Paying for College

Student Accounts and Financial Aid

As the cost of education continues to rise, decisions on how students and parents will pay for college become very important. Sources of assistance, such as Federal Financial Aid, Scholarships etc. can help cover some of these expenses. Students and parents should begin determining how they will meet outstanding educational costs with family resources such as earnings, savings etc.Student Accounts and Financial Aid processing is ongoing throughout the year. Therefore, to ensure your financial aid prior to the beginning of book charging each term you must align your student account with your financial aid. The Student Portal is your direct access to your student information such as your Student Account(Ledger Card) and Financial Aid information such as Missing Documents and SAP status.

The Financial Aid Team is responsible for preparing and communicating information on financial aid. This office helps students apply for and receive grants, scholarships, student loans and other types of financial aid, and providing general assistance to students regarding their financial aid status. The Student Accounts Team is responsible for billing and collecting tuition and fees, posting payments and financial aid disbursements, processing stipends/refunds, and providing general assistance to students regarding their accounts. It is recommended to use the timeline below and your portal access to stay informed. The following tabs will inform students/families about Student Accounts and Financial Aid processes and contact information.

Timeline & Objectives Important Very Important Very Very Important

Spring 2023 Timeline Fall 2022 Timeline

COST OF COLLEGE STUDENT ACCOUNTS BOOKSTORE CHARGING FEDERAL STUDENT AID SCHOLARSHIPS FUNDING FORMS RESOURCES FINANCIAL AID TEAM STUDENT ACCOUNTS TEAM

Tuition and Fees

Central Arizona College is committed to offering all students affordable tuition along with affordable fees that do not break their pocket books. Students who choose Central Arizona College as the place to pursue their educational dreams can do so without the worry of having to pay too much for their continued education.

Billing Methods and Rates

The college uses three different billing methods which will determine the amount of tuition students will pay per credit hour.

To see the breakdown of charges per billing method, please click the following link

Exciting News!! Starting with the Fall 2022 semester, the Arizona Resident Tuition Rate will drop to $50.00 per credit. Out of State tuition and WUE tuition rates will be based off of the new rate. Please see the 2022-2023 Adopted Tuition and Fee Schedule for the updated rates.

2022 – 2023 Adopted Tuition and Fee Schedule

Arizona Resident – Current Tuition Rate = $50.00 per credit

Out of State Resident – Student pays 200% of normal stated tuition rate

Western Undergraduate Education Program (WUE) – Student pays 150% of normal stated tuition rate

Students from 15 Western states are eligible to participate in the Western Undergraduate Education Program (W.U.E.). The program allows full-time students who are seeking degrees or certificates to pay 150 percent resident tuition, rather than out-of-state tuition. Central Arizona College participates in the program along with other colleges and universities in Arizona, Alaska, California, Colorado, Common Wealth of the Northern Marianas Islands, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington and Wyoming.

Must be a full time student and classes must be in AZ.

To be considered full time you must be enrolled in at least 12 credits for Fall/Spring and at least 6 credits for Summer session only.

Tuition and Fees are Subject to Change Without Prior Notice

*Please review the current residency requirements on the Admissions tab of the Central Arizona College webpage.

^**Some credit courses have a lab or special fee that is required. Fees for non-credit special interest courses are determined on a course by course individual basis.

Course Fees

Some courses at Central Arizona College have additional course fees that are added in addition to the tuition fee that is incurred during registration. To see if the course you are registering for has additional course fees, please click the link below to review the current additional course fees

2022 – 2023 Additional Course Fees

Special Fees

Special fees include items such as Residence Hall Fees, HESI Exam fees, ID replacement fees, or College for Kids fees etc. To view the current fees please click on the link below

2022 – 2023 Adopted Special Fee Schedule

Prior Academic Year Tuition and Fees

2021 – 2022 Adopted Tuition and Fee Schedule

2020 – 2021 Adopted Tuition and Fee Schedule

2019-2020 Adopted Tuition and Fee Schedule

Cost to Attend College

As the cost of education continues to rise, decisions on how students and parents will pay for college become very important. Sources of assistance, such as Federal Financial Aid or scholarships, can help cover some of these expenses. Students and parents should begin determining how they will meet outstanding educational costs with family resources such as earnings, savings etc. You may use the Net Price Calculator/Estimator (click here) to get an approximate amount of your educational cost here at Central Arizona College. The cost of attendance is based on residency, housing and enrollment status. Below are the estimated full-time Cost of Attendance figures for 2021-2022, which contain both institutional and estimated living expenses.

Cost of Attendance Comparison Chart	Arizona Resident Living On or Off Campus	Arizona Resident Living with Parent	Out of State Resident Living On or Off Campus	WUE Resident Living On or Off Campus
Books	$1,600	$1600	$1600	$1600
Miscellaneous	$800	$800	$800	$800
Room & Board	$7900	$1896	$7900	$7900
Transportation	$2015	$2015	$2015	$2015
Tuition	$1200	$1200	$2400	$1800
Total	$13,515	$7511	$14715	$14,115

Payment Information

When are my Tuition and Fees Due?

Payment for tuition and fees are due at the time of registration. Students should have a plan to pay for college before registering. Students can self pay, use financial aid, receive scholarships, use third party agencies, or enroll in a payment plan when paying for tuition and fees.

What Forms of Payment are Accepted?

Cash, Check, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express

Where Can I Make a Payment?

Online Student Portal Payment: Credit or debit card payments and payment using e-check can be made online by logging into your student account.

Click Student Portal Login to be taken directly to the student portal login page
Click on My Finances
Click on Online Payment and fill in the payment information

Pay by Phone: Students can call the Cashier’s Office at 520-494-5240 to make payments by credit or debit card.

Pay in Person: Students can stop in to any of the five campuses to pay by cash, check, or card at the Cashier’s counter.

Please mail checks to:

Central Arizona College – District Office
ATTN: Cashier’s Office
8470 North Overfield Road
Coolidge, AZ 85128

*Please be sure to include your student ID number with your payment.

Questions About Payments? Contact Us Below

Email: Student.Accounts@Centralaz.edu
Phone: 520-494-5240

Payment Plan

What is the Payment Plan?

Payment Plans are administered by Central Arizona College and become available in the student portal on the first day of registration for each semester. Payment plans are designed to stretch out the student’s balance owed over the duration of the semester. Both the Fall and Spring semesters offer up to 4 payments, and the Summer semester plan will offer up to 3 payments. The number of payments offered depends on when the student enrolls in the plan.

