Columbia College to Defer Tuition Costs for Military Service Members Affected by Government Shutdown

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Columbia College

Oct 01, 2013, 17:10 ET


Columbia, MO (PRWEB) October 01, 2013 -- In light of the federal government shutdown that began Oct. 1, Columbia College will defer tuition charges for the term that begins Oct. 21 while military students seek other funding. For those who are affected and unable to secure other financial assistance, the college will offer a no-liability withdrawal policy or an extended six-month payment plan.

"This is an opportunity to create some consistency and stability for our military students,” said Mike Lederle, assistant dean for military and federal programs. "Columbia College has been a leader in military education since 1973. We value the contributions of our service member students, and we want to continue to help them during this time of uncertainty."

Details of Columbia College assistance for the October 2013 academic session:

Affected students must:

  • Be eligible for military tuition assistance
  • Apply for or have a current FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) on file

Columbia College will offer the following to affected students:

  • The opportunity to withdraw from classes through Nov. 29, 2013, without financial or academic liability
  • The opportunity to enroll in an extended six-month payment plan, with the first payment due Nov. 22, 2013

This is not the first time the college has taken a similar step. In March 2013, all branches of the U.S. Military ceased distribution of tuition assistance.

“During that time, Columbia College advised students of several options for continuing their education. One option was to apply for Federal Financial Aid,” said Lederle. “Of the military personnel who applied for the Federal Pell Grant following sequestration in March 2013, 73 percent were eligible.”

During the 2012-13 academic year, more than 7,000 military students completed Columbia College coursework. Many of those affiliated with the military are enrolled at Columbia College's campuses across the country. Of those 35 locations, 18 are located on military bases, including one in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.

Founded in 1851 in Columbia, Mo., Columbia College has been helping students advance their lives through higher education for more than 160 years. As a private, nonprofit liberal arts and sciences institution, the college takes pride in its small classes, experienced faculty and quality educational programs. Students may enroll in day, evening or online classes. The college is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association. Columbia College educates more than 31,000 students each year and has more than 80,000 alumni worldwide. For more information, visit http://www.ccis.edu.

Brandi Herrman, Columbia College, http://www.ccis.edu, 573-875-7731, [email protected]