Financial Aid

The philosophy at ECC is that any individual who wishes to attend the institution should not be deprived of this privilege because of a lack of financial resources. Although the primary responsibility for financing an education remains with students and their families, the college participates in programs designed to supplement the family contribution when there is documented student financial need. Students who have completed the financial aid application procedure are considered for all types of financial aid without regard to their sex, race, color, disability, or national origin. In all financial aid awards, students have the right to accept or decline any aid they have been offered.

Federal and State Funds Available

Federal Pell Grant Program

Federal Pell Grants are awards which assist undergraduates in paying for their education after they complete high school or earn a GED. The Federal Pell Grant program is the largest federal student aid program. For many students, these grants provide a foundation to which other federal grants and non-federal assistance may be added. Unlike loans, grants do not have to be paid back unless students do not complete the term of enrollment.

The amount of students’ Federal Pell Grant awards is calculated according to a federal formula which takes into consideration the family’s financial circumstances, the student cost of education, and the amount of funds actually available for the program. In order to apply for a Federal Pell Grant, students should complete the FAFSA. The Department of Education’s Central Processing System processes the application and sends a Student Aid Report (SAR) directly to students or instructs them on how to access the SAR online. The college receives an electronic confirmation of the SAR and the students’ eligibility for federal aid.

According to new federal regulations, a student may only receive Pell Grants for a total of 12 equivalent full-time semesters, or until the student receives a bachelor’s degree - whichever comes first. Students are therefore advised to monitor their use of Pell Grant funding if they plan to pursue a four-year degree.

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) Program

Students who receive the Federal Pell Grant may also be eligible for the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant. This federal grant program does not require repayment unless students do not complete the terms and conditions of the award. The amount of the grant is based on student financial need, and the minimum award is $100.00. To be considered for FSEOG, students should apply as soon after January 1 as possible. FSEOG is for undergraduates with exceptional financial need, that is, students with the lowest Expected Family Contribution (EFC). Limited assistance is available from the program to eligible students.
*Funding is subject to change each July 1, pending legislative ruling

Federal Work-Study (FWS) Program

The Federal Work-Study Program provides jobs for eligible students to earn money to help pay college expense while attending classes at least part-time. Students participating in the program are employed in the library, laboratories, administrative and faculty offices, and various departments of the college. Funds for these student jobs are provided by the federal government through its college work-study program. On average, students work approximately 10 to 15 hours per week, earning $7.00 per hour. Students’ primary focus should be academic achievement; therefore, they should consider carefully whether their academic responsibilities permit them to assume the obligations of part-time work. If students accept campus employment, they are expected to fulfill the requirements of the job. Students are required to submit an application for employment through the Financial Aid Office.
*Funding is subject to change each July 1, pending legislative ruling

Federal Direct Loan Program

A program of student loan assistance (money that has to be repaid with interest) to eligible borrowers. Students may borrow up to $3,500 per year for the first year of undergraduate work. Students with sophomore standing may borrow up to $4,500 per year. Repayment begins six months after borrowers terminate at least half-time student status. The federal government pays the variable percent interest on the subsidized loan while students are in school; the interest is paid by the borrower or capitalized on the unsubsidized loan. The interest rate is fixed at 6.8 percent for loans first disbursed on or after July 1, 2013.

Vocational Rehabilitation

Many states offer educational assistance to students who have a significant disability. North Carolina students should contact the Vocational Rehabilitation Division of the Department of Health and Human Services; Raleigh, N.C. Students from other states should contact their local Vocational Rehabilitation counselor.

Other Sources of Assistance

Workforce Investment Act (WIA) System

ECC offers training under the WIA system. The program is especially designed for individuals who require skills training for employment. All individuals enrolled in the WIA program must qualify under program guidelines.

Services provided by the WIA program may include financial assistance with tuition, fees, books, equipment, and supplies, as well as personal services such as counseling, job development, job coaching, and follow-up assistance. Participants are required to follow strict program guidelines and regulations.

Applicants should contact the WIA office located at:
101 Tarboro Street, Rocky Mount, NC 27801
Phone: (252) 977-3292 or (800) 852-5130

North Carolina Community College Grant (NCCCG) Program

For students to be eligible for need - based aid under this program, they must meet the following criteria: (1) be admitted to an eligible program of study, (2) have applied for federal aid, (3) meet academic requirements to maintain federal aid eligibility, and (4) meet other criteria as may be required by the program. This award may be given in addition to the Federal Pell Grant if students are eligible. Students must be enrolled in at least 6 hours to be eligible.

