Calhoun Community College President Marilyn Beck today announced that the college will offer free full-tuition (12 semester hour) scholarships this summer to 2004 high school graduates.

To qualify for the free tuition scholarships, students must graduate this May with at least a 2.5 grade point average (based on a 4.0 scale) from a high school in Calhoun’s service area (Morgan, Madison and Limestone counties and East Lawrence High School); must be degree-seeking; and must apply for the 2003-2004 Pell grant and complete a Calhoun scholarship application.

According to Calhoun’s Financial Aid Director, Deborah Byrd, students qualifying for a Pell grant must first use this funding to enroll.   Calhoun will provide funding for full tuition (up to 12 semester hours) for those students not qualifying for the Pell grant.  “It is also important for students to note that they will be responsible for any necessary fees and for the purchase of all textbooks,” said Mrs. Byrd.

“We are extremely pleased to offer this free tuition program to our local students,” commented Dr. Beck.  “This program provides an opportunity for our recent high school graduates to get a head-start on their college education while providing some financial relief for their parents this summer,” she added.

Scholarships will be awarded until the fund is exhausted, so early application is encouraged.  Deadline to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form for Pell grant certification is May 17, 2004.  Calhoun’s summer semester classes begin May 25. 

For more information on the free tuition scholarship program, contact the Calhoun Financial Aid Office at 256/306-2626 or the Office of Student Affairs at 256/306-2613.