Award Procedures

Financial assistance is offered in accordance with two criteria: demonstrated financial need and the student’s ability to maintain satisfactory academic progress. Students are offered assistance 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.
• The required agreements are completed.

Once a student’s financial aid file has been reviewed and determined to be complete by a financial aid representative, a financial aid package will be processed and the student will receive an email notification to their HCC email.  

The initial financial aid offer will be based on assumed full-time status for the fall and winter/spring semesters. Grants, scholarships, and loans are adjusted to actual enrollment status on the financial aid census date prior to the semester 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 offers are revised, the student is sent an email notification to their HCC email address. Financial aid offers can also be viewed through Self-Service using the Financial Aid link.