G3: More free money to help with college
Read more here: Participating Colleges in G3: A Program Providing Free Money for College | Credits2Careers
What is G3?
G3 is a program that helps people in Virginia pay for school. It's for people who don't make a lot of money and can get in-state financial help. It can be used for special programs in five popular fields: Early Childhood Education, Healthcare, Information Technology, Public Safety, and Skilled Trades.
When you get G3 help, you can start with a training program that ends with a certificate. This certificate can help you get a job right away. If you want to keep learning, you can add more certificates and even get an associate degree.
Can I receive G3 funding?
If you live in Virginia and meet these rules, you can apply to receive G3 funding:
- Your family makes less than or equal to 400% of the Federal Poverty Level (around $100,000 for a family of four)
- You can get in-state financial help
- You're taking at least six credits at your local community college
- You have a high school diploma or GED
- You're in a G3 program (your local community college will help you find out which of their programs are G3 programs)
- You've applied for federal and/or state financial help
*Funds are based on availability and may be limited if you already have a Bachelor's degree or higher
What schools have G3?
All 23 community colleges in Virginia have G3 programs. But, the programs are different at each school to match what the community needs.
For example, Tidewater Community College, which is near the water, has a few programs about boats and the sea as part of G3. But, these programs won't be at schools in the western part of Virginia.
Is G3 "free community college?"
Kind of.
G3 helps you pay for school if you don't make a lot of money and only for certain programs. It's a "last dollar" program, meaning it pays for what other grants don't cover. So, if you meet all the rules, it could make your school costs $0.
How does G3 help pay for school?
G3 pays for what federal or state financial help doesn't cover, like tuition, fees, and books. If you want to join a G3 program, you need to fill out the FAFSA. You might also need to show proof of your family's income or that you can get federal help.
Do I have to go to school full-time?
No, G3 is for full- and part-time students.
If you're a part-time student, you need to take at least 6 credits (usually two classes) each semester.
You can get more help if you get full Federal Pell Grants and go to school full-time. This extra help is for things outside of school, so you can focus on learning.
To keep getting G3, you need to keep doing well in school.
Is there a time limit for G3 help?
Yes, you have three years to finish an associate degree in the same G3 program.
If you finish a certificate and stop school to work, you can still get G3 help if you come back within one year. After you come back, you have two more years to finish your associate degree.
What's the difference between associate degrees and certificate programs?
G3 helps you get training, a certificate, and an associate degree. Some jobs need a certificate, while others need an associate degree. You can get both with G3.
What are the benefits of G3 help?
G3 helps you learn new skills for a good job without worrying about money. With G3, you'll learn about jobs that are hiring in Virginia. People who finish these programs could make a lot more money compared to those who don't.
Will I get a job after I graduate?
We can't promise a job after you finish a G3 program. But, your local community college has services to help you find a job. They also work with local businesses to learn about job openings.
How do I apply for G3?
You can apply for G3 when you sign up for classes at your local community college. To start, click the link below to file a form to find G3 programs at your school.