Fees, Expenses, Financial Aid

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Tuition and Fees

Fee amounts are approved by the State Regents for Higher Education and may be changed by direction of the State Regents. Payment arrangements are required for tuition and fees at time of enrollment.

Tuition

Advanced Standing (Credit for Prior Learning Assessment)

Special Fees

Fees for Student Services

Continuing Education (non-credit)

Special Course Supplies and Institutional Services

Students are expected to furnish expendable supplies in certain courses. The College may furnish a portion of all these expendable supplies to the student at a fixed cost per course, and these materials will be available at the proper scheduled time. Certain other services may also be provided for the student by the College at a fixed cost. The price schedule is listed below:

Course Lab Fees

Special Instruction Fees

In-State/Out-of-State Resident Classification

The definition of a legal resident of Oklahoma to be used in the assessment of fees at TCC is as follows: The legal residence of a dependent person is that of his/her father, mother or legal guardian(s) as defined by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education. Proof (if requested) of residency may be defined as establishing domicile in Oklahoma and physical residence for the previous 12 months. Domicile is defined as having two components - residence and the intention to remain. If it is determined that an applicant entered the state with the express purpose of attending college, non-resident status will be assigned. Other classification options may be available for military personnel or spouses and dependents. Contact the Director of Enrollment Services on any campus for clarification and to petition for resident classification. Complete In-State and Out-of-State policy information is also available at www.osrhe.edu.

Costs and Payments

Student Statement of Financial Responsibility

• I understand that enrollment at Tulsa Community College constitutes a contractual financial obligation to pay tuition and fees for classes in which I am enrolled. I further understand my financial obligations are due by the College’s set due date each semester.
• I understand that I will receive an email notification when my billing statement is available to view online.
• I understand that my account information can only be released to me. It is my responsibility to notify my parents/legal guardian of my account balance.
• I understand that in the event I have a returned check on my account I will be charged a $25 return check fee. I understand that I am responsible for all dishonored payments which have been presented on my behalf.
• I understand financial aid funds only pay tuition/fees and bookstore charges.
• I understand that once all my financial aid is applied to my bursar account, I am responsible to pay any new or unpaid charges I incur prior to the end of the semester.
• If my federal or institutional financial aid is either not received by Tulsa Community College or I lose my eligibility to retain financial aid for the semester, I assume responsibility for paying all student obligations.
• I understand that if I enroll prior to the enrollment hold being placed on my account, my enrollment is subject to possible cancellation if my balance is not paid to current. I also understand that if I am participating in the Payment Option Plan and my payments are not current, my enrollment is also subject to cancellation.
• I understand failure to pay my account prior to the 15th of the month will result in my account being assessed a 1.5% monthly (19.56% APR) finance charge on any past due balance. In addition on the last day of the semester if I still have a past due balance, I will be assessed a $50 late fee.
• It is my responsibility to know the College’s drop and withdraw policy including deadlines. It is also my responsibility to drop or withdraw myself from my classes. My failure to drop or withdraw in a timely manner does NOT relieve me from my financial responsibility to the College for tuition and fees.
• I also understand that if I enroll in classes and I do not attend these classes, I am still held responsible to pay the required tuition and fees if I fail to drop by the designated dates.
• I understand that if I drop, withdraw, graduate, or do not return to the College, it is my responsibility to update my address, phone number, and email address.
• I understand that if I have a student Direct Subsidized/Unsubsidized Loan that I am responsible for completing the required exit counseling upon leaving the College.
• I understand that if I have a College outstanding balance, holds are placed on my account and I will not be able to enroll in future semesters nor receive an academic transcript or diploma.
• I consent to being contacted on my cell phone if provided to the College as a source of contact.
• I understand if I leave the College with an unpaid balance and do not make satisfactory payment arrangements, my account will be placed with an external collection agency. I will be assessed collection costs (up to 33% of the original debt), legal costs and attorney fees. This will result in endangering my credit rating on a local and/or national level by being reported to all three credit bureau’s (Equifax, TransUnion, Experian). The College will also exercise the right to request an Oklahoma State Tax refund intercept to offset the outstanding debt.
• Tulsa Community College corresponds electronically with students using their TCC email address. I understand that I am responsible for regularly reading important information sent to my TCC email account and for taking action on any important correspondence sent to this address.
• I further consent that any phone number or email address provided can be used to contact me by TCC or any debt collection agency hired by TCC either directly or through an automated or predictive dialing system or prerecorded messaging in an effort to recover any unpaid obligation owed to TCC.  This can also include text messages or emails.

