Mary Ann Hadley Award (formerly PACT)

The Mary Ann Hadley Award, previously known as PACT, is Connecticut's last-dollar program for tuition-free attendance at Connecticut's 12 community colleges. It is open to students of every income level who have graduated from high school, earned a GED or completed home schooling. The award pays whatever tuition and fees remain after federal, state and college aid have been applied, so lower-income students often see most of their costs covered by Pell first. Even students whose other aid already covers tuition receive at least $250 per semester. Funds are awarded first-come, first-served, and July 15 is the priority date; students can still apply afterward, particularly if they plan to start in the spring. Detailed requirements, including enrollment levels and how continued eligibility works, are published by CT State Community College, and applicants should review that information before enrolling.