The payment plan can be used for:
Self pay students who are looking to pay tuition and fees over the length of the semester
Students who are waiting on their financial aid status to be approved
Students who need to charge books

Cost to Enroll: $35.00

Enrollment fee is charged every semester
Enrollment fee is non-refundable
There is a $10.00 late fee for any payments made after the ten day grace period. (note: a HOLD will be placed on the student account if payments are not made on time)

Enrollment Deadlines & Payment Due Dates

Spring

Enrollment Deadline	Number of Payments	Enrollment Fee	Payment Due Dates
February 10th	4	$35	February 15, March 15, April 15, May 15
March 10th	3	$35	March 15, April 15, May 15
April 10th	2	$35	April 15, May 15

Summer

Enrollment Deadline	Number of Payments	Enrollment Fee	Payment Due Dates
June 10th	3	$35	June 15, July 15, August 15
July 10th	2	$35	July 15, August 15

Fall

Enrollment Deadline	Number of Payments	Enrollment Fee	Payment Due Dates
September 10th	4	$35	September 15, October 15, November 15, December 15
October 10th	3	$35	October 15, November 15, December 15
November 10th	2	$35	November 15, December 15

Important: Payments must be made manually every month through the student portal. There are no automatic payment options at this time

To Enroll In A Payment Plan

Start from the CAC Home Page by clicking the link below

https://centralaz.edu/

Select Student Portal from the quick links
Log in to your portal
Select My Finances-Payment Plan Form
Select Click here to enroll in a Payment Plan

Follow the prompts and be sure to click the “Return to Payment Plan” link after paying your enrollment fee to finish the process.

Disclaimer: By signing up for the payment plan you agree to abide by the terms of the agreement. Each student will be given one opportunity to re-enroll in a payment plan if terms are not met. After that, students will no longer be able to utilize the payment plan and charges will be come due and payable at time of registration.

Questions About the Payment Plan? Contact Us Below

Email: Student.Accounts@Centralaz.edu
Phone: 520-494-5240

Expecting a Stipend or Refund?

Stipends and Refunds

Stipend vs. Refund – What’s the difference?

A stipend is excess money from a financial aid source that has approved the release of these excess funds to be disbursed directly to a student. The stipend is money left over after all tuition and fees have been paid on the student account. A stipend may result from sources that are used to pay fees such as Pell, scholarships, student loans etc.

A refund is excess money that is refunded back to the student after the student self paid for fees on the student account. Money may also be refunded to a financial aid source that either over paid or is no longer providing support for the student.

Expecting a Stipend or Refund?

Financial aid disbursements begin taking place generally two weeks after the semester begins. A disbursement is the transfer of approved financial aid which moves from an approved status and gets placed on the student account. The amount of financial aid that is approved will cover any tuition and fees that are currently on the student account. Any money that is left over after paying all fees will be the amount that is stipend or refunded.

Important: When looking at the student account in the student portal if there are parenthesis around the amount due (258.00), this means there is a credit on the student account. The Student Account Team will review all credits and determine if the money should be stipend or refunded to the student.

Stipends and refunds are generally processed 7-10 business days after financial aid is applied to the student account. Stipends and refunds are sent directly to BankMobile Disbursements, a technology solution, powered by BMTX, Inc. and processed based on the refund selection chosen by the student.

BankMobile Disbursements

It is time to select a refund preference.

Central Arizona College delivers your funds with BankMobile Disbursements, a technology solution, powered by BMTX, Inc. Visit this link for more information: https://bankmobiledisbursements.com/refundchoices/.

Funds that are credited to a student that come from a stipend or refund are processed by Student Accounts and sent electronically to BankMobile Disbursements, a technology solution, powered by BMTX, Inc. for disbursement. It is important for all students to have a refund preference selected.

For any issues please contact Student Accounts at student.accounts@centralaz.edu or call 520-494-5240

To view our third-party servicer contract for disbursement management, click the information button below

Third Party

Third Party Agency

What is a Third Party Agency?

Third party agencies are businesses that the student has partnered with to pay some or all of their tuition and fees for a specific semester. Agencies can be but are not limited to the student’s employer (tuition reimbursement), local or state agencies such as the Department of Economic Security, WIOA, VA, and many others.

Agency Responsibility

When an agency chooses to cover fees incurred they should partner with the student to ensure any and all documentation is current and correct. The agency is responsible for submitting an authorization letter to Student Accounts prior to the semester starting. Letters received after courses start may be delay invoice processing. Once an invoice is created and sent to the agency, they will be responsible for the total amount due. Failure to pay in a timely manner may hold up the students ability to register or receive transcripts for future semesters.

Letters of Authorization should include the following:

Student first and last name
Student CAC ID number
Semester
Amount committing to pay including any course fees
Conditions of authorization (ex: apply Pell prior to invoicing)
Agency contact and mailing address to send refunds

Note: Letters should be sent at the beginning of each semester. Invoices are only provided one semester at a time. Please send or email to the contact information below

Student Responsibility

Students are responsible for supplying the agency with documentation to support the payment process. Items may include but are not limited to registration bills, current cost of attendance including Out of State or WUE charges, course fees, and book pricing. The student should submit their documentation as soon as they can to their agency. Failure to provide current and proper documentation may delay the invoicing process.

It is important for the student to read and understand the terms and conditions set by the agency. Terms and conditions may change at any time. Please contact the agency if you have questions regarding the authorization to pay.

Invoices

Invoices are generally created and sent to the agency by individual student 4-6 weeks after the semester begins. Students will continue to see a balance due on their student account until the agency submits payment. Invoices are sent to the agency by email. All invoices are due at the time of receipt. Agencies may choose to pay by individual student or they may send one payment for groups of students the agency is sponsoring.

Overpayment & Excess Money

Excess money may be left over on a student’s account after the agency payment is posted. Student Accounts will review each account and determine how to handle the excess funds. The authorization letter should stipulate how to handle each scenario. Student Accounts will contact the agency to determine if the funds should be refunded or if the student may receive a stipend. The college does not determine what happens with the funds. Students should follow up with the agency if they feel the money should be given to them in a stipend. The agency must be clear on how to handle excess funds.

Contact Information

Please send all letters of authorization to the following address:

Central Arizona College District Office
Attention: Student Accounts Department
8470 N. Overfield Road
Coolidge, AZ 85128

Email to ARInvoicing@Centralaz.edu

Making Schedule Changes?

Schedule Changes

Adding a Class

Tuition fees are based on the current academic year. To see the current tuition fees click on the tuition and fee schedule link here Tuition and Fee Schedule.

When adding a class, the student account balance will increase based on the students current billing method (in state, out of state, or WUE). It is the student’s responsibility to pay for all fees incurred. Reminder, tuition and fees are due at the time of registration. Student’s should make sure to follow up with their academic advisor as well as the financial aid department before adding a class.

