Middlesex CC Helps Set Up Students for Financial Success

With flexible course options, access to a variety of support services, and affordable pricing – Middlesex Community College helps students fit education into their busy lives. Middlesex understands that the pandemic has caused unexpected financial challenges to many. To help, MCC encourages students to fill out the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA), in addition to offering financial wellness resources.

Middlesex wants to make sure students know that financial aid is available to them, and that they may be eligible for more assistance than they think. Students must fill out their FAFSA each academic year in order to qualify. The priority deadline to fill out the FAFSA is Saturday, May 1. Students can still apply for aid into the Fall, but have a better chance of receiving more funding by applying now.

“Many students do not realize that they are eligible for financial assistance,” said Kimberly Tibbetts, MCC’s Director of Financial Aid. “Completing the FAFSA can make a huge difference in being able to afford college. As Middlesex participates in most federal and state grant, scholarship and loan programs, students and their families who qualify can take advantage of several opportunities that allow them to invest in their education – leading to their future academic and professional success.”

Financial aid awards are based on financial need, enrollment status in an eligible program, and availability of funding. Additional forms of financial aid, including student employment, federal work study programs or scholarship opportunities, may be available for those who qualify.

The goal of MCC’s Financial Aid Office is to ensure there are no financial barriers preventing students from earning a college degree or certificate. The office provides information about student-aid programs, and financial aid advisors are available to assist eligible students in accessing these programs.

“Filling out your FAFSA early is essential to making sure you receive the highest amount of aid that you are eligible for,” said Juan Breton, MCC’s Financial Wellness Specialist. “Students who successfully complete their FAFSA application early are more likely to have a solid financial plan for their college expenses.”

In his role with the college, Breton – who is also an MCC alum – runs workshops and activities to support students’ financial health and success. While helping students come up with a financial plan that works best for them, the programs also teach students about topics related to paying for college, including applying for aid, grants and scholarships, repaying student loans, smart borrowing, different types of aid, and avoiding debt.

“I am happy to serve as a resource for students who are looking for avenues that would help them navigate their paths to reach their financial and academic goals,” Breton said.

MCC student Oriana Lara is a Paralegal Studies major from Lowell. She has participated in Financial Wellness events hosted by Breton, including workshops on budgeting and credit scores.

“I believe it’s really important to be aware of your finances,” she said. “Having a workshop like this has helped me make better decisions on my finances.”

For the Fall 2021 semester, Middlesex is offering students a financial wellness incentive to encourage them to complete their FAFSA and make a financial plan. Students who participate will be awarded a $25 credit towards their Fall 2021 tuition bill.

Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/financialaid/ to learn more about applying for financial aid. MCC’s Financial Wellness resources help students set themselves up for success. For more information, visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/financialwellness/ or email financialwellness@middlesex.mass.edu.

Registration for MCC’s Summer and Fall 2021 semesters are now open. To register, visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/registration/ or call 1-800-818-3434.

Discover your path at Middlesex Community College. As one of the largest, most comprehensive community colleges in Massachusetts, MCC has been a proven leader in online education for more than 20 years. We educate, engage and empower a diverse community of learners, offering more than 80 degree and certificate programs – plus hundreds of noncredit courses. Middlesex Community College: Student success starts here!