Student Account Payment Policy

It is the policy of Tulsa Community College that students must make college approved payment arrangements at the time of enrollment. The following are the options available for enrollment.

Option 1: Pay In Full or Payment Plan

• Students can sign up online to pay in full or pay cash in person at any campus Bursar office. There is no administrative fee if the student is paying in full.
• Students can go online and choose a payment plan. There is a $35 non-refundable service fee charged to students who select a payment plan.

Payment Plans

These plans are detailed on the TCC website and vary with each term. Students can also pick up information regarding payment plans in any bursar office.

A $35 non-refundable setup fee is required at the time of enrollment in the Tuition Option Plan (TOP). This payment will automatically be debited from your payment method at the time of enrollment in the Tuition Option Plan.

When students make a schedule adjustment or if charges and/or payments are applied to a student’s account, the student’s TOP installment amounts will change.

Students using a credit card as the payment method for TOP should be aware of the card’s expiration date. It is the student’s responsibility to update this information, if applicable. If this is not done, it could result in a late fee assessed to the student’s account.

Option 2: Financial Aid (FA)

• Students who have met priority financial aid deadlines by turning in all requested documents and are qualified to receive financial aid will be able to secure enrollment without making payment arrangements.

FA Priority Deadlines

Option 3: Third Party Payments

• Students can use third party methods of payment under the condition that the College can verify the payment source or that the student can provide acceptable documentation of the payment source.

*Student must present evidence of scholarship, etc., to the Bursar office in order to use this option prior to enrollment.

There will be a 1.5 percent monthly service charge (50 cent minimum) assessed to the student’s account on the 15th of each month for any unpaid balance based upon enrollment for those not in payment plan. Service charges will continue to be assessed to the student’s account if all current charges are not paid in full.

Refunds

Refund Procedure

When a student enrolls in a class at Tulsa Community College, he/she reserves a place which cannot be made available to another student until he/she officially drops from the class. Many students cannot enter Tulsa Community College each term because classes are filled. Students processing a complete drop prior to the first day of classes may receive a 100 percent refund, except for Tuition Option Plan (TOP) fees.  Refunds will not be honored until all financial obligations to Tulsa Community College have been cleared.

TCC uses a variety of methods to distribute refunds to students.  Students with questions about how they will receive a refund should contact the Bursar’s office on any campus.

Refund Policy

Complete Withdrawal from the Institution

• 100 percent refund for dropping all classes during the first two weeks of a regular 16-week semester, first week of a summer or eight-week term or before the second class session of a course that is less than eight weeks in length. In order to receive a refund for courses shorter in duration than eight weeks, the student must drop the class before 5 p.m. on the second day of class for an online class or before 5 p.m. of the next regular work day following the first class session for all other classes.

• Zero percent refund for students withdrawing after the second week of a regular 16-week term or after the first week of a summer or eight-week term. For courses shorter in duration than eight weeks, there is no refund if the student drops the class after 5 p.m. on the second day of class for an online class or after 5 p.m. of the next regular work day following the first class session for all other classes.

NOTE: Financial aid recipients who complete a full withdrawal from the institution may be required to return Title IV funds.  See the Financial Aid Warning and Suspension section of this catalog.

Enrolling and Dropping from Classes

• Students may enroll in courses during the published dates in the Academic Calendar .
• It is the student’s responsibility to be sure unwanted courses are dropped by the scheduled deadline.
• Students may drop classes using MyTCC or in person by contacting any Enrollment Services Office.

Withdrawing from Classes

See the Withdrawal from Classes information in the Admissions and Registration  section of this catalog for more details.  The Academic Calendar  shows relevant dates for withdrawal.

• After the Schedule Adjustment Deadline, students may withdraw from a credit course, however, no refund will be administered. To withdraw, students must adhere to the following requirements:
  • Students may withdraw from a credit course within the first 75 percent of the course.
  • To initiate the withdrawal process, students should visit Academic Advising on any campus.
  • Students’ financial aid may be placed in jeopardy when they withdraw from any course. Students should contact the Student Financial Services office and/or the Veterans’ Services office (if applicable) before completing a withdrawal form.

Concurrent High School Student Schedule Adjustment and Withdrawal Policy

• Students must fill out a High School Concurrent Schedule Adjustment Form and have it signed by the high school counselor. Forms are available online and in any TCC Enrollment Services office.

Refund Policy for Continuing Education (non-credit classes)

• 100 percent refund will be given if a written, telephone, faxed, or in-person request is made to the Continuing Education office two full business days (M-F) before the first scheduled class meeting. Refunds cannot be issued for non attendance. All fees will be refunded if class is cancelled due to insufficient enrollment. Refunds may require up to 30 days to process. The Continuing Education Department reserves the right to amend this policy for specialized events and programs.

