Nursing Scholarships Provide Free Tuition at BCC
PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Nursing students planning to enroll at Berkshire Community College (BCC) may now receive free tuition, thanks to a grant from the Commonwealth.
The Community College Nursing Scholarship program is designed for students who intend to enroll in and complete a credential or degree in nursing.
The program provides "last dollar" financial assistance to ensure that all eligible students have adequate resources to fully cover the direct costs of tuition and fees towards a certificate or associate degree at a public community college. An allocation for books and supplies is also provided.
Those eligible for the program must:
- Reside in Massachusetts for at least one year prior to the beginning of the school term and be a U.S. citizen, permanent legal resident or non-citizen eligible under Title IV regulations, or have an approved eligibility status designated by the Board of Higher Education;
- Have not earned a prior degree;
- Not be in default on any state or federal student loans for attendance at any institution;
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) annually, or an alternative application designated by the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education;
- Be enrolled full-time or part-time in a nursing program at a community college in Massachusetts;
- Meet satisfactory academic progress (SAP); and
- Demonstrate unmet need toward the costs of tuition, fees, books and supplies, after all other grant and scholarship aid has been accounted for.
"It's noteworthy that the state is backing community colleges, specifically associate degree in nursing programs, which shows an understanding of the importance of getting nurses out into the field," said Dean of Nursing Lori Moon. "Also, obtaining a bachelor's degree after an associate degree in nursing is not complicated and usually can be done completely online. This program makes it even easier for nursing students to continue their education."
At BCC, several areas of study are covered by the program, including Pre-nursing; Practical Nursing Certificate for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs); Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) for Registered Nurses (RNs); and the LPN to ADN Bridge Program.
To enroll in the Community College Nursing Scholarship Program at BCC, submit an application at www.berkshirecc.edu/apply, complete the FAFSA form, and contact the One Stop Enrollment Center at OneStop@berkshirecc.edu or (413) 499-4660 to complete the registration process. Advisors are on hand to help with FAFSA forms and applications.
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