Dropping a Class

Regular semester length classes/Summer Session classes

Refund: Students who choose to drop a class can do so and receive a full refund if one of the following requirements are met:

The drop is submitted prior to the class start date
The drop is submitted before the end of the drop/add period. Please click on the Academic Calendar link to view the specific dates. Academic Calendar

No Refund: Students who choose to drop a class after the drop/add period will not receive a refund and will still owe the balance for the class

Short term classes/Late Start Classes

Any student officially withdrawing before the first day of class will be entitled to a 100% refund.

There are no refunds for short term classes dropped after the class starts.

Students will receive refunds during the normal stipend and refund process.

When the college is responsible for a change, i.e., cancelled class, time change, etc., the college will determine if there is a credit on the student account and refund any amount due back to the student during the normal stipend and refund process.

Financial Aid Recipients who totally withdraw from classes:

The financial aid office will perform a Return to Title IV Calculation (R2T4) to determine the amount of aid required to be refunded to the federal financial aid program(s). If a grant overpayment is due from the student, the student will be notified by mail. The student may pay the grant overpayment directly to the school during the same academic year. At the end of the academic year, any uncollected overpayments will be turned over to the Department of Education for collections.

Questions about how adding or dropping a class effects your student account? Contact Us Below

Email: Student.Accounts@Centralaz.edu
Phone: 520-494-5240

1098-T Tax Information

Will I get a 1098-T?

1098-T tax forms are provided only to students who pay more money out of pocket for “qualifying expenses” than the amount of financial aid or scholarships they receive during the calendar year.

Qualifying expenses include tuition and any fees that are required for enrollment. Room and board charges are not a qualifying expense and will not be included on your 1098-T

To ensure you get your 1098-T tax form on time, please make sure the following items are updated.

Social Security Number is on file with the Admissions Department
Make sure you have a citizenship chosen
Make sure your contact information is current which includes your mailing address, phone number, and email

Disclaimer: Students who do not qualify as a United States Citizen but meet the requirements above must request their 1098-T to be submitted by student accounts prior to the filing date. Failure to request annually will result in forfeit of the years tax form

Where Can I Find My 1098-T Tax Form?

If you qualify for a 1098-T tax form and all the above requirements have been met, you will find your form in the student portal.

To log into the student portal click the Student Portal Link here Student Portal

Enter your username and password
Select My Finances
Select View 1098-T

Have a Question about the 1098-T? Contact Us Below

Email: Student.Accounts@Centralaz.edu
Phone: 520-494-5240

To see the most recent updates from the IRS regarding the 1098-T please visit www.irs.gov

Am I Eligible?

If you are a student who has a Financial Aid Award that exceeds all other charges (ex: tuition, course fees, room & board, etc.). Students can use the remaining balance to charge books to their student account.
NOTE: If the student’s book charge exceeds the remaining balance available the student will be responsible for paying for the remaining balance out of pocket.
If you are a student who signed up for a Student Payment Plan, you are eligible. Students can sign up for the plan and add bookstore charges up to $800.00 to their student account. Click highlighted link for more details.
NOTE: Payment plans are for the current semester only. Students must manually pay their monthly amount due by the 15th of each month they are enrolled in the plan.
If you are a student who has been approved to use Military and Veteran Education Services, you will be eligible. The amount eligible to charge may vary.
NOTE: We strongly recommend you contact the Military and Veteran Specialist prior to charging books to your student account.

When can I charge books?

Bookstore charging is available approximately 2 weeks before each semester. For specific dates click on the appropriate “Timeline” button located above this page.

How do I charge books?

Students should first confirm the availability of their financial aid funds prior to attempting to charge books. For questions regarding financial aid funds contact the Financial Aid or the Student Accounts Office.

Bookstore charging in person

1. 1. 1. 1. Present your Central Arizona College Student ID or government issued photo ID.
      2. Bring a copy of your class schedule. The class schedule should have the students name and ID.
      3. Books can be picked up the same day

Note: Books may be out of stock and will be reordered by Barnes and Noble

Bookstore charging online orders

1. 1. 1. 1. Visit the Barnes and Noble bookstore
      2. Select Financial Aid (FA) as your payment type
      3. Enter your Central Arizona College Student ID in the account number field and check out
      4. Online orders can be picked up in person at the Signal Peak Campus or the books can be shipped directly to the student address

Your Responsibility:

The student is responsible for any changes that may occur prior to or during the semester. Situations such as dropping courses may change the amount of financial aid the student is awarded. The student is responsible for any balances due that are not covered by financial aid awards. Failure to comply may lead to balances due that exceed the student’s expectations. Nonpayment of charges may also hinder the student’s progress and hold up registration for future semesters, as well as have a negative impact on the financial aid status. Please contact the Financial Aid or Student Accounts Department if you have any questions about changes in aid or balances due.

Questions About Bookstore Charging? Contact us below

Central Arizona College Official Bookstores

Signal Peak Campus
8470 North Overfield Road
Coolidge, AZ 85128
Phone: 520-494-5440

Superstition Mountain Campus
805 South Idaho Road
Apache Junction, AZ 85119
Phone: 480-677-7709

Financial Aid Office
Email: finaid@centralaz.edu
520-494-5425

Student Accounts Office
Email: student.accounts@centralaz.edu
520-494-5240

FAFSA Application Process

FASFA: How to Apply

The first step in applying for federal financial aid is completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Be sure your application is complete and accurate. Incomplete or incorrect information may delay your application and your financial aid. Students and Parents can use the IRS data retrieval tool to ensure accuracy when completing the FAFSA. The IRS data retrieval tool allows students and parents to import the IRS income information directly to the FAFSA application. The Central Arizona College Title IV School Code is 007283. Students must apply each academic year.

After filing your FAFSA a Student Aid Report (SAR) will be made available for you to review for accuracy and retain for your records. The SAR contains the EFC figure. We will send you an e-mail as receipt acknowledgement indicating successful download of your FAFSA data and will inform you to check your online student account for additional information

Step by step on completing the 2022-23 FAFSA online

Verification

Applications will be automatically selected for a federally required verification process. Verification is the process of comparing the data on the student’s FAFSA and actual documentation. CAC is required by federal law, to collect the necessary documentation and verify certain data elements for any discrepancies. If selected for Verification you and your family may be required to present financial documents in order for the financial aid office to verify for discrepancies and complete packaging. Verificaiton documentation will include but not limited to:

Adjusted Gross Income (student and parent, if the student is dependent)
Taxes Paid (student and parent, if the student is dependent)
Income Earned from Work (for non-tax filers)
Certain Untaxed Income Items (student and parent, if the student is dependent)
Household Size
Number in College (excluding parents for a dependent student)
Child Support Paid
Educational Purpose
Any other inconsistent or conflicting information

After receiving your verification documentation the process can take up to 2 weeks. If additional information is required we will contact you via phone, email and/or mail. If updates/corrections are made they are transmitted to CPS for processing. Upon receipt of corrections, processor ensures verification is complete. Upon completion of your financial aid file we will determine your cost of attendance and package your Federal Pell grant award. Campus based grants will be awarded accordingly based on FAFSA completion date. Federal Loans are packaged with a borrower initiated process beginning on the Federal Direct Loan Programs page. All federal grant awards are packaged anticipating full time enrollment and will be pro rated accordingly after the drop/add period each semester.

