Financial Aid Programs

Federal Pell Grant

          The Federal Pell Grant, which does not have to be repaid, is a federal program designed to provide financial assistance to undergraduate students who demonstrate a financial need to attend college.  The U.S. Department of Education uses a standard formula, established by Congress, to evaluate the information reported on the FAFSA.  The formula produces an Expected Family Contribution (EFC) number.  The Student Aid Report contains the EFC number which determines eligibility. 

          The Federal Pell Grant award amount depends on the student’s EFC, the student’s cost of attendance, whether the student is full-time or part-time, and whether the student attends school for a full academic year or less.  Students must be enrolled in an eligible program consisting of at least 18 credits in length.  Students with bachelor’s degrees are not eligible.

Federal Supplemental Educational

Opportunity Grant

          A Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), which does not have to be repaid, is for undergraduates with exceptional financial need – that is, students with the lowest Expected Family Contributions (EFC’S) – and gives priority to students who receive Federal Pell Grants.

          The FSEOG program is a campus-based program administered directly by the Financial Aid Office.  The amount of aid awarded depends on the student’s financial need, on the amount of other aid the student receives, and on the availability of funds.  Students with bachelor’s degrees are not eligible.

Federal Work-Study

          The Federal Work-Study program utilizes federal funds to provide part-time employment for undergraduate and graduate students with financial need to help meet their educational expenses.  Students with bachelor’s degrees are eligible.  Students who are enrolled at least half-time may work an average of 15 to 20 hours per week.  FWS employment is determined by the student’s total financial need, the student’s class schedule, and the student’s academic progress.

          Awarded FWS funds are limited to availability of positions, funds, and completion of the entrance interview process.  Students are paid each month, and the amount paid is according to the position and number of hours worked.

State Programs

College Foundation of North Carolina, Inc.

          Whether you are interested in general information on college costs and requirements, or specific information on scholarships, or a tax-advantaged savings program, this is the place to start: http://www.cfnc.org.

North Carolina Student Incentive Grant (NCSIG)

          The North Carolina State Education Assistance Authority, through College Foundation, Inc., makes award determinations for the NCSIG.

          To be eligible a student must:

• be a U.S. citizen;

• be a North Carolina resident;

• be enrolled or accepted for enrollment on a full-time basis at a North Carolina postsecondary institution;

• maintain satisfactory academic progress; and

• demonstrate ‘substantial’ financial need.

          To apply a student must:

• complete and submit the FAFSA prior to March 15^th; and

• list at least one North Carolina college, university, technical or vocational school in the release section of the FAFSA.

North Carolina Community College Grant (NCCCG)

          The North Carolina Community College Grant (NCCCG) is a need-based grant established by the North Carolina Legislation.  The North Carolina State Education Assistance Authority, through College Foundation, Inc., makes award determinations.  The North Carolina Community College Grant provides funds to help meet the educational costs of North Carolina residents attending community colleges.

          To be eligible a student must:

• be admitted to a curriculum program and be enrolled for at least six credit hours per semester;

• be a North Carolina resident;

• have completed and submitted the FAFSA;

• qualify for the grants based upon a valid Expected Family Contribution (EFC) calculation under Federal Methodology and the program’s recognized “required educational expenses” for attending a North Carolina community college; and

• meet all other eligibility requirements for the Federal Pell Grant.

To apply a student must:

Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the Financial Aid Office’s verification requirements.

Child Care Grants

          Halifax Community College has limited funding through federal and state grant programs to provide students with aid to assist in paying child care expenses.  These funds are limited and are awarded on a first-come, first-serve basis.  Applications to participate are available through the Financial Aid Office.

Vocational Rehabilitation Financial Assistance

          The Vocational Rehabilitation Program is designed individually for students who have a barrier to employment due to a mental or physical disability.  As a result of Vocational Rehabilitation services, the student must have reasonable expectations to become gainfully employed.

          The amount of the award is based on need and the type of program in which the student is enrolled.  It generally pays for tuition and fees; for full or partial books and supplies; and in some cases, for supportive services such as interpreter services, attendant services, and transportation.  Once students are approved for this program, their sponsorship is processed through the Cashier’s Office at HCC each semester when the student registers.

          Students should contact the Vocational Rehabilitation Office nearest their home or the North Carolina Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services, PO Box 26053, 805 Ruggles Drive, Raleigh, North Carolina 27611-6053 or call (919)733-3364.

Loan Programs

Federal Stafford Loans (FFEL)

          Federal Stafford Loans are low interest loans funded by private lenders, but regulated by the federal government. 

A subsidized loan is awarded on the basis of financial need.  You will not be charged interest before you begin repayment or during authorized periods of deferment.  The Federal Government “subsidizes” the interest during these periods.  An unsubsidized loan is not awarded on the basis of need.  You will be charged interest from the time the loan is disbursed until it is paid in full.  If you allow the interest to accrue (accumulate) while you are in school or during other periods of nonpayment, it will be CAPITALIZED – interest will be added to the principal amount of the loan, and additional interest will be based on that higher amount.

