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.

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!

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!

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.

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

How do I apply?

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.

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What can I study?
You can choose from any of our degree or certificate programs.

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What if I can’t go full time? Are there other options?

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.

I still don’t think I can afford college, what are my 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.

What is the FAFSA and how do I complete it?

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/ 

Are those who are not U.S. citizens eligible?

Yes! Noncitizens qualify for the scholarship.

Are GED/Hi-SET recipients eligible?

Yes. If you completed a GED or earned a Hi-SET diploma in 2020, 2021, 2022 or 2023, you are eligible for the scholarship.

How long does the Free College Scholarship last?

For as long as your program lasts – up to two years. You just need to stay on track for an on-time graduation.

I’m already a WCCC student. Do I qualify?

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.

Can I get a refund for previous semesters?

Unfortunately no – sorry! This scholarship is new and does not cover any retroactive costs.

Does the Free College Scholarship cover developmental classes?

Yes, it does.

How is the Free College Scholarship funded?

Maine Governor Janet Mills included the one-time $20 million allocation for free college in her 2022 supplemental budget.

Do you have to be a Maine high school graduate?

No, you just have to be living in Maine while enrolled in college.

What if you can't enroll right away? Can you enroll later?

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.)

Does the Free College Scholarship cover developmental classes?

Yes, it does.

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  • 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.
  • If you are a current WCCC student enrolled in a degree or certificate program, please login to MyWCCC to register online for courses or contact your Academic Advisor.

 

Other Opportunities for Free College!

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  • Free Early College: any high school student can take up to 12 free college credits at any community college in Maine. Even if you exceed 12 credits, tuition is half-price. Talk to your guidance counselor or click here to learn more!
  • Free Short-term Workforce training: With Maine Quality Center funds, Maine Jobs & Recovery funds, and a mix of private investments, EMCC offers free short-term training programs to thousands of workers every year. Click here to learn more!
  • Free College through State and Federal Grants: Community college is already free for many students, you just don’t know it! About half of all degree-seeking students at Maine Community Colleges receive enough grant aid to cover the cost of tuition and mandatory fees. 74% get some form of grant aid, lowering the total cost of enrollment. The Pell Grant is one of the most common. To find out if you qualify for the Pell Grant, fill out your FAFSA.
  • Existing Tuition Waiver policies:
    • Adult Education students
    • Service members or Veterans
    • Students from Foster Care
    • Native Americans from regional tribes
    • Low-income parents via HOPE Program (DHHS – Higher opportunity Pathways to Employment) and PaS Program (TANF – Parents as scholars)
    • Children or spouses of Maine public servants killed in the line of duty
    • Senior Citizens

 

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VIEW OUR PROGRAMS

FILE YOUR FAFSA