Step-Up Student Scholars Program

The STEP-UP program is a scholarship program for Chatham, Harnett, and Lee County students who have demonstrated financial need and are interested in completing associate degrees in a field of science, math, or engineering.

Program Description

The STEP-UP program at CCCC is a National Science Foundation funded scholarship program for students who have demonstrated financial need and are interested in completing associate degrees (A.S., A.E, or A.A.S) in a field of science, math, or engineering.

Application Requirements

• In order to maximize the benefits of the scholarship, students are encouraged to apply before starting their studies at Central Carolina Community College. However, we will consider all applications from students, as they are submitted.
• Students should have a minimum GPA of 2.8.
• Students must demonstrate financial need. Financial need will be determined by completing the online FAFSA forms.
• Students should complete the online scholarship application, which includes a short essay detailing how this scholarship will increase their likelihood of success not only at the community college but beyond.
• Students should arrange for two letters of recommendation (at least one of which must be from a STEM instructor) to be sent to Whitney Testa (Central Carolina Community College, 1105 Kelly Drive, Sanford, NC 27330).
• Preference will be given to students who reside in Chatham, Harnett or Lee counties.
• Students have to be in one of the following programs:
  • Associate in Science
  • Associate in Engineering
  • Computer Information Technology
  • Computer Engineering Technology
  • Electronics Engineering Technology
  • Laser and Photonics Technology
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Bioprocess Technology

Participant Requirements

• Students must maintain an overall GPA of 2.8 or they will be suspended from the program and will be required to re-apply for a subsequent academic year. Students who participate and maintain the GPA will retain the scholarship from year one to year two without needing to reapply.
• Students must continue to demonstrate financial need by filling out the FAFSA form each year they are in the program.