Attending College while on Unemployment

ATTENDING MWCC WHILE UNEMPLOYED Training Opportunities Program (TOP)

The Department of Unemployment Assistance Training Program (TOP) may waive the usual requirement to look for employment while you attend college so you can develop marketable skills and then find suitable employment.

Additionally, when you attend MWCC full-time you are eligible to receive a 26-week extension of benefits. Even if you have completed some college, and want to complete a degree or certificate you previously started, this may still qualify.

Eligibility You may be eligible for approved training if you are: • permanently separated from your previous employer; • currently receiving unemployment benefits; • unlikely to obtain suitable employment based on your current skill level; and • in need of training to become re-employed

Applying for TOP Benefits The application from your Division of Unemployment Assistance (DUA) can be found in your online account uionline.detma.org/Claimant/Core/Login.ASPX. Print the form by clicking on the TOP application tab on the left of your screen. Your application must be submitted before your program begins and your eligibility period ends.

Selecting Your Program and Courses Be sure to select the program that is best for you and that will help you find employment in your new occupation. A list of eligible programs are available at: mwcc.edu/programs

Review All TOP Eligibility Requirements: • Academic programs must be full time. At MWCC this means at least 12 credit hours for each semester of a college program.

• Academic programs must be intensive, able to complete within two years or less, including vacations, class breaks, internships/externships, etc.

• Academic programs must provide vocational/technical or basic skills training.

• Academic programs must clearly identify the occupation for which you will be trained.

Speak with your Department of Unemployment Representative Unemployment benefits may end before the completion of your academic program at MWCC. You are advised to speak with a Department of Unemployment Assistance (DUA) representative to find out about the length of your unemployment benefits and have this information available when meeting with MWCC’s TOP Advisor.

Submit Your TOP Application Early Submit your forms at least three weeks prior to the start of your anticipated start date at MWCC. Once you receive approval, you may begin your program of study.

You are encouraged to complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) at fafsa.ed.gov. Financial Aid comes in the forms of loans, scholarships, and grants. If eligible, you may not need to pay back grants or institutional scholarships. You must complete the MWCC application and FAFSA in order to receive a Financial Aid award. If you need any assistance in applying for financial aid, contact: Student Financial Services Office 978-630-9169 | SFS@mwcc.mass.edu Training Funds may also be available at your local MassHire Career Center.

Visit mass.gov/how-to/find-a-masshire-career-center and click on “Search Masshire Career Center locations� to find a center near you to inquire about training and educational funds.

TOP benefits are subject to change without notice and MWCC is not responsible for changes to the program.

Getting Started Apply to MWCC Apply online at mwcc.edu/apply and submit high school and/ or college transcripts as requested.

Activate iConnect and Email Upon acceptance, activate your personalized MWCC iConnect account, which includes your MWCC email address.

Mount 101 Mount 101 is your introduction to all things MWCC. New students are required to complete Mount 101 prior to registering for classes.

Registering for Classes Be Prepared Remember your unemployment benefits may end before the completion of your program. You are advised to speak with a Department of Unemployment Assistance (DUA) representative to find out about the length of your unemployment benefits before meeting with your MWCC TOP Advisor

Creating Your Schedule Because your program requires completion within two years, your MWCC TOP advisor will assist you in creating a full-time schedule every step of the way. Full-time is defined as 20 hours per week or 12 credits per semester.

To schedule an appointment, contact MWCC’s TOP Advisor: 978-630-9482 | mcontey@mwcc.mass.edu

AA/EEO Institution | IP851-02 | Rev:Oct20