After the financial aid office completes the packaging award information is provided via student portal which gives you the types and amounts of aid you qualified for. The award terms, conditions, requirements and messages are also available.

Eligibility and Return to Title IV (R2T4)

Eligibility

To be eligible for federal financial aid, the student must:

·have financial need, (except for some loan programs)
·have a high school diploma, General Education Development (GED) Certificate
·be admitted as a “regular” student according to the admission requirements listed in the college catalog
·be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
·have a valid Social Security number
·file your income tax return with the IRS, if required
·maintain satisfactory academic progress
·sign a statement of educational purpose and certification of statement on overpayment and default (on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, FAFSA)
·register with the Selective Service, if required

SAP

The Federal regulations require that financial aid students maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) toward an eligible degree or certificate program. This policy applies to student applying for Title IV financial aid, including Federal Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), Federal Work-Study (FWS), Arizona Leveraging Educational Assistance Program (AzLEAP), and Federal Direct Stafford Loans (Stafford Subsidized, Stafford Unsubsidized, and Parent PLUS).

SAP is reviewed at the end of each semester to determine financial aid eligibility for the upcoming semester. SAP is evaluated on students’ previous enrollment, regardless of whether or not they received financial aid. A student’s entire academic history at CAC is considered when evaluating SAP standing even when financial aid was not received. Even if students have never received federal financial aid, they may be placed on probation or suspension based on low cumulative GPA and/or exceeding the 150% rule and/or a low credit completion rate during their most recent semester at CAC.

If a student is not making satisfactory progress, the student may appeal that decision based on mitigating circumstances. Procedures and forms for the appeal process and reinstatement of federal financial aid are available here.

The Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy is also available to students in the college catalog.

If a student’s status is unsatisfactory due to a complete withdraw, the financial aid office will perform a Return to Title IV Calculation (R2T4) for that semester to determine the amount of aid that may need to be returned and if the student has a grant overpayment the student will be notified by mail. The student may pay the grant overpayment directly to the school if during the same academic year, at the end of the academic year any uncollected overpayments will be turned over to the Department of Education for collections.

Return to Title IV

Financial Aid Recipients who totally withdraw from classes:

Types of Financial Aid

Grants – Do not need to be paid back

Federal Pell Grant
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG)
Private Grants
Awarding of all federal and many private Grants is based on FAFSA completion date, need and enrollment.

Scholarships – Do not need to be paid back

Many scholarships, but not all, require completion of the FASFA
Many are merit or for a specific student recipient

Work-Study –Student Employment

Central Arizona College offers students the opportunity to work on campus to earn money to meet educational costs. Students are paid minimum wage and may work up to 20 hours per week if enrolled as a full-time student. For more information, contact the Coordinator of Student Employment at 520-494-5424

Part-time jobs for students with financial need
Institutional Work-Study-Limited to institutional funding
Federal Work Study-FAFSA required to determine eligibility

Student Loans – Must be paid back with interest

Federal Student Loans
External Private Educational Loans

Special Circumstances

Your financial aid eligibility is based on all the information submitted on your FAFSA. The Financial Aid Office recognizes that families experience changes in income or have family circumstances that are not reflected correctly on the current FAFSA.

A financial aid administrator may on a case-by-case basis, adjust the data used to calculate the Expected Family Contribution (EFC).

A current Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) must be completed and received by CAC before applying for the following type of special circumstances that apply to you:

Income Reassessment Review Form

Unaccompanied Homeless Youth – contact yvonne.correa@centralaz.edu

Dependency Override Request Form

Federal Student Loans

Federal Direct Loan Programs

^* Students with an EFC of 5847 or greater. Your eligibility is limited to federal direct student loans. If interested, please initiate the process by visiting Federal Direct Loan Programs.

Federal Student Aid Information
The Student Guide is available through the Federal Student Aid Information Center.

For more information on Federal financial aid programs, visit Student Aid on the Web, U.S. Department of Education, or visit FinAid, The Smart Student Guide to Financial Aid. You may also contact the Federal Student Aid Information Center at 1-800-4-FED-AID (1-800-433-3243), TCC Number 1-800-730-8913.

Please review loan deadlines below, all requests received after the deadlines will be considered for the upcoming semester.

The Direct Loan Program offers the following types of loans:

Direct Subsidized Loans:

·For students with financial need.
·You must be enrolled at least half time.
·No interest is charged while you are in school at least half time, during your grace period, and during deferment periods.
·You do not have to make payments while you are attending school at least half time and during your grace period.
·You will receive a six month grace period after you drop below half time.
·Subsidized Usage Limit Applies (SULA)-As of July 1,2013, a first-time borrower is subject to additional provisions authorized under the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21). SULA eligibility for a Direct Subsidized Loan cannot go beyond 150% of the length of the program the borrower is enrolled in. Exceeding the 150% limit will cause the borrower to lose Direct Subsidized Loan eligibility and loss of subsidy on previously borrowed subsidized loans.

Direct Unsubsidized Loans:

·Not based on financial need.
·You must be enrolled at least half time.
·Interest is charged during all periods.
·You do not have to make payments while you are attending school at least half time and during your grace period, but interest will continue to be charged.
·You will receive a six month grace period after you drop below half time.

Direct PLUS Loans:

·Unsubsidized loans for graduate or professional students (and for parents of dependent undergraduate students).
·You must be enrolled at least half time.
·You can borrow up to the school’s cost of attendance, less all other financial assistance you receive.
·Interest is charged during all periods.
·Direct PLUS Loans do not have a grace period. The repayment begins as soon as the loan is fully disbursed, but you may defer repayment while you are enrolled at least half time and for an additional six months after you drop below half time.
·To qualify for a Direct PLUS Loan, you must not have an adverse credit history. A credit check will be conducted.
·If you have an adverse credit history, you may still qualify for a Direct PLUS Loan if you obtain an endorser who does not have an adverse credit history, or if you document to our satisfaction that there are extenuating circumstances related to your adverse credit history. (An endorser is someone who agrees to repay a Direct PLUS Loan if you do not repay the loan.
·Parents of dependent students who want to borrow should contact the Financial Aid Office to apply for a PLUS loan.

