Ability to Benefit

Students enrolling for the first time after July 1, 2012 must have a High School Diploma, GED or state recognized equivalent to be eligible for federal financial aid. New students will no longer have the option to pass an Ability to Benefit (ATB) test or to successfully complete 6 degree applicable units to gain eligibility for federal financial aid. A student who does not possess a high school diploma or a recognized equivalent, but who was enrolled in an eligible program any time prior to July 1, 2012, may be eligible to receive federal student aid under the prior ATB provision. Please contact the Financial Aid Office if you think you were enrolled in an approved post-secondary educational program prior to July 1, 2012 and need to satisfy an ATB requirement. Please be advised that Grossmont and Cuyamaca Colleges will not accept ATB examination scores from other colleges. Information on obtaining a GED can be found at the Grossmont Adult School website at https://adultschool.guhsd.net.

Adult Re-Entry

Under the auspices of Student Services, the Adult Reentry Program provides a variety of resources and support for the returning adult student who is seeking information about educational goals and career options. The program has a proven track record of quality performance and continues to serve as a bridge between the college and community by providing referral services and information, regarding job placement, personal and academic counseling, Health Services, Veteran Affairs, self-help programs, Financial Aid and transportation.

With the constantly changing climate of the workplace, it is beneficial to remain well educated, as a lifelong learner and savvy with top notch skills for personal success. Education is your key to a better life and a more secure future!

Accessibility Resource Center (A.R.C.)

Grossmont College is committed to providing programs that respond to the unique needs of the nontraditional student.

Support Services

Specialized Services

• Academic counseling
• Textbooks in alternative format
• Disability related counseling
• Learning disabilities assessment
• Note taking assistance
• Priority registration
• Referrals to community agencies
• Sign language interpreters / Real-Time Captioning
• Test proctoring / accommodations
• Other services available based on individual needs

Assistive Technology

• Assistive hardware and software 
• Text-to-speech software 
• Screen reader and screen magnification software 
• Voice recognition software 
• Note-taking / real-time transcription software 
• Alternative input devices 
• Talking calculator 
• Videophone access in Tech Mall 
• Assistive listening devices (ALDs) 
• Other technology available based on individual needs 

Special Classes

The following classes are designed for students with disabilities:

Accessibility Resource Center (A.R.C.)
Building 60-120
8800 Grossmont College Drive
El Cajon, Ca 92020-1799
Phone: 619-644-7112
Fax: 619-644-7980
Video Phone: 619-567-7712 or 877-561-8975

Associated Students of Grossmont College (ASGC)

The Associated Students of Grossmont College (ASGC) offers students opportunities to share in college governance; to assist in the development of the college philosophy mission and vision statements; to interact with college and community professionals; to participate in social and cultural activities; and to create and administer their own programs and support systems that reflect diversity, instill self-reliance, ethical leadership and responsible action. For more information, or to get involved, visit ASGC in Building 60, Room 110, or online at https://www.grossmont.edu/asgc/ or the Student Affairs Office in Building 60, Room 204, or online at https://www.grossmont.edu/student-affairs/. 

The ASGC represents the voice of Grossmont College students at the local and state level in community college student government through the Student Senate for California Community Colleges (SSCCC). 

The ASGC acting through its executive body, the Board of Directors, maintains the power to register and supervise student organizations on campus. Students are invited to join one of the many clubs on campus. For more information, visit the website at: https://www.grossmont.edu/get-involved/clubs-and-organizations.

The Dean of Student Affairs serves as the administrative advisor to the ASGC.

Funding

The ASGC program is financed from benefit card sales and fundraising events. All students are encouraged to become active participants in student government programs.

Benefit Sticker

Purchase of the ASGC Benefit Sticker each semester provides a means by which each student can become an active participant in creating opportunities for valuable experiences outside the classroom. Examples of benefits include 10% discount at cafeteria and cafe, discount movie tickets, savings on books, locker rental and discount buying at select local businesses. Funds raised from Benefit Sticker sales are used to fund student activities on campus, as well as support instructional and student services needs via the ASGC grant request process.

ASGC Benefit Stickers may be purchased via Self-Service or in person at the Student Activities Window, Building 10, Room 110. The Student Activities Window also provides discount movie tickets, bus and trolley passes and discounts for local services and events. 

Student Representation Fee

The Student Representation Fee (SRF) is a voluntary $2 fee collected to provide funds for the support of governmental affairs representatives who state their positions and viewpoints on behalf of Grossmont College students before city, county and district governments, and before offices and agencies of the state government. The first $1 is provided to the local Associated Students to use for local advocacy, while the second $1 is given to the recognized statewide student association to further on state advocacy and operational funding for that organization.

Associated Students serves as the official voice of students in the shared governance process at the College and maintains collaborative relationships with faculty, staff, and administrators, providing student perspectives that are considered at all levels of College and District decision-making.

The Student Senate for California Community Colleges (SSCCC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization that provides students with opportunities to take an active role in higher education advocacy, policy development, and participatory governance. Title 5 §51023.7 grants students the right to participate in the development of those policies and procedures that significantly impact them and the SSCCC is the mechanism for students to participate statewide in policy development. The SSCCC is guided by the delegates from all California community colleges and is recognized as the official voice of the over 2.1 million students by the Board of Governors, legislature, governor, and other education stakeholders. The new funding source will provide the SSCCC with resources to provide greater sustainability, institutional memory, and transparency, as well as funds for student leadership and advocacy training. Recent initiatives have included lobbying for a tuition-free community college, addressing food and housing insecurity, and providing greater educational access to low-income students. 

The Student Representation fee waiver shall be applied online at the time of registration.

