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Mountain Empire Community College

3441 Mountain Empire Road
Big Stone Gap, VA 24219

(276) 523-2400

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Contact Information

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(276) 523-2400

Who We Are

 

Senior Citizens Higher Education Act of 1974 - The Senior Citizens Higher Education Act of 1974 has established specific fee waiver provisions for Virginia residents who have reached 60 years of age and wish to attend classes at a state supported institution of higher education. 

To be eligible for free tuition and fees for credit courses, part-time or full-time, a person must meet the following criteria:

  • Be 60 years of age or older;
  • Be a domiciled resident of Virginia for at least one year;
  • Had a taxable income not exceeding $23,850 for federal income tax purposes for the year preceding the year in which enrolling is sought.

To be eligible for free tuition for audit of credit courses or for taking non-credit courses (not to exceed three courses per semester), a person must meet the following criteria:

  • Be 60 years of age older; 
  • Be a domiciled resident of Virginia for at least one year; 
  • Be admitted to the College as a student.

Seniors with tuition waivers must purchase their own books and pay any fees for course materials. 

Tuition waiver opportunities are limited to classes that are already being offered with a sufficient number of tuition-paying students enrolled.  

Must complete the Senior Citizens Tuition Assistance Agreement.

Who We Serve

Languages Spoken
English
Service Area(s)
Wise County

Cost & Payment Methods

Fee Structure
No Fee

Age Requirements
60+
Residency Requirements
Yes
Other Eligibility Criteria
Must register at the college as a student

Intake Process
Contact Admissions
Intake Contact
Admissions
Intake Contact Email
tclendenon@mecc.edu