The maximum base loan amount awarded is determined by the number of credits a student has earned.

• Freshman 0 – 32 earned credits $3,500

• Sophomore >32 earned credits $4,500

Independent students may be eligible for up to an additional $4,000 in unsubsidized Stafford loan funds.  The total loan amount for which you are eligible will be determined by the Financial Aid Office.

First-time borrowers are required by the U.S. Department of Education to complete a Loan Entrance counseling session prior to receiving the first disbursement of a loan.  Counseling sessions are scheduled as needed, by the Financial Aid Office.

Health, Science, and Mathematics Loan (HSM)

          In an effort to provide financial assistance to and encourage North Carolinians who desire to pursue career opportunities in the health, science, and mathematics disciplines, the General Assembly makes available appropriations for loans for the instructional programs cited:

• Health: Allied Health; Health Sciences

• Mathematics: Mathematics (General, Pure, and Applied)

• Science: Computer and Information Science, Engineering and Related Technologies; Life Sciences; Physical Science

The maximum loan amount for each academic year is $3,000.  There is a total maximum award of $6,000 for two academic years.

Nurse Scholars Program (NSP)

Nurse Education Scholarship/Loan Program (NESLP)

          Information and applications for the Nurse Scholars Program is available through College Foundation of North Carolina, Incorporated at www.cfnc.org.  Nurse Education Scholarship/Loan Program (NESLP) information can be obtained in the Financial Aid Office.  The NESLP is a need-based program.  Students interested must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

HCC Scholarships

Through the philanthropic generosity of area industries, businesses, professional organizations, civic clubs, and individuals, the Halifax Community College Foundation, Inc. provides scholarships to qualified applicants. A committee and detailed review process determines award recipients.

          The scholarship program consists of two types of awards: merit-based and need-based. Scholarships are also awarded on a competitive basis applying the following criteria:  academic excellence, achievement, leadership qualities, need or other criteria as stipulated by donors.

          Award stipulations require that recipients maintain a minimum grade point average and most require full-time enrollment status.  Each scholarship is awarded for one academic year beginning with the fall semester.  Students must reapply each year by the published deadline.  Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

          Students are encouraged to apply early.  Contact the Financial Aid Office or visit The HCC Foundation Page for applications, deadline dates, and a list of current scholarships. 

To learn more about applying for scholarships and to find out how to establish your HCC Scholarship, contact the HCC Foundation at 252-536-7239.  The HCC Foundation is a 501(c) (3) organization. All gifts are tax-deductible.

Financial Aid Awards

          Students should have their financial aid package completed before registration or come prepared to meet their expenses and pay tuition/fees.  If not paid by the last day of registration your schedule will be automatically canceled.

          The Financial Aid Office reserves the right to adjust financial aid when an over-award is made.  Students are required to notify the Financial Aid Office if any additional gift aid assistance is received for educational expenses.  Furthermore, the Financial Aid Office will void any award if it is determined that the student provided incorrect or false information on the financial aid application.  All financial aid awards are subject to change if the information on which they were based changes, federal regulations require a change, or an over-award occurs.

          Halifax Community College’s Financial Aid Office adjusts student awards throughout the drop/add period.  After the drop/add period, no awards are adjusted unless a “never attended” or a “complete withdrawal” is received from the instructor.

          The award letter is based on full-time enrollment for an entire year.  Full-time status consists of enrollment in a minimum of 12 credit hours.  Three-quarter time status consists of enrollment in 9 to 11 credit hours.  Half-time status consists of enrollment in 6 to 8 credit hours.  Less than half-time status consists of enrollment in 1 to 5 credit hours.  Any changes in enrollment status must be reported to the Financial Aid Office.

          Awards will be divided into two payments: fall and spring.  Students who were enrolled less than full-time during the fall or spring may have Federal Pell eligibility for the summer term.  For example: A student is awarded a full Federal Pell Grant award of $4310.  The student attends full-time in the fall and receives a Federal Pell Grant of $2155.  The student attends half-time in the spring term and receives a Federal Pell Grant award of $1078.  The student will have $1077 maximum Federal Pell Grant remaining (according to enrollment status) for the summer term.  If a student changes enrollment status during the drop/add period, then financial aid will be adjusted accordingly.

          Financial aid awards cannot be automatically transferred from one college to another.  Students must have the results of the FAFSA released to the new college.  All documents in the student’s financial aid file are the property of Halifax Community College.  In addition, financial aid cannot be utilized simultaneously at two or more colleges.

