I’m looking into options for free community college in West Virginia. What’s the application process like? Are there any specifics about eligibility or deadlines that I should be aware of?
Sure, I'd be happy to explain the process.
West Virginia offers the WV Invests Grant, a last-dollar-in program that covers the full cost of basic tuition and mandatory fees at select community and technical colleges in the state. It is designed to cover the cost of tuition that is not already covered by other state or federal grants or scholarships.
To apply for the WV Invests Grant, you'll first need to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, commonly known as the FAFSA. This should be completed as soon as possible after October 1st each year, to maximize your eligibility for financial aid.
Along with filling out the FAFSA, you'll need to submit the WV Invests Grant application. This can be done online through College Foundation of West Virginia website. The deadline for WV Invests Grant applications typically falls in early spring, but the exact date can vary from year to year, so it's best to check the website for the most accurate information.
Eligibility for WV Invests Grant is based on several factors. These include:
1. Being a West Virginia resident.
2. Having a high school diploma, TASC or equivalent.
3. Not already having a degree (associate or higher).
4. Fulfilling any requirements for the academic program you're entering (for instance, certain health-care programs may need you to pass a drug screening).
5. Taking part in a drug screening each semester.
6. Completing the Promise standards, which may include counseling sessions or community service.
Remember, the WV Invests Grant covers eligible programs of study which are tied to workforce needs like allied health, business, IT, and other applied sciences. General education associate's degrees are typically not funded by WV Invests.
Overall, the best way to navigate the process is to start early, meet all deadlines, and make sure you're fulfilling all the grant requirements. Happy applying!
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