Application Process

Students may borrow up to the amounts listed on the Federal Direct Loan Request Form but cannot exceed their Cost of Attendance (COA). You will be required to complete a Master Promissory Note (MPN). All loans will have multiple disbursements, normally 2 per semester. See your loan disclosure statement for dates. A fee will be deducted equally from each disbursement of your loan. Follow the steps below to complete the Federal Direct Stafford Loan process. Failure to follow steps in order may delay processing of the loan. If you have any questions, please contact our office. Borrowers must submit request form prior to October 7th for Fall loans and March 11th for Spring loans and June 10th for Summer loans.

Step 1: Complete Online Entrance Counseling. As a student loan borrower, you must complete Entrance Counseling so you can be completely informed before borrowing a loan. You must sign in using your FSAID. All borrowers under the Federal Direct Loan Program are required to complete online Entrance Counseling before receiving their loan. Counseling must be completed prior to submitting the Federal Direct Loan Request Form.

About the Quiz

·Each Counseling Session page will provide you with information about Federal Direct Loans. There will be a quiz at the end of each section. You must complete each section and answer all the questions in order to select the “Continue” button and view the next page.
·Each Counseling Session page will contain right links on the right hand side to indicate the current counseling page. You may select one of the links in order to go to that page. Only completed pages will be accessible via the right navigation links.
·Your answers to the quiz will be saved if you choose to navigate to other screens. If you do not complete the counseling prior to logging out of the Direct Loan web site, your answers will not be saved, and you will have to begin a new counseling session from Step 1.
·Once you have completed the Counseling Session and quiz you will be taken to the Completion Verification page, which will display your information, the date you completed the counseling session and the type of counseling you have completed based on the type of student you told us you are. You may print a copy of the verification page for your records. The school(s) you choose will be informed electronically when you complete your counseling.
·There is a loan calculator that you can use to determine what you should borrow (for all the years you are in school). Also, based on what you have already borrowed and what you expect to borrow, you can get an idea of how much you should earn in order to repay your loans. Entrance Counseling is required each year you request a Federal Stafford Loan.

Step 2: Complete Online Master Promissory Note (MPN). To sign the MPN electronically, you will need to use your FSAID. If you don’t have one or you forgot FSAID, you may go to www.fsaid.ed.gov. MPN must be completed prior to submitting Federal Direct Loan Request Form. Your rights and responsibilities as a borrower are further explained on your MPN.

Step 3: Complete the Federal Direct Loan Request Form and return it to the Financial Aid Office at Central Arizona College. You can monitor the progress via your student portal.

Graduating Student Loan Borrowers

Graduating from CAC:

You’re graduating! Congratulations! As a student loan borrower, you are required to complete the online Direct Loan Exit Counseling which will provide you with important information that will prepare you for repaying your federal student loan(s). Whether you are entering the work force or continuing your education, we want you to be prepared!

Video not supported.

Be aware that upon graduation your student loan(s) enter their grace period. This means you have 6 months before you must begin to make payment on your federal student loan(s).

Video not supported.

Continuing Education:

If you borrowed federal student loans while at CAC and have decided to continue your education at another college or university, you are still required to complete the online Direct Loan Exit Counseling. Remember to enroll in at least 6 credits at your new school, so that your loans will stay in an in-school deferment status and will not enter the grace period. The school should report your enrollment to the National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS) or to be sure you may request a paper deferment form from your loan servicer to ensure your loans stay in good standing.

Your student loan obligation is very important and how you manage it will help you to determine your future financial success. We recommend contacting your loan servicer and setting up your online account as soon as possible.

Video not supported.

Money Management :

We want you to have a successful financial future. Our CAC Financial Aid Specialist is available to assist you if you have any questions before or after you contact your loan servicer.

Yolanda Talamantez
CAC Financial Aid Specialist
Phone: (520) 494-5006
Email: yolanda.talamantez@centralaz.edu

Loan Repayment

Repaying Student Loans

Whether you’re still in school or you’ve already graduated, it’s important to start planning how you’ll repay your loan. Federal student loan borrowers have a six-month grace period before making payments. Use this time to get organized and select a repayment plan that will ensure your payments are manageable and will fit your needs. A loan servicer can help address any questions you may have.

What is a loan servicer? A loan servicer is a company that is assigned to you by the Department of Education to handle the billing and other services on your federal student loan on their behalf, at no cost to you.

Student Loan Forgiveness

Video not supported.

If you become employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, you may be able to receive loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program.

Video not supported.

For detailed information visit the Federal Student Aid links available below:

Do not hesitate to contact your loan servicer at any time if you are experiencing financial difficulty. You want to avoid any serious consequences that may lead to default status and damage your credit rating. Your loan servicer can suggest a number of options that can lower or even temporarily suspend your monthly payment. They will work closely with you to address your needs.

We want you to have a successful financial future. Our CAC Financial Aid Specialist is available to assist you if you have questions before or after you contact your loan servicer.

Yolanda Talamantez
CAC Financial Aid Specialist
Phone: (520) 494-5006
Email: yolanda.talamantez@centralaz.edu

Default Prevention

Understanding Default

The first day after you miss a student loan payment, your loan becomes past due, or delinquent. If your loan continues to be delinquent, the loan may go into default.

Video not supported.

If you are delinquent on your student loan payment for 90 days or more, your loan servicer will report the delinquency to the three major national credit bureaus. If you continue to be delinquent, your loan is at risk of going into default. After at least 270 days and no scheduled loan payments have been made, you will be considered to be in default.

Keep in mind even if you are delinquent on your loan, you may still be able to avoid going into default, so it’s important that you contact your loan servicer immediately.

NEVER ignore delinquency or default notices from your loan servicer—defaulting on your loan can have serious consequences.

Consequences of Default

You are responsible for repaying your student loans even if you did not complete your program of study or had trouble finding a job after graduation, or even if you are not satisfied with your education. You cannot disregard your federal student loan obligation. Defaulting on your student loans can carry serious consequences.

Video not supported.

There are several affordable repayment options that you may be able to take advantage of to continue making loan payments even when times are tough.

Preventing Default

You must take the time to fully understand your loan agreement and the types of loans you are receiving. It’s important that you not borrow more than what you need or more than you expect to be able to repay. Develop a sound—and realistic—financial plan.

For detailed information visit the Federal Student Aid links available below:

Postponing Repayment

Two options are available for postponing repayment of your student loans are deferments and forbearances. Your loan servicer will determine your eligibility.

Video not supported.

Getting Out of Default

One way to get out of default is to repay the defaulted loan in full, but that’s not a practical option for most borrowers. Two main ways to get out of default are loan rehabilitation and loan consolidation. While loan rehabilitation takes several months to complete, you can quickly apply for loan consolidation. However, loan rehabilitation provides certain benefits that are not available through loan consolidation. Contact your loan servicer they can help guide you through this process.

Video not supported.

