Affording College at CMCC
An affordable college education is within reach. Learn about tuition, scholarships, grants, and financial aid options to help fund your education.
WHAT’S COVERED
Understanding Tuition and Fees
| 2025-2026 Estimated College Expenses | In-State* | New England Regional | Out-of-State |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition Per Credit Hour | $96 | $144 | $192 |
| Tuition for 30 Credit Hours | $2,880 | $4,320 | $5,760 |
| Mandatory Fees | $1,260 | $1,260 | $1,260 |
| Total Tuition and Fees | $4,140 | $5,580 | $7,020 |
| On-Campus Housing & Meal Plan (based on Rancourt Hall) | $11,477 | $11,477 | $11,477 |
| Total with On-Campus Housing & Meal Plan | $15,617 | $17,057 | $18,497 |
*Tuition for in-state students is $96 per credit hour. Most courses are 3 credits or $288. A full-time student taking 15 credits each semester can expect to pay tuition of approximately $2,880. For full-time, out-of-state students who do not qualify for the tuition breaks and programs, tuition will be approximately $5,760.
STAYING CONNECTED AT CMCC
Computer Requirements
Students are required to have a computer, which in many cases can be covered by financial aid. This helps set you up for success on day one by ensuring access to Brightspace course shells, required software, electronic course materials, and virtual academic student support (e.g. tutoring, research assistance, and the Online Writing Center).
Recent High School Graduates
Discover Tuition-Free College
If you earned a high school diploma, GED, or HiSET in 2024 or later, you may qualify for the Free College Scholarship. With hundreds of programs to choose from, now’s the time to learn the skills you need for the job you want.
Steps to Apply for Financial Aid
Complete the FAFSA
Submit Required Documents
Review Your Financial Aid Offer
Accept Your Aid
Financial Aid Overview
Have questions about paying for college? You’re not alone, most CMCC students receive some form of financial aid. Here’s a quick breakdown of how it works and how to get started.
How do I apply for financial aid?
To get started, complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). This form determines your eligibility for federal, state, and some institutional aid. Be sure to list CMCC’s school code 005276 so your information is sent directly to us.
When should I apply?
You should complete your FAFSA as soon as it opens to maximize your eligibility for aid. Applying early can help you access more funding opportunities.
What is the FAFSA and how does it work?
The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) collects information about you and your family’s financial situation to determine your eligibility for aid. When completing your application, be sure to include CMCC’s school code 005276 so we can receive your information.
What happens after I submit my FAFSA?
After submitting your FAFSA, CMCC will review your information and may request additional documents. Once everything is complete, you’ll receive a financial aid offer outlining your options.
How do I check the status of my financial aid application?
Log into your self-service student portal to check your financial aid status at any time.
What types of financial aid are available?
Students may qualify for grants, scholarships, work-study opportunities, and student loans. For a complete overview of aid types, loan activation steps, bookstore allowances, and refund policies, download this General Financial Aid Information PDF. CMCC is always here to help you understand which options are available to you.
Do I have to pay financial aid back?
Grants and scholarships do not need to be repaid. Student loans must be repaid after you leave school, and work-study is earned through part-time employment.
What if I need help with the FAFSA?
Our Financial Aid Office is here to help. Whether you have questions or need step-by-step guidance, we’re happy to walk you through the process. Stop by Student Financial Services Monday – Friday, 8:00 am – 4:30 pm or by phone at (207) 755-5482.
MORE WAYS TO PAY
Additional Student Assistance Programs
In addition to federal and state aid, Central Maine Community College offers grants and waivers, scholarships, work study as a CMCC student employee, and veteran’s benefits.
Grants and Scholarships
Grants and scholarships are gift aid, money you do not have to repay.
- Federal Pell Grant: Need-based federal grant for undergraduate students.
- Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG): Awarded to a small number of students each year who qualify for the maximum Federal Pell Grant due to limited federal funding.
- Maine State Grants: Need-based grants for Maine residents, determined through the FAFSA.
- CMCC scholarships: Funded in part through the CM Education Foundation, the Maine Community College System, and the Foundation for Maine’s Community Colleges.
- External Scholarships: Private organizations, foundations, employers, and other institutions also provide scholarships that are not awarded by the Financial Aid Office.
Tuition Breaks & Debt Forgiveness
Waiver programs: cover all or part of your tuition and fees if you meet specific program qualifications and are available for:
- Foster and adopted youth under Maine DHHS subsidy.
- Dependents of Maine veterans who died or were permanently disabled in service.
- Native American residents in Maine who meet tribal eligibility and do not qualify for a Federal Pell Grant.
Opportunity Maine Tax Credit: Maine residents who borrow student loans, graduate from a Maine college, and work and pay taxes in Maine may qualify for an annual tax credit to help repay their loans. Learn more at opportunitymaine.org.
Student Employment and Work-Study
- Campus Employment: Part-time on-campus jobs for full-time students are posted in August for the upcoming academic year.
Students are paid every two weeks through Federal Work-Study, College Works for ME, or College employment funds. - Federal Work-Study: Part-time on-campus employment opportunities for eligible students with financial need determined through the FAFSA. If you are eligible, Federal Work-Study will appear as part of your financial aid award.
Work-study earnings can help cover books, supplies, and personal expenses while you are enrolled.
Federal Loans
Students are encouraged to explore other options, such as grants and scholarships, student employment, and payment plans before using loans to fund their education.
Because CMCC tuition is only $96 per credit hour, many who borrow will take out far less than at a four-year college.
- Federal Direct Subsidized Loan: Need-based. Principal and interest deferred while enrolled at least half-time (6 or more credits).
- Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan: Not need-based. Interest accrues from the time funds are disbursed.
- Federal Parent Loans: The PLUS program is a credit-based loan available for eligible parents to help defray their child’s educational expenses.
STILL NEED HELP?
Contact Student Financial Services
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Additional Financial Aid Questions
Learn more about financial aid eligibility, academic requirements, enrollment changes, and maintaining your financial aid at CMCC.
What is Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP)?
Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) refers to the academic standards students must maintain to remain eligible for financial aid. SAP is measured by cumulative grade point average (GPA), completion rate, and maximum timeframe.
What happens to my financial aid if I withdraw from a class?
Students who withdraw from classes may have their financial aid adjusted. Students receiving federal financial aid who withdraw officially or unofficially before 60% of the semester has passed may be subject to Return of Title IV Funds (R2T4) regulations and may be required to return a portion of their financial aid.
Do I need to maintain a certain GPA to receive financial aid?
Yes. Students must meet the College’s Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) standards, including maintaining the required cumulative GPA and successfully completing enough attempted credits.
Does dropping below full-time enrollment affect financial aid?
Possibly. Some grants, scholarships, and other financial aid programs require students to maintain a certain enrollment status. Enrollment changes may affect financial aid eligibility and award amounts.
Where can I get help understanding my financial aid eligibility?
Students who have questions about financial aid eligibility, enrollment changes, withdrawals, or maintaining aid eligibility are encouraged to contact Student Financial Services for assistance.
Your Future at CMCC
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