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Grants

Grants are an impactful way to help pay for college because they don’t have to be repaid. By completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), many MCC students qualify for federal and New York State grants that can significantly lower the cost of college. 

It’s worth applying whether you think you’re eligible or not. Many other financial aid opportunities—like scholarships and work-study—are tied to your FAFSA, and you won’t know what additional support is available until you apply. 

Federal Grant Programs

There are two grants offered by the United States Federal Government. To apply, you must complete your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Eligibility for federal grants is determined based on income information you provide on the FAFSA*. 

Federal Pell Grant

The starting point

The Federal Pell Grant is available to undergraduate students who display financial need and have not yet earned a bachelor’s degree or higher. For many students, Pell funding serves as the starting point for building a full financial aid package. 

Key things to know: 

  • Aid cannot extend beyond the equivalent of 12 full-time semesters 
  • Award amounts vary based on financial need, enrollment level, and cost of attendance
  • Students enrolled less than full-time may still qualify, with funding prorated
  • MCC will credit Pell Grant funds to your account
  • The FAFSA must be completed each year to remain eligible for the Federal Pell Grant and other types of aid. 

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)

Additional financial support

The FSEOG provides additional federal grant funding to students who display exceptional financial need.  

Key things to know: 

  • FSEOG funds are limited and awarded based on availability at MCC.
  • Award amounts for MCC students are typically $400–$600 per semester
  • Applying early increases your chances of being considered for this grant.
  • MCC will credit FSEOG Grant funds to your account 

 

Get Started—File Your FAFSA

Apply for the Pell Grant and FSEOG by completing the FAFSA.
Start Your FAFSA

New York State Grant Programs

New York State (NYS) offers programs to help eligible residents afford college, including options for both full-time and part-time students.

New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP)

TAP is a state-funded grant program for eligible New York State residents attending MCC. Awards are based on factors such as residency, income, and academic status. 

Key things to know: 

  • Awards range from $500 up to the full in-state tuition rate
  • TAP cannot exceed your tuition charges
  • Your official award notification comes from New York State
  • MCC must certify academic eligibility before funds are applied to your account 

To apply: 

Start by completing your FAFSA online. You’ll be given a link on the FAFSA website to complete the NYS Express TAP Application (ETA). If you complete a paper FAFSA, you’ll receive your ETA by mail

Have Questions?

MCC’s Financial Aid Office is here to answer questions about grants and other types of financial aid. Call, email, make an appointment, or stop by our office.

Brighton Campus

Location: Building 1, Room 231 
Phone: 585-292-2050 
Email: financialaid@monroecc.edu   

Office Hours: 
Monday through Thursday 8:45 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. 
Friday 10:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. 

Walk-in Hours: 
Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

Downtown Campus

Location: Student Engagement Center; 3rd Floor, Room 310 
Phone: 585-292-2050 
Email: financialaid@monroecc.edu  

Office Hours: 
Monday through Thursday 8:45 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. 
Friday 10:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. 

*To confirm the accuracy of your FAFSA information, the U.S. Department of Education may select you for a verification process. If selected, the college is required to collect additional information from you and, if applicable, your parent(s) or spouse, including but not limited to FAFSA Direct Data Retrieval (DRT) confirmation, signed federal tax returns, federal or state-issued identification, and proof of high school completion. Verification may increase or decrease your aid eligibility, or result in no change. Please note that under federal regulations, participation in the verification process is required. Failure to provide the requested documentation may result in delays, cancellations, or repayment of prior financial aid. We appreciate your cooperation in this process.