Mar 19, 2024  
2010-2011 Catalog 
    
2010-2011 Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Expenses and Financial Aid



Financial Information

Tuition and Fees*

(*All costs subject to change)

In-state students

$980 Per semester tuition for full-time students (12 or more hours)
$100 Per semester hour for part-time students
$50 Registration fee (non-refundable)
$80 Late registration fee (non-refundable)
$20 Online course fee per credit hour (plus regular tuition)

Out-of-state students (and out of country)

$2,280 Per semester tuition for full-time students
$480 International insurance for foreign students
$200 Per semester hour for part-time students
$100 Out-of-country service fee per semester for foreign students

Housing

$50 Housing room reservation fee (non-refundable)
$800 Housing fee (Add $200 for Pickett, Virden and Utica Campus residence halls)

Meals

$920 Meal Plan (19 meals per week)
$190 Commuter meal ticket

Other charges

$75 Financial Orientation fee (freshmen only)
$30 Lab fee
$20 Parking decal

MasterCard and Visa/Online Payment

Hinds Community College will accept Hinds debit card, MasterCard and Visa for the payment of student tuition and fees. Students may pay tuition and fees online at my.hindscc.edu. Deferred fee payment is available for fall and spring semesters. Summer tuition and fees cannot be deferred. For more information call the business office at the location you plan to attend:

Rankin Campus, Administration Building 601.936.5551
Raymond Campus, Administration Building 601.857.3205
Jackson Campus-
  Nursing Allied/Health Center, Anderson Hall 601.376.4805
Academic/Technical Center, Alexander Building 601.987.8166
Utica Campus, Administration Building-AA 601.885.7028
Vicksburg Campus, Banks Building 601.629.6806

Payment of Registration Expenses Required 10 Days Before First Day of Traditional Classes:

The payment of charges for tuition, fees, room, and board is part of the registration process. All Fees are due 10 days prior to the first day of traditional classes. Thus, Hinds requires each registered student to have completed one of the following steps:

  1. Paid fees in full
  2. Entered into a payment plan for the current outstanding account balance with the business office
  3. Have completed all financial aid forms and awarded financial aid sufficient to cover outstanding fees

FAILURE TO COMPLETE ONE OF THESE STEPS WILL RESULT IN DELETION OF YOUR CLASS SCHEDULE!!! You will then have to re-register for your classes which may result in inconvenient times, sections, or locations.

Student Deregistration Deadline Occurs after the Second Week of Traditional Classes:

All students who register 9 days prior to the first day of traditional classes or during late registration must also make arrangements for payment of tuition, housing, and meals to complete the registration process. Thus, Hinds requires each registered student to have completed one of the following steps by the end of the second week of classes:

  1. Paid fees in full
  2. Entered into a payment plan for the current outstanding account balance with the business office
  3. Have completed all financial aid forms and awarded financial aid sufficient to cover outstanding fees

FAILURE TO COMPLETE ONE OF THESE STEPS WILL RESULT IN DELETION OF YOUR CLASS SCHEDULE!!! IN ADDITION, YOUR ACCOUNT MAY BE TURNED OVER TO A THIRD PARTY COLLECTION AGENT.

Web Payment at my.hindscc.edu:

My. Hinds allows students to use the latest technology to complete business transactions with the College at anytime. Students may check their account balances or pay tuition and various fees by using a credit or debit card. Parents must obtain the students login ID and password from their student to access to this feature.

Method of Payment:

Payment of fees may be made on-line using your Visa or Mastercard on My.Hinds. At each campus you may visit the business office which accepts Visa, MasterCard, Discover, money orders, travelers checks, paper checks (subject to approval by Telecheck), and cash.

Payment Plan:

Hinds offers a tuition and fees payment plan which helps in budgeting college costs but requires financial planning by students and their families. Full time students and part-time students with more than 3 hours may pay one fourth (1/4) of the amount assessed for tuition, housing, and meals with the balance being paid in three equal installments. Students are required to pay all previous term balances and one fourth (1/4) of the amount assessed to complete the registration process. Students wanting to participate in a deferred payment plan must go to the business office at any location and complete and sign the necessary documents.

Once the agreement is completed the student will be charged a $25 set-up fee and they will be given a timeline to make payments. It is the responsibility of the students to pay their account balance by the established payment due dates. Students may visit the business office at any location or mail their payment to the Raymond business office at P.O. Box 1100, Raymond, MS 39154. In addition, the payment plan may be viewed on www.my.hindscc.edu and students can make payments from their Visa card or Mastercard. For most students, the payments are due approximately one month apart. Hinds students will also be charged 3.0% interest on the outstanding balance until the plan is complete. Failure to make timely payments will result in the student’s restriction from future class registration, possibly having the account assigned to a collection agency, and non-release of transcripts.

Clearance of Obligations:

All financial or other obligations to the College must be cleared prior to the end of each semester or term. An outstanding balance for a prior semester or term must be paid before the student will be allowed to register for subsequent semesters or terms. Transcripts will not be issued if financial obligations have not been satisfied. Failure to meet financial obligations to the College could subject the student to additional late payment charges, as well as collection cost.

Other Expenses that may be incurred:

In addition to registration expenses, expenses may be incurred by students during the semester. The following are examples of charges that may be payable when incurred.

$40 Yearbook $20-50 Parking Ticket
$50 per Semester Wellness Membership (Raymond only) $20 Replacement Key
$10 Replacement Campus ID Badge $30 Returned Check Fee
$25 Behavior Fine (minimun) $250 per semester for bus transportation (Utica only)
$20 Replacement Hinds Debit Card $190 Commuter Meal Ticket (Raymond and Utica)
$25 Payment Plan Set-up  

Offset of Funds:

If there is an outstanding account balance, and the College has in its possession any funds payable to the student, the College reserves the right to withhold funds necessary to pay the outstanding balance and cover any collection costs incurred. Once accounts are paid, any remaining balance will be refunded to the student.

Student Bank Loans:

Student bank loans are disbursed each semester or term. Most bank loans are disbursed electronically. Loan disbursement information is not given over the telephone; inquiry must be made in person. Students may reference their promissory note for loan disbursement dates to determine when to expect loan proceeds.

