How to apply
To be considered for financial aid, an applicant must be admitted to the college and matriculated in an approved degree or certificate program. (To obtain an application for admission, visit the GCC Office of Admission, email Admission, or call them at 413-775-1806.)
An applicant must also complete the following two forms each academic year:
1. GCC Financial Aid Intent to Enroll Form: This form provides key information for financial aid counselors to use in evaluating applications. This application can be downloaded below. A Financial Aid Intent to Enroll Form can also be requested from our office (413-775-1109) or via e-mail at financialaid@gcc.mass.edu. Once completed, return this form to the Financial Aid Office.
Download a current application in PDF.
2. Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): This application may be obtained from the Financial Aid Office at GCC and mailed to the Federal Processor, or it may be viewed and completed online. (GCC's school code, which is required to complete the FAFSA, is 002169.)
Priority Deadline: To be considered for all available financial aid, a student should have filed a completed FAFSA and GCC Financial Aid Intent to Enroll Form before May 1. The Financial Aid Office will try to notify students who meet this deadline of an award before their bills are due in August.
Packaging Policy: Funds are awarded based on need, residency, and funds availability. Financial need is determined by subtracting a student's expected family contribution (called the "EFC") and other outside financial resources from estimated student expenses. The EFC is determined by the U. S. Department of Education for every applicant from information provided on the FAFSA. The EFC is based on household size, number of household members enrolled in college, income, and taxes paid, among other factors.
Bookstore Accounts and Distribution of Excess Financial Aid: Students who receive financial aid greater than their tuition and fees can request accounts at the college bookstore at the beginning of each semester. Funds greater than tuition, fees, bookstore charges, and other charges will be distributed after the middle of the semester. (For more information, see Frequently Asked Questions.)