Award Procedures

All financial aid awards are made in accordance with two criteria: demonstrated financial need and the student’s ability to maintain satisfactory academic progress. Completed files are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

A financial aid file is complete only after the following documents or information have been received:

• A valid FAFSA on file with the U.S. Department of Education. The processed FAFSA must have the Howard Community College school code (008175) listed.
• The submission of all other information requested by Financial Aid Services to complete the processing of the student's financial aid application.
• An HCC Scholarship Application, for students who want to be considered for HCC's need-based and/or merit-based foundation scholarships.

Once a student’s financial aid file has been reviewed and determined to be complete by a financial aid counselor, a financial aid package will be processed and the student will be notified via HCC email that awards have been made and to check the myHCC portal. 

The initial financial aid package will be based on assumed full-time status for the fall and winter/spring semesters. Awards are adjusted to actual enrollment status on the financial aid census date prior to disbursement.

NOTE:  Per federal regulations, only coursework that is required as a part of the student's program can be included in the determination of aid eligibility.  If financial aid awards are revised, the student is sent an email notification at his or her HCC email address. Financial aid awards can also be viewed on myHCC.