General Questions
New applications for childcare or textbook scholarships
To apply for a childcare or textbook scholarship, please visit the Student Advocacy Center website and submit an application. An Advocate will reach out to you to discuss your application status.
For questions regarding childcare scholarships, please reach out to our Childcare Specialists Sandi Saathoff, sandi.saathoff@austincc.edu, and Haley Tarnowski, haley.tarnowski@austincc.edu. In addition, if you have not yet applied for a childcare scholarship, please do so by completing the application on the Student Advocacy Center website.
General assistance and concerns
If you would like to speak with someone about any concerns, questions, assistance or anxieties, please reach out to one of our Advocates to arrange a time to talk. We are here to help you through this time.
Our staff will be regularly updating a community resource list with links for help with unemployment, financial support, housing, food, emotional support, and health and wellness. Please refer to the link below and contact our office with questions.
Other Information
Who is eligible to apply for childcare? Other services?
You can request Student Advocacy Center services if you are eligible to receive a Pell grant and one of the following apply:
- You are a single parent.
- Your program of study (degree or certificate) is not traditional for your gender.
- You are a displaced homemaker.
Do I have to be a full-time student to receive assistance?
No. You can take as little as 1 credit.
Can I take any classes that I want?
Yes. However, you will receive assistance only for classes in your degree plan.
When do I apply for assistance?
We accept applications year-round. Awards are first-come, first-served as funds become available.
How long does it take before I know if I will be getting assistance?
The process takes about three weeks before you receive notice of your award status.
What if I am not awarded childcare or textbook payment assistance?
You may still use the textbook loan program and other services.
Why am I not getting assistance? I meet all the criteria.
The number of applicants exceeds the availability of funds; it is important to apply early to increase your chance of receiving assistance.
I got textbook payment assistance but applied for childcare assistance?
The Student Advocacy Center budget is divided into separate funds for childcare and textbooks, and available funds are awarded until they run out.
Do I have to use a specified childcare provider?
You may use any registered or licensed childcare provider.
What if I do not have a childcare provider?
You will be responsible for finding one who meets your needs and is registered or licensed.