Student Refunds:

Each registered Hinds student will receive a Hinds Debit Card. The Hinds Debit Card will be mailed to the student, using the address on file with the College, approximately 3 or 4 weeks into the semester. To receive any refunds from the College, a student must activate his or her Hinds Debit Card. During card activation, the student will choose how to receive his or her refund money. Students have the following options:

  1. Once the College releases the funds, they can be directly deposited to the student’s Hinds Debit Card Account (1 day or less)
    The OneAccount from Higher One is a fully functioning FDIC insured FREE CHECKING account that allows students quick and easy access to their refunds. The OneAccount has no minimum balance, no monthly fees, and free Internet banking features. With the OneAccount, students can use their Hinds Debit Card to make purchases anywhere Debit MasterCard is accepted. Students will receive an e-mail when their refund has been directly deposited to their OneAccount. Students may view detail activity of their OneAccount by accessing their OneAccount statement online at www.HindsDebitCard.com.
  2. Once the College releases the funds, they can be directly deposited (ACH) to a third party bank account of the student’s choice (2 - 3 business days)
    If students choose to have their refund electronically deposited to an already existing bank account, the transfer may take 2-3 business days from the day the College releases the funds. Students will receive an e-mail once their refund has been processed. In order to have a refund deposited to their bank account, students must activate their Hinds Debit Card making the ACH to a third party bank choice at www.HindsDebitCard.com.

Regardless of how students choose to receive their refunds, they must use their Hinds Debit Card making their refund delivery choice online at www.HindsDebitCard.com.

Withdrawals and Refunds:

Complete withdrawal:

Prior to Classes Starting

Students officially withdrawing prior to the start of a term will not be held liable for fees (other than nonrefundable fees). Students who have paid tuition can use My.Hinds to remove themselves from all classes.  For log-in instructions, visit www.hindscc.edu/online.

After Classes Have Started

Students must complete an official withdrawal form in the appropriate counseling office. In addition, the student must be current on their payment plan or the fees are paid in full before withdrawal. Withdrawal from classes may result in the loss of financial aid previously applied. Students receiving Federal Title IV funds (Pell Grants, SEOG, LEAP and Stafford Loans) that withdraw from school will earn only a percentage of their award through 60% of the semester. If the amount disbursed to the student is greater than the amount the student earned, the student may owe money back to Hinds. The liability for fees will not be excused for withdrawals effective after the start of the semester.

Refunds:

Students having made prior payment will be refunded the amount paid less their liability after the withdrawal. Students suspended for disciplinary reasons are not eligible for refunds or reductions in liability. Refunds will be applied to any outstanding obligations and to any scholarship, grant, or loan received for the semester.  The refund policy is as follows:

  • 100% refund if complete withdrawal is initiated during the first week of Traditional/MSVCC courses.*

  • 50% refund if complete withdrawal is initiated during the second week of Traditional/MSVCC courses.*

*If a student is taking a combination of Traditional and MSVCC classes, the full refund is given during the first week of Traditional classes, with a 50% refund given during the second week of Traditional classes. 

 

Housing Fees:

75% refund before the sixth calendar day after school starts and 50% refund before the eleventh calendar day after school starts

Meal Plans:

Students withdrawing from residence halls during the semester may be refunded all full weeks remaining on the meal ticket period upon signing out of the residence halls.

In-State and Out-of-State Status:

See section on Residency Requirements in this catalog.  In-state or out-of-state status concerns or questions should be directed to the Office of Admissions.

Change in Regulations or Expenses:

All financial regulations, fees, or charges are subject to change as conditions warrant.

Financial Aid

General Requirements

Financial assistance is provided to students who have met admission requirements of the college and is to be used for educational purposes. For the student to be eligible to continue receiving Federal financial aid, he/she must file a yearly Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

In order to receive financial aid from any Federal Financial Aid Program or Mississippi Aid Program, the student must be in good standing and must make satisfactory progress in his/her course of study according to Hinds Community College Policy for Satisfactory Academic Progress for Recipients of Federally Funded Financial Aid and Veterans Benefits. A student on Financial Aid suspension or student loan default or who owes Federal overpayment is not eligible for Federal or State financial aid.

Funds for financial aid come from Federal Government Programs, Hinds Community College, the State of Mississippi, individuals, and local civic organizations. The amount of money available for each award year depends upon the amount of money made available for the institution from these sources.

Ability to Benefit Tests and Passing Scores Required for Certain Career Students to Receive Financial Aid

Career students who do not have a regular high school diploma, college degree or GED must make the appropriate scores on the Compass Test to be admitted to the college and to receive Federal Financial Aid.

COMPASS ACT passing scores that meet minimum Federal standards for Ability to Benefit requirements are as follows: Reading 62, Pre-Algebra number skills 25, Writing (English/Language) 32.

How to Apply

To be considered for any type of financial aid listed below, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online at www.fafsa.ed.gov The Office of Financial Aid will electronically receive the results of the FAFSA approximately three to five days after the student files, provided Hinds’ Title IV school code, 002407, is submitted on the FAFSA. The student will be notified by mail if any additional documents are required. Financial Aid will be awarded to each student based on the individual’s need. Each student is considered for all types of aid and awarded accordingly. Early filing of the FAFSA will insure sufficient time to study the needs of each student. In order to receive priority consideration, the results from the FAFSA should be received by the Financial Aid Office prior to April 1. Additional applications will continue to be accepted after this date; however this is a priority deadline for programs which may have limited funding.

Return of Title IV Funds

Special rules apply when students withdraw after receiving Title IV financial aid for the term from any of the following programs:

  • Federal Pell Grant
  • Academic Competitiveness Grant
  • Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG)
  • Federal Stafford Subsidized and/or Unsubsidized Loan
  • Federal PLUS Loan (borrowed on the student’s behalf)

The Higher Education Amendments of 1998 define Withdrawal as failure to complete the period of attendance on which federal aid eligibility was based and Unofficial Withdrawals as those students who simply stop attending class. Therefore, this policy affects not only those individuals who complete the formal withdrawal notification process, but also those students who simply stop attending classes. In either case, when a recipient of Title IV funds ceases attendance during a term, the college must calculate how much was earned by the student.

