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Connecticut's Program for Free Community College

PACT is "last-dollar funding, meaning it covers the gap between the federal and state grants you receive (Pell and Roberta Willis grants), and the cost of attending community college (tuition and mandatory fees). In order to receive PACT funding, go through the normal process of applying, registering, and filling out the FAFSA. PACT will launch in early 2020, to support students entering the Fall 2020 semester. Complete the FAFSA by July 15, 2020 to become PACT eligible.

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How do I Qualify?

  • Be a Connecticut High School Graduate
    GED and home schooled students qualify
  • Be a first-time college student
  • Fill out
    FAFSAFree Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which is used to package federal, state and often institutional aid
    and accept all awards
    Start the FAFSA application online
  • Attend community college full-time (12+ credits/semester)
    Apply and register at your college of choice by July 15, 2020 for priority consideration
  • Participate in a degree or credit-bearing certificate program
  • Once Enrolled, remain in good academic standing

Get Started

  • Select a College
    12 convenient locations and hundreds of areas of study
  • Apply Online
    Apply online at your selected college
  • Fill out
    FAFSAFree Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which is used to package federal, state and often institutional aid
    Complete the FAFSA application online and accept all grants
  • Register before July 15
    to receive priority consideration, register for 12+ credits before July 15
  • Good academic standing
    Once Enrolled, remain in good academic standing

FAQs

Can I apply for PACT if I took college courses in high school?
College credits completed prior to high school graduation will not preclude a student from participating in PACT.
Where do I go to fill out my FAFSA?
To complete your FAFSA, go to www.fafsa.gov.
Which programs at my community college are eligible?
Any degree or certificate program that can utilize Title IV funding at 72 credits over 36 months is eligible. For example, you can go into Nursing, Culinary Arts...etc.
If Im already a student at a CT Community College, am I eligible?
No. PACT is only available for first-time, full-time students enrolling for the Fall 2020 semester onward.
I have some learning challenges and/or health concerns that may make it difficult to take 12 credits per semester. May I still apply for PACT?
If you have a documented disability, we will work with you and your advisor to figure out the most credit hours that youll be able to take for enrollment.
Do you have to accept the Stafford Loan as part of the FAFSA before PACT kicks in?
No. Applicants must accept all grants (Pell and Roberta Willis grants), not loans, before PACT funding becomes available.
I attended trade school, but did not finish. Can I apply for PACT?
No. Trade school and postsecondary school counts as prior enrollment, but we still encourage students to apply as many other financial aid packages are available.
I graduated from a CT high school a long time ago and would be a first time college enrollee. May I take advantage of the program?
Under the law as is currently written, yes. However, there are proposals in the legislature that could alter eligibility. Details regarding specific qualifications are still being worked out and will be announced as soon as they are determined.
Are there any income requirements for PACT eligibility?
Under the law as is currently written, no. However, there are proposals in the legislature that could alter eligibility. Details regarding specific qualifications are still being worked out and will be announced as soon as they are determined.
I graduated with a GED. Can I take advantage of the program?
Yes, as long as you meet all other eligibility requirements.
Do you have Spanish speaking admission representatives for students with Spanish speaking parents that want to enroll in PACT?
Yes, there are multilingual representatives at each college to assist students.

Why PACT?

PACT is our Pledge to Advance Connecticut through a unified, consistent community college system that is accessible, inclusive, and affordable-while maintaining excellence in education. We invite Connecticut residents to gain a degree or certificate towards reaching full potential, and creating a future filled with opportunity and achievement. An investment in education pays off not only for individuals, but for our state as a whole.

PACT is our pledge to support the state's advancement - with productive citizens and skilled workers who can fill the many jobs developed by our innovative business community. PACT is our pledge to advance the unity of our communities, working together to ensure Connecticut maintains its competitive edge; holding high standards and strengthening its entrepreneurial, innovative, and inventive spirit.

PACT Manual (pdf)