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The Board of Governor’s Fee Waiver Application (BOGW) serves as an essential resource for students aiming to alleviate the burden of enrollment fees at Modesto Junior College (MJC) for the 2014/2015 academic year. This application invites students to disclose their financial situation, and outlines crucial factors determining eligibility, such as California residency status, dependence or independence in financial terms, and any involvement with government assistance programs. In particular, the form addresses unique situations, including those of victims of serious crimes, individuals in registered domestic partnerships, and veterans. Students applying for a fee waiver should also be conscientious about submitting supporting documentation, such as tax returns for household income verification, particularly for those identified as dependents. Furthermore, the overarching initiative behind this form is to ensure that financial aid programs remain accessible to those who qualify, not only for waiver considerations but also for broader financial support opportunities available through federal and state programs. This comprehensive application process ultimately strives to empower students, allowing them to focus on their education while receiving necessary financial assistance.

Bogf Application Example

Board of Governor’s Fee Waiver Application (BOGW)

2014/2015

Summer 2014, Fall 2014 & Spring 2015

MJC Student Financial Services Office

West Campus: Yosemite Hall 147

2201 Blue Gum Ave

Telephone (209) 575-7700

Fax (209) 575-7719

This is an application to have your ENROLLMENT FEES WAIVED.

If you need money to help with books, supplies, food, rent, transportation and other costs, please complete a FREE APPLICATION FOR FEDERAL STUDENT AID (FAFSA) or the California Dream Application (for eligible AB 540 students) immediately. The FAFSA is available at www.fafsa.gov and the Dream Application is available at http://www.csac.ca.gov/dream_act.asp. Contact the Student Financial Services Office for more information.

IMPLEMENTATION OF Assembly Bill 1899: Victims of Trafficking, Domestic Violence and other Serious Crimes

AB 1899, chaptered in September of 2012, provides for a non-resident enrollment fee exemption for “Victims of trafficking, domestic violence and other serious crimes”. In addition, the legislation allows these students to apply for and, if eligible, receive financial aid from programs administered by public

postsecondary institutions or the state of California. Finally, the legislation provides that enrollment fees shall be waived for these students who apply for and are eligible to receive a Board of Governor’s enrollment fee waiver.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Name:

 

 

 

 

 

MJC Student ID (or Soc Sec #)

 

Last

 

First

Middle Initial

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mailing Address:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Street

 

 

 

 

 

City

 

Zip Code

Date of Birth:

 

/

/

Home Phone: (

)

 

Cell Phone: (

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CALIFORNIA RESIDENCY

This FEE WAIVER application is for California residents, eligible AB 540 students, and eligible AB 1899 students, as determined by the MJC Enrollment Service’s Office. Fee waiver eligibility cannot be determined until your status has been verified.

Has the Enrollment Service’s Office determined that you are a California resident?Yes No If no, has the Enrollment Service’s Office determined that you are eligible for a non-resident tuition exemption as an AB 540 student?

Yes No

If no, has the Enrollment Service's Office determined that you are eligible for a non-resident tuition exemption granted as a result of your immigration status under Section 1101(a)(15)(T)(i) or (ii), or Section1101 (a)(15)(U)(i) or (ii), of Title 8 of the United States Code?

Yes

No

 

 

CURRENT HIGH SCHOOL

 

Are you currently enrolled in high school? Yes No

 

IMPLEMENTATION OF THE CALIFORNIA DOMESTIC PARTNER RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES ACT

The California Domestic Partner Rights and Responsibilities Act extends rights, benefits, responsibilities and obligations to individuals in domestic partnerships registered with the California Secretary of State under Section 297 of the Family Code. If you are in a Registered Domestic Partnership (RDP), you will be treated as an Independent married student to determine eligibility for this Enrollment Fee Waiver and will need to provide income and household information for your domestic partner.

