Child Care Assistance

The success of student-parents is important to us so RCC partners with the North Carolina General Assembly to assist student-parents with their child care needs promoting the completion of an educational program (The North Carolina Community College Child Care Grant Program). Through this program student-parents receiving child care assistance at Randolph Community College will be eligible for funding for two academic years (Fall & Spring) for the pursuit of an associate degree and one academic year (Fall & Spring) for the pursuit of a diploma or certificate. 

Child care fees paid to the provider are the responsibility of the parent (student). Some students may receive child care assistance from DSS and RCC will pay the parent fee, if any. The Child Care Grant at RCC is a supplemental grant that is coordinated with other types of child care assistance.

Student Criteria

The institutional guidelines for the North Carolina Community College Child Care Grant Program are as follows:

Eligible students must:

  • Be a North Carolina resident according to the NC Residency Determination Service
  • Be enrolled, or enrolling, in one of the following:
    • Curriculum degree, diploma or certificate program
    • Workforce Continuing Education (WCE) pathways/courses offered for 96 hours or more and leading to a State or industry-recognized credential. Must be on the NC Workforce Credentials list
    • College and Career Readiness (CCR) Pathways
      • High School Equivalency
      • Adult High School
      • English for Speakers of Other Languages
  • Be enrolled in at least:
    • Six or more credit hours each semester (Curriculum)
    • Attend school for at least six hours per week (WCE and CCR)
If program funds are limited, priority will be given to those who demonstrate financial need on the Childcare Grant application and maintain satisfactory academic progress (when applicable).

Program Criteria

  • Students must complete the Child Care Grant Application. This application can be obtained by visiting our "Important Forms" Web page or in the Office of Financial Assistance and Engagement.
  • The NC Community College Child Care Grant Program recipients will be selected by the Office of Financial Assistance and Engagement on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Make an appointment to see Mrs. Sherry Underwood, Financial Assistance Counselor, once all paperwork is is approved.
  • Child care providers should be licensed by the state of North Carolina in order for students to receive North Carolina Community College Child Care Grant Program funds.
  • Students and child care providers must complete and return "Child Care Vouchers" to the Office of Financial Assistance and Engagement each month in order for the child care facility to receive payment.
  • Child care funds are not available during the summer term.