(HARTFORD, CT) – Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU) President Mark Ojakian today announced that interest in the Pledge to Advance Connecticut (PACT), Connecticut’s tuition and fee free community college program, has been strong, with more than 2,200 students receiving $2.5 million in grant awards through the July 15 deadline for priority consideration. These qualified students will owe no out-of-pocket tuition or mandatory fees to attend one of Connecticut’s 12 community colleges.

More than half – those whose tuition and fees are already covered by existing federal, state, and institutional funding – will receive the minimum grant of $250 for educational expenses.

“While it might not sound like a lot, that $250 grant will make a real difference to our poorer students, many of whom are students of color, who all too often face nearly insurmountable obstacles – from childcare, to food insecurity, to unreliable transportation – to obtaining a degree,” President Ojakian said.

As previously announced, the community colleges will continue to accept applications for PACT for the fall semester on a first come, first served basis. Students who enroll now will receive priority in the order in which they are received, within available funding. CSCU plans to award at least an additional $1 million in PACT scholarships to eligible students.

“It is not too late for qualified students to attend college with no out-of-pocket expenses,” said Dr. David Levinson, interim president of Connecticut State Community College. “All potential college students should strongly consider a community college. With free community college and seamless transfer to our universities, students can earn even earn a four-year degree while saving tens of thousands of dollars. It’s a win-win, but potential students should not wait. Enroll today at ct.edu/pact.”

In order to qualify for PACT, potential students must meet the following requirements:

• Be a graduate of a public or private Connecticut high school (GED and homeschooled students qualify).
• Be a first-time college student (those who participated in dual enrollment programs while in high school are not excluded).
• Fill out FAFSA and accept all awards.
• Attend community college full-time (12 or more credits per semester).
•  Enroll in classes today for first come, first served consideration.
• Participate in a degree or credit-bearing certificate program.
• Once enrolled, remain in good academic standing.

To apply for the program, eligible students must enroll in classes at any of Connecticut’s 12 community colleges. PACT is a last-dollar scholarship, so once students enroll in classes and complete all necessary financial aid documentation, including the FAFSA, PACT funding will be applied to their account. To learn more or find a community college that suits your needs, visit ct.edu/pact.

For Immediate Release, July 27, 2020
Contact: Leigh Appleby
[email protected]