Financial Aid Programs

One of the most attractive features at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College is the low cost. But if you're like a majority of our students and need help paying for college, Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College offers scholarships, grants (which don't have to repaid), loans and work opportunities.

Some funds are available throughout the year, and there are a number of options available from federal, state and local sources. You'll find a brief summary of each on this page. And keep in mind that it's best to apply before June 1 to qualify for all aid you're eligible to receive.

For more information, call the Financial Aid Office at the campus of your choice:

• Perkinston Campus, 601-928-6225
• Jefferson Davis Campus, 228-896-2511
• Jackson County Campus, 228-497-7630

Grant Programs

Federal Pell Grants

Federal entitlement awards available to students who demonstrate exceptional financial need and are pursuing a first undergraduate degree or certificate. Applications are available from high school counselors or any Gulf Coast Financial Aid Office. (The Free Application for Federal Student Aid is the only application required for the Pell Grant.)

State Student Incentive Grants

An undergraduate gift award program for full-time Mississippi students who demonstrate a substantial financial need and are pursuing a first undergraduate degree or certificate. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid is used by the financial aid officer to determine eligibility for this grant. Awards begin at $200 a year. Contact any Gulf Coast Financial Aid Office.

• The Mississippi Resident Tuition Assistance Grant (MTAG)
  This grant offers up to $500 a year for students who are residents of Mississippi and do not qualify for a Pell grant. Students must have a high school grade point average of 2.5 and an ACT score of 15 or above.
• The Mississippi Eminent Scholars Grant (MSEG)
  This grant offers up to $2,500 a year for students who are residents of Mississippi with a high school grade point average of 3.5 and an ACT score of 29 or above. Students must be a semifinalist or finalist of the National Merit Scholarship Corporation or National Achievement Academy.

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants

A gift award program available to a limited number of undergraduates demonstrating substantial need. Free Application for Federal Student Aid is used by the financial aid officer to determine eligibility for the grant. Awards begin at $100. Contact the financial aid office at the campus of your choice.

Federal Family Education Loan Programs

Federal Stafford Loan

Long-term variable interest loans available through lending institutions. Eligible students enrolled on at least a half-time basis (six semester hours) may apply. You must apply for federal student aid prior to certification of loan application. All loan applicants must participate in a loan counseling session before a loan application will be certified. Contact the financial aid officer at the campus of your choice for more information.

Federal PLUS

Non-need based loan program in which a parent may borrow up to the cost of attendance for each undergraduate student each year. Repayment of principal and interest begins within 60 days of disbursement of the loan. Contact the financial aid officer at the campus of your choice for more information. Apply at banks or credit unions. You must apply for federal aid prior to certification of loan application.

Employment Programs

Federal College Work-Study Program

Part-time, on-campus employment is available to eligible students. Contact a Gulf Coast financial aid officer for an application. Students must complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid.

Cooperative Education

Part-time and full-time employment directly related to the student's major field of study is available to students who have completed at least six hours of course work in their major or have related work experience.