MCC offers students increased financial assistance through expanded resources
McHenry County College is making it easier for students to go back to school this summer and fall semester with a variety of expanded financial resources.
Using federal funding obtained through the Coronavirus Relief: Emergency Relief Fund, the College established the Purple Pride Relief Fund, which is specifically designed for students most negatively impacted and facing significant hardship as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
In addition to demonstrating need, students must meet state residency requirements and be enrolled at MCC for a minimum of 3 credits each semester to take advantage of this fund.
"We know that many of our students have faced unique challenges as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic," said Christina Haggerty, Vice President of Marketing, Communications, and Development at MCC. "The Purple Pride Relief Fund is available to help these students with tuition, fees, or other educational expenses. And the more credits a student takes, the more funds they could be eligible for."
Originally created in Spring 2020, the Fund has already awarded more than $1 million to over 1,100 students. But this summer and fall, the college has even more money to award through this fund.
"If you're ready to take the next step, we're ready to invest in you to make it happen," Haggerty said. "There's never been a better time to take classes."
The college also helps students pay for their education by offering a variety of scholarships, grants, need-based aid, payment plans, and the Student Success Fund, which helps students pay for unexpected expenses that may impact their ability to stay in school.
The Friends of MCC Foundation increased the award amount of the Student Success Fund from $500 to $1,000 per student early into the pandemic in order to deliver aid in a more significant way.
Even before these additional financial resources, MCC offers a significant cost savings compared to other schools.
A class at MCC on average costs $380.25 compared to more than $1,621 at a four-year public school or $2,346 at a private one.
"You don't have to know your ultimate career or education goals to get started at MCC," added Haggerty. "The College's team of trained advisors can help you figure out what you might like or outline a plan for your long-term aspirations. We can also help you figure out how to fit in classes between work and family obligations. And you'll have assistance from caring faculty and staff to help you reach your goals, and a supportive services team ready to help you find success along the way."
To learn more about all financial resources available to MCC students, visit www.mchenry.edu/payingforcollege.