If you are a dependent student and your parent is in a Registered Domestic Partnership, you will be treated the same as a student with married parents and income and household information will be required for the parent’s domestic partner.

Note: These provisions apply to state student financial aid ONLY, and not to federal student financial aid.

Are you or your parent in a Registered Domestic Partnership with the California Secretary of State under Section 297 of the Family Code? (Answer “Yes” if you or your parent are separated from a Registered Domestic Partner but have NOT FILED a Notice of Termination of

Domestic Partnership with the California Secretary of State’s Office.)

Yes

No

If you answered “Yes” to the question above, treat the Registered Domestic Partner as a spouse. You are required to include your domestic partner’s income and household information or your parent’s domestic partner’s income and household

information in Questions 4, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17.

STUDENT MARITAL STATUS

Single Married Divorced Separated Widowed Registered Domestic Partnership

skip to question 13)
question 13)

DEPENDENCY STATUS

The questions below will determine whether you are considered a Dependent student or Independent student for fee waiver eligibility and whether parental information is needed. If you answer “Yes” to ANY of the questions 1-10 below, you will be considered an

INDEPENDENT student. If you answer “No” to all questions, you will be considered a Dependent student thereby reporting parental information and should continue with Question 11.

1.

Were you born before January 1, 1991? (If “yes”, skip to question 13)

Yes

No

2.

As of today, are you married or in a Registered Domestic Partnership (RDP)? (Answer "Yes" if you are separated but not divorced

 

or have not filed a termination notice to dissolve partnership. (If “yes”, skip to question 13)

Yes

No

3. Are you a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces or currently serving on active duty for purposes other than training? (If “yes”, skip to Yes No

4.Do you have children who will receive more than half of their support from you between July 1, 2014 - June 30, 2015, or other dependents who live with you (other than your children or spouse/RDP) who receive more than half of their support from you,

now and through June 30, 2015? (If “yes”, skip to question 13)Yes No

5. At any time since you turned age 13, were both your parents deceased, were you in foster care, or were you a dependent or

ward of the court? (If “yes”, skip to question 13)

Yes

No

6.Are you or were you an emancipated minor as determined by a court in your state of legal residence? (If “yes”, skip to question 13) Yes No

7.Are you or were you in legal guardianship as determined by a court in your state of legal residence? (If “yes”, skip to question 13) Yes No

8.At any time on or after July 1, 2013, did your high school or school district homeless liaison determine that you were an

unaccompanied youth who was homeless? (If “yes”, skip to question 13)

Yes

No

9.At any time on or after July 1, 2013, did the director of an emergency shelter or transitional housing program funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development determine that you were an unaccompanied youth who was homeless? (If “yes”,

Yes No

10.At any time on or after July 1, 2013, did the director of a runaway or homeless youth basic center or transitional living program determine that you were an unaccompanied youth who was homeless or were self-supporting and at risk of being homeless? (If

“yes”, skip to question 13)

Yes

No

If you answered "Yes" to any of the questions 1 - 10, you are considered an INDEPENDENT student for enrollment fee waiver purposes and must provide income and household information about yourself (and your spouse or RDP if applicable). Skip to Question #13.

If you answered "No" to all questions 1 - 10, complete the following questions:

11.

If your parent(s) or his/her RDP filed or will file a 2013 U.S. Income Tax Return, were you, or will you be claimed on their tax return

 

as an exemption by either or both of your parents?

Will Not FileYes

No

12.

Do you live with one or both of your parent(s) and/or his/her RDP?

Yes

No

If you answered "No" to questions 1 - 10 and "Yes" to either question 11 or 12, you must provide income and household information about your PARENT(S)/RDP. Please answer questions for a DEPENDENT student in the sections that follow.

If you answered "No" or "Parent(s) will not file" to question 11, and "No" to question 12, you are a dependent student for all student aid except this enrollment fee waiver. You may answer questions as an INDEPENDENT student on the rest of this

application, but please try to get your PARENT information and file a FAFSA so you may be considered for other student aid. You cannot get other student aid without your parent(s’) information.