Refund Policy for Students Entering Military Service

• If a student enters military service during the term in which he/she is enrolled and has not completed sufficient work for receiving his/her grades, but is in good standing academically, Tulsa Community College will refund to the student the full amount of fees paid. The student must forward a copy of the induction orders with a written request for a refund directed to the Enrollment Services office on any campus.

Fees Applicable Only Current Term

Fees are applicable only for the current semester or term. If a student withdraws and is entitled to a refund, the amount of the refund cannot be carried forward as a credit to a subsequent term.

Course Book Refunds

Course Books

• Students should purchase course books at the campus they will be attending or at www.tccstores.com.
• Internet course books may be purchased at www.tcc.stores.com or at the Northeast Campus Store.
• Community Campus course books may be purchased at www.tccstores.com or at the sponsoring Campus Store.

Campus Store Refund Policy

Campus Stores may grant course book refunds to students with a current semester TCC sales receipt and who meet the following criteria:

Course Book Refund Deadlines

• The end of the first week of an 8 or 16 week term.
• The end of the second week of the 16 week term to students who have dropped the class.
• Until the first class meeting of a class lasting less than 8 weeks.
• Course books purchased after these deadlines must be returned within 24 hours for a refund.

Merchandise Condition for Refund

• Merchandise must be in resalable condition.
• A (100%) refund may be granted on a new course book that is clean, complete, with shrink wrap unopened or eBooks that have not been activated.
• If a new course book has been marked in or is not in new condition, it may be refunded at (50%) of the new course book price.
• Used books in resalable condition may be refunded at (100%) of the price paid at the time of purchase.
• Non-refundable items include: electronics, computers, computer software, opened computer supplies, and clearance items.

Campus Stores Course Books Buyback Information

Buyback is presented as a service to the TCC student. It is an opportunity afforded to the student to reap some benefit from those course books no longer wanted or needed. Buyback dates and times may be found at www.tccstores.com. A photo I.D. is required.

Financial Aid and Scholarships*

* Note: Financial aid eligibility and processing at TCC are subject to change based upon changes in federal regulations and guidelines.

The Financial Aid and Scholarships office at Tulsa Community College (TCC) is available to assist qualified students to meet the costs of their education. Financial aid is designed to supplement the financial resources of the student and student’s parent(s).

Financial aid is available through grants, scholarships, loans, and part-time employment from federal, state, institutional and private sources. Grants and scholarships are a part of financial aid students do not have to pay back. Loans are borrowed money that must be repaid with interest. Work-study allows students to work and earn money for school expenses. The types and amounts of aid awarded are determined by financial need, availability of funds, student classification, and academic performance.

The Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended, requires each recipient of funds under the Federal Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), Federal Work-Study, Oklahoma Tuition Aid Grant (OTAG), Oklahoma’s Promise, Direct Student Loans, or PLUS programs to maintain satisfactory progress in his/her course of study. The following policy does not preclude a recipient from continuing to enroll as a student or to receive other types of financial aid. In order to receive financial aid at the institution to which he/she is applying, according to the guidelines set forth by the Department of Education the applicant must have:

• a high school diploma;
• a GED; or
• completed homeschooling at the secondary level as defined by state law.

Some additional requirements for financial aid are:

• Students must maintain a cumulative 1.70 grade point average (GPA) for the first 30 credit hours attempted; and a cumulative 2.00 GPA for all hours attempted thereafter (See Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy).
• Students must successfully complete at least 67 percent of all attempted course hours, regardless of whether financial aid has been received for those hours. Withdrawals, I, F, and other unsatisfactory grades are examples of grades that will be counted against this completion rate (See Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy).
• Audit grades do not qualify for financial aid. A student who receives financial aid for any classes, or hours, which are later changed to an audit (AU), will be required to repay any applicable financial aid funds.
• Students attempting 95 or more college hours will be required to justify the applicability of all coursework by submitting a Request for Extension of Excessive Hours and an evaluated degree audit, which will be submitted to the Financial Aid and Scholarships office. The appeal will be reviewed by the Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) Appeals Committee and the determination posted on the student’s MyTCC portal account in the Financial Aid Dashboard. Students may appeal once a semester and all decisions by the Appeals Committee are final. (See Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy).
• A student who does a complete withdrawal, stops attending all courses, is dismissed or takes a leave of absence, prior to completion of 60 percent of a term, will be subject to the return of Title IV funds. The student will be required to return to the federal aid program the amount of aid received that is in excess of aid “earned” for the time period the student remained enrolled. Students who receive any Title IV funds (Pell, FSEOG, OTAG and Direct Student Loans) should consult with their financial aid counselor before completing a full withdrawal.
• Students operating “under appeal” will be suspended from financial aid their next entering term, if they fail to meet the requirements of their Academic Plan which was submitted with their financial aid appeal.
• Students must be degree-seeking, enrolled, and making satisfactory academic progress toward the completion of their course of study.