Programs/Courses Ineligible for Financial Aid

          Diploma or certificate programs containing less than eighteen (18) semester hours are not eligible for Federal student aid.  Although the Financial Aid Office will make every effort to monitor these programs, it is the responsibility of the student to assure acceptance into a program of at least eighteen (18) semester hours in order to be eligible for federal aid.  In addition, students enrolled in Special Studies (T90990), Distance Learning (T90990X), Continuing Education, course for which credit by examination has been received and/or courses being audited by the student are ineligible for financial aid.  For a list of ineligible programs a student can contact the Financial Aid Office.

Clock Hour/Credit Hour Conversion

          The determination of enrollment status (full, ¾, ½, or less) is, by Federal regulations, different for the following programs of study:

• Basic Law Enforcement Training (C55120)

• Cosmetology (D55140)

• Licensed Practical Nursing (D45660)

• Welding (D50420)

This determination of enrollment status is different because the programs have one or more courses that cannot be used toward a two-year degree program.  Enrollment status determination for the above programs is determined by totaling for each course the clock/contact hours a student takes each semester.  The total hours are then divided by 30 to obtain the converted credits.  The converted credits are then used to determine the enrollment status.  For a list of converted courses, check with the Financial Aid Office.

Return to Title IV Funds Policy

          Federal regulations require recalculation of federal financial aid eligibility for students who withdraw, drop out, or are dismissed prior to completing sixty percent (60%) of an academic term.  An example of the Return to Title IV Fund calculation is available in the Financial Aid Office.

          Recalculation is based on the percent of aid using the following formula: Percent earned = Number of Days Completed Up to the Withdrawal Date – Divided By – The Total number of Days in a Semester/Term.  If the calculation results in an overpayment, the student will owe the balance to the College.  The student should come by the Financial Aid Office to make payment arrangements on this balance.  If the student fails to pay the debt to the College within 45 days of notification, the debt will be reported to the U.S. Department of Education as an overpayment.  Federal eligibility is lost until the debt is paid or satisfactory arrangements are made with the U.S. Department of Education.  Financial aid students must notify the Financial Aid Office before withdrawing.

          Students formally withdrawing from all their classes within the semester must do so through the Registrar’s Office or through their Academic Advisor.

A withdrawal is considered formal when the student initiates and signs the drop form.

          According to federal regulations, students who stop attending their classes within a given term without formally withdrawing will have the Return to Title IV calculation calculated using the 50% point of the semester.

Standards of Academic Progress

          All financial aid recipients are required to meet satisfactory academic guidelines established by Halifax Community College (HCC) and financial aid standards of progress, pursuant to regulations established by the U.S. Department of Education.

          The intent of this policy is to insure that students who are receiving federal and state financial aid are making measurable progress toward completion of a degree, certificate, or diploma program in a reasonable period of time and a reasonable number of credit hours attempted in their program of study.

          Regulations require a student’s progress, for financial aid purposes, to be measured both quantitatively and qualitatively.  In addition to a grade point average, students are also required to pass a minimum amount of work to complete their program within the maximum time frame established by the institution.  To reasonably measure a student’s academic progress for financial aid purposes toward completion of his/her degree, certificate, or diploma, the student’s academic record will be evaluated including credit hours earned at another postsecondary institution and transferred into the student’s program of study at HCC.

          To receive financial aid, the student must maintain satisfactory academic progress toward an eligible program of study (an eligible program of study consists of 18 or more credit hours).  There are three criteria in the Financial Aid Office’s standards of academic progress.

1. The maximum length of time for which the student may receive financial aid;
2. The number of credit hours the student must earn;
3. The minimum grade point average the student must maintain.

          Federal regulations set the maximum time frame in which a student must complete his/her educational program in 150% of the normal length of the educational program using the number of credit hours required to earn the academic credential and to compute the 150% rate.  An HCC student is not eligible for financial aid when the cumulative number of credit hours attempted (whether or not earned toward the student’s current program of study) is greater than 150%.  This is true whether financial aid was received or the student paid for some classes from his/her resources.  Once the student reaches the maximum time frame, the student’s eligibility for financial aid ends.

          Note: A student’s credits which transfer in from other colleges or universities are counted as attempted.  Repeated and/or completed courses (all grades including F, WD, and I) are assessed.  Grades that are forgiven based on academic policy are also included.  Developmental courses are excluded.

          The student must earn passing grades in two-thirds (67%) of attempted credit hours (cumulative), excluding developmental coursework. 

For example:

          The below will be treated as completed coursework and will be taken into consideration when calculating the number of hours completed.  Attempted credit hours include the following whether or not the credit hours were paid by financial aid:

1. Earned hours (grade of A, B, C, D, IP)
2. Incomplete (I) grades
3. A grade of (F) or a “Withdrawal” (WD)
4. Forgiven Grades

          Note: For financial aid purposes, a) students cannot receive financial aid for audited classes and audited classes are not counted as hours attempted; b) classes dropped during the drop/add period are excluded from financial aid satisfactory progress determinations; c) when a student enrolls in a class and subsequently switches to another section of the same class, that class is not counted twice when computing the hours attempted.