These rules are federally mandated and the amount of aid a student has earned for the enrollment period is based on the length of time the student remained enrolled for that period. Therefore, the percentage of the enrollment period completed is also the percentage of aid the student has earned. If a student withdraws on or before the 60% point of the enrollment period, the percentage of aid earned is equal to the percentage of time completed and excess funds must be returned to Title IV within 45 days of the date the school determined the student withdrew. A student who remains enrolled beyond the 60% point of the enrollment period has earned 100% of the aid for that period. Hinds Community College will return all unearned amount of Title IV Funds to the Department of Education. The amount of returned funds will be charged back to the student’s college account in the business office. Funds will be returned to the applicable Title IV aid programs in the following order:

  1. Federal Unsubsidized Loan
  2. Federal Subsidized Loan
  3. PLUS Loan
  4. Federal Pell Grant
  5. Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant
  6. Other Title IV Aid

All withdrawals (official and unofficial) are determined by the institution by a weekly report that identifies all Title IV recipients that have received a grade of F or W. The return to Title IV calculation will be completed using the first day we became aware the student has ceased attendance. After this calculation has been completed, the student might be entitled to a postwithdrawal disbursement which must be sent to the student within 45 days of the date the school determined the student withdrew. This type of disbursement is received after the student has withdrawn from school but has earned a greater percentage of aid than has been advanced to them.

Federal Programs

TYPE:

FEDERAL PELL GRANT
DESCRIPTION: $550 to $5,550 per year. Non-repayable if student continues enrollment beyond 60% of the enrollment period. For eligible applicants.
ELIGIBILITY: Undergraduates only without a Bachelor‘s degree.
REQUIRED FORMS: FAFSA results and other documents as required.
DEADLINE: Priority - April 1.
   
TYPE: FEDERAL SUPPLEMENTAL EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY GRANT (FSEOG)
DESCRIPTION: At least $200 per year. Non-repayable.
ELIGIBILITY: Undergraduates only with demonstrated need and based on availability of funds.
REQUIRED FORMS: FAFSA results.
DEADLINE: Priority - April 1.
   
TYPE: ACADEMIC COMPETITIVENESS GRANT (ACG)
DESCRIPTION: First time entering freshmen - $750, Sophomores - $1300. Non-repayable if student continues enrollment beyond 60% of the enrollment period.
ELIGIBILITY: Freshmen must have completed a rigorous secondary program of study. Sophomores must have completed 24 hours and have a 3.0 cumulative GPA.
REQUIRED FORMS: FAFSA results and other documents as required.
DEADLINE: Priority - April 1.
   
TYPE: FEDERAL COLLEGE WORK-STUDY (FCWS)/COMMUNITY SERVICE
DESCRIPTION: Average 12 hours per week at $7.25 per hour.
ELIGIBILITY: Undergraduates with demonstrated need and based on availability of funds.
REQUIRED FORMS: FAFSA results and Hinds Community College Scholarship Application and Work-study Application.
DEADLINE: Priority - April 1.
   
TYPE: WILLIAM D. FORD DIRECT LOAN PROGRAM (Subsidized and Unsubsidized)
DESCRIPTION: Amounts vary according to student‘s eligibility. Variable interest rate. Repayment begins 6 months after ceasing to be at least a half-time student (minimum of 6 semester hours).
ELIGIBILITY: Undergraduates with demonstrated need.
REQUIRED FORMS: FAFSA results, Federal Stafford Loan Application, and Entrance Counseling.
   
TYPE: PARENT LOAN FOR UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS (PLUS)
DESCRIPTION: Maximum varies per year. Parents of Hinds Community College students. Variable interest rate can apply.
ELIGIBILITY: Based on the cost of attendance and amount of financial aid awarded.
REQUIRED FORMS: FAFSA results and PLUS Application.

 State Programs

TYPE: MISSISSIPPI TUITION ASSISTANCE GRANT (MTAG)
DESCRIPTION: Up to $500 per year.
ELIGIBILITY: Undergraduates only. Mississippi resident for (1) year prior to enrollment in college.
 

High school graduate. Initial applicant: 15 ACT, 2.5 high school GPA, 2.5 college cumulative GPA for renewal. Must not be eligible for full Pell Grant. Must seek AA or AAS degree or Career or Technical Certificate.

REQUIRED FORMS: MTAG/MESG Applications
  Call: 601.432.6997 or visit web site at www.mississippi.edu
DEADLINE: Before September 15.
   
TYPE: MISSISSIPPI EMINENT SCHOLARS GRANT (MESG)
DESCRIPTION: To cover tuition and mandatory fees.
ELIGIBILITY: Freshmen only. High school graduate and Mississippi resident for one year prior to enrollment in college. Semifinalist or finalist for National Merit or National Achievement Scholarship programs and 3.5 high school GPA; or ACT score of 29 and 3.5 high school GPA. Recipients must maintain a 3.5 cumulative GPA.
REQUIRED FORMS: MTAG/MESG Applications, Office of State and Financial Aid
  Call: 601.432.6997 or visit web site at www.mississippi.edu
DEADLINE: Before September 15.
   
TYPE: LEVERAGING EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE PARTNERSHIP (LEAP)
DESCRIPTION: At least $200 per year.
ELIGIBILITY: Undergraduates only. Mississippi residents only. Full-time student. Demonstrated need and based on the availability of funds.
REQUIRED FORMS: FAFSA results
DEADLINE: Priority - April 1.
   
TYPE: HINDS COMMUNITY COLLEGE WORK-STUDY PROGRAM
DESCRIPTION: Average 12 to 20 hours per week at $7.25 per hour.
ELIGIBILITY: Undergraduates with demonstrated need based on the availability of funds.
REQUIRED FORMS: FAFSA results, Hinds Community College Scholarship Application, and Work-study Application.
DEADLINE: Priority - April 1.

* Must remain in a minimum of 12 semester hours to retain aid from State Programs.

Policy on Satisfactory Scholastic Progress for Recipients of Federally Funded Financial Aid and Veterans Benefits

Hinds Community College is required by federal regulations to establish minimum standards of satisfactory academic progress (SAP) to determine a student‘s eligibility for the following Title IV Federal Financial Aid programs:

  • Federal Pell Grant (PELL)
  • Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
  • Leveraging Educational Assistance Partnership (LEAP)
  • Federal Family Education Loan (SUB & UNSUB), Parent Plus Loan (PLUS)
  • Federal College Work-Study (FWS)
  • Veterans‘ Benefits (VA).