 

METHOD A ENROLLMENT FEE WAIVER

 

 

 

 

13.

Are you (the student ONLY) currently receiving monthly cash assistance for yourself or any dependents from:

 

 

 

 

TANF/CalWORKs?

Yes

No

 

 

 

SSI/SSP (Supplemental Security Income/State Supplemental Program)?

Yes

No

 

 

 

General Assistance?

Yes

No

 

 

 

 

 

 

14.

If you are a dependent student, are your parent(s)/RDP receiving monthly cash assistance from TANF/CalWORKs or SSI/SSP

 

 

 

as a primary source of income?

Yes

No

 

If you answered "Yes" to question 13 or 14 you are eligible for an ENROLLMENT FEE WAIVER. YOU MUST bring this BOGW application into the Student Financial Services Office and fill out an “Agency Consent for Release of Information” form so we

can verify your current benefits. Continue to Method B below.

METHOD B ENROLLMENT FEE WAIVER

15.DEPENDENT STUDENT: How many persons are in your parent(s)/RDP household? (Include yourself, your parent(s)/RDP, and anyone who lives with your parent(s)/RDP and receives more than 50% of their support from your parents/RDP, now and through June 30, 2015.) _________

16.INDEPENDENT STUDENT: How many persons are in your household? (Include yourself, your spouse/RDP, and anyone who lives with you and receives more than 50% of their support from you, now and through June 30, 2015.) ___________

17.2013 Income Information

 

 

 

DEPENDENT STUDENT:

INDEPENDENT STUDENT:

 

 

 

 

PARENT(S)/ RDP

STUDENT (& SPOUSE'S/

 

DO NOT ESTIMATE

 

INCOME ONLY

 

RDP) INCOME

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

a. Adjusted Gross Income (If 2013 U.S. Income Tax

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Return was filed, enter the amount from Form 1040,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

line 37; 1040A, line 21; 1040EZ, line 4).

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

 

b. All other income (Include ALL money received in

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2013 that is not included in line (a) above (such as

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

wages, disability, child support, military living

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

allowance, Workman’s Compensation, untaxed

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

pensions).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Don’t include: TANF/Welfare, Social Security/SSI,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Combat pay, earned income credit or additional child

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

 

tax credit.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL Income for 2013 (Sum of a + b)

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

 

SPECIAL CLASSIFICATIONS ENROLLMENT FEE WAIVERS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

18.

Do you have certification from the CA Department of Veterans Affairs that you are eligible for a dependent's fee waiver?

 

 

 

Submit certification.

Yes

No

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

19.

Do you have certification from the National Guard Adjutant General that you are eligible for a dependent's fee waiver?

 

 

 

 

Submit certification.

Yes

No

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

20.

Are you eligible as a recipient of the Congressional Medal of Honor or as a child of a recipient?

 

 

 

 

 

Submit documentation from the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Yes

No

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

21.

Are you eligible as a dependent of a victim of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attack?

 

 

 

 

 

Submit documentation from the CA Victim Compensation and Government Claims Board.

Yes

No

 

 

 

 

 

 

22.

Are you eligible as a dependent of a deceased law enforcement/fire suppression personnel killed in the line of duty?

 

 

 

 

Submit documentation from the public agency employer of record.

Yes

No

 

If you answered "Yes" to any of the questions from 18-22, you are eligible for an ENROLLMENT FEE WAIVER and perhaps other fee waivers or adjustments. Sign the Certification below. Submit this application and documentation to the Student Financial Services Office. Contact the Student Financial Services Office if you have questions.

