Financial Aid

Program Director or Chairperson:  Susan Lipsmeyer

Program Description: Grossmont College students receive over $11 million in financial aid each year in the form of grants, scholarships, loans and work-study. An average of 25% of the student body receives financial aid each year. Over 11,000 applications for financial aid will be received for the 2004-05 academic year. As enrollment fees continue to increase, there will be an increasing emphasis on outreach activities to inform the public about the availability of financial aid. This will lead to greater increases in the number of students applying for financial aid. By 2010, our applications should reach 15,000. An increase of this magnitude will require 10 additional staff positions, significant increase in space, and a reengineering of internal processes with an emphasis on technological solutions.

Activity #1: On-line scholarship application

Expected Benefit: Ease in applying for scholarships and increased numbers of scholarship applications

Activity #2: Full implementation of on-line financial aid workshop. All first time financial aid applicants will complete the on-line financial aid workshop.

Expected Benefit: Increased awareness of financial aid and the student's rights and responsibilities in receiving financial aid. Reduction in the percentages of students who do not make satisfactory progress.

Activity #3: On-line Board of Governor's Fee Waiver Application

Expected Benefit: Greater access to the fee waiver program and increased numbers of students applying for a fee waiver

Activity #4: Refurnish the front office to maximize space and accommodate additional staff

Expected Benefit: Staff satisfaction and more aesthetically pleasing environment

2003 – 2004 Accomplishments

• Implementation of Electronic Fund Transfer of student financial aid checks.
  
• Implementation of document imaging
  
• Sent 50% of all student notification letters via email.
  
• Developed on line Financial Aid course.