Applications are now being accepted for Cochise College Foundation scholarships for the 2008-2009 school year.

The scholarship application is online and can be filled out at www.cochise.edu. The deadline to apply is April 14, and recipients will be notified early this summer. Scholarships are available for students with various interests, financial circumstances, and levels of academic achievement. Awards range from $50 to $1,250 per semester, and the funds can be used for tuition, books and educational expenses. High school students, current and prospective college students, and transfer students are encouraged to apply. A few scholarships are available for students planning to attend a college or university other than Cochise College.

“Although Cochise College tuition compares well with other institutions, these scholarships make a tremendous difference in the lives of students,” said Denise Merkel, executive director of the Cochise College Foundation. “For some, it means getting through college faster or not having to juggle as many work hours along with their educational and family responsibilities. And for others, receiving a scholarship is inspiration for pursuing their dreams.”

To apply, students need a college identification number and email address, both of which are provided when they apply to Cochise College; students attending another institution can use an ID number or email address from their current college or university. When applying for scholarships, it also is helpful to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). More specific instructions are available on the website.

They will also need:

√ Internet Explorer 6.0 or higher. Available in all Cochise College computer labs.

√ A college identification number.  All new Cochise College students are assigned an identification number when they apply for admission to Cochise College.

√ A Cochise College email address.

The Cochise College Foundation awarded more than $365,000 in scholarships last year, and several new scholarship funds have recently become available. Scholarships are provided by donors and do not have to be repaid. The foundation is a 501(c)3, tax-exempt organization, overseen by a volunteer board of directors, that promotes student success through scholarships, facilities development, and program support. By supporting Cochise College, the foundation endeavors to increase the college’s accessibility to the diverse and changing communities of Cochise County.

Detailed instructions, tips for following the new application process, and a list of available scholarships is available online at: http://www.cochise.edu/information/ccfoundation/ccf_scholarhome.asp. Questions can be directed to the Cochise College Foundation office at foundation@cochise.edu or (520) 417-4148.