Need money for school? FTCC may have a scholarship solution

Most people know scholarships are a great way to help pay for the cost of college. What many might not realize, however, is that they’re not just for four-year schools. In fact, a host of scholarships available can help students pay for courses at community colleges as well. 

Scholarships to success

Sandy Ammons, executive director of the Fayetteville Technical Community College Foundation, says people often don’t realize how many scholarships are out there that can help students finance their educational and career goals, no matter which route they take to achieve them. FTCC alone offers more than 120 scholarships, and many more are available from other sources.

“Because community colleges are a more affordable option, people may not realize that they can reduce their financial burden even more by applying for scholarships,” Ammons says. “If a student receives scholarship assistance at a community college, there is a good chance they will be able to pay for school and delay having to use financial aid such as loans or grants until they transfer to a more expensive four-year institution.”

Scholarships can be used for educational expenses, including tuition, books, classroom supplies, uniforms and testing/licensing fees. Each scholarship has its criteria for eligibility, but some standard requirements include enrollment status, minimum GPA and minimum credit hours. Some are based on merit, while others are based on need.

There is no cost to apply, and unlike loans, scholarships don’t have to be paid back.

Steps to secure scholarships

Applying for FTCC scholarships is simple. Enrolled students can complete the general application online and are automatically matched to all of the scholarships for which they’re eligible. While not everyone will qualify, many are available, and students have nothing to lose for trying.

“People may be surprised to know that FTCC offers more than 120 scholarships,” Ammons says. “We have general scholarships, program of study scholarships and athletic scholarships. We also have resources on campus to help students with the application process.”

Applications are currently being accepted. The final deadline is March 20 for Fall 2023 and Spring 2024. For more information, visit FTCC’s scholarship web page. You can also call 910.678.8441 or email scholarship@faytechcc.edu.

There are also scholarships available for high school students planning to attend FTCC. Those interested in applying should contact Taneka Williams at 910.678.2416 or williamta@faytechcc.edu.

More scholarships that can help students with costs at FTCC and beyond are also available from outside sources. Ammons suggests visiting The College Foundation of North Carolina for scholarships across the state. For information about scholarships in the local community, check out Cumberland Community Foundation. 

Helping students soar

No matter the source, Ammons says scholarships are a fantastic opportunity that all students should explore to help cover the cost of classes. Not only do they help financially, but they’re also an honor that can bolster resumes and applications for four-year schools or employment.

“Scholarships are a great way to assist with the expense of obtaining a college degree,” Ammons says. “Receiving a scholarship is validation of the student’s efforts and may just be the boost a student needs to keep working hard to achieve their goals and chase their dreams.”

About FTCC

Fayetteville Technical Community College was established in 1961. It serves more than 28,000 students annually with over 280 occupational, technical, general education, college transfer and continuing education programs. For more information, visit theFTCC website or call 910-500-0277.