial need and enrollment status.

In addition to these general and specific requirements, there are several conditions which must be met before a student can receive funds from any Federal Student Financial Aid Program. All students who receive Federal Student Financial Aid must be making satisfactory academic progress in an eligible program of study, must not be in default on a Federal Title IV Student Loan, and must not owe a refund on any Federal Title IV Grant at any institution they have attended. Male students must also be registered with the selective service (or be exempt from registration according to U.S. Department of Education criteria).

Student Selection Procedures

Each institution is responsible for determining the eligibility of students participating in each Federal Student Financial Aid program. Pell Grants are awarded based on financial need and enrollment status. Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants and Federal Work-Study are awarded based on financial need, enrollment status, and the extent of available funds.

In the event that the number of students eligible for awards exceeds the funds available for campus-based financial aid (Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants and Federal Work-Study), the College will give preference to those students who demonstrate the greatest financial need. In determining who has the greatest financial need, the institution will take into consideration grant assistance that has been provided to the student by any public or private source and funds to which the student is entitled under the Pell Grant Program.

To receive maximum consideration for campus-based financial aid programs, the student should submit the FAFSA by March 1 each year. Students who apply after this deadline will continue to be considered for campus-based aid programs as long as funds remain available.

Coordination of Other Aid Sources

When developing each student’s financial aid package, the Financial Aid Office will consider assistance received from all sources intended for education-related expenses. If the Financial Aid Office becomes aware of a new source of assistance after developing the student’s financial aid package, the student will receive a revised financial aid package that includes the new source of assistance. If the new source of assistance creates an over-award situation, the student will be notified that they must return the over-awarded funds for reallocation to the appropriate program(s).

Disbursements of Awards

Annual awards from PELL, ACG, FSEOG, state, and institutional programs are divided into two equal amounts and credited to student accounts in two installments. Awards made for a single term of study are provided in their entirety for that term. If a student fails to register or begin attendance prior to the posting of awards to the student’s account, the awards are canceled. Awards are normally posted in the fourth week of each term. Awards are adjusted to reflect actual enrollment at the time of posting. Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) awards will be posted at the time that funds are received. Payments of wages earned through the Federal Work-Study Program (FWS) are made bi-weekly to the student and are based solely on the number of hours worked. Some students may receive financial aid in excess of direct charges for tuition and fees. Cash disbursements to students can be made only after all funds have been posted to the student’s account.

Withdrawal Policy for Financial Aid Recipients

Students receiving federal financial aid funds are subject to the U.S. Department of Education’s Return of Title IV Funds policy. If a financial aid recipient withdraws from or ceases attendance in any courses during the term, the Financial Aid Office will review the student’s financial aid award and make necessary revisions. If the student has already received a disbursement of financial aid funds, the student may be required to return or repay some or all of those funds. Please contact the Financial Aid Office prior to withdrawing or for more information on the refund policy.

Verification Policy/Procedures

Students whose FAFSA is selected by the U.S. Department of Education for review must complete a process called verification. As part of this process, the student must submit certain financial documents and other materials to the College. The College may also select financial aid applications for review. Each student selected for verification will be notified in writing of the specific documentation that must be submitted. Documentation includes photocopies of federal income tax returns for the student and their parents or spouse (if applicable). Failure to submit the required materials may result in the student being judged ineligible for student aid programs during the academic year covered by the aid application.

If the verification shows that all original application information is accurate, the student will be notified of eligibility for aid. If corrections to the original application information are necessary following the review, the College will submit the corrections directly to the U.S. Department of Education and the student will receive a corrected Student Aid Report. All documents provided by a student for verification will be retained in the individual student’s file for auditing purposes.

Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards for Students Receiving Financial Aid

Minimum Standards for All Students:

To receive financial aid, students must meet all three of the following standards for Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) toward the completion of course requirements in a certificate or degree program:

1. Maintain a satisfactory Cumulative Grade Point Average
   
   All Students must have a minimum 2.00 GPA
    
2. Successfully complete 2/3 (66.67%) of all cumulative attempted credits.
   
   Because withdrawn courses count as attempted credits, excessive withdrawals, failures, and other non-passing grades can lead to completion rate problems. Grades of “F,” “W,” “U,” and “AT” do not count towards completed credits. Incomplete (I) grades will be considered if and when a passing grade replaces the “I”.
    
3. Complete their programs of study before they have attempted more than 150% of the published required credits for their programs.
   
   For example: Students enrolled in 60 credit programs must complete all required courses before they attempt more than 90 credits. Students who have completed a program may be able to receive funds for additional programs of study.*Attempted credits include credit courses, non-credit developmental courses, transfer courses, incomplete grades, withdraw, failed, and “no-grade” courses.

Frequency of Evaluation

Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) will be measured at the close of each term. If it is determined that a student is not making satisfactory progress their first semester, they will be placed on Financial Aid Warning the following term (including summer) and eligible for financial aid without having to submit an appeal. Students failing to meet SAP requirements will be notified in writing. All posted aid for the upcoming terms will be suspended.

Reminder: this policy only leads to the suspension of eligibility to receive aid. SAP suspension does not prevent students from enrolling for courses at their own expense. This policy does not apply to veteran’s benefits.

