As the Fall 2024 semester approaches, students may be concerned about how to finance their education. Several options are available to help manage these costs.
Leslie Jia, Financial Aid Director, emphasizes the importance of completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). “FAFSA is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid,” she explains. “It’s a form that students complete to apply for federal grants, federal work-study, and federal student loans. But the application is also used to determine students’ eligibility for state grants and scholarships, and institutional grants.”
Jia notes that filling out the FAFSA can significantly impact financial aid success. Changes made annually mean that even previously ineligible students might now qualify. Completing the FAFSA generally takes about an hour, including creating an FSA ID and filling out the application.
However, Jia warns of potential delays: “Processing students’ financial aid files, especially during this peak time, can cause a delay in awarding students financial aid if they are eligible.” She advises submitting applications promptly.
Jia offers additional tips:
– Use tax documents from 2022 when providing financial information.
– Have a backup plan like signing up for a payment plan.
– Include your Student ID number on all financial aid documents.
– Authorize third parties (parents or spouses) to access your financial aid information through MyTMCC.
Students eligible for financial aid refunds should consider meeting with peer mentors from FLAMES (Financial Literacy and Money Education by Students) to learn about budgeting and savings.
For assistance with FAFSA completion, kiosks are available on campus or contact the Financial Aid Office by phone or email.
Fee waivers and grants are another option. The NSHE Native American Fee Waiver assists members of federally recognized tribes or descendants certified by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. The NSHE Foster Youth Fee Waiver supports former Nevada foster youth who meet specific criteria. DACA and undocumented students may qualify for several grants and scholarships such as Adelante and Silver State Opportunity Grant.
Barnes & Noble Book Scholarships offer up to $300 reimbursements for textbook purchases at TMCC’s Lizard Book Nook bookstore. Scholarship Manager Samantha Bellwood states: “To qualify, you must be enrolled in at least 6 credits and have at least a 2.0 GPA.” Applications open August 1 on a first-come-first-served basis until funds run out.
Lastly, working on campus provides flexible employment opportunities around class schedules. Jobs range from office work to tutoring or childcare positions at various TMCC locations. Current job listings can be found on Handshake.
For further details on these opportunities, contact the TMCC Financial Aid Office at 775-673-7072.