Athletics & Intercollegiate Competition 

Grossmont College Athletics is home to the Griffins! With the exception of our Griffin Football Program, our Griffin Student-Athlete intercollegiate sports teams compete as members of the Pacific Coast Athletic Conference (PCAC), a conference within the California Community College Athletics Association (3C2A). Below is a list of member colleges of the PCAC:

·       Cuyamaca College

·       Grossmont College

·       Imperial Valley College

·       Mira Costa College

·       Palomar College

·       San Diego City College

·       San Diego Miramar College

·       San Diego Mesa College

·       Southwestern College

Our Grossmont College Griffin Football Program competes in the National Division, Southern League of the Southern California Football Association (SCFA).

Grossmont College’s Women Intercollegiate Athletics Programs currently include: basketball, soccer, softball, swimming & diving, tennis, volleyball, beach volleyball and water polo. Our Griffin Men’s Intercollegiate Programs currently include baseball, basketball, football, swimming & diving, volleyball and water polo.

Grossmont College Intercollegiate Athletic Programs have enjoyed considerable success in both women & men’s competition. Our men’s teams have won conference championships in baseball, basketball, football, tennis, men’s volleyball and water polo. Grossmont women programs have won conference championships in basketball, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis and volleyball. Both Griffin women and men’s sports programs have won multiple state championships throughout Grossmont College’s proud athletics history.

Students planning to compete in our collegiate athletics programs must maintain eligibility by being actively enrolled in twelve or more units during their semesters of competition. Additionally, student-athletes must complete 24 units from season to season and earn a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or above to maintain their eligibility status. Student-Athletes must work with academic counseling services to create their comprehensive academic educational plans that are to be completed during their studies at Grossmont College. For more information about student-athlete eligibility, please email inquiries to Grossmont College Athletic Eligibility Specialist Heidi Holmquist at heidi.holmquist@gcccd.edu. 

Griffin Academics:  Each fall semester, Grossmont College offers transfer level math and English classes that are specifically designed to foster academic excellence for our student-athletes. These engaging and dynamic courses feature curriculum and subject materials from the global sports world and athletics communities that mirror the many interests of our student-athlete population. Professors who are specially trained and prepared to support the needs and unique demands facing our student-athletes teach these classes. Please ask our Athletics Advisor, Patrick Aure (patrick.Aure@gcccd.edu), and our Athletics Counseling Staff how to enroll in these Athletics Learning Community Classes. 

For more information about Grossmont College Athletics, please visit us @ www.grossmontgriffins.com. GO GRIFFINS!!!

Bookstore

Mission Statement

The Grossmont College Bookstore will make available to students the tools needed to succeed in college and support the institutional goals of the College.

1. Rent and Save over 50%.
   Rent your books for a term and return them after finals. It’s that simple. Buy online and we’ll even send you a reminder when it’s time to return.
2. Download eBooks and Save up to 60%.
   Same new textbook in a digital format. Eco-friendly and convenient. Download eTextbooks right from your campus bookstore’s website, https://www.grossmont.bncollege.com.
3. Buy New and Get up to 50% Cash Back.
   New textbooks are yours to keep, and so is the cash back at the end of term if you sell them back to us during finals week. Reduce, reuse, and save.
4. Buy Used and Save over 25%.
   Buy used textbooks, save money and the environment. Then save more at the end of term if you sell them and get cash back.

5. All Grossmont textbook sales will be facilitated online at https://www.grossmont.bncollege.com, with branded merchandise and other supplies still available for purchase at the on-campus bookstore. Students are able to conveniently order textbooks and other learning materials required for their courses at Grossmont online, including affordable used books, rental books and eBooks, providing students with multiple shipping options, in-store pick-up, along with a variety of acceptable payment options, including Student Financial Aid.

Textbook Refunds: The refund period is posted in the Bookstore and always continues through the first week of classes. Students may refund textbooks with official evidence showing that he/she has dropped the class during the first 30 days of regular semester classes. Refunded books must be in original purchase condition. To obtain a refund for a text, the student must present, along with the book to be refunded, a correct cash register receipt reflecting the item purchased.

CalWORKs

Grossmont College CalWORKs (California Work Opportunities and Responsibility to Kids) program, is state funded program that serves students who participate in training and education as part of their Welfare-to-Work plan. CalWORKs provides intensive counseling and support services such as childcare assistance, liaison with ECM’s, and work experience/work study opportunities for students. Students are assisted with tracking participation hours, completing monthly reports, and understanding CalWORKs requirements. Additional information and application to CalWORKs may be obtained in in Bldg. 38E, telephone (619) 644-7552, or visit our web site at https://www.grossmont.edu/calworks.

Career Center

The Grossmont College Career Center provides an on-campus site for students to explore and pursue their career goals. Assistance includes career assessment, featuring interactive computer software programs: Career Coach and Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), Strong and Career Cruising and web sites. The Career/Job Search Library contains an extensive range of the most current occupational and educational resources.

Career Center services include assistance with resume writing, interview techniques, application preparation and employer contact. An annual job fair, Career EXPO, is held each fall. Career development and job search seminars are sponsored throughout the academic year.

All Career Center resources and services are available to students and community members.

Clubs and Organizations

Student clubs and organizations enrich life at Grossmont College by providing numerous leadership opportunities for students, as well as a place to enhance social and professional connections. Getting involved at Grossmont College is easy: Simply join one of the existing campus organizations or students may create their own. 

Grossmont College has approximately 40 active student clubs/organizations on campus. Combined, these clubs offer activities encompassing a wide variety of topics – from religion to politics, from community service to gaming, from academic programs to advocacy. 

