Financial Aid FAQ

A: The federal school code for both Marshalltown Community College (MCC) and Ellsworth Community College (ECC) is 001862. You will use this code when completing your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

A: If you file your FAFSA online, you should receive an email with your Student Aid Report (SAR) in 3-5 days. Our Financial Aid Office begins working on your aid as soon as we receive your information. While we strive for timely processing, corrections or additional documentation can extend this timeframe. Please be patient and apply early!

A: Federal student aid rules use your parents’ information to determine your eligibility for need-based aid, even if they don’t plan to help you pay. The government’s formula assumes families share responsibility for college costs. Including parental information gives schools a complete picture of your financial situation so they can offer the most accurate aid package. If you have unusual circumstances (like being unable to contact your parents or leaving home due to unsafe conditions), talk to your financial aid office—they may be able to help with a dependency override or offer guidance on next steps.

A: Yes, you must complete the FAFSA if you are interested in the federal student loan program. The FAFSA is used to determine your eligibility for grants, workstudy, and loans.

A: Federal regulations require that all federal student loans be disbursed to the school in two installments. If you are enrolled for both the fall and spring semesters, you will receive half of your loan amount in the fall and the other half in the spring. If you are only enrolled for one semester, you will receive the first disbursement as soon as your loan is processed, and the second disbursement will be received after the mid-point of the semester.

A: Federal Pell Grants and federal student loans are generally available as long as you meet eligibility criteria. However, state-funded financial aid programs often have a FAFSA filing deadline, typically July 1st. To maximize your opportunities for all types of aid, it's always best to apply as early as possible.

A: Yes, financial aid can be used to purchase your books. There will be ACCESS charges for $22 per credit hour on your account for books. If your billing statement shows you owe, please set up a payment plan. 

A: Students must be enrolled at least half-time (6 credit hours) to receive a federal student loan. Eligibility for other forms of financial aid, such as certain grants or scholarships, may have different enrollment requirements.

A: You can enroll in a payment plan by logging into PawPass, click on Finances and select a payment plan. 

A: It is highly recommended that you complete your FAFSA as soon as possible after October 1st each year. You can apply annually. Remember, you must complete a FAFSA every year you are enrolled to be eligible for federal student aid.

A: Yes, numerous scholarships are available through both Ellsworth Community College and Marshalltown Community College, as well as their respective foundations (Ellsworth College Foundation and MCC Foundation). New students can often apply by completing the Application for Admission & Scholarship Form. Returning students typically have a separate Returning Student Scholarship Application. We encourage you to explore all available scholarship opportunities and apply!