Financial Aid Programs Requiring the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

There are a number of financial aid programs available at Tulsa Community College. Some scholarships are need based and require the FAFSA application. The FAFSA application is used to apply for the following financial aid programs:

• Federal Pell Grant
• Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
• Oklahoma Tuition Aid Grant (OTAG)
• Federal Work-Study (FWS)
• Direct Subsidized Loan
• Direct Unsubsidized Loan
• Direct Parent PLUS Loan (PLUS)

Other programs available through TCC’s Financial Aid and Scholarships office that require a separate application:

• State Regents Tuition Waiver (Academic or Need Base)
• TCC Honors Scholar Tuition Waiver
• TCC Foundation & Trust Scholarship
• TCC Provost Scholarship
• Need Based Grants (Tribal, Voc-Rehab, etc.)

Based on eligibility, the student may qualify for a combination of award programs. Some programs are need based. Need is the difference between expected educational expenses and available family financial resources. The student and parent(s) should be prepared to verify information reported on the FAFSA. Students will be notified via college email (MyTCC) of requests for documentation. The specific document request(s) will be viewable through the student’s MYTCC portal account in the Financial Aid Dashboard. TCC’s Financial Aid and Scholarships office will award students for all federal, state, and institutional programs. Failure to provide the requested documentation may result in a delay or the termination of the financial aid application process. When the awards are determined, an award notification is sent to the student via college email (MyTCC). The award notification will direct the student to their Financial Aid Dashboard account view and/or accept the awards. To ensure that financial aid will be available by the start of the term, students MUST have their FAFSA application completed, and all requirements satisfied on or before the financial aid priority consideration deadline. Financial aid priority consideration deadlines are June 1 for fall term, November 1 for spring term and April 1 for summer term. Early application is encouraged as some funds are limited.

Grants

Federal Pell Grant

The Federal Pell Grant, unlike a loan, does not have to be repaid. An undergraduate student, who has not received a bachelor’s degree, is a U.S. citizen, or eligible non-citizen, may be eligible for a Pell Grant. Eligibility to receive a Federal Pell Grant is determined by the U. S. Department of Education based upon a standard formula, established by Congress, using family financial information submitted on the FAFSA and reported on the Student Aid Report (SAR). The formula produces an Expected Family Contribution (EFC) number. Your Student Aid Report will contain this number.

Oklahoma Tuition Aid Grant (OTAG)

OTAG is a grant based on need for up to 75 percent of tuition and fees to Oklahoma resident students making satisfactory academic progress. To apply, submit the FAFSA by March 1 for priority consideration, as funds are limited. This program is administered by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education.

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)

FSEOG provides grants to students with the greatest financial need as determined from the SAR analysis and on the availability of funds. The grant may not exceed $4,000 a year. Students must be making satisfactory academic progress.

Tribal Grants

Tribal grants are for Native American students. Application procedures are initiated in the appropriate Tribal Education Office and by submitting the FAFSA application.

Scholarships and Tuition Waivers

Tulsa Community College offers many scholarships to students with scholastic achievement and/or economic need. Students may apply for scholarships of varying amounts which are generally for specific educational costs. A current descriptive list is available in any TCC campus Financial Aid and Scholarships office. Recipients are selected by the TCC Scholarship Committee during the spring term for the following academic year. To apply, submit the TCC Scholarship Application (available online in the student’s MyTCC portal account) to the Financial Aid and Scholarships office by the announced deadline(s). New scholarship opportunities become available throughout every term. Check the Scholarship Opportunities Bulletin Board at any Financial Aid and Scholarships office and the TCC Connection for new scholarships. Scholarships are also listed at www.tulsacc.edu/finaid under the Financial Aid section.

TCC ACE Tuition Waiver Scholarships

Concurrently enrolled high school students who take three to six credit hours per semester may be eligible for the ACE Tuition Waiver Scholarship. ACE is Attend College Early and ACE Tuition Waiver Scholarships are awarded on a first-come, first serve basis as funds are available. Concurrently enrolled students should contact the Enrollment Services Office for more information.