Information concerning organizational procedures may be obtained in the ASGC Office Building 60, Room 110 or the Office of Student Affairs in Building 60, Room 204, or online at https://www.grossmont.edu/get-involved/clubs-and-organizations.

Getting involved as a student can be one of the biggest highlights of the college experience. Students will meet many new people, explore old and new interests, gain valuable life skills, and most importantly, create the campus culture. The knowledge and skill that students will develop through co-curricular involvement will have a profound impact on a student’s collegiate experience and future career and include: 

• Developing marketable leadership and organizational skills. 
• Using energy and recreational time constructively.
• Developing and clarifying personal values. 
• Enhancing creative thought and expression. 
• Developing critical thinking skills. 
• Learning the importance of cooperation, teamwork, work ethic, and being an active member of a group. 
• Developing interpersonal and time management skills. 
• Experiencing cultural sharing and exchange. 
• Developing self-initiative, discipline, independence, and responsibility. 
• Gaining practical experience that can be used to enhance a resume. 
• Making lasting relationships with students, faculty and staff. 

Get involved at Grossmont College – There’s a place for everyone!

Inter-Club Council 

The Inter-Club Council, or ICC for short, is an organization of registered student clubs. ICC is composed of a representative, elected or appointed, from each of the actively registered student clubs and organizations on campus.

ICC monitors the activities of all student organizations and provides an atmosphere where leaders can communicate to gain new and helpful information and shape the campus culture. This organization helps student organization leaders keep in touch with current events, spread the news of their upcoming events and fundraisers, find out important information, make written resolutions to the ASGC on club or event funding issues, and locate information they need to be effective advocates for their members on campus and in the community.

Student organizations must fulfill certain responsibilities to remain in good standing. Student organizations shall: 

• Be controlled and directed by actively enrolled Grossmont College students. 
• Comply with all applicable Federal, State, and Local laws, as well as District and College policies. 
• Abide by Federal, State, Local, District and College non-discrimination laws and policies. 
• Comply with the requirements set forth by Federal, State, Local, District and College policies regarding financial transactions made on behalf of the organization. 
• Be a not-for-profit group. 
• Maintain an up-to-date copy of the student organization constitution on file in the Student Affairs Office. 
• Maintain an up-to-date copy of the club registration forms and pertinent club information with the Student Affairs Office. 
• Be advised by at least one official Grossmont College faculty member. 
• Provide a club representative to serve on the Inter-Club Council. 

Student organizations that do not fulfill these responsibilities may have their accounts frozen, lose their vote in ICC, and could be in danger of having the organization’s charter revoked.

Complete information concerning organizational procedures may be obtained in the ASGC Office Building 60, Room 110 or the Office of Student Affairs in Building 60, Room 204, or online at https://www.grossmont.edu/get-involved/clubs-and-organizations.

Counseling

The Counseling Department is staffed with highly trained and experienced counselors available to assist students with a variety of issues related to student success. Counseling offers transfer and academic counseling, vocational and career counseling, and personal and crisis intervention counseling services. A series of counseling classes are offered to assist students with the exploration of individual needs and interests including career decision making, college and career success, and study skills and time management. Students will find these courses listed under the “Counseling” heading in the schedule of classes. Counselors are also able to provide assistance and help students with professional guidance in the following areas:

• Assisting students in developing a semester by semester Comprehensive Educational Plan to help them achieve their educational goals;
• Providing New Student Advising sessions to familiarize students with college services and terminology for a successful semester. Students receive an abbreviated educational plan to assist them in planning their class schedule;
• Supporting international students by offering an international student orientation and advising sessions;
• Providing online counseling services; and
• Assisting with identification of transfer options and course requirements for four-year universities.

Dreamers Resource Center (DRC)

Our Mission:

To create a safe space within Grossmont College that offers a support system for Undocumented, AB540, Dreamers, DACA-mented, Faculty/Staff, community, and students from mixed-status families.  Dream Center promotes awareness of the issues and challenges that affect undocumented students in our college and community in order to ensure respect and appreciation of diversity, while promoting equal access to education.

Dream Center Support Services

• Career / Academic / Personal Counseling
• Education Planning
• Dream Act Application Assistance
• FAFSA application assistance (for students from mixed-status families) 
• Financial Assistance (i.e. Book Vouchers, gas cards, grants, meal cards)
• Community Resources Liaison and Referrals
• Referrals to other Student Services programs
• FREE Legal Immigration Consultations

Dreamers Resource Center Coordinator/Counselor: Clemente Ayala

The Dream Center is located in Bldg. 70 Room 204, phone number: 619-644-7208.

Extended Opportunity Programs and Services (EOPS)

The Extended Opportunity Program and Services (EOPS) is a state funded program which provides educationally and financially disadvantaged students equal access to academic success while attending Grossmont College. This special program offers support services that assist qualified students in overcoming obstacles to achieve a certificate, Associate of Arts or Science (AA/AS) degree, and/or meeting four-year university transfer requirements. These services may include academic/career/personal counseling, assistance with textbooks, and financial grants.

As a supplement program of EOPS, CARE (Cooperative Agencies Resources for Education) provides additional services for EOPS eligible students who are single head of household receiving cash aid for themselves or their child(ren) and have one child under 14 years of age at the time of acceptance into CARE. Additional services may include assistance with financial grants and a meal program while attending college.

For more information or an application to EOPS and CARE, visit the EOPS/CARE office or telephone (619) 644-7617. Please visit the web site at https://www.grossmont.edu/eops. 

Financial Aid

Financial Aid exists to help students who might otherwise be unable to complete their education because of financial problems.

Students may apply for financial aid in the form of grants, scholarships, loans and work.