To receive and maintain federal financial assistance, a student must make satisfactory progress toward the competition of an eligible academic, technical, or career program of study. The following policies are in compliance with federal guidelines for Satisfactory Academic Progress.

To Maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress, a student must meet the following conditions:

  1. A student must pass 67% of hours attempted each semester .
  2. A student must also maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) based on total hours attempted as outlined in the chart below.
  Cumulative Semester Hours Attempted 1-18 19-36 37-96
  (including W‘s and repeated courses)      
  Minimum Cumulative Grade Point average 1.75 1.85 2.00
         
  A student failing to complete the above guidelines each semester will be placed on probation. After one semester of probation, students still not meeting the above requirements will be placed on financial aid suspension.
   
 
  1. Status Review and Notification:
    At the end of each fall and spring semester, the Office of Financial Aid will notify in writing a student who fails to meet the above conditions. A student placed on financial aid probation will be able to receive financial aid. The written notice will serve as a warning to a student that failure to meet the above conditions during the probationary semesters will result in an unsatisfactory financial aid status.A student placed on financial aid unsatisfactory progress (suspension) will be unable to receive financial aid. A student may re-establish his/her eligibility to receive financial aid by attending and earning 12hours of credit, paying his/her own fees without Federal Financial Aid, and meeting conditions 1 and 2 above.
 
  1. Withdrawals, Repeated, Remedial, Non-Credit, and Incomplete Courses:
    • “W‘s” will be counted in evaluating the number of semester hours attempted for the purpose of determining eligibility to receive financial aid, but “W‘s” will not be counted in evaluating the number of semester hours attempted for the purpose of determining eligibility to receive Veteran‘s benefits. “W‘s” will not be used in calculating a student‘s grade point average (GPA).
    • A student will be allowed to repeat a course according to the policies stated in the College Catalog; however, all repeated courses will be included in total hours attempted for the purpose of determining eligibility to receive financial  aid/veterans‘ benefits.
    • Semester hours of remedial/developmental courses will be recorded as hours attempted, but non-credit courses will not be counted in hours attempted.
    • An incomplete (I) grade will have the same effect as a failing (F) grade when calculating quality points and hours attempted.
 
  1. Time Frame:
    Students attempting 96 or more semester hours without receiving a degree or certificate are no longer eligible for financial aid. Once a student has attempted 96 semester hours and has received a degree or certificate, he/she must contact  the Financial Aid Office for re-evaluation to pursue a second degree or certificate. There are no provisions for financial aid beyond a second degree and/or certificate.
 
  1. Transfer Students:
    A student transferring to Hinds Community College from another college shall be assumed to have maintained satisfactory academic progress at his/her previous college. Hours transferred from previously attended colleges will be posted to the student‘s transcript by the Office of Admissions and Records by the end of the student‘s first semester at Hinds. Credit hours transferred from a previous college will be counted toward the 150% of the length of the student‘s program of study.
 
  1. Unsatisfactory Status Appeals Process:
    In extenuating circumstances such as personal illness or illness/death in the immediate family, a student may appeal an unsatisfactory financial aid/veterans‘ status by filing a written Letter of Appeal Form through the District Dean of Student‘s Office. Only appeals that detail circumstances which were beyond the student‘s control and which affected academic performance or length of enrollment will be considered. Each appeal will be considered on its own merit. The Financial Aid/Veterans‘ Appeals Committee chaired by the District Dean of Students will review the appeal and respond to the student within 30 working days. (Effective fall 2006)

Veterans Affairs

The Office of Veterans Affairs is available to assist all eligible veterans and dependents in making application for benefits. Academic, technical, and career courses are open (unless otherwise specified in program description) to students in either of the above categories. Every effort is made to facilitate admission into the student’s choice of programs.

Applications for the Montgomery G.I. Bill may be initiated in the Financial Aid Office on the Raymond Campus. For additional information call 601.857.3226 or 1-800-HINDS CC.

Admission

Students who plan to receive veterans benefits must satisfy the college‘s admission requirements as outlined in the Admission Requirements section of this catalog BEFORE being certified to the Veterans Administration Regional Office. In addition, ALL transcripts from schools previously attended must be furnished in order to comply with the Regulations of the Department of Veterans Benefits.

Changing of Programs

Students receiving veterans benefits must at all times have a definite program of study declared with the Office of Veterans Affairs and be enrolled in courses leading to completion of the designated program.

Counseling

All veterans benefits recipients are required to see a college counselor to plan their course of study prior to the beginning of each enrollment period.

Each student must have a signed Veterans Benefits Recipient Program Planning Sheet from his/her counselor for EACH enrollment period. The student must also sign the Program Planning Sheet acknowledging the courses recommended by the counselor.

Credit for Service Training

Educational work done by veterans while in active service is evaluated and credit given when possible. The recommendation of the American Council on Education in its handbook, Guide To The Evaluation Of Educational Experiences In the Armed Services, is used as a guide for the evaluation of all military credit.

Probation and Suspension

Students receiving veteran‘s benefits are expected to maintain the same standards of satisfactory progress as all other students receiving financial aid. See Policy on Satisfactory Scholastic Progress for Recipients of Federally Funded Financial Aid and Veterans Benefits in this section of the catalog.

Exceptions from the Policy on Satisfactory Scholastic Progress for Recipients of Federally Funded Financial Aid and Veterans Benefits are as follows:

“W”s will not be used in calculating the number of semester hours attempted for the purpose of determining eligibility to receive veterans benefits.

Veterans benefits recipients may attempt additional hours beyond the 90 semester hours allowed in the policy without completing a degree, as long as they file a Change of Program form with the Office of Veterans Affairs and are maintaining satisfactory scholastic progress.

Veterans benefits recipients may pursue the allotted number of degrees as outlined by the Veterans Administration.

NOTE: Policies stated for veterans comply with regulations 14253, 14277, 14278, Department of Veterans Benefits.

Changing Enrollment Status

Students receiving veterans benefits may not drop any course or stop attending any class without prior approval of the Office of Veterans Affairs and without executing formal drop/withdrawal procedures as outlined in this catalog. Students who fail to comply with this regulation will be liable for repayment of any resulting overpayments. (See policy below concerning overpayments.)

