If you’re a first-time college student or you’re a Southwestern College student who has missed the fall 2021 semester, you can earn up to a $2,500 grant to assist with spring 2022 college expenses.
Using special federal funds, Southwestern College is able to award grants based upon the number of units new and “stop out” students are enrolled in for spring. “Stop out” students are those who were enrolled previously at Southwestern College, but who did not enroll in fall 2021 classes.
Current students who were enrolled in fall 2021 will also be eligible for up to $1,500 in grants.
All students eligible for grants will need to apply for the funds. The grant application will be available on the first day of the semester, Jan. 31.
“In uncertain times there is one guarantee—a college education and workforce preparation improves students’ professional and economic opportunities,” said Southwestern College Superintendent/President Dr. Mark Sanchez. “Southwestern College will develop and implement innovative programs and services to assist students in achieving their educational, career and personal goals.”
The grants for new and stop out students range from $500 for students enrolled in one to five units, $1,250 for students enrolled in six to 11 units and $2,500 for students enrolled full-time in 12 units or more.
Students enrolled in non-credit courses are also eligible to receive the grants, with the amount awarded depending upon the number of non-credit course hours completed.
To receive the grants, students must be California residents or an AB 540 student. The funds can be used for a wide range of items that help students stay in school such as childcare, rent, housing, utility fees, car repairs, cost of books, medical expenses and technology (computer devices, internet, etc.).
Students will receive the funds electronically on April 4 for those enrolled in full-semester classes and on May 2 for those enrolled in fast-track classes.
This new initiative supplements the college’s efforts to remove financial barriers from students who had outstanding tuition or fees incurred during the spring and summer 2021 semesters. The college forgave $1.5 million in debt, granting those students eligibility to enroll now.
For full details and eligibility on the 2022 federal grant initiative, head to https://www.swccd.edu/administration/student-affairs/spring_2022_mailer.aspx.