CERTIFICATION FOR ALL APPLICANTS: READ THIS STATEMENT AND SIGN BELOW

I hereby swear or affirm, under penalty of perjury, that all information on this form is true and complete to the best of my knowledge. If

asked by an authorized official, I agree to provide proof of this information, which may include a copy of my and my spouse/registered domestic partner and/or my parent's/registered domestic partner’s 2013 U.S. Income Tax Return(s). I also

realize that any false statement or failure to give proof when asked may be cause for the denial, reduction, withdrawal, and/or repayment of my waiver. I authorize release of information regarding this application between the college, the college district, and the Chancellor's Office of the California Community Colleges.

By signing below, I acknowledge that I understand the following information:

Federal and state financial aid programs are available to help with college costs (including enrollment fees, books & supplies, transportation and room and board expenses). By completing the FAFSA or the California Dream Application, additional financial assistance may be available in the form of Cal Grants, Pell and other grants, work study and other aid.

I may apply for and receive financial assistance if I am enrolled, either full time or part time, in an eligible program of study (certificate, associate degree or transfer).

Financial aid program information and application assistance is available in the college financial aid office.

Incomplete applications will be returned to the student which will delay processing.

TO EXPEDITE PROCESSING: Submit IN-PERSON to the Student Financial Services Office, West Campus Yosemite Hall 147

Other Options: FAX: 209-575-7719 MAIL: Modesto Junior College, Student Financial Services Office, 435 College Ave, Modesto CA 95350

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Applicant’s Signature

Date

 

Parent Signature (Dependent Students Only)

Date

CALIFORNIA INFORMATION PRIVACY ACT

State and federal laws protect an individual’s right to privacy regarding information pertaining to oneself. The California Information Practices Act of

1977 requires the following information be provided to financial aid applicants who are asked to supply information about themselves. The principal purpose for requesting information on this form is to determine your eligibility for financial aid. The Chancellor’s Office policy and the policy of the

community college to which you are applying for aid authorize maintenance of this information. Failure to provide such information will delay and may even prevent your receipt of financial assistance. This form’s information may be transmitted to other state agencies and the federal government if

required by law. Individuals have the right of access to records established from information furnished on this form as it pertains to them.

The officials responsible for maintaining the information contained on this form are the financial aid administrators at the institutions to which you are applying for financial aid. The SSN may be used to verify your identity under record keeping systems established prior to January 1, 1975. If your

college requires you to provide an SSN and you have questions, you should ask the financial aid officer at your college for further information. The Chancellor’s Office and the California community colleges, in compliance with federal and state laws, do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion,

color, national origin, gender, age, disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, domestic partnership or any other legally protected basis. Inquiries regarding these policies may be directed to the financial aid office of the college to which you are applying.

Office Use Only

Missing Information:

 

S/P Taxes S/P Signature S/P Household Size

Other________________________________________________

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BOGW A

BOGW B

 

Not Eligible

Special Classifications

 

 

 

 

Student

Independent

 

N/E

RDP: Student Parent

 

 

 

 

Parent

Dependent

 

Notified by: Mail In Person

Veteran

 

 

 

 

Document Rec’d ________

 

 

 

BOGW C Already on Line

Other__________________

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Certified & Entered By:

 

 

 

 

Date:

 

 

 

 

 

File Breakdown

Fact Name Description
Purpose This application allows eligible students to have their enrollment fees waived.
Eligibility California residents, eligible AB 540 students, and students affected by AB 1899 may apply.
Implementation Law The application adheres to California laws, including Assembly Bill 1899 and the California Domestic Partner Rights Act.
Additional Aid Applicants are encouraged to complete the FAFSA for possible additional financial assistance.

Guide to Using Bogf Application

Completing the Board of Governor's Fee Waiver Application (BOGW) involves several steps. Gather the necessary information before starting the application to ensure a smooth process.