VA Policy Regarding Overpayments

Student Actions That Result in Overpayments

  1. Withdrawing from a course or school.
  2. Receiving a grade which does not count toward your graduation requirements.
  3. Failure to have an incomplete grade changed to a grade which counts toward your graduation requirements.

VA Actions Once an Overpayment is Created

  1. Add interest charges and collection fees to your debt.
  2.  Withhold future benefits and apply them to your debt.
  3. Turn your debt over to a private collection agency.
  4. File suit in federal court to collect your debt.
  5.  Withhold approval of your VA home loan guarantee.
  6. Collect the debt from your federal income tax refund.

Explanation of Mitigating Circumstances

The law requires that the VA must collect all benefits paid to a beneficiary for a course for which the grade assigned is not used in computing the requirements for graduation including a course from which the beneficiary withdraws, unless there are mitigating circumstances.

This means if you drop a course, unless you can show the VA that there are mitigating circumstances, you must return all the money paid to you for pursuit of that course from the start of the term, not merely from the date you dropped the course.

Examples of acceptable mitigating circumstances are prolonged illness, severe illness or death in your immediate family and unscheduled changes in your employment or work schedule.

Examples of unacceptable mitigating circumstances include withdrawal to avoid a failing grade, dislike of instructor and too many courses attempted.

NOTE: Student is required to submit evidence to support reasons before he/she can be accepted by the VA.

Scholarships

Hinds Community College Scholarships

ACT SCHOLARSHIPS (ACT Scholarships are awarded when student’s Admissions Application and official ACT scores are received.)
All locations Eligibility: ACT Scholarships are awarded to Mississippi residents who score a 21 or higher on the ACT. These individuals must be first time entering full time (12 or more semester hours) freshman. Students who have attended summer school prior to their freshman year and/or have participated in dual enrollment classes while in high school are still eligible for an ACT scholarship. ACT scholarships will be awarded as ACT scores and admission applications are received. ACT scholarships can be retained for four semesters if the student maintains full-time status (successfully completing 12 or more hours) and a 3.0 or better overall grade point average. Scholarship awards cannot be changed by a test taken after the first day of class of the enrolled semester. It is the student‘s responsibility to make sure the institution receives their ACT profile. Any student on an ACT scholarship who fails to attend Hinds Community College in consecutive fall/spring semesters or who drops below full-time status will forfeit his/her scholarship and will not be eligible for an ACT scholarship in the future. Any student on an ACT scholarship who does not maintain the required cumulative grade point average will forfeit the scholarship. There is no probationary period and the student will not be eligible for an ACT scholarship in the future. Any student who ceases to attend classes and fails to withdraw officially will forfeit his/her scholarship. The student will not be eligible for an ACT scholarship in the future. Award categories are as follows:
   
PRESIDENTIAL Full tuition, room and meal ticket for a dormitory student awarded for ACT scores of 29 or above. Commuter recipients will receive tuition plus a $250 book voucher at any Hinds Community College bookstore each semester.
   
DEANS’
Full tuition scholarships awarded for ACT scores of 25-28.
   
FACULTY
One-half tuition scholarships awarded for ACT scores of 21-24.
   
   
   
GED
All locations
The GED Tuition Award and Scholarship are for first-time college students who are Mississippi residents and are at least 18 years old. The GED Tuition Award allows a new Hinds student with a GED (General Education Development certificate), to take one three-hour class at any of the six Hinds locations free of charge. The GED Scholarship will cover the cost of tuition for a half-time student who is taking at least six hours or a half-tuition scholarship for a full-time student if the student has made 577 or higher on the GED test. The scholarship covers tuition only and is renewable for a total of four semesters if the student maintains a 2.5 grade point average. A student may not receive both the ACT Scholarship and GED Scholarship/GED Tuition Award. No GED Tuition Award or GED Scholarship will be made after the first scheduled full day of classes. Students must submit an application for the GED Tuition Award or GED Scholarship to the Office of Admissions with their Application for Admission.
   
HONORS PROGRAM
All locations
Applicants must be enrolled in 4 or more semester hours, 4 of which must be in honors studies.  Award is contingent upon Honors Program Application and interview with the Honors Institute Dean. Scholarship recipients must maintain a 3.0 grade point average.
   
LEADERSHIP PROGRAM
Applicants must be enrolled in 12 or more semester hours, 1- 3 of which must be in leadership studies. Award is contingent upon Leadership Program Application,  interview with the Honors Institute Dean, and successful completion of the class. Scholarship recipients must maintain full-time student status and a 3.0 grade point average.
   
BASEBALL
Raymond Campus
Amount of award varies with qualifications. Student must meet eligibility rules of the National and Mississippi Junior College Athletic Association. Selections are made by the coach based on scouting observations and/or performance at annual tryouts. Contact the Athletic Department on the Raymond Campus; call 601.857.3325 for information. Deadline - Varies.
   
BASKETBALL
Utica Campus
(Men & Women)
Amount of award varies with qualifications. Student must meet eligibility rules of the National and Mississippi Junior College Athletic Association. Selections are made by the coach based on scouting observations and/or performance at annual tryouts. Contact the Athletic Department on the Utica Campus; call 601.885.6062 or 601.354.2327 for information. Deadline - Varies.
   
FOOTBALL
Raymond Campus
Amount of award varies with qualifications. Student must meet eligibility rules of the National and Mississippi Junior College Athletic Association. Selections are made by the coach based on scouting observations and/or performance at annual tryouts. Contact the Athletic Department on the Raymond Campus. Call 601.857.3325 for information. Deadline - Varies.
   
GOLF
Raymond Campus
Amount of award varies with qualifications. Student must meet eligibility rules of the National and Mississippi Junior College Athletic Association. Selections are made by the coach based on scouting observations and/or performance at annual tryouts. Contact the Athletic Department on the Raymond Campus; call 601.857.3325 for information. Deadline - Varies.
   
SOCCER
Raymond Campus
(Men & Women)
Amount of award varies with qualifications. Student must meet eligibility rules of the National and Mississippi Junior College Athletic Association. Selections are made by the coach based on scouting observations and/or performance at annual tryouts. Contact the Athletic Department on the Raymond Campus; call 601.857.3325 for information. Deadline - Varies.
   