Financial aid funds are administered in accordance with a nationally established policy of financial assistance for education. The basis of this policy is the belief that students and their parents have the primary responsibility for meeting educational costs. The amount of the contribution expected from students and their parents is determined by careful analysis of family financial strength, taking into consideration net income, number of dependents, allowable expenses, indebtedness and assets. The Congress has established procedures which are used in making an evaluation of how much families can be expected to contribute.

Free Application For Student Aid "FAFSA" is available for students to complete online https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa every Fall semester for the following fall and spring. Students can check with the Financial Aid Office in May/June to complete their file and review their eligibility. Awards are made as long as funds are available.

All policies and procedures regarding Grossmont College Financial Aid can be found at https://www.grossmont.edu/financial-aid/.

Code of Conduct for Financial Aid Professionals

The 2008 Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA) conditions the eligibility of educational institutions to participate in Title IV programs on the development, advertisement, administration and enforcement of a Code of Conduct prohibiting conflicts of interest for the institution's officers, employees and agents [HEOA § 487(a)(25)]. To comply with this requirement, Grossmont College has developed the following Code of Conduct:

1. An officer or employee of the Grossmont College Financial Aid Office shall take no action which may result in their personal benefit and shall refrain from taking any action which they believe is contrary to law, regulation, or the best interests of the students and parents they serve.
2. An officer or employee of the Grossmont College Financial Aid Office shall make every effort to ensure that the information and advice they provide is accurate, unbiased, and does not reflect any preference arising from actual or potential personal gain.
3. Neither Grossmont College as an institution, nor any individual officer, employee or agent shall enter into any revenue-sharing arrangements with any lender. The HEOA defines a “revenue-sharing arrangement” as any arrangement between an institution and a lender under which the lender makes Title IV loans to students attending the institution (or to the families of those students), the institution recommends the lender or the loan products of the lender and, in exchange, the lender pays a fee or provides other material benefits, including revenue or profit-sharing, to the institution or to its officers, employees, or agents.
4. No officer or employee of Grossmont College who is employed in the financial aid office or who otherwise has responsibilities with respect to education loans, or agent who has responsibilities with respect to education loans, shall solicit or accept any gift from a lender, guarantor, or servicer of education loans. For purposes of this prohibition, the term “gift” means any gratuity, favor, discount, entertainment, hospitality, loan, or other item having a monetary value of more than a de minimus amount. A gift does not include
   1. a brochure, workshop, or training using standard materials relating to a loan, default aversion, or financial literacy;
   2. food, training, or informational material provided as part of a training session designed to improve the service of a lender, guarantor, or servicer if the training contributes to the professional development of the institution’s officer, employee or agent;
   3. favorable terms and benefits on an education loan provided to a student employed by the institution if those terms and benefits are comparable to those provided to all students at the institution;
   4. entrance and exit counseling as long as the institution’s staff are in control of the counseling and the counseling does not promote the services of a specific lender;
   5. philanthropic contributions from a lender, guarantor, or servicer that are unrelated to education loans or any contribution that is not made in exchange for advantage related to education loans, and;
   6. State education grants, scholarships, or financial aid funds administered by or on behalf of a State.
5. An officer or employee of Grossmont College who is employed in the financial aid office or who otherwise has responsibilities with respect to education loans, or an agent who has responsibilities with respect to education loans, shall not accept from any lender or affiliate of any lender any fee, payment, or other financial benefit (including the opportunity to purchase stock) as compensation for any type of consulting arrangement or other contract to provide services to a lender or on behalf of a lender relating to education loans.
6. Grossmont College shall not:
   1. for any first-time borrower, assign, through award packaging or other methods, the borrower’s loan to a particular lender; or
   2. refuse to certify, or delay certification of, any loan based solely on the borrower’s selection of a particular lender or guaranty agency.
7. Grossmont College shall not request or accept from any lender any offer of funds to be used for private education loans, including funds for an opportunity pool loan (an “opportunity pool loan” is defined as a private educational loan made by a lender to a student, or the student’s family, that involves a payment by the institution to the lender for extending credit to the student), to students in exchange for the institution providing concessions or promises regarding providing the lender with:
   1. a specified number of loans made, insured, or guaranteed under Title IV;
   2. a specified loan volume of such loans; or a preferred lender arrangement for such loans.
8. Grossmont College shall not request or accept from any lender, any assistance with call center staffing or financial aid office staffing, except that a lender may provide professional development training, educational counseling materials (as long as the materials identify the lender that assisted in preparing the materials), or staffing services on a short-term, nonrecurring basis during emergencies or disasters;
9. Any employee who is employed in the financial aid office, or who otherwise has responsibilities with respect to education loans or other student financial aid, and who serves on an advisory board, commission, or group established by a lender, guarantor, or group of lenders or guarantors, shall be prohibited from receiving anything of value from the lender, guarantor, or group of lenders or guarantors, except that the employee may be reimbursed for reasonable expenses incurred in serving on such advisory board, commission, or group.

Your Rights and Responsibilities

Education after high school requires time, money and effort. It is a big investment. As a student and consumer you should carefully evaluate all education or training options. To help make a good choice, you should have information about a school’s academic program, facilities, graduation rates, full cost of attendance, refund policy, financial aid programs, and other information you think will help in making a decision. Get good answers before making a commitment.

