2022 high school grads can qualify for free tuition and fees at RichmondCC

HAMLET — Eligible 2022 North Carolina high school graduates will have their tuition and fees covered at Richmond Community College for up to two years starting this fall semester.

The Longleaf Commitment for High School Graduate Financial Aid is a partnership of the North Carolina Governor’s office, Community College System, and the State Education Assistance Authority. Funds are being made available from the Governor’s Emergency Education Relief fund through federal COVID-19 relief packages.

High school students may be eligible to receive this grant — not a loan — for tuition and fees toward a degree or to attain transfer credit. Full-time eligible students are guaranteed to receive $700 to $2,800 per year, for a total of two years. Less than full-time students may receive a partial award. 

RichmondCC is holding an Open House on April 5 from 4 to 6:30 p.m. at the Hamlet Campus, where people can get additional information about the Longleaf Commitment Grant, financial aid and other scholarships. All the college programs will be on display, and instructors will be on hand to talk one-on-one about careers and university transfer pathways.

The Longleaf Commitment Grant Program, which includes all N.C. community colleges, ends at the conclusion of the 2024 spring semester.

There is not a separate Longleaf Commitment Grant application, as consideration for funding is automatic once the FAFSA is filed and local college verification is completed. Eligible students will receive an award letter from the RichmondCC Financial Aid Office. Award letters will be sent out in July. 

Eligibility Requirements for 2022 Graduates

• Be a 2022 NC high school graduate. (Some North Carolina residents who graduated from a non-North Carolina highs school may be eligible.)
• Be a North Carolina resident according to the NC Residency Determination Service.
• Be a first-time college student (Career & College Promise and Early/Middle College High School students are eligible).
• Apply to RichmondCC: www.richmondcc.edu/admissions
• Enroll in one of the more than 30 curriculum programs offered at RichmondCC during the 2022 fall semester.
• Enroll in at least 6 credit hours per semester.
• Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for 2022-23 and subsequent academic years: www.studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa
• Have an Expected Family Contribution (EFC) from $0 - $15,000.  (“EFC” is based upon student’s FAFSA determination).
• Renew FAFSA for the 2023-24 academic year and meet the Satisfactory Academic Progress requirements of the college.

Registration for the 2022 fall semester at RichmondCC opens April 12. Counselors are available at both the Hamlet and Scotland County campuses to help people sign up for classes and complete the financial aid process. Call Student Services at 910-410-1700.