North Carolina Targeted Assistance Program

This program provides funding for students enrolled in or intending to enroll in high demand/low enrollment programs. Students are required to file the FAFSA. Aid is given to students who demonstrate need and meet eligibility requirements.

ECC Emergency Loan Program

This program provides short-term loans to students who need assistance with the cost of tuition/fees. Loans must be repaid prior to the end of the term in which they were received. Students are encouraged to complete the FAFSA first.

Scholarships

ECC Foundation Scholarships

Other scholarships may be available through the ECC Foundation Office. In addition, all students are encouraged to check with their church affiliation, alumni groups, and other civic organizations for scholarship availability.

NC Veterans Scholarship

The Department of Veterans’ Affairs offers scholarship assistance to North Carolina children of deceased or disabled veterans or of certain veterans who were listed in a POW/MIA status. Eligible students should write to the N.C. Department of Veterans’ Affairs, Raleigh, N.C., for information or contact the Veteran’s Affairs counselor for more details.

Veterans’ Affairs

ECC provides training under Public Law 358, G.I. Bill effective June 1966; Public Law 634, the children of deceased or disabled veterans; Public Law 894, disabled veterans; and Public Law 98-525. If you or your spouse is a veteran, veterans’ educational benefits may be available. Information is available by calling 1-888-442-4551 or contact the Veterans’ Affairs counselor at the college.

North Carolina Education Lottery Scholarship

For students to be eligible for need-based aid under this program, they must meet the following criteria: (1) be admitted to an eligible program of study, (2) have applied for federal aid, (3) meet academic requirements to maintain federal aid eligibility, (4) meet other criteria as required by the program (5) be a NC resident and be enrolled at least 6 credit hours. This award may be given in addition to the Federal Pell Grant, if students are eligible.

North Carolina Nurse Scholarship Program (NESLP)

This scholarship program was created to work in combination with existing financial aid resources to encourage enrollment and retention of qualified nurse education students. Funds for NESLP are allocated by the N.C. General Assembly among colleges and universities which offer nurse education programs. NESLP awards are available for licensed practical nurse (LPN) and registered nurse (RN) education. Applicants must complete the FAFSA as soon after January 1 as possible to be considered for NESLP.

Private Scholarships

The college offers numerous private scholarships each year, totaling more than $100,000 awarded annually. Requirements for scholarships vary; however, the primary criteria include financial need, scholastic ability, and specified program of study, residency status, and participation in community activities. To apply for scholarships, students must obtain application forms from the college’s Financial Aid Office. Application forms indicating the scholarships for which students are eligible must be returned to that office by the announced deadline. Incomplete applications are not considered. Most scholarships are awarded during the fall months, and the first award payments are made during the fall semester. Students should see the Financial Aid Office for the deadlines. Listed below are the scholarships available to eligible applicants as of publication of this catalog.

Named Endowed Scholarships

ACT 1 Endowed Scholarship. Established in 1996 to honor the John and Elretha Bryant family from Tarboro, this scholarship is awarded to students in Business Administration, Business Computer Programming, and Microcomputer Systems Technology.

Mike Alford Memorial Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 2002 to honor local resident and author, Mike Alford, whose personal challenges with cancer and an amputation serve as an encouragement to students in the Allied Health field.

ALLTEL Communications Endowed Scholarship. Established in 1996 when the company was known as 360 Communications, this scholarship is awarded to students in Business Administration.

Berry L. Anderson, Sr. Memorial Endowed Scholarship. Established in 1988 by the Anderson family, this scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum. Mr. Anderson was a founder of ECC and served on the Board of Trustees for 19 years.

Guy E. and Alice A. Barnes Memorial Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 1997 to honor Mr. Barnes and his 25 years of service on the Board of Trustees. He was also a founder of the college and served the community in many civic, political, and religious endeavors. The scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum.

Robert E. Barnhill, Sr. Memorial Endowed Scholarship. Established in 2000, this scholarship honors a founding member of ECC and a great community leader. Mr. Barnhill was instrumental in establishing the structure and bylaws of ECC. He developed one of the largest privately owned businesses in North Carolina, Barnhill Contracting Company. He was a modest man and helped his community by also establishing the Tarboro Community Outreach Center and working for the Boy Scouts of America. This scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum.

