Paradise Valley Community College and the Maricopa County Community College District are committed to helping make higher education affordable for everyone. At a fraction of the cost of a four-year university, PVCC offers students the opportunity to explore fields of interest, leadership, civic engagement, cultural activities, and more with flexible daytime and evening classes, both in person and hybrid.
However, paying for college is still one of the leading reasons students cite when choosing not to pursue a college degree; all the more reason to consider community college in pursuit of your academic dreams.
Financial Avenues at PVCC
There are many avenues to consider for financial support – government assistance, grants and loans, scholarship awards, and work-study related programs; all of which can help pay for not only tuition, but books and living expenses as well.
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step and most vital step to seeking financial assistance. While FAFSA does not have set deadlines, students should complete their FAFSA as early as possible to receive maximum consideration for gift aid (free money).
Keep in mind, PVCC’s tuition payment deadline is August 7 for fall 2023 registration, therefore students need to get their applications in soon to be sure they are processed in time. Otherwise students will need to secure their classes with another form of payment while their aid is in process.
Students can complete a FAFSA application here or contact PVCC’s financial aid team directly at 480-731-8900 or email financialaid@paradisevalley.edu. The campus team is also available to chat online at https://paradisevalley.craniumcafe.com/group/financial-aid/lobby.
Eligibility Requirement for FAFSA
- A high school diploma or General Education Development (GED) certificate
- Enrollment in a degree-seeking program (minimum 16 credit hours)
- Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen (DACA and Dreamers not eligible)
- Have a valid Social Security number
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress (SAP)
- Not be in default on a federal loan or owe a repayment to the Department of Education
- Scholarships
Higher ed scholarships abound! Do your research and discover hundreds of ways to receive money you don’t have to pay back. Who doesn’t want free money?
PVCC and Maricopa have various scholarship programs, as well as external and private donors including foundations, businesses, churches, non-profits, communities, employers, and professional organizations. Scholarship resources for all students are available regardless of immigration status.
- Honors Program
As a member of PVCC’s Honors Program, students are eligible to apply for specific Honors’ scholarships including the Honors Achievement Award, Chancellor’s Scholarship, Foundation Scholarship, and the All Arizona Academic Team Scholarship. It’s a great environment for students to thrive, spawning new opportunities for students through scholarships, trips, and full faculty immersion.
- Federal Work-Study programs and Student Employment opportunities are a great way to work your way through college.
PVCC advising is available for additional questions and can steer students in the right direction. So whether students intend to earn an associate degree or certificate, transfer on for a bachelor’s or higher degree, or take one or a few courses to learn a new skill or expand their horizons, they are supported.