TCC State Regents Tuition Waiver

Tulsa Community College offers an annual waiver of tuition of up to $1200 for Oklahoma residents. Recipients are determined by their cumulative grade point average and completion rate, with 70 percent of the scholarships awarded to students with financial need. Students who are awarded based on financial need are required to have a 2.50 cumulative grade point average (GPA). Students who are awarded based on scholastics are required to have a 3.00 cumulative GPA. To apply and receive priority consideration, submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) annually by March 15th.

TCC State Regents Tuition Waivers are also available for Oklahoma residents who are 65 years of age or older, former POWMIA; dependents (children) of POW/MIA; and, dependents of Oklahoma peace officers and firefighters who have given their lives in the line of duty. Students should contact a campus Director of Enrollment Services for more information.

TCC Honors Scholar State Regents Tuition Waiver

Tulsa Community College offers a tuition waiver of three to 18 credit hours per fall and spring term for students who are TCC Honors Scholars in good standing. To apply, submit the TCC Honors Scholar application to the TCC Honors office on Metro Campus. To remain eligible for the waiver, students are required to maintain a TCC grade point average of at least 3.5 and complete a minimum of three credit hours each term, including at least one Honors course each term until minimum Honors Scholars credit requirements are fulfilled.

TCC State Regents Leadership Scholarship

Tulsa Community College offers a waiver of tuition only for three (3) to 18 credit hours per academic year for Oklahoma High School Valedictorians, Salutatorians, and some Honor students. To apply, have your high school counselor submit a Leadership Scholarship Application by April 3 to any TCC Financial Aid and Scholarships office. Students are required to complete three credit hours in the fall to maintain eligibility in the spring.

TCC TrueBlue Lead

Each year students may apply for TrueBlue Lead, a leadership development program.  This program waives up to 18 credit hours of tuition each term or allows for a cash stipend.  This award is based on scholarship, leadership, and community service involvement, with students selected via an interview process.  Students should contact Student Life for criteria and application information.  Students are required to complete six credit hours in the fall to maintain eligibility in the spring.

Work Study

Federal Work-study Program (FWS)

Students may earn up to $9.11 an hour, depending on the position, for up to 20 hours a week during the academic year, which includes breaks between terms. Placement may be either on or off campus with public or private non-profit agencies. Maximum earnings are determined from the estimated family contribution as determined by the FAFSA and the availability of funds. Applicants must be enrolled, complete a TCC work- study employment application, and be interviewed for placement. Students seeking Federal work-study employment should visit the TCC FWS website for more information at: https://careers.tulsacc.edu.

Loans

Direct Loan Program (DLP)

The DLP offers subsidized, unsubsidized and PLUS loans through the federal treasury for students enrolled at least half-time in an eligible program. Dependent undergraduate students can borrow up to $5,500, if they are first-year students enrolled in a program of study that is at least a full academic year, and $6,500, if they have completed their first year of study and the remainder of their program is at least a full academic year. The maximum for an independent undergraduate student loan is up to $9,500 for the first year and up to $10,500 for the second year. A student completing prerequisites for an approved program of study may receive up to $2,625 for one academic year.

The aggregate amount a student may qualify for is $31,000 for a dependent undergraduate and $57,500 for an independent undergraduate (only $23,000 of this amount may be in subsidized loans). According to federal guidelines, all student loans must come in two disbursements per loan period, and delivery to TCC for first year, first time borrowers must be delayed for thirty days. Students must also complete the Master Promissory Note (MPN) at www.studentloans.gov.

Regardless of the type of loan, students must complete entrance counseling before they can be given their first loan disbursement. A student dropping below half-time status, through withdrawal, transfer or graduation, must complete exit counseling. These counseling sessions are available online at www.studentloans.gov and provide student borrowers with important information about their loan, borrower rights, and repayment.

Federal Direct Stafford Loans

A subsidized loan is awarded on the basis of financial need. Student borrowers will not be charged any interest, before they begin repayment or during authorized periods of deferments. The federal government “subsidizes” the interest during these periods.  An unsubsidized loan is not awarded on the basis of need. Interest is charged from the time the loan is disbursed until it is paid in full. If interest is allowed to accumulate, it will be capitalized - that is, the interest will be added to the principal amount of the loan and additional interest will be based upon the higher amount.   Both a subsidized loan and an unsubsidized loan may be received for the same enrollment period.