For detailed information visit the Federal Student Aid links available below:

Loan Rehabilitation
Loan Consolidation
Repayment in Full
Getting out of Default

Need Help?

Do not hesitate to ask for help!

We want you to have a successful financial future.

Our CAC Financial Aid Specialist is available to help you if you have any questions before or after you contact your loan servicer.

Yolanda Talamantez
CAC Financial Aid Specialist
Phone: (520) 494-5006
Email: yolanda.talamantez@centralaz.edu

or contact

The U.S. Department of Education’s Federal Student Aid (FSA) Ombudsman Group is also a neutral, informal resource to help resolve disputes and solve other problems with federal student loans. The Ombudsman helps resolve problems related to student loans when other approaches have failed. Borrowers must first make every effort to resolve student loan problems before contacting the Ombudsman. Borrowers who have completed steps to resolving their loan dispute and are still not satisfied may contact the Ombudsman by either completing an online form or by calling 1-877-557-2575.

Institutional Scholarships

Central Arizona College offers a variety of scholarship programs to recognize students for their academic performance as well as for participation in athletics and other activities. Below is information for institutional scholarship programs, students interested should review the programs and submit their online application for consideration.

A student may receive one or more of the following types of scholarships not to exceed the cost of tuition, registration and processing fees for a resident student. To receive a scholarship the student must meet the following conditions:

Must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
Must complete an online CAC Scholarship application and comply with all requirements
Must be pursuing a degree or certificate.
Must be enrolled in an on-campus program.
New students are first priority.
Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen if applicable.
All scholarships must be coordinated with Federal financial aid, and the total of all awards may not exceed need.

The Scholarship awarding process is ongoing throughout the academic year. It is recommended you have your application on file before the priority deadline. You can check on the status of your application via the Student Portal. Review your documents and awards sections for any updates and/or scholarship allocation.

Scholarships Available

CAC Academic Scholarship

Target: Students who graduate in the top 10% of their high school graduating class at participating high schools.
Enrollment Requirements: Must enroll in a minimum of 12 credit hours in the semester immediately following high school graduation.
Renewal Requirements: Must complete/earn a minimum of 9 credit hours each semester, must earn and maintain a 3.0 cumulative grade point average, enrollment must be continuous, and limited to four consecutive semesters.
Value: The amount equivalent to in-state tuition up to 12 credit hours.

CAC Incentive Scholarship

Target: Primarily first generation college, first time recent high school.
Enrollment Requirements: Must enroll in a minimum of 6 credit hours per semester.
Renewal Requirements: Must complete application form each year, must complete a minimum of 6 credit hours each semester, must earn and maintain a 2.5 cumulative grade point average, enrollment must be continuous and limited to four consecutive semesters.
Value: The amount covers a portion of in-state tuition and is based on financial need. The amount is prorated for enrollment less than full-time.

Non-Traditional Student Scholarship

Target: Primarily reentry students 23 years of age or older.
Enrollment Requirements: Must enroll in a minimum of 6 credit hour per semester.
Renewal Requirements: Must complete application form each year, must complete a minimum of 6 credit hours each semester, must earn and maintain a 2.5 cumulative grade point average. Enrollment must be continuous and limited to four consecutive semesters.
Value: The amount covers a portion of in-state tuition and is based on financial need. The amount is prorated for enrollment less than full-time.

GED 1-Semester Scholarship

Current Target: Students who pass the GED examination taken through the Central Arizona College GED testing program.
**NEW – Eligibility Change Coming May 2021 –
- Target: Students who complete 12 or more attendance hours in a CAC HSE class, and who pass all 5 GED tests (either at a CAC location or remotely).
Enrollment Requirements: Must enroll in a minimum of 1 credit hour with a maximum of 12 credit hours in the semester immediately following notification from Central of scholarship eligibility.
Renewal Requirements: This scholarship is non-renewable.
Value: The amount equivalent to in-state tuition up to 12 credit hours..

Athletic Scholarship (Signal Peak)

Target: Students participating in intercollegiate athletics at Central Arizona College.
Enrollment Requirements: Must meet NJCAA requirements.
Renewal Requirements: Must meet NJCAA requirements and contingent upon coach’s recommendation.
Value: Amount varies by athletic program and student athlete.

Activity Scholarship

Target: Students must participate in certain activities at Central Arizona College.
Enrollment Requirements: Must enroll in a minimum of 6 credit hours each semester. Must meet program specific requirements. Must complete or perform in the name of the College.
Renewal Requirements: Must meet program specific requirements. Students must maintain a 2.5 cumulative grade point average. Must apply each year.
Value: Amount varies by activity and campus.

Performing Arts Scholarship (Signal Peak)

Target: Students participating in band, drama, or choir at Central Arizona College.
Enrollment Requirements: Must enroll in a minimum of 6 credit hours each semester. Must meet program specific requirements. Must compete or perform in the name of the College. Audition requirement.
Renewal Requirements: Must meet program specific requirements. Students must maintain a 2.5 cumulative grade point average.
Value: Amount varies by activity. The award value is at the discretion of the Coordinator of the appropriate program.

CAC Foundation Scholarships

The Central Arizona College (CAC) Foundation serves and supports the college as a two-year institution of higher education with the primary role of providing student scholarships. The Foundation receives donations from individuals, organizations, corporations and foundations to fund these scholarships. The purpose of Central Arizona College Foundation scholarships is to assist students enrolled at Central Arizona College in achieving their educational goals.

How to Apply for Foundation Scholarships
The Financial Aid Office provides the application for Foundation scholarships. To apply students must complete the online CAC Scholarship Application.

To receive a Central Arizona College Foundation scholarship students must meet the following minimum qualifications:

·Must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
·Must be pursuing a degree or certificate
·Enroll in a minimum of 6 credits per semester
·Earn and maintain a cumulative 2.5-grade point average
·Coordinate with Federal Financial Aid (The total of all awards may not exceed the student’s need as determined by the Financial Aid Office)
·Meet all other specific criteria as identified by each Foundation scholarship

Agriculture-Agriculture Sciences

Guy Gilbert Scholarship

Must be a graduating Casa Grande Union High School student
Must have participated in the agriculture program at CGUHS

Arthur and Mary Faul Scholarship

Program of study in agricultural sciences

Paul Pearce Memorial Scholarship

Must be a resident of Arizona who is pursuing a degree or certificate in agriculture or agricultural sciences
Must demonstrate leadership, community service
Additional consideration given to applicants with 2 years of 4H or Future Farmers of America

Behavioral Health Sciences

The Michael J. Cepello Memorial Scholarship

Must be pursuing a degree or certificate in behavioral health services
Preference to Pinal County residents

Business

Darlene Unger Memorial Scholarship

Must be enrolled in the business program

Criminal Justice

Judge Robert R. Bean Memorial Scholarship

Must be Pinal County high school graduate
Must be enrolled in the criminal justice or legal studies

