Steps to Apply (must be completed by May 3)

• Complete the online Application for Admission. Students who have completed a course in the ESSENCE Program do not need to reapply. Each student must know their HCC student ID number and login information.
• Submit a high school transcript to the Admissions Office (admissions@hagerstowncc.edu), showing a 3.0 GPA or SAT/ACT/AP or MCAP scores to indicate that you do not need placement testing. If you need placement testing, you must test by May 3. Testing information, including exemptions to placement tests, can be found on our Future Students page.
• Complete and submit this Grad Gift Application Form (forms will not be accepted after the posted deadline). Students who are eligible for the dual enrollment Pell Grant or the regular Pell Grant will not be eligible for the Graduation Gift unless the Pell Grant doesn’t cover the entire cost of tuition.
• Submit the 2020-2021 FAFSA at www.studentaid.gov. Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident (eligible non-citizen).

NOTE:

• After all steps have been completed, you will be contacted via your HCC college email with instructions on how to register for your class(es). Instructions on how to access your college email account are included in your acceptance letter. You must be registered for classes by May 17.
• It is each student’s responsibility to submit a copy of your high school diploma or final school transcript and any additional requested paperwork to the HCC Student Financial Aid office by July 1, to remain eligible for this funding.
• Grad Gift funding will not be applied until we receive a final high school transcript.
• Courses must fit in your college major. We recommend taking general education courses.
• All communication between the student and HCC will be through the student’s college email account.

Quick Facts

• Grad Gift courses are offered at no charge for tuition to the student.
• Students are responsible for course materials and all college/course fees and textbook costs.
• Students may select either one or two courses.
• Grad Gift courses will have online components - computer/internet access is essential for success.
• Grad Gift classes are college classes that will show on official college transcripts and may impact academic standing in future college coursework. We expected Grad Gift students to put forth every effort to complete courses.
• 2020-2021 FAFSA Completion is required for HCC administrative purposes.
  • 2020-2021 FAFSA (uses 2018 tax info) – covers Fall 2020, Spring 2021, and *Summer 2021
    • *The 2020-2021 FAFSA is needed for Grad Gift program
  • 2021-2022 FAFSA (uses 2019 tax info) – covers Fall 2021, Spring 2022, and Summer 2022
    • Needed for MD Promise Program (MD residents) – due by March 1st, 2021
• Submit the 2020-2021 FAFSA at www.studentaid.gov. Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident (eligible non-citizen).
• Students can start classes before they graduate high school but it is their responsibility to submit final high school transcripts or diplomas by July 1 to receive funding.
• If you drop before the class starts, there will be no charge. If you drop after the class starts, you will be responsible for the college and course fees.
• Students will pay the registration and general college fees for their classes. The prices listed do not include textbook costs or course related fees.
  • A three-credit class would cost $72 (course fees and textbooks costs not included)
  • Two three-credit classes would cost $114 (course fees and textbook costs not included)
  • Two four-credit classes would cost $142 (course fees and textbook costs not included)