Baker Mabrey Bass Jr. Memorial Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 2002 by the Edgecombe-Tar River Foundation and Mabry’s brother, Bill Bass, to honor Mr. Bass’ 40 years as editor of the local paper, The Daily Southerner. He contributed many humorous columns over the years and especially loved and worked to promote and preserve the Tar River. This scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum.

Kim Bell, RHIA, Health Information Technology Endowed Scholarship. Established in 2010 to aid a student in the Health Information Technology Program.

Francis E. Blackwell Memorial Endowed Scholarship. Established in 2000 to honor a local businessman and ECC trustee, this scholarship is awarded to students in Business Administration or Allied Health.

JoAnn Brown Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 1997 by Mrs. Brown’s husband, the Honorable Frank R. Brown, and ECC at the time of her retirement. After teaching in the Tarboro public schools for 16 years, Mrs. Brown served as executive director of the Edgecombe Community College Foundation from 1986 until 2000. This scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum.

A. R. Burnette Family Memorial Endowed Scholarship. Established in 1995 by Mr. Archie R. Burnette, Jr., this scholarship honors his parents, Mr. and Mrs. A.R. Burnette, and his sister, Doris. This family was outstanding in farming, civic affairs, and education in Edgecombe County. Doris Burnette was a teacher in the Tarboro City and Edgecombe County schools her entire professional life and was recognized and respected as one of the best educators of her time. This scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum.

Johnnena Poulos Cannon Memorial Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 2004 by family, friends, and co-workers to honor the memory of a much loved and devoted instructor at ECC. The scholarship is awarded to students in a math-related curriculum or college transfer students with the intent of majoring in math.

Robert “Bob” Cole Memorial Endowed Scholarship. Established in 2003 to honor the memory of ECC math/science instructor Bob Cole, the scholarship is awarded to students in Radiography, Respiratory Care, Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technology, Medical Transcription, or College Transfer with intent to major in Biology.

Stanley L. Daughtridge Memorial Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established by Mrs. Stanley L. Daughtridge in 1997. Mr. Daughtridge taught at South Edgecombe High School for 9 years and then worked for 28 years for the United States Soil Conservation Service. He served in many professional and civic organizations. The scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum.

Edgecombe County Veterans Memorial Endowed Scholarship. Established in 2002 by Joel Bourne to honor past, present, and future military service men and women from Edgecombe County, this scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum.

Emily “Mimi” Havens Edmondson Memorial Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established by family in 1999 to honor her memory. A native of Tarboro, “Mimi” gave unselfishly of her time and energy in helping others. The scholarship is awarded to students in Respiratory Care.

Ronald G. Ellis, Jr. Endowed Scholarship. Established in 2008 by Earl Roberson, this scholarship is awarded to a student in any curriculum. This scholarship honors Mr. Ellis’ many years of unselfish service to others.

Jason Iam Erich Memorial Endowed Scholarship. Established in 2009 by parents Norma and Fred Erich and friends to help students in any curriculum.

Cindy Fiore Memorial Endowed Scholarship. Established in 1993 by family and friends to honor the life of a very special student and nurse, this scholarship is awarded to a second-level nursing student.

Dr. Thomas S. Fleming Memorial Endowed Scholarship. Established in 1999 by Dr. Fleming’s wife, Louise Fleming, this scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum. Dr. Fleming, who died in July 2007, joined the ECC Board of Trustees in 1971 and served as its chairman from 1978 until his death.

Judge George M. Fountain Memorial Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 1998 by Judge Fountain’s wife, Nellie Lanier Fountain. A native of Tarboro, Judge Fountain began his law practice with his father in 1935. After serving in WWII, he continued to practice law and was appointed Special Superior Court Judge. He was later elected to Resident Superior Court Judge of the 7th Judicial District, where he served until his retirement in 1982. He was the first Superior Court judge to serve in all 100 counties of North Carolina and became known as one of the best judges to serve this state. The scholarship is awarded to students in the Criminal Justice program.

Nina W. Fountain Memorial Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 2000 to honor the long service and dedication of Mrs. Nina W. Fountain to the college in many ways. Mrs. Fountain served as President of the ECC Foundation Board of Directors from its establishment in 1982 until 2004. This scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum.

Dr. Hartwell H. Fuller, Jr. Memorial Endowed Scholarship. Established in 1998, this scholarship honors Dr. Fuller, a lifelong educator who taught at Rocky Mount Senior High School, Wilson Technical College, and Pitt Community College. In 1968, Dr. Fuller joined ECC as Director of Adult Education. In the years that followed, he also served as Dean of Instruction and Vice President. In 1994, he was named President of ECC, where he served until his retirement in 2004. This scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum.

