Frequently Asked Questions
What is the MSJC Promise?
The MSJC Promise provides FREE tuition to first-time, full-time college students.
To be eligible for the MSJC Promise, students must meet all of the following criteria:
- Apply for admission at msjc.edu/apply
- Be a California resident or exempt group
- Have a high school diploma or GED
- Be a first-time student (students that completed con-current, dual-enrollment, or articulated coursework/units in high school that were received from a college other than MSJC will be eligible)
- Apply for FAFSA or California Dream Act Application
- Be enrolled in and complete at least 12 units per term in the Fall and Spring semesters
- We recommend that first-time students take English, Math in the first year
- Maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA while at MSJC
- Students enrolled in the MSJC First Year Experience (FYE) Program will receive priority in the MSJC Promise Program
To be eligible for the second year of the MSJC Promise Program, students must meet all of the following criteria:
- Be enrolled in and complete at least 12 units per term in the Fall and Spring Semesters of the second year
- Apply for FAFSA or California Dream Act Application
- Maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA while at MSJC
Is there an income requirement to be eligible for the MSJC Promise?
No.
Is the MSJC Promise the same as the California College Promise Grant?
No. The California College Promise Grant is an enrollment fee waiver for eligible students attending California community colleges.
How will fees be paid if I qualify for the MSJC Promise?
When you register for classes, if you are not eligible for fee waivers such as the California College Promise Grant, you will be responsible to pay tuition and other fees. Students who meet all eligibility requirements of the MSJC Promise will be reimbursed for tuition fees after successfully completing their courses.
Does the MSJC Promise cover books and supplies?
Students meeting all eligibility criteria for the MSJC Promise Program will be considered for the MSJC Promise Book Grant in addition to the tuition reimbursement, as funding permits. Students awarded the MSJC Promise Book Grant will receive communication directing them to select a refund preference with BankMobile Disbursements, a technology solution, powered by BMTX, Inc.
How do I apply for the MSJC Promise?
Students who meet all eligibility requirements for the MSJC Promise will automatically be considered based on availability of funds. There is no application for the MSJC Promise Program.
What does a “first-time” college student mean?
For the MSJC Promise, a first-time college student is anyone who has never attended a college or university and will attend MSJC during the fall term of their first year in college. Students that completed con-current, dual-enrollment, or articulated coursework/units at MSJC while in high school will be considered.
What does “full-time” mean?
Full-time MSJC Promise students must enroll in at least 12 units per semester in the fall and spring.
What happens if I drop below 12 units?
In order to remain eligible for the MSJC Promise, students must be full-time students.
Do I need to complete a financial aid application to be considered for the MSJC Promise?
Yes, students must complete the FAFSA or California Dream Act Application application and meet all other MSJC Promise requirements to be considered.
Does the MSJC Promise cover summer classes?
No, the Promise does not cover fees for summer classes.
What if I still have questions?
For more information, please email finaid@msjc.edu or call 951-465-7891.