As a financial aid recipient, it is your right to ask:

• What it costs to attend and what the policy on refunds is for students who drop out.
• How the school determines whether students are making satisfactory academic progress and what happens if they are not.
• What financial help is available, including information on all federal, state, and school financial aid programs.
• About the deadlines for submitting applications for each of the financial aid programs available and what criteria is used to select financial aid recipients.
• How individual financial need is determined. This process includes how costs for tuition and fees, room and board, transportation, books and supplies, personal and miscellaneous expenses, etc., are considered in your budget.
• What resources (such as parental contribution, other financial aid, personal assets, etc.) are considered in the need calculation, and how much of your financial need, as determined by the school, is met.
• To explain the various programs in your student aid package. If you believe you have been treated unfairly, you may request reconsideration of the award.
• How much of your financial aid must be repaid, and what portion is grant aid. You have the right to know what the student loan interest rate is, the total amount that must be repaid, payback procedures, when repayment is to begin and how long you have to repay.
• How to apply for additional aid if your financial circumstances change.

As a financial aid recipient, it is your responsibility to:

• Review and consider all information about a school’s program before enrolling.
• Complete the financial aid application accurately and submit it on time to the appropriate processor. Errors delay the processing of your financial aid application. Intentional misrepresentation on an application for federal financial aid is a violation of law and a criminal offense subject to penalties.
• Respond promptly and return all requested additional documentation, verification, corrections, and/or new information to the appropriate agency.
• Read, understand and keep copies of all forms and agreements that you sign.
• If you have a loan, notify the school and lender of changes in your name, permanent mailing address, marital, or enrollment status.
• Perform in a satisfactory manner the work that is agreed upon in accepting a work-study award.
• Know and comply with the deadlines for application or reapplication for aid, and with the school’s refund procedures.
• Maintain satisfactory academic progress according to the school’s policies and standards.
• Report the receipt of any scholarships or outside resources to the financial aid office.

Withdrawals and the Repayment of Financial Aid Funds

Students receiving federal financial aid who withdraw from all of their classes during the first 60% of a term may be required to repay a portion of the federal grants that they have received. This is because a student must “earn” their financial aid. Financial aid is “earned” for each day you are enrolled in the semester.

For example, if a semester starts on August 21 and you withdraw from all of your classes on October 23, you will have “earned” 63 days worth of financial aid eligibility. The amount you have to repay will depend on the number of days you were enrolled compared to the number of days in the semester. For example, if there are 121 days in the semester, you would have only earned 52% of the aid you received (63 days/121 days in the term = 52%). If you had received a $1,500 Pell Grant award for the semester, you would have only earned $780 of the Pell Grant ($1,500 x 52% = $780). Because you have received $720 more financial aid than you “earned” ($1,500 - $780 = $720), you will be required to repay half of the amount you did not earn. The amount you would be required to pay back in this case would be no more than $360.

Please note: If you fail all of your classes in a term, you will have only earned 50% of the Pell and/or SEOG that you received and you will be billed for the amount you did not earn. This rule applies even if you were enrolled in classes for the whole term.

If you are required to repay funds to the federal government, you will be billed and have 45 days to repay the funds in full or to set up a repayment schedule. You will be ineligible for any further financial aid at any college in the United States until you have repaid the funds in full or you have set up a repayment schedule and make repayments according to the repayment schedule.

Standard Student Budgets 2024–2025

The following budgets are comparable to those used by colleges and universities in the San Diego area. Because of limited funding, moderate budgets are used to allow as many students to attend college as possible. In establishing these budgets, the student’s obligation to make mature consumer choices is taken into consideration.

Pell Grants

In 1972, The Congress of the United States passed landmark legislation to provide grants to all students who need financial help to pursue education after high school graduation. 

California College Promise Grant

This is a state program that waives the enrollment fee and the health fee for students who are residents of California (or are eligible under AB 540 or AB 1899) and have financial need. Students will be considered for a California College Promise Grant as part of the financial aid application process or may apply separately online-via https://www.grossmont.edu/financial-aid/grants/california-college-promise-grant.php if they receive TANF (AFDC), SSI, GR or have a low family income. 

Minimum requirements for maximum success.

Once you’ve qualified for the California College Promise Grant Fee Waiver, it’s important to ensure that you’re meeting the following academic and progress standards in order to avoid losing the fee waiver.

Academic – Sustain a GPA of 2.0 or higher

If your cumulative GPA falls below 2.0 for two consecutive primary terms (fall/spring semesters, or fall/winter/spring quarters), you may lose your fee waiver eligibility.

Progress – Complete at least 50% of your coursework

If the cumulative number of courses you successfully complete falls below 50% in two consecutive primary terms (fall/spring semesters or fall/winter/spring quarters), you may lose your fee waiver.

Combination of Academic and Progress Standards 

Any combination of two consecutive terms of cumulative GPA below 2.0, and/or cumulative course completion less than 50% may result in loss of fee waiver eligibility.

How to regain eligibility.

If you lose eligibility for the California College Promise Grant Waiver, there are a few ways that you can have it reinstated:

• Improve your GPA or Course Completion measures to meet the academic and progress standards.
• Successful appeal regarding extenuating circumstances.
• Not attending your school district for two consecutive primary terms.

The appeals process for extenuating circumstances may include:

• Verified accidents, illness or other circumstances beyond your control
• Changes in economic situation
• Evidence of inability to obtain essential support services
• Special consideration factors for A.R.C., CalWORKs, EOPS, and veteran students
• Disability accommodations not received in a timely manner.

Please note that foster youth and former foster youth (age 24 years and younger) are not subject to loss of the California College Promise Grant waiver under these regulations.

Cal Grants

Cal Grants are grants administered by the California Student Aid Commission. There are two types of grants - Cal Grant B and Cal Grant C. Cal Grant B provides funds for living expenses and is targeted to low-income students. Cal Grant C provides funds for books and supplies for those students enrolled in a vocational program. To be eligible to apply for either of these grants, students must be residents of California and have filed a FAFSA and a GPA Verification form by May 2, 2024. Community college students who miss the May 2 priority deadline may continue to apply for a limited number of special community college Cal Grants (A or B) until September 2, 2024.