Dr. Hartwell H. Fuller, Jr. Endowed Merit Scholarship. Established in 2011, these scholarships are awarded by merit to two Edgecombe County public high school scholars. These students, one entering an allied health program and one entering the college transfer program, receive the full cost of an associate’s degree, including tuition, books, and a laptop computer.

Annie Louise Gaynor Memorial Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established by family in 1989. Miss Gaynor became known as the “Red Cross Nurse” because of her deep commitment and service to the Rocky Mount Chapter from 1933 until her death. After her retirement, Miss Gaynor continued to serve others and in 1982 was the first recipient of the Distinguished Service Award of Nash General Hospital Volunteer Association. The scholarship is awarded to a second-level nursing student.

Vivian B. Godwin Memorial Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established by her family in 1996 to honor Mrs. Godwin, one of the first employees at ECC. This scholarship is awarded to students in the Cosmetology program.

Jack Havens Memorial Endowed Scholarship. Established in 1991, this scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum. Mr. Havens was a founding father of ECC and served as the first chairman of the ECC Board of Trustees.

Dr. Geraldine Jordan Memorial Endowed Scholarship. Established by Dr. Jordan in 1997, this scholarship is awarded to a second-level nursing student. Dr. Jordan chaired the Nash, Edgecombe, Wilson, and Halifax Associate Degree Nursing Program from 1975 to 1983.

Carolyn Weeks Kalamajka Memorial Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 1996 by family, friends, and coworkers to honor Mrs. Kalamajka, an employee of Nash General Hospital for almost 19 years. Before joining the hospital, Mrs. Kalamajka attended and graduated from ECC in 1977. The scholarship is awarded to students in the Nursing program.

Major Linwood Thomas Lewis, Sr. Memorial Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 2000 by Major Lewis’ daughter, Judy Silveri. He was a well-recognized and much-admired member of the Tarboro Police Department. The scholarship is awarded to students in Criminal Justice or other law enforcement programs.

Gladys C. Harrison Matthewson Memorial Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 2002 by Mrs. Matthewson’s daughter, Gladys Harrison Matthewson, and the Union Baptist Church. Mrs. Matthewson, born in 1896 in Princeville, was a kind, gentle, and compassionate woman. She valued education and taught in the Edgecombe County Negro School System until 1930. This scholarship is awarded to students in the Early Childhood curriculum.

Lacy and Grace G. McBryde Endowed Scholarship. Established in 1997 to encourage students to pursue their educational goals, this scholarship is awarded to students in the College Transfer or Nursing program.

Charles B. McIntyre Memorial Endowed Scholarship. Established in 1995 by family and friends, this scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum.

Norman T. Parker, Jr. Endowed Scholarship. Established in 2002 by Mr. Parker’s daughter and son-in-law, this scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum.

General Henry Hugh Shelton Endowed Scholarship. Established in 1999, this scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum. A native of Speed, General Shelton became the 14th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff in 1997.

Charles Sherrick, Sr. Memorial Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established by Mrs. Sherrick in 2011 to help a student in the Facility Maintenance Worker, Automotive, or Electrical curriculum.

Vivian Patterson Smith Memorial Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established for disabled students.

Carl W. Stephens, Jr. Memorial Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 1995 on the untimely death of the hard-working 28-year old radiography student, Carl Stephens, Jr. This endowment funds an annual scholarship for a deserving student in the Radiography program.

Mary Thigpen Strickland Memorial Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established for a student in the first-year Associate Degree Nursing program.

Tarboro Lions Club Endowed Scholarship. Established in 1987, this endowed scholarship was formed to demonstrate the Lions Club’s appreciation for public participation in the Club’s fund raising projects. This scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum, but students who are blind or/and visually impaired or children of the blind or visually impaired are given first consideration.

Tarboro Student Aid Association Endowed Scholarship. Established in 1998, this scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum. This association was established in the 1940s by civic and fraternal clubs and organizations to provide loans to graduates of Tarboro High School who planned to attend college. When this group dissolved in 1998, members established this endowed scholarship at ECC.

Vidant Edgecombe Hospital Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 2000 to support the pursuit of training in the Allied Health field.

Eddie Walker Memorial Endowed Scholarship. Established in 1990 to honor a former Business Administration instructor at ECC, this scholarship is awarded to students in the Business Administration program.