SOFTBALL
Raymond Campus
Amount of award varies with qualifications. Student must meet eligibility rules of the National and Mississippi Junior College Athletic Association. Selections are made by the coach based on scouting observations and/or performance at annual tryouts. Contact the Athletic Department on the Raymond Campus; call 601.857.3325 for information. Deadline - Varies.
   
TENNIS
Raymond Campus
(Men & Women)
Amount of award varies with qualifications. Student must meet eligibility rules of the National and Mississippi Junior College Athletic Association. Selections are made by the coach based on scouting observations and/or performance at annual tryouts. Contact the Athletic Department on the Raymond Campus; call 601.857.3325 for information. Deadline - Varies.
   
TRACK/CROSS COUNTRY
Raymond Campus
Amount of award varies with qualifications. Student must meet eligibility rules of the National and Mississippi Junior College Athletic Association. Selections are made by the coach based on scouting observations and/or performance at annual tryouts. Contact the Athletic Department on the Raymond Campus; call 601.857.3325 for information. Deadline - Varies.
   
CHEERLEADERS
Raymond Campus
Tuition scholarships awarded to those selected during the annual tryouts. Contact the Director of Student Activities 601.857.3388 or Cheerleader sponsor 601.857.3263.
   
HI-STEPPERS
Raymond Campus
Scholarships awarded to those selected during the annual tryouts. Contact the Hi-Stepper Director 601.857.3346.
   
RESIDENT ASSISTANTS
Raymond Campus
Utica Campus
In fall and spring tuition, room and board scholarships awarded to student leaders selected to serve, lead by example and exhibit model behavior to help students become successful. Contact the Coordinator of Residence Life, 601.857.3222 or 601.885.7177.
   
MUSIC
Raymond Campus
Tuition scholarships. Must be a full-time student majoring in music; selection is based on auditions. Required forms - Music Application available through the Music Department, 601.857.3271. Deadline - August 1.
   
BAND
Raymond Campus
One-half tuition scholarship for 1st and 2nd semester band participants, full tuition scholarships for 3rd and 4th semester band participants. Extra service scholarships are available including stage band. Must be a participant in the band. Required forms- Band Application. Call 601.857.3273 for information. Deadline - Varies.

Hinds Community College Foundation Scholarships

Foundation Scholarships are awarded for fall and spring semesters only. The scholarships awarded are based on classroom excellence, involvement in extracurricular activities, financial need, desire for achievement, and letters of recommendation. Criteria vary per scholarship. In addition to the scholarships listed below, there are many other scholarships offered through the Hinds Community College  Foundation that vary from year to year.

To be considered for any scholarship awarded through the Foundation, a student does not have to apply for a particular scholarship by name or category. All completed applications that are submitted by the deadline will be considered for any scholarships that are applicable to that particular student. Deadline to apply is March 1. Awards are generally made in late April and early May and all students who apply will be notified of whether or not they have been awarded during that time period.

Required forms: Application for  Foundation Scholarships, high school and/or college transcripts, three recommendations, copy of ACT scores, list of achievements, and summary of why the student feels he or she should be considered for a scholarship including any financial need. (Application, criteria and recommendation forms are available on the website at www.hindscc.edu/DFSA). Students wishing to be considered for scholarships on the basis of financial need, should have the results of their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) sent to Hinds prior to the March 1 deadline. Submit all items to the Enrollment Services Office. For information, call 1.601.857.3767. Deadline: March 1.

(Unless otherwise indicated, scholarships are awarded to full-time students. Minimum grade point average varies but no scholarship is awarded with less than a 2.0 cumulative GPA.)

Please Note:

  1. Foundation Scholarships differ in value. The scholarships may differ in value from year to year.
  2. A student receiving a  Foundation Scholarship designated for a certain major or location will forfeit that scholarship if he/she changes majors or locations.
  3. Foundation Scholarship recipients must attend the Scholarship Recognition Program. Failure to attend will result in forfeiting the scholarship, unless prior approval is granted by the Chairperson of the District Scholarship Committee.
  4. Most  Foundation Scholarships require a 2.5 grade point average in order to retain the scholarship the next semester. However, some scholarships are awarded only by semester, and some require different grade point averages.
  5. Foundation Scholarships are not credited to a student‘s account until he/she has returned the signed acceptance form and a thank you letter for the sponsor(s).  Any scholarship student who fails to accept his/her  Foundation scholarship in writing by the deadline established in his/her award letter will forfeit the scholarship.

Foundation Board of Directors Scholarships

A. A. Alexander Scholarship
G. J. Cain Scholarship

A. L. and Katherine Denton Scholarship - Fine Arts Major
Mildred Herrin Scholarship
William H. Holtzclaw Scholarship - Utica Campus
Rev. B. E. Lewis Scholarship - Utica Campus
Grady Sheffield Scholarship - Business Major
Jimmy Smith Scholarship - Rankin Campus