Federal Direct Parent PLUS Loan

PLUS loans enable parents with good credit histories to borrow funds to pay the educational expenses of each child who is a dependent undergraduate student enrolled at least half-time. The yearly limit on a PLUS Loan is equal to the student’s cost of attendance at TCC minus any other financial aid he or she receives. Interest is charged on the loan from the date the first disbursement is made until the loan is paid in full. Parents will be notified by lender or service provider of interest rate changes throughout the life of the loan. Loan funds are sent to TCC by the U.S. Department of Education in two installments.

Financial Aid Application Procedure and Process

The 2017-2018 FAFSA application is for the fall 2017, spring 2018, and summer 2018 terms.

1. Complete the TCC Application for Admission through the college’s website at www.tulsacc.edu. To receive financial aid, a student must be admitted as a degree-seeking student in an eligible degree or certificate program.
2. Students must file their FAFSA application electronically. Students may access “FAFSA on the Web” at http://www.fafsa.ed.gov. Be sure to use the 2017-2018 FAFSA on the Web.
3. After the FAFSA application is sent to the federal processor, the student will receive a Student Aid Report (SAR) in approximately one to six weeks from the U. S. Department of Education. The student must carefully review the instructions on the SAR. If the SAR is incorrect, refer to the instructions on the SAR for correction information.  Students may monitor the progress of their financial aid application through the Financial Aid Dashboard by logging on to the MyTCC portal account using their CWID and pin number. The Financial Aid and Scholarships office will notify the student via email of any additional information needed. The email will instruct the student to check their Financial Aid Dashboard for the additional information requested.  Once all requirements are complete and the student meets all of the eligibility requirements, the Financial Aid and Scholarships office will complete the file. The student will receive an email notifying them of the update to their application. The email will instruct the student to log into their MyTCC portal account and view their awards in the Financial Aid Dashboard. The awards will list the types and amounts of financial aid the student has been awarded.
4. Other applications for financial aid, including BIA or Tribal Grants, outside agency scholarships, or Vocational Rehabilitation, should be submitted by their individual application deadlines. Each agency will have its own application forms and deadlines. Follow the instructions carefully, as funds are limited.
5. Request official academic transcripts from previously attended schools, post-secondary schools, colleges, and universities. All transcripts must be on file to receive financial aid.
6. Respond quickly to requests for additional information by all TCC offices to avoid delays. To ensure that financial aid will be available by the start of the term, students MUST have their FAFSA application completed, and all requirements satisfied on or before the financial aid priority consideration deadline. Financial aid priority consideration deadlines are June 1 for fall term, November 1 for spring term and April 1 for summer term. Early application is encouraged as some funds are limited.
7. All first-time student loan borrowers at TCC are required to participate in entrance counseling. Students will need to complete the Master Promissory Note in addition to entrance counseling. Online entrance counseling and the Master Promissory Note may be completed at www.studentloans.gov.
8. According to federal guidelines, student loans must always come in two disbursements per loan period, and delivery to first-year, first-time borrowers must be delayed for at least 30 days. Additional information is available on our website: www.tulsacc.edu/finaid.

Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy

Federal regulations (CRF 668.34) require that a student maintain satisfactory academic progress (SAP) in the course of study being pursued, according to the standards and practices of the institution in which he/she is enrolled, in order to receive aid under the Higher Education Act. The programs at TCC include Federal Pell Grant, Federal Work-Study, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), Oklahoma Tuition Aid Grant (OTAG), Oklahoma’s Promise, Federal Direct Stafford Loans (subsidized and unsubsidized) and the Federal Direct Parent PLUS Loan Program.

The student is encouraged to become familiar with this satisfactory academic progress policy and any policy that may govern outside sources of financial aid for which the student may have qualified for, such as: Vocational Rehabilitation, Job Training Partnership Act, Department of Veterans Affairs Educational Benefits, etc.

I. Qualitative and Quantitative Requirements

Both qualitative and quantitative standards for satisfactory academic progress shall be applied uniformly to ALL students whether or not the student has previously participated in a Title IV program. In order to satisfy both qualitative and quantitative requirements, ALL students must satisfy the minimum standards as described below:
For financial aid purposes, grades of F, W, AW, WP, WF, I, U, etc. shall be considered hours attempted. However, these are NOT considered hours satisfactorily completed. Audit grades do not qualify for financial aid. Should a student receive financial aid for any classes or hours that are later changed to audit, the student will be required to repay any applicable financial aid funds. Cumulative grade point average and hours attempted shall be used to determine a student’s eligibility to participate in the Title IV programs.