Communication

Donovan Kramer Scholarship

Must be a Communications student

Coolidge or Florence High School Graduate

Emma Boswell Memorial Scholarship

Must be a Coolidge High School graduate

Dale and Lee Gibson Scholarship

Must be a Florence Union High School graduate
Must be pursuing a degree or certificate

Richard J. and A. Myrtle Jones Memorial Scholarship

Must be a graduate of Coolidge or Florence high schools
Preference to a Coolidge graduate
Must demonstrate financial need

Creative Arts, Visual Arts

Thomas Cole Art Scholarship

Must be enrolled in a visual arts program
Must provide sample of artistic talent or potential
Must have a civic commitment
Must demonstrate financial need

C.A. & Nelle H. Pope Scholarship

Must be pursuing a degree in the creative arts or culinary arts programs

Sodexo Culinary Scholarship

Must be enrolled in either the Hotel Restaurants and Management or the Culinary Arts Programs

General

The George W. Fridell Scholarship

Student should exhibit financial need
Essay should document financial need and education/career goals

Barnes and Noble Book Scholarship

Music

James Lee Music Scholarship

Must be enrolled in music courses

Non-Traditional Student

Great Women of CAC/Pinal County

Must be a Pinal County resident
Preference to a new, continuing or re-entry student
May have endured/overcome hardships
Participated in community service
Must demonstrate leadership qualities
Must demonstrate financial need

Nursing, Health Services, Pre-Med

Zelda (Chris) Ferryman Scholarship

Program of study in Nursing

JoAnn Harter Memorial Scholarship for Nursing

Must be a second year Nursing student
Must maintain a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA

N.E. “Pete” & Josephine King Scholarship

Must be enrolled a health careers program

Lynn S. Long Memorial Scholarship

Must be a nursing student enrolled in a minimum of 6 credits per semester
Must earn a 3.5 GPA on courses required for the nursing AAS degree.

Tepi Maddock Scholarship

Must be female students
Program of study in Physical Education, Nursing or Pre-Med

Roberta Phillips Scholarship

Must be enrolled in the Nursing program
Must have and maintain a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA

Rodeo

Coolidge Mounted Sheriff’s Posse Scholarship

Preference to direct descendants of Sheriff Posse members pursuing any certificate or degree program
High school graduates participating in the CAC Rodeo program and pursuing a two-year certificate or degree
Pinal County high school graduate pursuing a certificate or degree in agriculture
Must maintain a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA after one semester of attendance

Bob England Rodeo Scholarship and Endowment Scholarship

Must be a member of the rodeo program.
Preference to Promise for the Future students.

Ann Williams Scholarship

Must participate in the Rodeo program
Must demonstrate financial need

Science

Richard G. O’Brien Science Scholarship

Must be a Casa Grande high school graduate
Must be pursuing a degree or certificate in the science program.

Sports Education, Athletic Team Member (also see Rodeo)

Tom Kunz Vaquero Scholarship

Must be a member of a recognized Central Arizona College athletic team
Must be enrolled fulltime
Must be a graduate of a Pinal County high school

Tepi Maddock Scholarship

Must be female students
Program of study in Physical Education, Nursing or Pre-Med

Technology

Duane Irvin Scholarship

Must be enrolled in a technology program

Theater

Winston Hoffman Drama Scholarship

Must maintain a 2.0 GPA or higher
Must be performing in a current theater production

Transfer Student

Clara Lovett University Foundation Scholarship

Must be enrolled in a regionally accredited university offering programs on a Central Arizona College Campus
Graduate of a Pinal County High School
Graduate of Central Arizona College with a completion of 30 university parallel credits. (Arizona State Prison Campus is excluded)
Cumulative GPA of 3.0 at CAC and in university parallel courses taken at CAC
Enrollment in a minimum of 9 credits with a declared university major
Recommendations provided by former instructors will be given special consideration

Veterans, Dependents of Veterans

V.A.L.O.R. (Veterans And Loved Ones Relief)

Must be a veteran, or the spouse or children up to the age of 26
Must be a resident of Pinal County
Must be pursuing a degree or certificate

Native American

Kathleen Van Cleft Indian Scholarship Fund

Must be a Native American

For Pinal Promise Students Only:

Fire Chiefs Association of Pinal County

– Must be an eligible Pinal Promise Student
– Endowment Scholarship for expenses and fees not related to tuition costs
– Must be enrolled in a program of study in fire science
– Must be a graduate of a Pinal County high school
– Preference to residents of Pinal County

The Sergeant Tate Lynch Promise for the Future Scholarship Endowment

– Must be an eligible Pinal Promise Student.
– Must be pursuing a degree or certificate in public safety, emergency services or criminal justice

Pinal County University Foundation Scholarship

– Awards are given to a first year and a second year Pinal Promise students

Pinal Promise (aka Promise for the Future)

(formerly Promise for the Future)

Exciting News! Central Arizona College Foundation in partnership with Central Arizona College (CAC) are pleased to announce the following changes to the Promise for the Future scholarship tuition program now known as the Pinal Promise scholarship tuition program. This educational initiative was launched in 2001, it was designed to encourage 8^th grade students who reside in Pinal county to remain in high school, graduate, and pursue their college education through Central Arizona College.

The following changes have been made effective July 2021:

-The 8^th grade pledge signing requirement has been eliminated
-No high school GPA eligibility is required to apply
-All students who reside in Pinal County and graduate from a Pinal County high school are now eligible for the Pinal Promise and will receive two years of tuition (fall/spring, fall/spring) covered by CAC and the CAC Foundation. This is a last-dollar scholarship and students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
-Students who graduated in May 2021 are still eligible to apply if student attended full time Fall 2021/Spring 2022 semesters and maintained an overall 2.0 GPA
-Online high schools must have a physical presence in Pinal County for students to be eligible
-Students who do not complete the 20 hour community service requirement may do so while attending CAC their first year. However, we strongly encourage students to complete their community hours prior to high school graduation.

The Pinal Promise

The Pinal Promise Educational Initiative provides funding for any tuition need that has not been met. Pinal Promise tuition funds will be applied and locked after the drop/add period and after all other financial aid has been applied to the individual student account (excluding student loans)

The Guidelines for May 2022 High School Graduates Only

To be eligible for the Pinal Promise scholarship tuition program, the student must: (links are highlighted in red)

– Begin the fall semester after high school graduation
– Have completed 20 hours of community service (community service form)
– Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) online at Federal Student Aid
– Upon high school graduation complete and submit the online CAC Scholarship application and upload an unofficial high school transcript listing date of graduation
– Enroll in a minimum of 12 credit hours per semester
– Pursue a CAC degree or certificate program

The financial aid office will review eligibility and acceptance of the Pinal Promise program when all the guidelines above are met. Students will be contacted via CAC student email.