Foundation Endowed Scholarships

Ben Adkins Memorial Scholarship - Rankin Campus student
Bobbie B. Anderson Nursing Scholarship - second semester or above associate degree nursing student
Ann Sanders Arnold Scholarship - student must have attended schools within the Pearl Public School District, graduated from Pearl High School and be majoring in an academic field
Douglas F. Arnold Math Scholarship - graduate of Pearl High School, with four units of college preparatory mathematics completed at Pearl High School
Carl Ashby, Jr. Memorial Scholarship - graduate of Vicksburg-Warren County School District majoring in music, Raymond Campus
AT&T Scholarship - education or business
James R. Baddley Scholarship - health-related
Susan Ballard Memorial Scholarship - graduate of Raymond High School
Dr. George & Doris Barnes Scholarship - teacher education, Utica Campus
David Barton Scholarship - engineering or science related
Anna Cowden Bee Scholarship - sophomore Hi-Stepper
Emma F. Beemon Mathematics Scholarship - math or engineering
T.T. Beemon Biology Scholarship - biology or pre-med
Joe Boardman Scholarship - Respiratory Care Technology with preference given to River Oaks Health System employees
William A. and Doree Browne Scholarship
Dorothy Brownlee Speech and Drama Scholarship - theatre or speech, Raymond Campus.
William H. Buckner Auto Mechanics Scholarship - Automotive Machinist, Automotive Technology, or Automotive Electronics Technology program with preference given to Warren County students
Bo Byrnes Memorial Scholarship - active member of the Lendon Players, HCC Speech and Theatre Department
Marie McKay Campbell Scholarship - sophomore, Education major, preference given to residents of Warren County
Marian Pickett Carmichael Scholarship - Raymond Campus
Ruth Roberts Carter Scholarship - sophomore in the Associate Degree Nursing Program
Centennial Scholarship - Utica Campus
Mark J. Chaney Family Scholarship - Warren County student attending Raymond Campus or Vicksburg-Warren Campus
L.K. and Avis Clark Family Scholarship - Raymond Campus
Wes Cliburn Memorial Scholarship - preference given to baseball players
Kay Cliffe Memorial Scholarship - sophomore Hinds Connection member, Raymond Campus 
Mr. and Mrs. W.H. Cochran Scholarship
Bill Cole Memorial Scholarship - preference given to political science, public administration, public service related fields
Combat Veterans Scholarship - combat veterans of Afghanistan and Iraq
Ken Coomes Scholarship
Cooper Industries Scholarship - accounting or engineering, resident of Warren County
Eddie Cooper Memorial Scholarship - Raymond High School graduate
Dr. Bobby G. Cooper Music Scholarship - second year music major, Utica Campus
Clair Meeks Cranford Scholarship - Raymond Campus, preference to business or education major
Billy Joe and Robbie Cross Scholarship
H. H. Davis Memorial Scholarship - Raymond Campus and Utica Campus
Bill Derden Memorial Scholarship - non-traditional female student, Raymond Campus or Vicksburg-Warren Campus, preferably majoring in English or Mathematics
Roy Kathryn Duncan Scholarship - Vicksburg-Warren Campus
Excellence in Career/Technical Education Scholarship - non-traditional gender student in a Raymond Campus Career/Technical Program
A. P. and T. B. Fatherree Scholarship - career or technical field
Nona Gillis Fortenberry Business Technology Scholarship - sophomore, business technology, Raymond Campus
D. G. “Sonny” Fountain Scholarship
Gaddis and McLaurin, Inc. Scholarship - Raymond Campus
Len Garvey Memorial Scholarship - sophomore, business and office technology, Jackson Campus Academic/Technical Center
Lilian Gladish Gibbes Scholarship
Walter H. Gibbes Scholarship - career or technical program
Marianna Stokes Gore Scholarship - Raymond Campus, preference to education or nursing
F.M. Greaves Scholarship - Raymond Campus
John P. and Virginia Green Scholarship - resident of Claiborne County
Green Industry Scholarship - Landscape Management Technology
Charlie Griffin Memorial Scholarship - native of Mississippi
Anne C. Hardy Memorial Scholarship - Raymond Campus
Jane Pickett and Robert C. Harrell Scholarship - Raymond Campus
Coach Jobie and Jim El Byrd Harris Scholarship - preference given to grandchildren of retired Hinds employees
John L. Heiden Scholarship
Heritage Scholarship -
child, stepchild, or grandchild of Heritage Program Member
Mildred Laminda Herrin Scholarship - academic, Raymond Campus
M.F. and Dorothy Herring Scholarship - education
HCC Athletic Alumni Chapter Scholarship - child or grandchild of a current member of the HCC Athletic Alumni Chapter
Dan and Barbara Hogan Scholarship - Raymond Campus, math, engineering, or science related fields
Warren A. Hood Scholarship - Hinds County resident
Charlie Horton and Joe Smith Scholarship - resident of Hinds County, graduate of a Hinds County or Jackson high school, preference to Utica Campus
Freddie Jean Cannon Jackson Memorial Scholarship - sophomore, early childhood development, Utica Campus
Adam and Margaree Jenkins Scholarship - business and teacher education, Utica and Raymond Campuses
Charles C. Jones Technical Scholarship - technical program, Raymond Campus
C. Leonard and Jane Woods Katzenmeyer Scholarship - students from Warren, Hinds or Lincoln Counties with preference to students in nursing or computer related programs.
Ruth Kelly Home Builders Auxiliary Scholarship - Raymond Campus student majoring in a career or technical program related to the home building industry
H. R. Kilby, Sr. Scholarship - Hinds County resident majoring in business
Dean and Rebecca Legg Liles Scholarship - preference to business or business related fields
Jimmy L. and Grace Pickett Long Scholarship
A.J. Mangum Family Scholarship -
preference to residents of Rankin, Simpson, or Hinds County
Dr. Robert and Lee Mayo Scholarship - Raymond Campus
Carla McCulloch Memorial Scholarship - second semester associate degree nursing student
J.C. “Sonny” McDonald Memorial Scholarship - resident of Hinds County at any Hinds County Campus
George M. McLendon Scholarship - resident of Hinds, Rankin, Warren or Claiborne counties, or Copiah County if attending at Utica Campus
Merchants & Planters Bank Scholarship - Hinds County student majoring in business related field
Robert Miley Scholarship
Mississippi Association of Petroleum Landmen Scholarship -
preference to children and grandchildren of MAPL members
Claribel Hunt Moncure Memorial Scholarship
William M. Moss Scholarship -
graduate of a school in Hinds County School District, education major, Raymond Campus
Jeanie Muse Memorial Scholarship - female student who is 30 years of age or older, Raymond Campus
Dr. Vernon Clyde Muse Scholarship - academic or transfer program
Vashti Underwood Muse Scholarship - education major
Scott Nelson Scholarship - graduate of Raymond High School, Rebul Academy, or Central Hinds Academy with preference to children of HCC faculty or staff members
Fred and Margie Oakes Scholarship - graduate of Warren County or Vicksburg High School with preference to students who played baseball in high school
Harry Partin Scholarship - electronics engineering technology on the Raymond Campus
Yoseph Patel Scholarship - preference given to first generation immigrant from the Western Hemisphere, preference to business major
Vito Daniel Patti Memorial Scholarship - drafting technology or architectural engineering, Raymond Campus
John and Marie Pervangher Scholarship - Warren County residents with preference to students at Vicksburg-Warren Campus in Career/Technical programs
F. N. and Eva Pickett Scholarship - Raymond Campus
Frances E. Pickett Scholarship - preference to physical education related fields, Raymond Campus.
Dr. Nell Ann Pickett Scholarship - Raymond Campus
PLANET Student Career Days Scholarship - Landscape Management Technology
Dr. Michael J. Rabalais Scholarship - preference to students at the Raymond Campus or the Jackson Campus-Nursing/ Allied Health Center majoring in a health-related field
Rankin County Alumni Chapter Scholarship - resident of Rankin County and graduate of a school located in Rankin County
Aaron M. Rankin Memorial Scholarship - preference to mathematics, engineering or a related field of study, Raymond Campus, preference given to children or grandchildren of Hinds faculty and retirees
Raymond Campus Career and Technical Education Scholarship - Raymond Campus, general electricity & wiring; AC/refrigeration; printing, commercial design and advertising; or barbering
James Leslie Reeves, Sr. Memorial Vocal Scholarship - sophomore music major or elective vocal student at Raymond Campus, member of choir
Joe A. Renfroe Memorial Scholarship - sports related field of study, Raymond Campus
Troy Arlis Ricks Scholarship
Marvin A. Riggs Scholarship -
academic, Raymond Campus
Virginia Mayfield Riggs Scholarship - academic, Raymond Campus
Clarence and Lura Scales Scholarship - Honors Program, Raymond Campus
Elizabeth Lloyd Schales Scholarship - science related
Eugene G. Schubert Memorial Scholarship -
sophomore, agricultural education or animal science, Raymond Campus
Florence Sherard Memorial Scholarship - graduate of Warren Central or Vicksburg High School
Ken Smith Memorial Scholarship - resident of HCC District, preference to Learned/Raymond community, active in varsity sports and extracurricular activities in high school
Lurline Stewart Memorial Scholarship - Raymond Campus, preference to nursing, mathematics, engineering, or other science related field
Robert C. Stewart Memorial Scholarship - Raymond Campus, preference to nursing, mathematics, engineering, or other science related field
Travis and Elizabeth Stewart Nursing Scholarship - Nursing
Street Medical Foundation Scholarship - Warren County resident enrolled in the practical nursing program at the Vicksburg-Warren Campus or who completed the program at Vicksburg and is now enrolled in the transition to RN program at any location
C. V. Sullivan Scholarship
A.F. Summer Scholarship - pre-law, criminal justice, or political science, resident of Hinds, Rankin, Warren, or Claiborne counties, or Copiah County if attending Utica Campus
Toby and Nancy Tenhet Scholarship - preference given to students who play a woodwind instrument and are active in music
Jessie McLendon Thrash Scholarship - piano or organ
Trustmark Rankin Division - graduate of a high school located in Rankin County, current resident of Rankin County, Rankin Campus
Ellestene Pilate Turner Scholarship - Utica Campus
Lora M. Underwood Memorial Scholarship - education major
Utica Junior College National Alumni Association Scholarship - Utica Campus, student who graduated from Hinds A.H.S. or whose parents attended Hinds A.H.S., Utica Junior College or Utica Campus of Hinds Community College
Vicksburg Medical Center Auxiliary Scholarship - second semester or above student from Warren County majoring in Associate Degree Nursing or an allied health field
Warren County Alumni Chapter Scholarship - Warren County resident who graduated from a public or private high school in Warren County
John Bell Williams Scholarship - Raymond Campus
Liles and Ruth Ann Williams Scholarship - preference to business, public service, or public administration
Wiman Family Scholarship - preference given to Rankin County resident who completed high school in Rankin County
Thomas M. Wiman Scholarship - health related
Carroll E. “Buddy” and Grace Clark Woods Scholarship - preference to residents of Warren, Hinds and Lincoln Counties, preference to nursing or computer related programs
Ed, Mattie, and Douglas Woolley Scholarship