  1. Provide your Name (Last, First, Middle Initial).
  2. Enter your MJC Student ID (or Social Security Number).
  3. Fill in your Mailing Address (Street, City, Zip Code).
  4. Indicate your Date of Birth.
  5. Provide your Home Phone and Cell Phone numbers.
  6. State whether the Enrollment Services Office has determined your California residency status by checking "Yes" or "No."
  7. If you answered "No," indicate if you are eligible for an AB 540 student tuition exemption.
  8. If you answered "No" again, indicate your immigration status under the specified U.S. Code sections.
  9. Answer if you are currently enrolled in high school.
  10. If applicable, answer whether you or your parent is in a Registered Domestic Partnership.
  11. Indicate your Student Marital Status.
  12. Answer the dependency status questions to determine if you are considered a dependent or independent student.
  13. If you are a dependent student, answer questions regarding your parent's tax filing status and living arrangements.
  14. Complete the enrollment fee waiver methods (Method A and Method B) based on your financial assistance status.
  15. Answer the special classification questions if applicable.
  16. Sign the Certification statement confirming the accuracy of your information.
  17. Submit the application either in person, by fax, or by mail to the Student Financial Services Office.

Once submitted, follow up with the Financial Services Office if you have any questions or need further assistance. Ensure all required documentation is included to avoid processing delays.

Get Answers on Bogf Application

What is the Board of Governor’s Fee Waiver (BOGW) Application and who can apply?

The Board of Governor’s Fee Waiver Application allows eligible students to have their enrollment fees waived at California community colleges. This application is primarily intended for California residents, students eligible under AB 540, and those who qualify as victims of trafficking, domestic violence, or other serious crimes under Assembly Bill 1899. If you find that you need assistance, and you’re struggling to cover costs like books, supplies, or transportation, it’s a good idea to fill out this application.

How do I complete and submit the BOGW Application?

To fill out the BOGW application, you'll need to follow these steps:

  1. Gather necessary information such as your MJC Student ID or Social Security Number, mailing address, and date of birth.
  2. Determine your residency status in California. Make sure to check the relevant boxes regarding your eligibility.
  3. Complete sections regarding your household income and dependency status carefully. This will help determine if you qualify as a dependent or independent student.
  4. Review the application for completeness and accuracy and sign the required certification at the end.

Once completed, submit your application in person to the Student Financial Services Office located in Yosemite Hall or fax it to (209) 575-7719. If mailing, address it to Modesto Junior College, Student Financial Services Office, 435 College Ave, Modesto CA 95350.

What if I don’t meet the eligibility requirements for the BOGW Application?

If you find that you do not meet the eligibility criteria outlined in the BOGW application, don’t despair. You may still be eligible for other types of financial aid. Consider filling out the FAFSA, which is available online at www.fafsa.gov , or the California Dream Application if you meet the qualifications. Both applications can open doors to various forms of financial support, including grants and scholarships.

What should I do if my application is incomplete or missing information?

If your application is incomplete or if the Student Financial Services Office identifies any missing information, they will return it to you. This will delay the processing time. It’s crucial to respond promptly to any requests for additional information to ensure you maintain your eligibility for the fee waiver. Always double-check your application before submission and, if possible, seek assistance from the Student Financial Services Office if you’re unsure about any aspect of the application process. They’re there to help you!

Common mistakes

Completing the Board of Governor’s Fee Waiver (BOGW) application form can be a straightforward process, but many applicants often make mistakes that could delay or jeopardize their eligibility for fee waivers. Here are ten common errors to avoid while filling out the BOGW Application form.

One frequent mistake is forgetting to provide your MJC Student ID or your Social Security number. This information is crucial, as it helps the financial aid office locate your records. Without it, the application may be delayed or even rejected.

Another common error is not answering residency questions accurately. Applicants often assume that their residency status is understood, but incomplete answers can complicate the situation. Ensure that you correctly indicate whether you are a California resident or eligible for non-resident exemptions like AB 540 status.

In addition, many individuals neglect to show their current marital status correctly. Marital status can directly affect your eligibility for a fee waiver, so be honest and precise, whether you are single, married, or in a registered domestic partnership.

