In Mississippi, we’re more than just your local community college—we’re a community committed to your success.
In Mississippi, we’re more than just your local community college—we’re a community committed to your success.
Get started today on building the future you want! Below are resources to help you take the next step in your education.
Get started today on building the future you want! Below are resources to help you take the next step in your education.
Hey Mississippi—Let’s Study Local!
Personalized Learning Experience: Community college offers small class sizes to ensure you get the attention and one-on-one support you deserve.
Affordable Excellence: Education shouldn’t break the bank. With so many financial aid options, only 10% of Mississippi’s community college students take out a student loan.
Affordable Choice: Get the first two years of your four-year degree and pay 57% less in tuition and required fees than Mississippi’s four-year public universities.
Career-Focused Programs: Community colleges offer a wide range of programs and degrees designed with your career in mind. From hands-on training to real-world internships, community colleges provide the skills and experience employers are looking for.
Vibrant Campus Life: With diverse clubs, athletics, events, and activities, there’s always something happening on campus. Build lasting friendships, explore new interests, and make the most of your college experience.
Convenient and Flexible: Community colleges offer a variety of class schedules and online options to fit your busy life. Whether you’re balancing work, family, or other commitments, you can find a way to pursue your education on your terms.
Ready to Take the Next Step and be CCsmart with Your Future?
Go see and experience a community college for yourself. Visit campus, meet with advisors, and discover why so many students are choosing community college to start or pivot their educational journey.
Join us and be part of a community that believes in your potential. Together, we are CCsmart.
and start shaping your future today!
How do I Pay for Community College in Mississippi?
The CCsmart way to pay for community college in Mississippi involves a combination of financial aid options, scholarships, and planning. In Mississippi, almost 70% of all students receive some time of grant funded financial aid. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process:
STEP 1. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA):
- The FAFSA determines your eligibility for federal grants, work-study programs, and loans. Also, many other types of financial aid (state and local aid) will also require FAFSA completion. So do it first and right away. Apply Here at FAFSA.gov.
- The maximum amount of a Federal Pell Grant for the 2024–2025 award year is $7,395. With the average annual cost of community college tuition in Mississippi ($3,800), you will have some change in your pocket to help you make ends meet while going to school.
- Need Help? Completing the new FAFSA is easier than ever, and if you need help, we’ve got your covered. Just visit https://get2college.org/ and book a virtual appointment or visit a Get2College Center near you.
STEP 2. Mississippi offers million for students to go to college. After you FAFSA, explore and apply for State Financial Aid Programs:
- HIGHER EDUCATION LEGISLATIVE PLAN FOR NEEDY STUDENTS (HELP)
Students with financial need should apply by March 31. - MISSISSIPPI RESIDENT TUITION ASSISTANCE GRANT (MTAG)
Mississippi resident students should apply by September 15. - MISSISSIPPI EMINENT SCHOLARS GRANT (MESG)
High achieving students should apply by September 15. - FOSTERING ACCESS & INSPIRING TRUE HOPE SCHOLARSHIP (FAITH)
Foster youth may apply at any time. - Here is a link to the State Financial Aid Application: Apply Here.
STEP 3: Investigate Institutional Scholarships and Grants:
- All Mississippi community colleges offer scholarships based on merit, need, or specific talents.
- For example, many students leverage their talents in sports, music, or other extracurricular activities can significantly enhance your financial aid opportunities at Mississippi community colleges.
- Another example is at Mississippi Delta Community College where they offer scholarships covering tuition and room and board for academically gifted students.
- Application Process: Check with the financial aid office of your chosen college for available scholarships and application deadlines.
STEP 4: More Financial Aid Options in Mississippi:
- Federal Work-Study Programs: These programs provide part-time jobs for students with financial need, allowing them to earn money to help pay education expenses.
- Apply for External Scholarships. Mississippi has generous foundations that help support post-secondary education gaps. Examples include the Community Foundation for Mississippi and Mississippi Baptist Foundation.
- Employer Tuition Assistance Programs: Some employers offer tuition reimbursement or assistance programs to support employees pursuing further education.