Financial Aid & Cost

The Jackson College Advantage scholarship pays for tuition and student service fees beyond those covered by other financial aid sources — federal, state, institutional or private aid awards. It may be renewed for up to three academic years or the completion of an associate degree.

No separate application is necessary – if you meet the eligibility requirements below, these funds are yours and will be applied to your expenses!

• Eligibility Requirements
  • Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and other applications for federal, state, institutional, or private funding.

   

  • Be a 2024 graduate from a Jackson County public, private or charter high school or approved in-district high school (Chelsea High School, Homer High School, North Adams-Jerome High School, Leslie High School, Litchfield High School, Manchester High School, and Stockbridge High). Students completing a GED in 2024 are also eligible.

   

  • Enroll in an eligible associate degree program and take a minimum of 12 credit hours per semester.

   

  • Students must have an annual household income of $75,000 or less and an Estimated Family Contribution (EFC)- as determined by the FAFSA- of $11,000 or less.
• Renewal Requirements
  • 1. Meet the above eligibility requirements including filing a FAFSA, annual household income of $75,000 or less and an EFC of $11,000 or less and enrolling in a minimum of 12 credit hours per semester.

   

  • Maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP).
    • Cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher.
    • Completion rate of 67% or higher.
• Frequently Asked Questions
  • How do I know if my program is financial aid eligible?

    If you are unsure if your program of study is financial aid eligible, please contact your Financial Aid Specialist for confirmation.

  • What if I am not eligible?

    If you are not eligible for Jackson College Advantage Jackson College has other ways to help you afford college. Please contact a financial aid specialist at 517.796.8410 or e-mail jcfinancialaid@smcun.com.

    Find your financial aid specialist
  • How long will I be eligible to receive these funds?

    Students are eligible to receive these funds for three academic years or until the completion of an associate degree.

  • Why was I not awarded?

    Students must have graduated from an in-district high school in 2024, maintain a 2.0 GPA, progress towards a financial aid eligible associate degree, and have tuition charges remaining after federal, state, institutional and private funding have been awarded to receive Jackson College Advantage funding.

  • If I take a semester off, am I still eligible?

    Yes, students do not need to enroll in consecutive semesters to remain eligible but must continue to meet all eligibility requirements.

  • Can I appeal if I do not meet the GPA or completion requirements?

    Yes, students may complete a Financial Aid or Non-Academic appeal and if approved, remain eligible for Jackson College Advantage providing all other eligibility requirements are met.

  • Can these funds be awarded to the summer semester?

    Yes, funds may be awarded to the summer semester providing students meet all eligibility requirements.

  • I received my GED or completed homeschooling in 2024, am I eligible?

    Yes, students who are Jackson County residents and obtained their GED or completed homeschooling in 2024 in Jackson County are eligible.

  • Does this cover fees?

    Yes, the Jackson College Advantage covers in-district tuition and student service fee charges not already covered by federal, state, institutional or private funds.

  • How much will this award be?

    Awards vary based on other federal, state, institutional and private funds already awarded to the student.