It's also essential to pay attention to dependency status. Many applicants wrongly consider themselves independent based on their living situation without answering all relevant questions. If you mischaracterize your status, you may need to provide additional information that could complicate the application.

Providing incorrect income information is another hurdle. Whether you are a dependent or independent student, it is vital to report accurate income. Additionally, including all sources of income—like wages and benefits—is necessary for correct evaluation.

Many applicants forget or fail to provide the required household size. This affects the assessment of financial need. Ensure that you count all individuals living in the household who financially rely on you or your parents, as this can significantly influence your eligibility.

Another often-overlooked detail is leaving out the required signatures. All applicants must sign the certification statement, and dependent students must get a parent or guardian's signature as well. Missing signatures can halt the processing of your application.

Applicants frequently fail to submit necessary documentation along with their application. This includes tax returns or any certification related to special classifications. Without these documents, the financial aid office cannot complete the evaluation process.

Submitting your application late or through the wrong channel can cause unnecessary delays. To ensure your application is processed timely, deliver it directly to the Student Financial Services Office in person, or use the provided fax or mailing options as needed.

Finally, some people overlook the importance of staying informed. Regulations and requirements can change, so it's essential to check for any updates or changes to the application process that may affect your eligibility. Regularly reach out to the financial aid office if you have questions or need clarification.

By avoiding these ten mistakes, you can help ensure that your BOGW Application is processed smoothly, allowing you to focus on your education instead of financial worries.

Documents used along the form

The Board of Governor’s Fee Waiver Application (BOGW) is often accompanied by additional documents that provide necessary information for eligibility determination. Here is a list of commonly required forms and documents.

  • Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): This form assesses financial need for federal financial aid, including grants and loans. It is essential for students seeking assistance beyond enrollment fee waivers.
  • California Dream Application: Designed for students who are eligible under the AB 540 policy, this application provides access to state financial aid for undocumented students.
  • Agency Consent for Release of Information: Required if the applicant needs to verify benefits from public assistance programs. This form allows financial aid offices to access relevant information.
  • Dependency Verification Form: This document helps to confirm whether the student qualifies as dependent or independent based on their living situation and parental support.
  • Income Tax Return or Transcript: Applicants may need to submit their own or their parents’ tax returns for the previous year to verify income, which influences financial need assessments.
  • Proof of California Residency: Documentation demonstrating that the applicant is a California resident may be required, such as a driver's license or utility bill.
  • Veterans Certification: For applicants claiming eligibility based on their or their parents’ military service, this certification verifies their status with the California Department of Veterans Affairs.
  • Documentation for Special Classifications: Specific forms or letters that confirm eligibility based on classifications such as victims of domestic violence or trafficking may be necessary for waiver approvals.
  • Current Enrollment Verification: Proof of ongoing enrollment in high school or college may be requested to ensure applicants remain eligible for the fee waiver.

Gathering all necessary documents in advance can streamline the application process and ensure timely consideration for fee waivers and financial aid. Make sure to check with the Student Financial Services Office for any specific requirements based on your circumstances.

Similar forms

  • FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid): Like the BOGW Application, the FAFSA helps students apply for financial assistance for educational costs. Both forms require personal information and financial details to determine eligibility for aid.
  • California Dream Application: This application is for students who meet AB 540 criteria. Similar to the BOGW, it focuses on financial aid eligibility and uses personal and financial information to assess need.
  • Cal Grant Application: This application is specifically designed for California residents seeking state-funded financial aid. It shares the same purpose as the BOGW Application in helping students secure funding for their education.
  • Direct Loan Application: Like the BOGW, the Direct Loan Application assesses financial need to determine eligibility for federal student loans. Both applications require income information and personal details.
  • Work-Study Application: This application is part of federal financial aid programs for students who demonstrate financial need. Similar to the BOGW, it evaluates income and household size to determine eligibility.
  • Dependent/Independent Status Form: This form helps determine whether a student is dependent or independent for financial aid purposes. Similar to the BOGW Application, it requires detailed questions about marital status and household information.
  • Verification Worksheet: Similar to the BOGW Application, this document is used to confirm the accuracy of information provided on financial aid applications. It often requires similar financial data and household information.
  • Veterans Dependency Form: This form assesses eligibility for veterans' benefits and waivers. Like the BOGW, it evaluates the financial circumstances and dependency status of the applicant.
  • Emergency Grant Application: This application helps students request funds for unexpected expenses. Similar to the BOGW, it requires information about financial need and a description of circumstances.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Board of Governor's Fee Waiver Application Form (BOGW), here are five key dos and don'ts to keep in mind:

  • Do read the entire application carefully before you start. Understand each question and the information required.
  • Don’t leave any required sections blank. Incomplete applications could delay the review process.
  • Do ensure your personal information, including your name and Student ID, is accurate and clearly written.
  • Don’t rush through the application. Take your time to provide thorough and accurate answers.
  • Do contact the Student Financial Services Office if you have any questions or need clarification on certain sections.

Misconceptions

  • Misconception 1: The BOGW application is only for low-income students.
  • This application is available to various groups, such as California residents, AB 540 students, and victims of serious crimes like trafficking and domestic violence. Income isn't the sole factor determining eligibility.

  • Misconception 2: You must be a full-time student to apply.
  • Whether you are enrolled full-time or part-time, you can still apply for the fee waiver. The key is being enrolled in an eligible program of study.

  • Misconception 3: If you receive financial aid, you don't need to apply for the BOGW.
  • Receiving financial aid does not disqualify you from applying for the BOGW. In fact, completing this application may provide additional financial assistance for your enrollment fees.

  • Misconception 4: All applicants are automatically qualified if they fill out the form.
  • Eligibility must be verified by the school's Enrollment Services Office. Simply submitting the application does not guarantee a waiver.

  • Misconception 5: You cannot apply if you are not a U.S. citizen.
  • Undocumented students who meet the requirements of the AB 540 can apply for the BOGW. It is essential to understand your residency status for eligibility.

  • Misconception 6: Your marital status has no impact on the application.
  • Your marital status does play a role in determining your dependency status, which can affect how you fill out the application. Be sure to provide accurate information.

  • Misconception 7: Completing the application is the same as applying for federal student aid.
  • The BOGW is separate from federal financial aid applications like the FAFSA. You should complete both for the best chance at receiving financial aid.

  • Misconception 8: Once you apply, you don’t have to submit any additional documentation.
  • In many cases, you may need to submit further documentation to verify your eligibility, such as your income information or specific certifications if applicable.

Key takeaways

  • Eligibility: The BOGW application is intended for California residents, eligible AB 540 students, and students qualifying under Assembly Bill 1899.
  • Financial Aid: Applicants are encouraged to complete the FAFSA or California Dream Application for additional financial assistance, which can support expenses beyond enrollment fees.
  • Verification Process: The MJC Enrollment Services Office must verify the applicant’s residency status before determining eligibility for the fee waiver.
  • Dependency Status: A student’s status as ‘dependent’ or ‘independent’ affects the information required on the application and may influence eligibility.
  • Cash Assistance: Students receiving cash assistance, such as TANF or SSI, may qualify for an enrollment fee waiver by indicating their current financial support.
  • Domestic Partner Inclusion: Registered Domestic Partners must be included in the financial calculations if applicable, as they are treated similarly to spouses for the purpose of the waiver.
  • Document Submission: To facilitate processing, applicants should submit their forms in person or via approved channels like fax or mail, ensuring completeness to avoid delays.
  • Special Classifications: Additional certifications may qualify students for fee waivers, including those for veterans or dependents of certain individuals affected by specific events.
  • Privacy Regulations: The information collected through the BOGW application is confidential and protected under state and federal laws, ensuring applicants' privacy is maintained.