What are the due dates for applying for Foundation scholarships?
The Foundation has two awarding cycles:
• In the spring, with a due date of February or later for scholarships beginning the following fall; and
• In the fall, with a due date in mid September for scholarships beginning the following spring.
Workforce or Post-Secondary Adult Vocational (PSAV) programs have different application cycles that will be announced by the various programs.
Watch for announcements on the HCC website and on the Foundation’s website for specific deadlines.
How do I use my scholarship?
You must be registered for at least six credits in order for the scholarship to be considered part of your anticipated aid and for it to be applied to your student account. You will see your scholarship on your “Financial Aid By Term” screen listed as “HCC Foundation.” It will be split evenly between fall and spring (for full year awards) or to spring only (for one-term awards). It will be applied directly to your HCC student account via Financial Aid on a schedule set by HCC. Application of the scholarship to your tuition balance or for book purchases will be the same as for other financial aid sources, such as Pell Grants. Any refunds will be processed by HCC under normal refund policies.
What happens to my application if not selected?
Unfortunately, because of limited funding, not all students can be awarded a scholarship. If you would like to re-apply in the next cycle, you must submit a new application in order to be considered for the next cycle.
Can my scholarship be paid to me?
Scholarship funds will be applied to your HCC student account and paid toward your HCC financial obligation. As long as you are registered for at least six credits, excess funds may be released to you according to HCC’s refund policies. Note that some scholarships require more than six credit hours. An exception may arise if you receive Title IV Financial Aid funds and the Financial Aid department determines that your total awards exceed the maximum allowed. Please contact Financial Aid if you need further information.
Can my scholarship transfer to another college/university?
No. The HCC Foundation’s mission is to support HCC and its students only. HCC Foundation scholarships are not transferable to other institutions.
What if I have other sources to pay my tuition and/or books?
Some students have Florida Bright Futures or Pell Grants. Both of these sources of funding may be released to the student if not needed due to a scholarship. Therefore, the scholarship will pay first. Check the Financial Aid webpage for refund policies, timing or questions on refunds of other financial aid or institutional scholarships.
What happens to my scholarship if I don’t use it within one year?
Most scholarships are valid for one academic year, and the dates will be detailed on your scholarship agreement. If you foresee not being able to use the full amount within the time period, you MUST contact the HCC Foundation office by the deadline indicated on your agreement to make other arrangements, or the scholarship will be void.
How do I write a letter of thanks to the donor of my scholarship?
Letters of thanks are very important and required in order to receive your scholarship. Click here for thank you letter suggestions.