Free College
Wondering if you can afford college? You can!
Starting immediately, recent high school graduates get free tuition at Washington County Community College. Best. Deal. Ever.
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What is the Free College Scholarship?The Free College Scholarship makes community college even more affordable for recent high school graduates! If you earned a high school diploma or its equivalent in 2020 – 2023, you qualify for the scholarship that pays 100% of tuition and mandatory fees at WCCC! |
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Who is eligible for a Free College Scholarship?If you graduated high school (or earned the equivalent of a high school diploma, like a GED or Hi-SET) in 2020, 2021, 2022, or 2023 – you’re eligible. It’s that simple. There are no income or age limits. All you have to do is enroll in a degree or certificate program, accept any state or federal aid you qualify for, and live in Maine while enrolled. That’s it – you’re in! |
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What does the Free College Scholarship cover?This scholarship pays for tuition and mandatory fees, after federal and state grant aid has been applied. Those students who qualify for maximum grant aid may use any additional grant funds to cover the cost of books, supplies, and other related educational expenses. If you need additional financial assistance, contact our financial aid office to see what may be available for you. |
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Sounds good to me! How do I sign up?Apply to WCCC– or just fill out the form on this page. Our Office of Admissions will contact you to help you figure out your pathway for success as a student at WCCC! Whatever you need, we’ll help you get there. |
Frequently Asked Questions
There is no application for the Free College Scholarship. If you are eligible and enroll at WCCC, our financial aid office will work with you to award the scholarship.
Even if you go part-time, you may qualify for grant aid, so your costs may be covered. Plus WCCC offers multiple tuition waiver or free college opportunities, including free short-term workforce training. Fill out the form on this page and we’ll help you navigate all your options.
The WCCC Office of Financial Aid will work with you and help figure out your options. You may qualify for additional aid to help cover any extra costs.
The FAFSA is the Free Application For Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). It’s used by all schools to determine eligibility for federal and state financial aid. It might seem complicated, but most people can complete the FAFSA in less than 30 minutes online. If you need help, there are advisors standing by at FAMEmaine.com/fafsa You can also contact our financial aid office at 207-454-1000 or visit https://www.wccc.me.edu/admissions-aid/finances/financial-aid/
Yes! Noncitizens qualify for the scholarship.
Yes. If you completed a GED or earned a Hi-SET diploma in 2020, 2021, 2022 or 2023, you are eligible for the scholarship.
For as long as your program lasts – up to two years. You just need to stay on track for an on-time graduation.
Yes! If you graduated from high school in 2020 or 2021 you qualify for free college, even if you’re already enrolled. You do not need to apply for the scholarship. The financial aid office at WCCC will work with you to award the scholarship.
Unfortunately no – sorry! This scholarship is new and does not cover any retroactive costs.
Yes, it does.
Maine Governor Janet Mills included the one-time $20 million allocation for free college in her 2022 supplemental budget.
No, you just have to be living in Maine while enrolled in college.
Yes, but there’s a limit. Anyone who qualifies for the scholarship must enroll no later than spring 2024. (And mark your calendar! Registration for spring 2024 classes begins in late November 2023.)
Yes, it does.
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