Reestablishing Eligibility

There are two ways to reestablish eligibility at Carroll Community College:

1. Self-Pay Enrollment: Students may reestablish eligibility by enrolling and passing courses at their own expense. The student must pass the required 67% of attempted credits as well as meet the minimum GPA standard listed above. Students must contact the Financial Aid Office to request a reevaluation.
    
2. Appeal: Suspended students may appeal up to two times for reinstatement of their eligibility by completing the SAP Appeal Form. Appeals must be based on unforeseen extenuating circumstances which hampered their ability to attend or pass courses. Examples of acceptable circumstance examples are illness, disability, family emergency, death of a loved one, etc.

Appeal Deadline: No later than 20 business days after notification from the Financial Aid Office.

Required Documentation of Extenuating Circumstances

The SAP Committee will review all completed appeals and determine if the student’s circumstances warrant reinstatement or continued suspension. Students will be notified of the committee’s decision within 10 working days of receipt of a completed appeal. All committee decisions are final.

Federal Educational Tax Benefits

Students who would like to receive a 1098T statement from the college must supply their social security number to the Records Office.

American Opportunity Credit

This tax credit is available to credit students and allows the taxpayer to receive a maximum $1,000 credit in excess of taxes paid. Students who are qualified as half-time students (6 credits or more) may be eligible to a maximum education credit of $2,500. This credit takes into account tuition, fees, textbooks, supplies and related equipment costs. This tax credit is available for 4 years of postsecondary education.

Lifetime Learning Credit

The Lifetime Learning Credit is available for all years of postsecondary education and for courses to acquire or improve job skills. This credit is worth 20% of the first $10,000 in tuition and fees and is available for an unlimited number of years. The student can be enrolled for less than half-time and must provide their social security number to the Records Office.

For more information on either of these income tax benefits, please consult a tax advisor.

Information for Veterans and Military Affiliates

Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Educational Benefits

Eligible students may receive monthly education benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for courses taken at Carroll Community College. The benefit amount depends on the number of credits taken and the VA chapter for which the student is eligible. Monthly housing allowance (MHA) benefit checks are sent directly to the veteran from the VA.

The student, and not the VA, is held responsible for payment of all college costs not covered by the VA. Enrollment certifications are submitted online to the VA Regional Processing Center by the Carroll Financial Aid Office. VA processing time for new students applying for educational benefits may take ten to twelve weeks for the student to receive their Certificate of Eligibility.

“GI Bill®” is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at www.benefits.va.gov/gibill. Students who are eligible for VA benefits may also apply for financial assistance from the various federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs previously discussed in this catalog. Contact the Financial Aid Office at 410-386-8437 for more information about how to use VA educational benefits at Carroll Community College.

In accordance with Title 38 US Code 3679 a student veteran, using Chapters 31 or 33, can attend Carroll Community College and participate in a course of education pending their VA payment. 

Carroll Community College does not:

• Prevent a student’s enrollment
• Assess a late penalty fee to the student
• Require the student to secure alternative or additional funding
• Deny the student access to any resources such as classes, library, or other institutional facilities

To qualify for this provision, the student veteran is required to produce a VA Certificate of Eligibility (COE) when he/she receives the paperwork from the VA Buffalo Regional Office.  Also, the student veteran is required to provide a written request indicating their classes to be certified for a chosen semester.

A veteran affiliate using Chapter 30, 35, or 1606 will be required to arrange payment prior to the beginning of a semester. Students utilizing these benefits will receive a monthly stipend 30 days after the beginning of the semester once they have verified their classes, which must be completed monthly, using the Web Automated Verification of Enrollment system (WAVE).

A student veteran and/or military affiliate will be eligible for in-state tuition and fees under Federal or State guidelines. Carroll follows the guidelines of title 38 of the US Code pertaining to in-state costs for veterans and military affiliates.

Tuition Waivers for Members of the Maryland National Guard

This tuition waiver policy for members of the National Guard is pursuant to Chapter II, Section 404, of the Education Article, Annotated Code of Maryland. There is a 50% reduction (waiver) in tuition for members of the Maryland National Guard. This waiver is applicable when the following conditions are met:

1. Regularly scheduled course space is available;
    
2. The member of the Maryland National Guard is enrolled at the institution; and
    
3. The Maryland Adjutant General has certified that the member of the Maryland National Guard has at least 24 months remaining to serve or has agreed in writing to serve for a minimum of 24 months.

The member of the Maryland National Guard is responsible for all applicable fees (no 50% reduction is to be applied for fees). Contact the Cashier’s Office at 410-386-8040 for more information about using this tuition waiver at Carroll Community College.

Tuition for Armed Forces Personnel, Spouses, Dependents and Veterans

Active duty members of the United States Armed Forces and their spouses or financially dependent children are eligible for the in-county tuition rate if the active duty member is stationed in or is domiciled in Carroll County. This benefit continues if the active duty member of the United States Armed Forces no longer meets the requirements of this regulation as long as the student remains continuously enrolled at Carroll. Honorably discharged veterans of the United States Armed Forces who register as entering students at Carroll are eligible for in-county tuition if enrolling within one year of discharge, have attended a public or private secondary school in Maryland for at least three years, graduated from a public or private secondary school in Maryland, or received the equivalent of a high school diploma in Maryland.