The following are brief descriptions of various programs, scholarship opportunities, and miscellaneous sources of possible support. More detailed information about these matters and application procedures can be obtained by visiting the Financial Aid webpage.
Grants
Federal Pell Grants
The Federal Pell grant program provides need-based grants to low-income students. Pell grants range from $380 to $7395 for full-time students. Use the FAFSA to apply for a Federal Pell Grant. Students with a bachelor’s degree are not eligible.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant Programs (FSEOG)
This is a smaller grant program funded by the federal government and the institution for the neediest students. Awards range between $100 and $1000 at the colleges in this system. Use the FAFSA or Renewal FAFSA to apply for this grant. Students with a bachelor’s degree are not eligible.
Loans
Direct Subsidized Student Loan
This is a loan program that is subsidized by the federal government (subsidized loan is a loan that will not accrue interest during enrollment periods of at least half-time status). Students enrolled below ½ time (less than 6 credits) for any given term are ineligible for loan disbursements. First time borrowers must complete entrance counseling and a master promissory note at https://studentaid.gov/.
Direct Unsubsidized Student Loan
This loan program follows similar criteria as the subsidized student loan except the student is liable for the interest while in school. Student enrolled below ½ time (less than 6 credits) for any given term are ineligible for loan disbursements. First time borrowers must complete entrance counseling and a master promissory note at https://studentaid.gov. .
Direct Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students (PLUS)
Parent Loans for Undergraduate Students are available to provide additional funds for educational expenses. These loans are made to parents of dependent undergraduate students. Parents may borrow up to the student’s cost of attendance less anticipated financial assistance. Additional information is available on the Financial Aid webpage.
Alternative Loans for Parents and Students
These programs are developed by various agencies to assist parents and students with their educational expenses. Such funds may assist families that do not qualify for, or need to supplement, other forms of financial aid. More information is available on the Financial Aid webpage.
Federal Work-Study Program
There are several different work-study opportunities at Lakes Region Community College. Make an appointment with the Financial Aid Office to see if you are eligible.
On-campus part-time jobs are available throughout the campus.
Off-campus limited part-time jobs are available throughout the community in non-profit agencies. Students must provide their own transportation.
America Reads Program offers part-time placement in area elementary schools. Students provide reading tutor skills for grades K-3. Geared for Early Childhood Education majors, this opportunity is also open to all eligible students. Students must provide their own transportation and background search costs.
Scholarships
Students are urged to investigate private scholarship opportunities. Many religious organizations, clubs, businesses, banks and individuals provide scholarship assistance. Visit our Financial Aid webpage at www.lrcc.edu for more scholarship opportunities and applications. The following are examples of such voluntary assistance:
Lakes Region Scholarship Foundation
Several scholarships are offered to residents of Laconia, Gilford, or Belmont, or to graduates of Laconia, Gilford, or Belmont High Schools. Applicants are selected based on academic achievement, extracurricular activities, self-help through employment and savings and with consideration of students' plans and financial needs.
New Hampshire Charitable Foundation Scholarships
New Hampshire residents pursuing undergraduate study are eligible to apply for scholarships based upon academic achievement, extracurricular participation and demonstrated financial need.
NH Scholars CCSNH Scholarships
Each CCSNH college will provide annually a $500 scholarship for up to 12 scholarships in high schools in its region for students who successfully complete the NH Scholars program (max cost = $6000).
The scholarship will be applied to the first $500 of tuition and fees only at the CCSNH institution awarding the scholarship. Scholarships are not transferrable to other CCSNH colleges.
The scholarship is valid for one year following the student’s high school graduation date.
While priority will be given to high schools within their regions, Presidents, at their discretion, may offer scholarships to students outside their respective regions.
SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund
The SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund was founded in 1984 to foster leadership in the specialty equipment marketplace and support educational goals for students pursuing careers in the automotive aftermarket. SEMA Scholarships are awarded annually and have been distributed to hundreds of students in support and encouragement of their educational goals. More information and applications can be found on the SEMA website, www.sema.org/scholarships.
Other Sources of Financial Aid
Veterans Administration Assistance Program
Programs of the Lakes Region Community College are approved by the New Hampshire State Approving Agency for Veterans Education Programs for persons eligible for educational benefits (GI BILL®). Students who have questions about their eligibility should call the Veterans Administration at 1-888-442-4551. Students who request veterans’ educational assistance are required to have all previous postsecondary experience evaluated for possible transfer credit to be eligible for benefits. VA Students enrolled under the Veterans Educational Assistance Improvement Act of 2010 shall be charged in-state tuition.
Veterans' Dependents and Survivors
Education benefits for up to 45 months may be paid to a student whose parent was permanently disabled or died in service or of service-connected disabilities. This benefit is also extended to wives, widows, or widowers. There are also allowances for non-service-connected disabilities. Contact the Veterans Administration at 1-888-442-4551 or www.va.gov for more information.
‘‘GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill."