How to apply
To be eligible for financial aid, you must be admitted to the College and select an approved degree or certificate program. Go to the GCC Office of Admission where you can apply online, or contact them if you have questions.
You must also complete the following 2 forms each academic year:
- Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): Go to FAFSA to complete this application. You might want to complete a worksheet first to make the online application faster to complete. Be aware that if you're a dependent student, you need to include parent information. (GCC's school code, which is required to complete the FAFSA, is 002169.)
- GCC Financial Aid Intent to Enroll Form: This form provides key information for financial aid counselors to use in evaluating applications. This application can be downloaded here:
Download an Intent to Enroll Form in PDF
Once completed, return this form to the Financial Aid Office. A Financial Aid Intent to Enroll Form can also be requested from our office (413-775-1109) or via e-mail at financialaid@gcc.mass.edu.
Priority Deadline
To be considered for all available financial aid, a student should have filed a completed FAFSA and GCC Financial Aid Intent to Enroll Form before May 1. The Financial Aid Office will try to notify students who meet this deadline of an award before their bills are due in August.
Packaging Policy
Funds are awarded based on need, residency, and funds availability. Financial need is determined by subtracting a student's "expected family contribution" (called the "EFC") and other outside financial resources from estimated student expenses. The EFC is determined by the U. S. Department of Education for every applicant from information provided on the FAFSA. The EFC is based on household size, number of household members enrolled in college, income, and taxes paid, among other factors.
Bookstore Accounts and Distribution of Excess Financial Aid
Students who receive financial aid greater than their tuition and fees can request accounts at the college bookstore at the beginning of each semester. Funds greater than tuition, fees, bookstore charges, and other charges will be distributed after the middle of the semester. (For more information, see Frequently Asked Questions.)