Veryl Wood Memorial Endowed Scholarship. This nursing scholarship was established in 1992 to honor this exceptional nurse.

Sylvia “Red” Baker York Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship was established by family and friends in 1999 to honor Mrs. York, a Tarboro native who spent most of her professional career in Raleigh and became the senior loan officer with Crestar Mortgage. She was recognized as one of the most productive and respected loan officers in the Raleigh area. The scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum.

Named Community Scholarships

Thomas L. Boyette Memorial Scholarship. Established in 2004 to honor Mr. Boyette’s 38 years of service to Superior Essex. This scholarship is awarded to students in the Electrical Electronics program.

John Cherry Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 2004 by the Tarboro Association of Saltwater Sportsmen to honor the memory of John Cherry, son of Police Chief and Mrs. Robert Cherry. The scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum.

Ebonettes Club of Tarboro Scholarship. Established in 2001, this scholarship is awarded to a woman in any curriculum.

Edgecombe Garden Club Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 2003 to support education in Edgecombe County. The scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum.

Edgecombe-Nash Retired School Personnel. This scholarship is awarded to a second-year college transfer student with intent to major in elementary or secondary education.

Golf Tournament Scholarships. Each year the Edgecombe Community College Foundation conducts a golf tournament to raise much needed scholarship dollars. These scholarships are awarded to students in any curriculum.

Gravely Scholarships. One of the oldest private scholarship funds in the twin county area, this scholarship provides funding for students at ECC, Nash Community College, and Wesleyan College.

H&R Block Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 2011 by Proctor Kidwell in memory of his mother, Louise Proctor Kidwell. A hard working accounting student is awarded this scholarship.

Thomas W. Hicks Memorial Scholarship. Established in 2002 to honor Thomas W. Hicks, who worked in life insurance and estate planning in Rocky Mount for 62 years, this scholarship is awarded to students in a business-related field.

Junior Guild of Rocky Mount Scholarship. Established in 1995, this service club scholarship is awarded to a woman in any curriculum.

Murdock Webbing Scholarship. Established in 2003 to recognize the importance of education and training in obtaining good jobs and supporting families, this scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum.

Dorothy Pope Memorial Scholarship. Established in 2010 by family and friends in honor of Mrs. Pope’s dedication to the education and training of young children. This scholarship goes to an Early Childhood Education student who would like to make a difference in the lives of young children.

Alicia Dupree Revis Surgical Technology Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 2010 to support a Surgical Technology student at ECC.

Rocky Mount Business and Professional Women’s Organization Scholarship. This scholarship is awarded to women who are 25 years old or older and are going back to school to enter a new field or better their careers.

Rocky Mount Garden Club Scholarship. This scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum.

Rocky Mount Kiwanis Club Scholarship. Established in 1992, this scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum. A focus on education by this club results in an annual scholarship to ECC.

Margaret M. Rudolph Memorial Nursing Scholarship. Established in 2010 by her husband and family to honor the memory of Mrs. Rudolph’s passion for nursing. This scholarship helps nursing students reach their goals.

State Employees Credit Union Scholarships. Established in 2005, these scholarships encourage excellence by supporting student achievement.

Sunshine Hair Design Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 2004 by business owner Renee Owens. Ms. Owens completed her cosmetology training at ECC and was able to establish a thriving business in this community shortly after completion. Ms. Owens wishes to support other cosmetology students by this annual scholarship.

Tarboro Kiwanis Club Scholarship. The Kiwanis Club is an international service organization of men and women who share the common goal of community and world improvement. Established in 1990, this scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum.

Tarboro Pilot Club Scholarship. This nursing scholarship was established in 1997 by the Tarboro Pilot Club. This active service club focuses on the education and prevention of brain injuries. The Pilot Club conducts many activities throughout the year, such as the bicycle rodeo, the Alzheimer’s walk, car seat safety training, and puppet shows concerning safely awareness in children. This scholarship is awarded to first or second year nursing students.

Telco Credit Union Scholarship. Telco Credit Union recognizes the importance of education and rewards a member who is a student at ECC in any curriculum.

Vidant Edgecombe Hospital Aux. Volunteers Scholarship. This volunteer organization provides not only many needed services for patients at Vidant Edgecombe Hospital but also a scholarship each year for a deserving nursing student. The first scholarship was awarded in 2002.

Joe Webb Memorial Scholarship. Established in 2002 to honor a 30 year instructor at ECC, this scholarship will aid a student in any curriculum.