          Once twelve (12) or more credit hours have been attempted a student must maintain a required cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.000 in order to be eligible to receive financial aid assistance.  GPA calculation is based on HCC’s academic policy.  Please visit the Financial Aid Office for additional information.

          Students who withdraw from classes at HCC should understand their withdrawal will affect their eligibility for financial aid as determined by the Satisfactory Academic Progress procedure.  Students who withdraw will have difficulty meeting SAP requirements.

          If a student changes his/her enrollment during the drop/add period, then financial aid will be adjusted accordingly.  IT IS ALWAYS IN THE BEST INTERESTS OF THE STUDENT TO CONTACT THE FINANCIAL AID OFFICE BEFORE CHANGING PROGRAMS AND/OR WITHDRAWING FROM CLASSES.

          Students accepted into and enrolled in eligible (18 credit hours or more) programs of study may receive financial aid while taking required developmental coursework.  Developmental credit hours are not included in determining course completion of 67% of attempted coursework.  Developmental hours will not be counted in a student’s 150% timeframe.  However, payment for developmental hours will be monitored to not exceed 30 semester hours.

          Financial aid will be awarded and satisfactory progress maintained when a student repeats a course for credit or inclusion in grade point average calculation.  Repeated courses will be counted towards a student’s 150% timeframe.  When a student repeats a course, the repeated course is included in: a) enrollment status (full, ¾, ½, or less than ½ time) computations; b) financial aid awards; c) 150% calculations; d) GPA calculations (highest grade is used); e) 67% calculations.

          The minimum credit hour completion requirement and the academic standards are assessed at the end of Spring term.  If a student fails to maintain a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.000 or if the student fails to earn less than 67% of attempted coursework, the student is placed on probation for the next term attended.  Financial aid may be received during this probationary term.  Continued eligibility for aid is determined at the end of the probationary term.

          Any student on probation who fails to make satisfactory academic progress during the probationary term is suspended from financial aid for the next semester he or she attends and will not be eligible for financial aid until satisfactory progress is demonstrated.  Students cannot receive funds from any financial aid program while on financial aid suspension.  Awards may be canceled and the student may owe tuition and/or books upon becoming ineligible.

          Students who have been reinstated from any suspension status may continue on a probationary status for at least one term.

          The College will notify the student of their status.  However, it is the student’s responsibility to track his/her progress and not totally rely on the school’s notification.  The suspension for the semester includes second session classes offered during that semester.  Students on financial aid suspension are prohibited from using their aid to pay for tuition/fees; however, if the student is eligible to return, the student may pay charges using his/her own funds.

          Other than when an appeal is granted for unusual or mitigating circumstances, a student can reestablish eligibility only by taking action that brings the student in compliance with the qualitative and quantitative components of the Financial Aid Standards of Academic Progress including maximum timeframe.

          A student may appeal the termination of financial aid by completing an appeal form obtained from the Financial Aid Office and indicating in writing: a) reasons why he/she did not achieve minimum standards; b) reasons why his or her eligibility should not be terminated, but reinstated.  Appeals must be submitted in writing with supporting documentation explaining any unusual circumstances that caused the student’s academic progress to be less than required.

          Each appeal will be considered on its merit.  Federal law gives some examples where allowances might be made for mitigating circumstances. Reasons may include, for example: personal illness, serious illness or death of an immediate family member, employment changes, divorce, or separation in the student’s immediate family.

          The Financial Aid Committee determines if justifiable evidence or extenuating circumstances exist and whether the student may receive financial aid for a specified probationary semester.  Satisfactory progress must be demonstrated by the end of the specified probationary semester before further aid can be awarded.

          A student suspended for exceeding the maximum hours allowed for degree completion should have an academic advisor submit in writing the remaining hours required for degree completion if extenuating circumstances require the student to exceed the maximum hours limit.

          Any student who is reinstated with a “stipulation” is required to meet all reinstatement stipulations in order to have continued eligibility for federal and state aid.

          To initiate a financial aid appeal, the student must complete a Financial Aid Appeal packet and an appeals letter, and submit it along with required supporting documentation.  This information will need to be submitted to the Financial Aid Office at least ten working days prior to the committee meeting.  Appeals after this date will be processed at the next month’s scheduled appeals meeting.  The Financial Aid Committee, comprised of staff and faculty, will not review incomplete appeals.

          The Financial Aid Committee normally meets the second Wednesday of each month.  A student may make a personal appearance at the meeting by making an appointment in the Financial Aid Office.  The student will be informed of the committee’s decision within 10 business days after the committee meets.  The Financial Aid Committee and/or the Director of Financial Aid decision will be final.