GRCC Foundation scholarship applications due March 15

By Christopher Elderkin – Collegiate Staff

Free money is nearly unheard of, however the Grand Rapids Community College Foundation Scholarships offer exactly that and are now open for applications. The foundation scholarships are a unique opportunity for financial assistance provided solely for the benefit of the GRCC student body.

The Foundation Scholarships have been around for 53 years, founded on the 50th anniversary of GRCC. The Foundation has awarded 876 scholarships in the 2016-2017 academic year alone, totaling over $765,000.00.

"I think all GRCC students should go online and fill out an application, because we have scholarships that would be able to help just about any student," said Kathy Mullins, Vice President for College Advancement and Executive Director of the GRCC Foundation.

There is a wide array of scholarships offered and it takes only a single application to the GRCC Foundation in order to participate. There are scholarships for students from all walks of life, even students who are not able to access federal student aid can qualify for and receive foundation scholarships.

The GRCC Foundation Scholarships are currently made available in March of every year and are open to any GRCC student who applies whom has attained at least 12 class credits from GRCC. For any student who has not attained the 12 credits, a high school transcript will need to be submitted. Seniors are required to submit a transcript showing seven completed semesters. The Foundation scholarships offer support to any student who qualifies, fills out and turns in an application. After which point, any scholarship the student qualifies for could be awarded. It is also highly recommended that any student applying should complete a FAFSA application for the 2017-2018 school year.

The GRCC Foundation relies on donations and the community to provide these many financial aid opportunities.

"The GRCC Foundation is here to help serve the needs of our students," Mullins said. "The greater Grand Rapids community is committed to making sure our students are successful in college."

Applications for scholarships through the GRCC Foundation are due by March 15 and can be submitted through the foundation website. Donations to the GRCC Foundation can also be submitted through the website.

Applications, and further assistance can also be provided in person at the GRCC Financial Aid office. Inquires can be made through the financial aid offices via email at financialaid@grcc.edu, or over the phone at (616) 234-4030.

Source: GRCC Foundation scholarship applications due March 15