Wells Fargo Bank Scholarship. Established in 1970, this scholarship provides financial assistance to students in any curriculum.

Woodmen of the World Scholarship. Established in 1994, this scholarship is awarded to second-year nursing students.

Eligibility Requirements

Financial aid is awarded primarily on the basis of need. In addition, financial assistance depends on the availability of financial resources. To be considered for financial aid, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Be enrolled or accepted for enrollment in an eligible program of study at ECC on at least a half-time basis (In some cases, students may receive financial aid for less than half-time enrollment.)
2. Be citizens or eligible non-citizens of the United States with a valid Social Security number
3. Demonstrate financial need
4. Have a high school diploma or GED certificate
5. Be making satisfactory progress in the course of study being pursued

If students qualify for financial aid, they receive an award letter. The award letter is not a guarantee of funds; therefore, it is important that students understand the terms and conditions of the award. They should review the award carefully.

Application Procedure

Currently Enrolled Students

Financial aid awards are made for one academic year at a time; therefore, it is necessary for students to reapply for federal aid each year. In order to remain eligible for aid, they must meet the following criteria:

1. Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as possible after January 1.
2. Maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP). Students are required to complete at least 67 percent of all attempted hours of course work and must maintain a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 - a “C” average.

Deadlines for Submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

Students should submit their FAFSA early. For priority consideration, submit the application by March 15th of each year. Awards offered to students meeting the priority deadline and determined eligible, may receive the North Carolina Student Incentive Grant and/or the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant or both in addition to the federal Pell Grant.

Notification of Award Decisions

Students are notified of award decisions for the academic year typically in the summer (usually June). Awards for students beginning in semesters other than fall are generally made a few weeks prior to the start of that semester.

Payment Schedules

Students who have received financial aid award letters and have funds remaining after tuition and fees, books and supplies, and other charges have been deducted will receive a refund check. Payment schedules will be posted in student bulletin areas each semester as they are determined.

Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) Policy Statement

Federal regulations require students to maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) towards the completion of eligible degree, diploma or certificate programs. This policy applies to Federal Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), Federal Work Study (FWS), and Federal Direct Student Loans (Subsidized, and Unsubsidized). In addition, the SAP policy applies to the North Carolina State Grant program as well.

SAP is reviewed at the end of each semester to determine financial aid eligibility for the next semester of enrollment. All hours previously attempted are considered in determining SAP; therefore a student’s complete academic history is reviewed even if the student did not previously receive financial aid. Students who have never received financial aid may be placed on financial aid warning based on having a Cumulative GPA below a 2.0, or having completed less than 67% of the hours previously attempted. Students who have attempted more than 150 % of the hours required to complete their current active, academic program go into a Suspension status.

Transfer students are required to submit official transcripts from ALL previously attended colleges, regardless of whether or not they have received financial aid. Official transcripts must be submitted to the Edgecombe Community College Office of Admissions. Unofficial transcripts will not be accepted.

SAP Definitions

Satisfactory: Student is eligible for financial aid if all other financial aid eligibility criteria are met.

Warning: Student remains eligible for financial aid; however, the student must meet the SAP requirements at the conclusion of the next term of enrollment. Failure to do so will result in the student being placed in a suspension status. Probation: Student was suspended from financial aid, has submitted an appeal, and the appeal has been approved. The student is conditionally eligible for another semester of financial aid. Any specific conditions in addition to the student making SAP at the end of the probationary semester are noted in the probationary communication to the student. Failure to meet probationary requirements will result in the student being placed on Financial Aid Suspension once again.

Suspension: Student is not eligible to receive federal student aid or state grant assistance. The student must fund his education without the benefit of federal student aid or state grant assistance.

SAP Requirements

Students are encouraged to meet with an Academic Advisor to ensure they are meeting program requirements.

1. Qualitative Standard - Cumulative Grade Point Average
   A student must maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of a 2.0. Grades for repeated courses are included in the GPA calculation for SAP. Grades received in remedial courses are included in the cumulative GPA calculation.
2. Quantitative Standard - Pace of Progression
   Students must complete a minimum of 67% of the hours they attempt at ECC as outlined in the chart below. Grades of F, I, U, W, WF, AU, NS, IP, and R do not count toward the minimum credit completion requirement. Students who fail or withdraw from a class may repeat the class and receive financial aid, if, they are considered to be making SAP. Students who pass a course (A, B, C, D) and wish to take it again may do so one time and receive financial aid to help pay for the class. If students take a previously “passed” class for the third time, they will be denied financial aid for that specific class. Remedial courses are counted in the pace of progression at ECC. It is important to minimize the number of times a student repeats a course so as not to be suspended for falling below a 67% pace of progression.