The following policies have been established in the administering of scholarships for Hinds Community College.

  1. Any student on a scholarship who fails to attend Hinds Community College in consecutive fall/spring semesters or drops below required enrollment status will forfeit his/her scholarship.
  2. Any student on scholarship who does not maintain the required cumulative grade point average will forfeit the scholarship. There is no probationary semester.
  3. The award of a scholarship cannot exceed the allowable cost of attendance assessed by the College.
  4. Scholarship awards will be credited to a student’s account. Only in special circumstances will a check be made directly to the student.
  5. Any student expelled from school because of a disciplinary reason will forfeit his/her scholarship and will not be eligible for another scholarship.
  6. Students on the Cooperative Job Program must get special permission to continue their scholarship when they are working alternate semesters.
  7. Scholarship awards are tuition based and do not include the following:
    1. Registration fee
    2. Any charges related to summer school (tuition, room, or board, etc.)
    3. Parking decals
    4. Yearbook
    5. Late fees
    6. Lab fees
    7. Distance Learning fees
  8. Any student who ceases to attend classes and fails to withdraw officially will forfeit his/her scholarship.
  9. Any student officially withdrawing from school will not be required to pay back any tuition portion of his/her scholarship. However, if he/she is receiving any scholarship monies on his/her housing or meals, the scholarship account will be reimbursed any remaining portion of those fees. The student will not receive any refund of scholarship monies. A scholarship student must clear with the Financial Aid Office prior to withdrawing officially.
  10. A student officially withdrawing from school will not be granted a scholarship for another semester unless approved by the District Scholarship Committee.
  11. A student may receive a scholarship for a maximum of four semesters.
  12. Repeating courses cannot change forfeiture status retroactively.
  13. The District Scholarship Committee will review any special circumstances brought before them. A student desiring a special waiver should submit the request in writing along with proper documentation (doctor‘s excuse, transcript, instructor‘s letter, etc.) to the Chairperson of the District Scholarship Committee within 30 days of the date of the scholarship loss or forfeiture.
  14. Only the District Scholarship Committee, with the approval of the President of the College, can make any changes in these policies.
  15.  Scholarships cannot be credited to a student‘s account until the student has met all admission requirements.
  16. Scholarships, as well as any type financial aid, are not credited to a student‘s account until 10 days prior to the first day of classes for the semester that the scholarship is awarded.