With a spring nor’easter blanketing the state today, the Community College System of New Hampshire (CCSNH) brings sun and warmth with the announcement of free summer classes for eligible students. This summer, students can jumpstart their education with two free classes at any of New Hampshire’s seven community colleges. The new ‘Summer’s on Us’ program covers tuition and academic fees for students who meet financial eligibility requirements and are also registered for fall classes.
The program is designed for students who want to jump start their coursework or accelerate their education as they work towards a degree or certificate. New students who want to take advantage of free summer courses, current students who will use the summertime to get ahead or complete an educational program, and others who are considering starting or re-entering college can benefit from this program.
“College is a personal investment of time and resources that can be very rewarding both personally and professionally,” said Charles Lloyd, vice chancellor of the Community College System of New Hampshire (CCSNH). “Through ‘Summer’s on Us’, we are making our own investment in New Hampshire students. Students juggle a lot these days between work, family and other commitments and a program like this helps to make college more affordable and attainable.”
To receive the free classes, students must enroll for the fall at any of the seven community colleges for at least nine credits (typically, three courses) or use the two classes to complete an academic degree or certificate program in which they are currently enrolled. Students need to complete the 2024-2025 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and demonstrate financial need. Specific requirements of financial need will be determined by the colleges, and students are encouraged to reach out directly to the community college they plan to attend. Contact information can be found at CCSNH.edu/SummerOnUs.
Summer classes are available with multiple start dates, but typically run between mid-May and August. Classes are available in many formats including onsite, online and hybrid. Students are encouraged to register quickly to take advantage of the Summer’s on Us program so they can find classes that work best with their summer schedule.
“With many flexible options for scheduling classes over the summer, we believe ‘Summer’s on Us’ creates a unique opportunity to get a jumpstart on education while enjoying summertime in New Hampshire,” Lloyd said. “For new students, it’s also a great way to ease into college while earning upwards of six credits for free.”
Those with questions about the program should contact their community college Financial Aid office. These offices can also provide assistance with the FAFSA process. Information can be found at CCSNH.edu/SummerOnUs.