Below are examples of the minimum pace of progression necessary to maintain SAP:

Cumulative credit hours taken at ECC Greater than 67% Pace of Progression

3. Maximum Time Frame for Completion of a Degree, Diploma, or Certificate (150% Rule)
   The maximum time frame for completion of an academic program is measured by the total number of credit hours a student has attempted at ECC plus all transferred hours accepted from other schools. Credit hours attempted at ECC, but not completed, are always counted per Federal Regulations; all credit hours are included regardless of whether or not financial aid was received during the time the credits were taken. Hours for repeated courses are always counted. The maximum number of credit hours cannot exceed 150% of the credit hours required for the academic program that the student is pursuing. This is referred to as the 150% rule. Once 150% of the credit hours are reached the students are suspended. A student should work with an academic advisor to ensure that he is on track to complete a program. A student should avoid repeating courses if at all possible. Changing academic programs may require a student to take additional hours and exceed the 150% threshold; however, a student can appeal to the Financial Aid Office to make an allowance for the additional hours required to complete the new academic program.

Second Degrees, Diplomas, or Certificates

A student enrolled in a second (not concurrent) academic program is limited to receiving financial aid for the specific courses required to complete the second academic program as determined by an ECC Academic Advisor and documented by an official ECC Advisement Plan. Prior to meeting with an Academic Advisor students must submit ALL official academic transcripts from ALL previously attended institutions. Official transcripts from ALL previously attended postsecondary institutions (not high schools) must be submitted to the Office of Admission. A student seeking a second academic credential will be placed on “Restricted Hours”, which requires meeting with an academic advisor and submitting a new program form to the financial aid office. Students who have already acquired a Bachelor’s degree may be eligible for loans but will not qualify for North Carolina State Funding, Federal Pell Grant, or Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG) per Federal Regulation. A student with a previous Bachelor’s Degree may receive financial aid at ECC for classes that are not repeats of the general education credits earned while completing the Bachelor’s Degree. Once students have been approved and they are receiving financial assistance related to the completion of the second degree they may not change degree plans in order to receive additional financial assistance. Students who do not follow the second degree plan will become ineligible for continued assistance unless there are mitigating circumstances. Students are allowed to complete two academic programs and receive federal student assistance.

Treatment of Remedial (Developmental) Courses

As previously referenced, remedial or developmental credit hours (classes numbered below 100) are counted towards a student’s 67% pace of progression. The courses also count relative to the 150% rule.

Retaking Coursework

The regulatory definition for full-time enrollment status (for undergraduates) has been revised to allow a student to retake any previously passed course one time only. For this purpose, passed means any grade higher than an “F”. This retaken class may be counted towards a student’s enrollment status and the student may be awarded federal student aid for the enrollment status based on inclusion of the class. A student may be paid more than twice for repeatedly failing the same course (the SAP policy still applies to such cases). However, if a student passed a class once he can be paid again for retaking the class once. Regardless of the grade achieved the student may not be paid for retaking the class a third time.

Consortium Agreements and SAP

If a student has an approved consortium agreement between ECC and another institution in which ECC is the host institution, credits earned at the other institution do not count as if they were taken at ECC. A student who is approved for a consortium agreement is required to have an OFFICIAL academic transcript sent to the other institution immediately following the end of the semester.

Application of SAP Requirements

Below are the criteria used by ECC to determine SAP status:

• Students who drop or withdraw from all courses for a semester, or receive any combination of F’s, W’s, WF’s, I’s, U’s and R’s are automatically placed on financial aid WARNING and may be required to return all or a portion of the financial aid they received.
• Students who have reached the maximum number of credit hours allowed to complete an academic program (150% rule) are also placed in a suspension status. The maximum number of credit hours (150% rule) is evaluated on previous enrollment, even if the students did not receive financial aid for all hours attempted. Once 150% of the allowable credit hours are reached, the student becomes ineligible for additional financial assistance.
• SAP is reviewed at the end of each semester to determine financial aid eligibility for the next semester of enrollment.

Regaining Eligibility After Being Suspended

Students who are suspended from financial aid may appeal their status. Students who do not appeal, but wish to continue at ECC do so at their own expense. Students must bring their cumulative GPA above 2.0 and/or complete successfully the number of hours required to achieve a minimum of 67% in order to re-gain financial aid eligibility. Students who have exceeded the maximum number of credit hours (the 150% rule) must complete the degree without receiving additional financial assistance unless circumstances warrant an increase in the number of hours allowed.