Scholarships

Scholarships are available to qualified students. Awards range from $100-$1,500 and are donated by individuals, clubs and organizations in the community. Qualifying criteria for these scholarships may include demonstration of financial need, full-time enrollment at the college or specify a particular grade point average. Scholarship applications may be obtained from the Financial Aid Office.

College Work-Study Program

The College Work-Study Program, established under the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964, provides part-time jobs for students with a demonstrated need to meet the costs of education.

Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant Program

The purpose of this federally funded program is to provide grants to students of exceptional financial need who would be unable to attend college without such assistance.

Direct Student Loan

Long-term loans under the Direct Student Loan Program are available to students enrolled at least half-time.

Bureau of Indian Affairs Grants

Grossmont College assists the Bureau of Indian Affairs in determining the financial need of Indian students applying for financial assistance under the higher education BIA program. Although applications are processed year-round, students are encouraged to file in the spring for the next academic year since funding is limited.

Hope Scholarships and Lifetime Learning Tax Credits

Educational Tax Credits for Students and Their Families

Students or their families who pay tuition and related expenses, may be eligible for a tax credit from the federal government. Tax credits are subtracted from the tax a student or family owes, rather than reducing taxable income like a tax deduction. A student or their family must file a federal tax return and owe taxes to the federal government to take advantage of the credit. Students must be enrolled at least half time. Students whose fees were waived are not eligible for a tax credit. 

Each student who has paid tuition for the spring or fall semester will receive a Form 1098-T Tuition Payments Statement from the Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District by January 31 each year. This form needs to be submitted with your federal income tax form to claim a tax credit. For further information about the education tax benefits offered by the IRS contact a local IRS office or visit the IRS on the internet at https://www.irs.gov/publications/p970.

First Year Experience

Griffin Center

Named for the college mascot, the griffin, the newly renovated and refurbished student center features meeting rooms for student groups; ample seating for dining, lounging or study; easy access to campus programming, as well as a lobby with a 10-foot video screen; four food stations, and a mini-market.

The Griffin Center also houses the offices and boardroom of the Associated Students of Grossmont College, the Culinary Arts Program, Health and Wellness Center, Extended Opportunity Programs and Services (EOPS), Student Affairs, Career Resource Center and Job Placement, Adult Re-Entry, Accessibility Resource Center (A.R.C.), and Griffin Gate a multi-purpose room in which the GCCCD Governing Board hosts bi-monthly meetings.

The Griffin Center is open Monday through Thursday from 7:30a.m. until 10:30p.m. and Friday 7:30a.m. until 5:00p.m. Special events and holidays may necessitate closure.

The building was renovated using sustainable materials and energy-conservation measures and is among the first Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified projects in the Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District.

Health and Wellness Center

The Health and Wellness Center promotes the physical and mental health of students. The office is staffed with registered nurses, mental health counselors and support staff. The Health and Wellness Center provides services to all enrolled students who have paid the health fee or have received a financially determined waiver for the health fee. Current Grossmont College I.D. or proof of enrollment is required for services. The mandatory student health fee enables the Health and Wellness Center to provide general health care, counseling and educational programs at low or no cost to students. 

Student injuries resulting from a college sponsored class or other activity and transmissible illness must be reported to the Health and Wellness office.

The mandatory health fee provides accident insurance for the protection of any student who may experience an injury while participating in a college sponsored credit or non-credit class, or other activity. The sponsored class or activity must be during a directly supervised, on-campus or school-related activity. The supervision of the sponsored class or activity must be by a member of the college staff at a college approved co-curricular activity or event. 

Student insurance is secondary to any individual insurance. Information and referrals for care can be obtained in the Health and Wellness Center, Building 60 – Room 130 (Inside Griffin Center) or by calling 619-644-7192 or the Health and Wellness website: https://www.grossmont.edu/health-wellness.

Note: Students who depend exclusively upon prayer for healing according to the teaching of a bona fide religious sect, denomination or organization may petition for an exemption from the health fee by submitting a written request to the Office of Student Affairs. Waiver forms may be obtained in Admissions and Records or the Student Affairs office. Requests for exemption will be reviewed by the Dean of Admissions and Records and Financial Aid and the Dean of Student Affairs.

Housing

Grossmont College does not offer on-campus housing. Locating accommodations is the student’s responsibility.

Military Information

Specific information regarding the Armed Forces and veteran’s benefits may be obtained in the Veterans Affairs Office. For additional veteran information, refer to Veterans in Admission Information. 

Rules and Regulations

Appropriate statements regarding rules and regulations concerning student conduct, rules, privileges, limits of actions, expectancies and restrictions are kept in the Student Affairs Office and are made available to any student who wishes a copy. These rules and regulations are issued in accordance with legal requirements of notification.

Service Animals and Other Animals on District Property

The District is closed to all animals, with the exception service animals and animals involved in the instructional process. The District will allow an individual with a disability to use a service animal in District facilities and on District campuses in compliance with state and federal law.

The District will allow an individual with a disability to be accompanied by his/her service animal in all areas of the District’s facilities where members of the public, invitees, clients, customers, patrons, or participants in services, programs or activities, as relevant, are allowed to go. These procedures shall also be applicable to an individual who is training a service animal.

For more information refer to (Board Policy/Administrative Procedure 3440)

Smoking Regulations

Grossmont College is a smoke-free/tobacco-free facility as stipulated in Board Policy 3570. Violation of this campus tobacco policy will result in appropriate conduct penalties in place for both students and employees.    