II. Transfer and Continuing Students

ALL transfer students entering Tulsa Community College and ALL continuing TCC students who apply for financial aid, must have one of the following: HS transcript, GED, or Home School Diploma (including ACT scores). Continuing students must meet the minimum qualitative and quantitative requirements described below in order to receive federal aid. Transfer students, who do not meet minimum requirements, will be reviewed at the end of their first semester at TCC. If the student is not meeting minimum requirements, they will be placed on a ‘warning’ for the next entering semester. Progress will be reviewed upon completion of the term to update the student’s satisfactory academic progress status accordingly. A student, who is violating the maximum hours, does not get a ‘warning’ semester. Credit from an institution without recognized accreditation will not be used to calculate a student’s academic progress; however, students who have a bachelor’s degree - even from an unaccredited institution - will not receive Pell, OTAG, or SEOG funds.

III. Evaluation Increment Period

ALL students participating in Title IV programs will be evaluated at the end of EACH term (summer term included, if applicable) to determine if satisfactory academic progress is being maintained.

IV. Financial Aid Warning and Suspension

In the event a student fails to meet minimum requirements, as described in the table below, the student will be placed on ‘warning’ for the subsequent term, during which time the student may continue to receive Title IV aid. At the end of the ‘warning’ term, if the student fails to meet minimum criteria, they will be suspended from participating in ALL Title IV programs, until such time as eligibility is reestablished. Students who receive Title IV financial aid and complete a full withdrawal, drop out, or are dismissed prior to completion of the term will be subject to the Department of Education Return of Title IV Funds policy.

V. Re-Establishing Eligibility

A student may re-establish eligibility to participate in the Title IV programs by completing sufficient hours to meet both qualitative and quantitative standards in the applicable category as described in the table above.

VI. Appeal of Financial Aid Suspension

If there are extenuating circumstances, students may appeal their suspension. EXTENUATING CIRCUMSTANCES INCLUDE, BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO: DEATH IN THE FAMILY, ILLNESS AND HOSPITALIZATION. The appeal letter must be typed and submitted to the Financial Aid and Scholarships office. The student is advised to provide supporting documentation. The student will be notified, by college email, of the Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) Appeals Committee’s decision. The decision of the Appeals Committee is final. Any student whose suspension status has been appealed and previously approved must follow the terms and conditions of that appeal to continue receiving Title IV financial aid. Any student unable to adhere to the requirements of the approval will be suspended.

VII. Limitation of Student Eligibility

All students enrolled in an eligible degree program may receive Title IV aid up to 150% of the hours required in pursuit of a degree or certificate. The total number of hours allowed at Tulsa Community College to receive Title IV aid is ninety-five (95). It is the option of the Financial Aid Appeals Committee to grant an extension to the 150% maximum hours allowed. If approved, students who have exceeded the 150% maximum will be eligible for aid only for 150% of the hours necessary to complete the approved program of study. When those hours are completed, a student will have exhausted his or her aid eligibility at TCC. Reasons for approval include, but are not limited to, change of major, transfer between institutions, or working toward completion of a new degree program. Students who exceed the maximum time frame for degree completion because they have not completed a sufficient percentage of coursework or are putting off completion to continue to receive aid, will not be approved.

Students with a prior bachelor’s degree are prohibited by regulation from receiving Pell Grants, Oklahoma Tuition Aid Grants (OTAG), or Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity (SEOG) grants.

Students are responsible for knowing their eligibility status at the end of each term. If in need of assistance or clarification, students are encouraged to come to any campus Financial Aid and Scholarships office for verification and eligibility.

VIII. Student Record and Financial Aid Holds

According to federal guidelines, it is the option of the College to place a hold on the release of a student’s record for failure to comply with a requirement or meet an obligation of the offices of Admission and Records, Bursar, Library, Counseling and Testing, Student Life, and Financial Aid and Scholarships office.  It is part of the regular office procedure of the Financial Aid and Scholarships office to place a hold on a student’s academic record for various reasons. Examples for a hold being placed on an academic record include, but are not limited to, an institutional, state, or federal financial aid overpayment due to be repaid by the student.  Resolution of the infraction must occur before release of the academic records. A student may make a written request to the Financial Aid and Scholarships office for release of an unofficial record prior to resolution.

IX. Default Management Plan

There are consequences for schools with official cohort default rates that exceed certain thresholds and in some cases an institution may be ineligible to participate in financial aid programs. As required by the U.S. Department of Education, Tulsa Community College has implemented and practices a strict Default Management Plan. In part, this Default Management Plan includes requiring an entrance interview for all student borrowers, and exit interviews for students in less than half-time enrollment, whether due to withdrawal or graduation.

