The Next NC Scholarship is a financial aid program that helps most North Carolinians from households making $80,000 or less pursue higher education by fully covering tuition and fees at any community college or more than half, if not all, of tuition and fees to attend any public university in the state.
The best part? It’s money that doesn’t have to be repaid. Students attending a community college will receive at least $3,000. That’s more than the cost of full-time tuition, which means qualifying North Carolinians can choose from any of the 58 community colleges across the state and have all of their tuition and fees 100% covered.
The scholarship award can be used for things beyond tuition, including things like fees, books, food, and housing. Students with the greatest need for financial aid could qualify for additional funding to help make paying for college more manageable.
Who is eligible to receive the Next NC Scholarship?
To receive the Next NC Scholarship, you must be:
• A North Carolina resident who is eligible for in-state tuition
• A high school graduate (high school equivalency completers are eligible)
• From a household with an annual Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of $80,000 or less
• Enrolled in an eligible undergraduate curriculum program for the 2024-2025 academic year
• Taking at least 6 credit hours per semester (part-time students will receive a partial award)
• Meeting the Satisfactory Academic Progress standards of the school you plan to attend
• A student who has completed the 2024-2025 FAFSA, with a resulting Student Aid Index (SAI) at or below 7,500 (once complete, the financial aid office at the college/university you plan to attend will determine and confirm eligibility.)
How do I apply for the Next NC Scholarship?
Applying is simple. Current and incoming Southeastern Community College students must simply complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and enroll for the upcoming academic year to automatically be considered for the scholarship. If you’re eligible, you’ll receive the Next NC Scholarship. There are no additional forms to fill out.
Have Questions? Contact our Financial Aid Team! Stop in our office located in A-Building, Room 100, email us at finaid@sccnc.edu or call us at 910-788-6214.
