Chattanooga State Community College has designated February 2010 as Financial Aid Month.  Spotlighting federal, state, and institutional programs that provide assistance for college tuition, the month-long promotion will also focus on funding resources that are available to adults who are pursuing a college degree.  On specific dates in February, Chattanooga State will offer information on program updates and assistance with application submission.  Each event is open to the public free of charge.

• Thursday, February 4, “Paying for College.”  Information session about the various financial aid programs.  Program begins at 6:30 p.m. and concludes at 8 p.m. in the Humanities Auditorium at Chattanooga State.
• Thursday, February 11, “Paying for College.”  Information session about various financial aid programs.  Program begins at 6:30 p.m. and concludes at 8 p.m. at the World Restoration Center located at 4004 Dorris Street.
• Sunday, February 14, “College Goal Sunday.”  Hands-on assistance offered to college-bound students wanting assistance in the completion and submission of their application for federal student aid.  Hosted on Chattanooga State’s campus, “College Goal Sunday” is a collaboration among all regional colleges and universities.  Any student-regardless of college choice-is welcome to attend and receive assistance.  The event begins at 2 p.m. and concludes at 4 p.m. in the computer labs located in the Albright Omniplex Building.

According to Jeanne Hinchee, director of financial aid, the application form, used to request federal aid, has been revised.  “The new application form, which is known as the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is shorter, simpler, and more user-friendly, which makes the submission process much less intimidating,”  says Hinchee.

Hinchee continues by highlighting that adult students can request assistance from the Tennessee HOPE Scholarship program.  “Many people are not aware that Tennessee HOPE Scholarship funds are available to nontraditional or adult students,” says Hinchee.  “Individuals-who complete at least 12 hours of coursework, are 25 years and older, and meet other qualifying criteria-should contact the Financial Aid Office at Chattanooga State to review their eligibility status.”

Chattanooga State is urging students to be proactive and asking them to complete all financial aid forms and move forward with the submission process.  “We want students to take advantage of the additional support Chattanooga State is providing during Financial Aid Month,” stresses Hinchee.  “Whether applying for federal, state, or institutional assistance, students need to be attentive to application submission deadlines.  Also some programs have limited funding; so early submission is critical to ensure financial assistance is available.”

For more information about the events planned during Financial Aid Month or to answer questions about financial aid, please contact the Financial Aid Office at 423.697.4402 or by email at finaid@chattanoogastate.edu.

Information about the financial aid month and details about financial aid programs are available on Chattanooga State’s Web site at www.chattanoogastate.edu/financial-aid/.

For more information about Chattanooga State Community College and its educational programs, call the Chattanooga State information hotline at 423.697.4404 or toll free at 1.866.547.3733 or visit the college’s Web site at www.chattanoogastate.edu.

Chattanooga State Community College is a comprehensive, regionally accredited community college, operated under the policies and guidelines of the Tennessee Board of Regents College System.  Founded in 1965 and serving a six-county area in Southeast Tennessee, Chattanooga State offers a wide array of programs and services.