SAP Appeals

SAP appeal forms are available in the Office of Student Financial Aid, submitted with email as an attachment, and can be downloaded from the Financial Aid Homepage. Appeals are evaluated by the Financial Aid Office and notification of the decision is sent within 10 working days of the receipt of the appeal. The SAP appeal decision is sent electronically to the student’s ECC email address or in writing to the address on file with ECC. The decision made by the financial aid office is final.

Students are expected to monitor their own SAP and consult with the Office of Student Financial Aid when there are questions or concerns. The office provides written or electronic notice to students when students are on financial aid warning or when they are suspended. It is imperative that students keep their mailing and email addresses updated with ECC and check their ECC student email on a regular basis.

SAP Website

The Office of Student Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress policy on the Financial Aid Homepage is typically the most up-to-date policy information available. SAP policy, procedures, and appeal forms will be printed out for students upon request.

Veterans’ Affairs

Role of Office of Veterans’ Affairs

The Office of Veterans’ Affairs serves to help assimilate veterans into the campus community and its environment. The office provides a myriad of services all designed to assist veterans in the pursuit of their educational objectives.

Assistance begins by helping veterans select a program of study which is suitable to their aptitudes, interests, and abilities. Once a program has been selected and veterans have been accepted by the college, they are assisted in completing their paperwork in order to be certified by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs. Prior to certification, official transcripts from high school and all post-secondary training attempted must be submitted and evaluated in order that credit for previous training may be granted where appropriate.

Students must submit a certified copy of their DD-214 (Report of Discharge) or DD2384 (NOBE) and a 22-1990 (Application for Benefits). After completing the original application and providing supporting documents, veterans must be certified by this office. This certification must show complete identifying information, file number, course name, previous credit allowed, enrollment period, expected graduation date, and additional information as needed.

Veterans who are experiencing academic difficulties in degree/diploma programs are advised to request tutorial assistance, which is provided free of charge. Veterans whose average falls below a two-point-zero (2.0) or “C” average GPA are placed on probation and are so advised in a probation letter. Veterans who fail to make satisfactory progress are terminated (ECC termination letter) and so advised by the college and the Veterans Administration.

The ECC Office of Veterans’ Affairs makes referrals to local and state organizations such as the Employment Security Commission, VA County Service Officer, Vocational Rehabilitation, the Department of Social Services, and the Health Department, when possible, to accommodate special needs of veterans.

Veterans’ Counseling

The college programs are approved for the training of veterans. Veterans and eligible veterans’ dependents who wish to pursue their education under the G.I. Bill must be counseled at the college by the Veterans’ Counselor.

Satisfactory Progress Policy for Veterans

The Veterans Administration regulations require that veterans maintain satisfactory progress in order to continue receiving their educational benefits. A detailed description of the college’s policy concerning satisfactory progress follows:

1. All students are required to have a minimum of two-point-zero (2.0) averages for graduation.
2. When veterans fail to maintain a two-point-zero (2.0) grade point average (GPA), they are placed on academic probation for the following semester of enrollment.
3. At the end of a two-semester probationary period, veterans who do not have a two-point-zero (2.0) cumulative grade point average (CGPA), counting all subjects undertaken from the original enrollment, or who have withdrawn during their probationary period, have their benefits terminated for unsatisfactory progress. Veterans who have their benefits terminated for unsatisfactory progress must raise their average to the minimum required for graduation before being recertified for educational benefits.

Veterans’ Educational Assistance

1. Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance Program (Chapter 35 of Title 38) entitles dependents of a veteran who died of a serviceconnected disability or who has a total disability arising from a serviceconnected disability to receive benefits from the Veterans Administration.
2. The Post-Vietnam Era Veterans’ Act under Chapter 32, Title 38, provides educational assistance for veterans who saved money to be matched. The program is for veterans who entered the military service on or after January 1, 1977.
3. The Selected Reserve Educational Program, Chapter 1606, provides educational assistance for service in the Selected Reserve.
4. Chapter 30, also known as the Montgomery G.I. Bill, covers those persons who entered active duty after June 30, 1985. GED preparation is not covered under Chapter 30.

Students initiate proceedings by contacting their local Veterans’ Affairs office. The Student Services Department is the clearinghouse on campus for veterans’ affairs.