In accordance with AP 3570 “Smoking” means engaging in an act that generates smoke or vapor, such as possessing a lighted pipe; a lighted hookah pipe; operating an electronic cigarette or other electronic nicotine delivery system; a lighted cigar; a lighted cigarette of any kind; or lighting or igniting a pipe, a hookah pipe, a cigar, or a cigarette of any kind. 

Special Events

As part of its educational offerings, Grossmont College presents a year-long series of cultural events. Among the presentations are lectures by persons of note in the political and scientific spheres; artists in the fields of music and dance; art exhibitions; dramatic productions by the Theatre Arts Department; film series; orchestral, band and choral productions; and other events that add variety to the intellectual and cultural life of the college community. These include both day and evening programs that are open to students and the general public.

Office of Student Affairs

The Office of Student Affairs manages programs and services, in collaboration with staff, faculty, and students, that enhance the quality of campus life for students. The office assists students as they become active members of the college community while providing an educational foundation of learning through doing. 

The Office of Student Affairs supports the work of the Associated Students of Grossmont College (ASGC), Inter Club Council (ICC), and individual student clubs through the facilitation of leadership development and activities planning. The Student Affairs office oversees campus-wide student life programming including student activities. Many opportunities are provided for students to become leaders on campus through ongoing workshops and numerous special events throughout the year, including Week of Welcome, Club Fair and Commencement. 

Students interested in serving on the ASGC Board, joining/starting a club, being a part of a campus-wide committee and/or obtaining additional information regarding the overall office description are encouraged to visit the Office of Student Affairs, Room 60, Room 204.

The Office of Student Affairs has the primary responsibility of managing student conduct issues related to classroom instruction, staff, faculty, department functions, and the overall campus environment. It is responsible for investigating, facilitating, and enforcing the student conduct process per the Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District’s Student Conduct Procedures. The Office of Student Affairs also oversees student complaints and grievances in compliance with procedures for conflict resolution and conducts the initial investigations of discrimination and harassment related charges.

Additionally, the Office of Student Affairs oversees Health and Wellness. A wide variety of nursing and medical care services are available on campus to assist the health care needs of students.

Student Identification Card

Students will receive one free photo I.D. card as part of the registration process. Continuing students can update their ID card with a current semester sticker by bringing their ID card to the College Cashier’s office or the Admissions & Records office. This card is required for access to Library Services, Health Services and some instructional laboratory areas, including some off-campus clinical experience sites for health occupational programs.

Student Employment Services

Register for our free online job board, Handshake. Job Placement services are available through the Grossmont College Student Employment Office for all former and current Grossmont and Cuyamaca College students who seek job referrals. Student information and job position referrals are computerized in order to facilitate placement.

Employment listings offer career opportunities plus full-time, part-time, temporary and summer positions that best fit a student’s skills, education and needs. Internships, both paid and non-paid, are also available for students. Job seekers have access to federal, state, county and municipal listings for California as well.  

Student Success Office

The Student Success Office consists of a team of Student Success Liaisons and Success Mentors who assist currently enrolled students in reaching their educational goals and connecting them to various campus resources. In addition to receiving individualized support for any challenges they may experience at Grossmont College; students are encouraged to join the Student Success community. For more information, please contact Grossmont.Success@gcccd.edu.

Substance Abuse Policy

The Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District’s Governing Board has adopted policies regarding possessing or being under the influence of alcohol, narcotics, or dangerous drugs on campus. The Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District Substance Abuse Program information is available at the Learning Resource Center, Financial Aid Office, Student Affairs Office, and Student Health Services Office.

Testing Services

The Village

The Grossmont Village, an extension of Counseling Services, is located on the second floor of the tech mall and is a space that affords holistic, culturally responsive, and student-centered support in service to many of our historically marginalized student communities. The Village is a counseling-related space where comprehensive care is thoughtfully developed and provided to our students with intentionality paid to their intersecting racialized, social, gendered, and cultural identities, as well as their academic, career, and financial needs. The Village is home to our Justice Scholars Program for formerly incarcerated and system’s impacted students, The Umoja Program for African American and Black students from throughout the diaspora, the A2Mend program a program designed to support the academic and life success of African American and other Student Men of Color, The Puente Project A “Bridge” program designed to support the successful transition of historically underserved LAtinX students from two year to four year institutions; The Dream Center dedicated to supporting our undocumented, AB540, DACA-mented students, faculty, staff, and community members as well as students from mixed-status families or families with some members who are undocumented. In partnership with our Dream Center, we also have Jewish Family Services who provide free legal services and support to our Dreamer students. Our Village is also home to The TRIO EOC- Educational Opportunity Center; and Success Coaches; individuals who serve as campus resources who can assist students navigate campus resources and services, gain tips for becoming more successful college students, and develop student success-related skills.

Transfer Center

The Transfer Center provides students with information and resources on transfer planning to the California State University, University of California, independent colleges and universities, and out-of-state four-year institutions.  Counselors are available by appointment to assist students with transfer educational planning.  Transfer Planning Information Sessions are presented throughout the year and students are assisted with completing university admission applications at Application Q&A Sessions.  Representatives from four-year colleges and universities visit campus regularly to advise students free of charge, including visits at our Fall and Spring Transfer Fairs.  The Transfer Center makes available resources such as current college catalogs, articulation agreements and reference books. There are also computers available for students to access College Source (a computerized college search program), ASSIST (California’s official website for transfer information and articulation), and other transfer information websites. 