X. Misrepresentation, Forgery, Fraud and Abuse

The TCC Financial Aid and Scholarships office is required to report any suspected fraud or misrepresentation to the Inspector General’s Office. Whenever a staff member becomes aware that a student and/or a student’s parent or spouse may have allegedly misrepresented facts relevant to the student’s financial aid application, or have committed forgery or fraud, the staff member must report this promptly to the Director of the Financial Aid and Scholarships office for appropriate follow-up. The Director will contact the student to attempt to determine if the misrepresentation was unintentional and to explain the consequences of the action. Should resolution not occur, the case will be referred to the Inspector General’s Office for appropriate action(s). A hold will be placed on the student’s record and financial aid until resolution has occurred.

Veterans Services

Tulsa Community College maintains a full-time office of Veterans Services at Metro Campus, room MC1003, for the convenience of veterans and their dependents attending school. We at TCC are very proud of the service you, our veterans, have given and the sacrifices you and your family have made. We have set aside space on each campus for a study area designed for you, the veteran. There are many brochures with information on veterans services in our community. The staff in the Veterans Services office is eager to help you in any way we can.

Entitlement Programs

1. Chapter 30, Title 38, U.S.C. - Montgomery Gl Bill
2. Chapter 31, Title 38, U.S.C. - Disabled Veterans, Vocational Rehabilitation Program
3. Chapter 33, Title 38, U.S.C. - Post 911 Persons serving active since September 11, 2001
4. Chapter 35, Title 38, U.S.C.
   1. Spouse of 100% and Permanently and Totally Disabled Veteran
   2. Spouse of a Deceased Veteran (Service Connected)
   3. Children of a or b
5. Chapter 1606, Title 38, U.S.C. - Selected Reserve Educational Assistance Program Policies
6. Chapter 1607, Title 38, U.S.C. - Reserve or National Guard with active duty employment (REAP)

The Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) requires all veterans to abide by the policies and regulations of the College concerning academic standing and progress, class attendance, and conduct. The TCC Veterans Services office will monitor compliance with these policies and is required to report any deviations to the DVA. All school policies are stated elsewhere in this catalog. Concurrent with school policies, the DVA requires the following:

1. Academic program. A recipient of DVA benefits must select and designate the academic program under which he or she will be receiving educational benefits. Any change of academic program must be acceptable to the DVA.
2. Course work. Educational benefits will be paid only on courses applicable toward the academic program. Any course substitution, i.e., a course outside the catalog listing for a particular program, must be verified as an approved substitution. The DVA will not award educational benefits for repeated courses in which a passing grade has already been received or for courses in which an incomplete “I” is earned.
3. Previous or transfer credit. Applicants for benefits having earned college credit at another institution must submit transcripts from each institution he or she has attended before the TCC Veterans Services Office can certify enrollment to the DVA.
4. Class attendance. The DVA requires the institution to report all excessive absences from classes. Failure to attend classes while receiving benefits will result in an overpayment and the student is liable for repayment to the DVA.
5. All persons applying for education benefits must submit Military Transcripts for evaluation.

Procedures

1. Apply for admission to the College in the Enrollment Services Office, or online at www.tulsacc.edu.
2. First time veteran students at TCC need to contact the Academic Advising office and acquire a Program Curriculum Plan. Take a copy to the Veterans Services office at Metro Campus. Returning students may verify applicability of courses toward graduation by reviewing their Program Curriculum Plan on file in the Academic Advising office or the Veterans Services office.
3. Go to the TCC Veterans Services Office at Metro Campus and request certification for benefits. The following documents must be presented by veterans enrolling under the Veterans Educational program for the first time.
   1. Chapter 30 and 32. Verification of service on VA form 22-1990V, or copy #4 or certified true copy of DD-214 (Report of Separation).
   2. Chapter 31. Approved VA Form 22-1905 from DVA Vocational Rehabilitation counselor.
   3. Chapter 33 - Certificate of Eligibility from DVA
   4. Chapter 35 - Disabled veteran’s claim number
   5. Chapter 1606 - Approved DD214, Notice of Basic Eligibility (NOBE) from reserve unit and, if eligible, a copy of the kicker contract.
   6. Chapter 1607 - Approved DD214 and if eligible, a copy of the kicker contract
4. Register for classes.
5. All certifications for veteran’s benefits will be processed through the Veterans Services office on the Metro Campus.
6. Veterans pursuing concurrent enrollment at more than one college or university may do so, but must coordinate with the Veterans Services office at both institutions to insure proper certification. All courses taught by TCC, regardless of campus, are approved by TCC and are not concurrent enrollments.