New round of COVID-19 aid for students open through May 5

 

All students — even those who got disbursements earlier this year — can apply

 

Students wrapping up their spring semester coursework at Seward County Community College have one less thing to worry about over the next month: financial help is available, thanks to the latest round of COVID-19 funding. Applications are open now, and are available to all students enrolled in at least six credit hours.

To qualify for the relief money, students must meet the following requirements:

• Must be a U.S. Citizen or eligible Non-Citizen for federal funding. (You must have a prior, current or future FAFSA on file.)
• You must be enrolled Spring 2021 in 6 or more credit hours.
• Priority will be given to high school graduates. (High school/concurrent students will be reviewed on an individual basis)
• Priority will be given to degree-seeking students
• Must demonstrate financial need
• Funds may be used for any cost of attendance or for emergency costs that arise due to coronavirus such as tuition, food, housing, health care or child care.

SCCC Director of Financial Aid Amy Bridenstine said any student who meets the current eligibility list should apply — even if they have received prior aid disbursements.

“The rules for how we distribute these funds have changed several times over the past year,” she said. “This latest round is available to prior recipients who qualify, and we want to get the word out that they should apply, so we can get the funds to those who need it most.”

The form will be available to complete through May 5, and must be filled out online, via the college’s main webpage, sccc.edu. Navigate to the “students” tab, select “financial aid” and click on the item “Financial Aid Forms” that appears on a list on the left-hand side of the page. Completion of the form does not guarantee funds, as funds are limited.

“That’s why we are encouraging students to fill out this form right away,” said Dean of Student Success Annette Hackbarth-Onson. “Once the funds are gone, they’re gone.”

Bridenstine, too, said now is the time to get this form and others wrapped up.

“If you have not yet applied for federal financial aid, it is not too late to apply. Our financial aid office is available for assistance if needed,” she said. “If you have specific questions about financial aid or this funding application, please contact the financial aid office at 620-417-1110.”