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WACS
Frequently Asked Questions

​What are the requirements for WACS participation? 

    • Full-time college student (12+ course hours each semester) at a 'not-for-profit' college​

    • 2.5 cumulative GPA

    • Low-income earner

    • Mom of school-aged child who lives in the home

  2. What GPA is needed to apply and remain eligible for WACS? A minimum of a 2.5 cumulative GPA is required to apply. WACS participants are required to maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.5.

  3. Do I have to be a current student to apply? Yes, WACS eligibility requires that you are already enrolled in college. Please have your upcoming schedule available or other proof of enrollment.

  4. What is low income? Low income will be determined by the Federal Poverty Limits (FPL). Participants earn less than 150% of FPL.

  5. Does WACS affect my SNAP benefits or other assistance programs? WACS enrollment does not affect SNAP or other assistance programs.

  6. Does the program help with college tuition? No, WACS participants utilize funding sources by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and other scholarships. (https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa)

  7. What colleges do WACS participants attend? Participants attend several public and private not-for-profit institutions. Anderson University, Clemson University, Greenville Technical College, Piedmont Technical College, Southern Wesleyan University, and Tri-County Technical College are most common.

  8. What is the difference in a 'not-for-profit' and a 'for-profit' college? Not-for-profit colleges invest all earnings back into the college for students, while for-profit colleges payout profits to owners and shareholders. Not-for-profit schools tend to have lower costs for students, lower student loans at graduation and higher graduation rates.

  9. What accreditation does my college need to have? Look for Southern Associates of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges which is a regional accreditation. Other accreditations may be necessary depending on your career path. (check here for details www.chea.org)

  10. Do I qualify for WACS if I am pursuing an online degree? Online programs are designed for students who are employed full-time. WACS does accept qualified students who are working full-time and attending full-time classes online. Talk with a WACS staff member for more details. 

  11. Can I continue to work while in WACS?  WACS participants are encouraged to work part-time and utilize the resources made available through the program. Working part-time provides time to complete classes and assignments. 

  12. Are there times for fellowship with other participants? Yes, participants and their children meet during Connection events.

  13. If I withdraw or am dismissed from WACS, am I still eligible for assistance from other AIM programs? Yes, you are still eligible for other AIM programs.

  14. How can I refer someone to WACS? Provide them with our contact information and encourage them to call.

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Please call or email if you have additional questions. 

864-965-9084

lesley.olsommer@aimcharity.org

 

 

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