In a major community outreach effort, Mercer County Community College (MCCC) has been hosting numerous information sessions at its James Kerney Campus in Trenton about New Jersey’s new program to offer free community college to qualifying county residents. On Sunday, Nov. 11, from 2 to 5 p.m., MCCC will co-host a special session with Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora.
“It’s an honor and a major benefit to Trenton that Mercer County Community College has been chosen as one of the first schools in the state to provide free tuition,” says Mayor Reed Gusciora. “I want to do all I can to encourage every eligible resident, young and old, to take advantage of this unprecedented opportunity to further their education.”
Announced by Gov. Murphy in September, New Jersey’s Community College Opportunity Grant (CCOG) provides free tuition for those whose household income does not exceed $45,000. Students must register for at least six course credits (typically two classes) in a semester, maintain satisfactory grades to remain eligible, and may not hold a prior college degree. The CCOG is a “last dollar” grant that covers remaining costs after all other financial aid has been applied.
Interested community residents will be assisted by MCCC staff members in filling out the federal Free Application for Student Financial Aid (FAFSA), applying for admission, and consulting with advisers and counselors.
Those interested in this free college tuition program are encouraged to attend one of the November sessions. They may also learn more by call (609) 570-3795, emailing admiss@mccc.edu, or visiting www.mccc.edu/free.
