NC College Connect
NC College Connect
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Course Registration starts February 23rd!
What is NC College Connect?
Eligible students will see a tailored list of colleges and universities in their portal, and this list will reflect the specific institutions for which they meet the GPA requirements and any other specific admission criteria. Note, while the minimum weighted GPA for eligibility is 2.8, some participating institutions require a higher GPA for direct admission. This means that meeting the 2.8 GPA minimum does not guarantee direct admission to all NC College Connect institutions.
NC Next Scholarship
NC Next Scholarship
The Next NC Scholarship is a financial aid program that helps most North Carolinians from households making $80,000 or less pursue higher education. Students attending a community college will receive at least $3,000 per year. Those attending a public university in North Carolina will get a minimum of $5,000 per year. The best part? It’s money that doesn’t have to be repaid.
To receive the Next NC Scholarship, you must be:
A North Carolina resident who is eligible for in-state tuition (per the Residency Determination Service).
A high school graduate (high school equivalency completers are eligible)
Enrolled in an eligible undergraduate curriculum program
Taking at least 6 credit hours per semester (part-time students will receive a partial award)
A student who has completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) with a resulting Student Aid Index (SAI) at or below 7,500 (once complete, the financial aid office at the college/university you plan to attend will determine and confirm eligibility)
From a household with an annual Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of $80,000 or less
Meet Pell eligibility criteria: Is eligible to receive financial assistance under Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended.
Meeting the Satisfactory Academic Progress standards of the college or university you plan to attend
Not be in default on any State loan or grant program.
Not exceed the semester limits for state grants, currently as follows:
6 semesters (FTE) for a two-year degree program
10 semesters (FTE) for a four-year degree program
12 semesters (FTE) for a five-year degree program
*Additional support is available based upon need—check out the Federal Student Aid estimator to get a sense of what you qualify for.
How and when do I apply?
Applying is simple. Just complete the FAFSA form. If you’re eligible, you’ll receive the Next NC Scholarship. There are no additional forms to fill out.
Submit the FAFSA form by the priority dates to ensure you qualify for your maximum award — that’s June 1 for UNC System universities and August 15 for NC community colleges. After those dates, FAFSA forms are reviewed in the order received and funding will be awarded as available. Learn more about the FAFSA.
Next Step
Next Step
How to Participate
How to Participate
1. Create a CFNC.org account:
High school juniors and parents/guardians create a free CFNC.org account (username and password). Check two things: a) that your School Connection is correct so educators at your school/district can see your information, and b) that you have correctly chosen your graduation year or parent status. Video: Instructions to create CFNC.org account
2. Complete the Next Step online form:
Click the green button at the top right of this page to complete the Junior Next Step form or continue your paths. You’ll answer a few questions about your plans after high school and can choose to share your contact information with North Carolina’s two-year and four-year colleges. You can also sign up to hear from the Next Step program this spring for helpful tips and reminders.
3. Access your three paths (optional):
After completing the Junior Next Step form, you’ll gain access to three short online paths that help you prepare to (1) enter the workforce, (2) enroll in a two-year or four-year college, or (3) join the military. The action steps are designed for students, but parents and guardians will also find helpful tips for supporting and starting meaningful conversations. Do one path or explore all three. It’s completely up to you. You’ll also have a team of North Carolina graduate students ready to help with any questions along the way.
Click the green button at the top right of this page to do the Junior Next Step form or to resume your paths.
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