Tutoring Centers

Our tutoring centers give free support to students seeking help with homework and studying. Academic tutoring is available in a variety of subjects, ranging across the curriculum, based on the availability of tutors at our various tutoring centers:

• Math and Science Center: building 36, room 227 through the lobby
• English Writing and Humanities Center: building 70, room 119
• Anatomy Learning Center: building 30, room 162

We offer drop-in individual and group tutoring as well as online and in-person appointments.  Additional online tutoring is available 7 days a week by visiting the website https://www.nettutor.com/. For more information, visit our webpage at https://www.grossmont.edu/student-support/tutoring/.

Public Safety

Police Services at the District are provided by the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department. If necessary, the District also has access to Sheriff’s Department specialized units that investigate crimes such as illegal drug sales, auto theft or gang-related crime. 

In addition, a team of Campus and Parking Services (CAPS) specialists provides services such as automobile assistance, lost & found, and safety escorts. CAPS also enforces parking regulations on campus. 

The Public Safety Office is located in the Grossmont College parking structure, Room 57-100. 

Public Safety Contact Information

Call 911 in an emergency

• Life-threatening situation
• Medical emergency 
• Missing persons
• Crime in progress
• Fire
• Major disturbance

Call (619) 644-7800 to contact law enforcement for a non-emergency

• Crime report
• Suspected suspicious activity

Call (619) 644-7654 for Campus and Parking Services

• Automobile assistance
• Parking
• Lost & found
• Safety escort

Additional public safety information is available at our home page: https://www.gcccd.edu/public-safety

Parking & Traffic Regulations

All vehicles must display a valid college parking permit while parked on campus property. The responsibility of finding a legal parking space, as well as knowing where and when a parking permit is valid, rests with the vehicle operator and/or owner. The purchase of a parking permit does not guarantee a space to park. For the safety of the college community, all California Vehicles Codes are enforced. All community members (students, staff, faculty, and visitors) are primarily responsible for their own safety and property.

For further information, contact the Campus and Parking Services at (619) 644-7654. 

Displaying Parking Permit on Campus

The parking permit must be displayed so that the color and expiration date is clearly visible. The parking permits are only valid when properly displayed­­–affixed to the front windshield inside the lower corner on drivers side.

Student Parking Permits

Student parking permits are purchased through Student parking permits are purchased through https://www.paymycite.com/GCCCD/parkingpermit.aspx

Refunds for Parking Permits - Refunds for student parking permits are only valid the first two weeks of classes. The physical permit must be returned to the college cashiers office and a refund will be processed. 

Faculty & Staff Parking Permits

Permits are available at Campus and Parking Services at each campus.  

Grossmont: Building 57
Cuyamaca: Building A100

Vendor Parking Permits

Vendor parking permits are given out at the CAPS office or by emailing district.parking@gcccd.edu.

Pay Stations

Daily permits for students and visitors may be purchased from the pay stations located in Parking Lots: 1, 3, 7, and on each level of the parking structure.

Please use exact change, one dollar bills only, or any major credit/debit card. No refund or change is given. Pay stations permits are only valid in student parking lots.

Disabled Parking Permits

All vehicles utilizing disabled parking spaces must display a state issued identification placard, i.e. DMV issued placard, DP or DV plates. Applications for placards/plates are available at the Department of Motor Vehicles. Disabled Permits are also valid in parking meters and student lots. 

Placard misuse will be heavily enforced and a CAPS specialist may ask to see your placard and registration at any time. Please be prepared to show proof of ownership when requested by a Parking Services Specialist. 

Special Events Parking

Please contact the hosting department for parking details. Parking request for special events or large groups are available through previous arrangements, for detailed information contact Campus and Parking Services at (619) 644-7654 a minimum of 48 hours in advance.

Replacement for Lost or Stolen Permits

There are no refunds or replacement of lost or stolen parking permits.

Motorcycle Parking

Motorcycles are not required to display a parking permit but must park in designated motorcycle spaces. Do not park in hash marked or regular spaces unless clearly demarcated with a “motorcycle” sign and stenciled logo. Motorcycles, scooters, and mopeds must park in designated motorcycle areas.

Alternative Transportation Options

Bicycle racks are available throughout campus. 

The college Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) pass is a great way to avoid parking hassles, car expenses, and to have access to unlimited rides throughout the semester. Monthly or semester MTS passes are available at the student services window. For more information please visit the MTS website at https://www.sdmts.com/.

Motorist Assistance 

The Campus Safety goal is to provide safe, orderly, and fair parking to the college community. We strive to make parking on either campus as convenient as possible, while promoting safe movement of vehicles and providing for pedestrian safety. All persons having a valid parking permit are eligible to receive the following complimentary services: unlocking vehicle and battery jump start. 

Campus and Parking Services also provides safety escorts available to all community members.

Parking Citation

Fines

Parking citation fines are to be paid within 21 days of issue date or 14 days of delinquent notice. Failure to pay fines on time results in a delinquency fee.

Payments

Fees resulting from citations are payable at the College Cashier Office or online at: https://www.paymycite.com/gcccd 

Citation status changes will not be processed until the full payment of all applicable fees.

Unpaid citations are subject to a $75.00 delinquent fee. Payment failure will eventually result in a DMV hold on the vehicle’s registration.

Appeal Forms

You may obtain a “Citation Appeal Form” at https://www.paymycite.com/gcccd. Complete the form online within 21 calendar days of the citation’s issued date. You will receive a response to your request by mail within 1-2 weeks.  

Public Safety Office is located at Grossmont College on the east side of the parking structure in Parking Lot 5.

Additional Services

ATM Location

Grossmont College: Outside the Tech Mall.

Lost & Found

Lost and Found items should be returned to CAPS (Campus and Parking Services). To check if an item has been turned in, call (619) 644-7654 or stop by the District Police Department Bldg. 57.