This funding is for four (4) consecutive semesters providing you maintain the renewal eligibility requirements listed below.

Important Note: Before awarding Promise funds, your CAC financial aid file (FAFSA) must be processed and completed. Once our office receives your FAFSA application, you will be notified via CAC student email. Follow the email instructions to complete your financial aid file.

To renew eligibility for the Pinal Promise funds each semester, the student must:

– Maintain a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA
– Enroll in a minimum of 12 or more credit hours per semester
– Complete a minimum of 9 credits each semester
– Maintain continuous enrollment each semester excluding summer term
– Allow the Financial Aid office to verify and ensure student meets eligibility requirements at the end of each semester. If the student is unable to meet the requirements he/she will permanently lose the tuition funds

Additional scholarship for Pinal Promise students only: (add to scholarship application if interested)

Fire Chiefs Association of Pinal County

-• Must be an eligible Pinal Promise Student
– Endowment Scholarship for expenses and fees not related to tuition costs
– Must be enrolled in a program of study in fire science
– Must be a graduate of a Pinal County high school
– Preference to residents of Pinal County

High School Funding

Other Scholarships

The scholarships below provide additional opportunities for qualified students to get support for their educational expenses at Central Arizona College. Review the description of each scholarship to determine if you meet their criteria.

Chapter BP P.E.O. Sisterhood Grant

The amount of the grant is $400.00. The grant is for one semester. Monies are given directly to the student and are to be used for educational expenses. Grantee may reapply.

Eligibility

A woman is considered eligible for the grant if she:

has successfully completed at least one semester of her education
is in need of financial assistance
has the ability and skills necessary to complete the program
is in good academic standing
completes the application
has a faculty recommendation
is interviewed and approved by the Chapter

Application

The application is to be completed and mailed or e-mailed to the person listed below. Candidates will be contacted regarding an interview. Contact the person below for more information on this opportunity.

Ms. Alice Parkin
PO BOX 11310
Casa Grande, AZ 85130
dnaparkin@yahoo.com

$1500 annual SunTec Auto Glass Scholarship Award

Titan SEO Group Scholarship-Digital Marketing Scholarship

Bold.org-Kim Beneschott Creative Arts Scholarship

Spark Health MD Scholarship Program

Pacific Bay Recovery

Earn To Learn Scholarship

CNA Scholarships

CNA Training

AZ Milk Producers Scholarship

Guide to College Scholarships & Financial Aid for Black Students

Soroptimist Live Your Dream Awards Help Low-Income Women Pursue Higher Education or Training

Other Funding

AZ Foster Care

In 2013, Governor Jan Brewer signed into law a bill to help Arizona’s foster children earn a college degree by offering them free tuition. This five-year pilot program uses a combination of federal grants and scholarships, and university/college aid to cover students’ tuition and fees.

To be eligible students must:

be under 23 years old
currently be in foster care and at least 16 years old; or
formerly be in foster care when student was at least 16 years old; or
have been adopted from foster care(and adoption finalized)after the student was 16 years old
submit a copy of your foster care and/or ward of the court documentation to a CAC financial aid office
submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid each year

After receiving the waiver students must demonstrate continuous progress towards a degree of certificate, and complete at least 30 hours of volunteer service to remain eligible for the tuition waiver. Read all of the eligibility requirements for the Arizona Foster Care Tuition Waiver.

VA Educational Benefits

Arizona Education and Training Voucher (ETV)

The Arizona Education and Training Voucher (ETV) is a federally funded grant used to support foster youth who have aged out of the foster care system and who are enrolled in college, university and vocational training programs. Students may receive up to $5,000 a year based on their cost of attendance. They must enroll before their 21st birthday and may continue to receive support until age 23. Funds may be used for tuition, housing, books, student loan repayments and qualified living expenses.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify, applicants must meet the following conditions:

must be in foster care, adopted from foster care after age 16, or aged out of foster care
be US citizens or qualified non-citizens
be younger than 21 to apply for the first time
have a high school diploma or GED
have been accepted into or enrolled in a Title IV, accredited college or vocational/technical training program
personal assets (bank account, car, home, etc.) must be worth less than $10,000

To apply, applicants must complete the following forms:

The Foster Care to Success Student Portal offers one application to apply for both the Arizona Foster Youth Award and the Arizona Education and Training Voucher (ETV). The application opens each July 1. Once the student submits the application, the Foster Care to Success offices will reach out to the student to discuss enrollment in school, housing, working, etc.
The Financial Aid Release Form must be filled out. The financial aid office will fill in the cost of attendance and all of the student’s other loans, grants and scholarships and sends it to ETV. This shows ETV the student’s ESTIMATED NEED.
The ETV Student Participation Agreement explains the student’s responsibilities as a program participant and must be signed and faxed or mailed to ETV before funding is disbursed.

Once the ETV office has received all forms, they will determine a student’s need and send an award letter to qualified students. ETV will send awarded funds (up to $2,500 per semester) directly to CAC and CAC will post those funds to the student’s account. This transaction may post after the fall semester has begun. Students with questions may contact the Financial Aid office.

Every student’s financial situation is unique. In some situations, even with the Arizona Foster Youth Award and full Education and Training Voucher (ETV) funding, students may need to consider loans to cover their costs. CAC reminds students to borrow wisely, as loans must be paid back with interest.

Students must re-apply online for every new school year. However, ETV funds are assigned one term at a time and students are required to complete and submit a new Financial Aid Release Form each semester. The ETV Program needs to update students’ financial information, school enrollment, attendance and educational progress before any funds are assigned, and therefore the forms must be submitted on a semester basis.

At the end of every term funded by ETV, ETV must receive the student’s official transcript, including final grades for that term, mailed directly from the registrar. Faxed, emailed or unofficial copies of transcripts/grade sheets will not be accepted. ETV funding will NOT be disbursed until the student’s transcript has been received.

Tribal Assistance

Tribal Members are encouraged to contact their Tribe and work with a financial aid representative/processor to complete the Tribal Financial Needs Analysis (FNA) so it can be submitted to the tribe for assistance consideration.

Children of Fallen Heroes Scholarship

Contact your Financial Aid processor for additional assistance

Higher Education Child Care Project (HECCP)

The Higher Education Child Care Project (HECCP) provides reimbursement of child care costs to eligible student-parents. This funding has been made available through the Department of Economic Security (DES).

The purpose of the Higher Education Child Care Project is to provide qualified child care assistance to income eligible, undergraduate students taking 6 or more credits who are parents of a child or children (12 years of age and under).

Eligibility information and application available at www.centralaz.edu/heccp

2022 -2023 FA FORMS