Pasadena City College Offers $1.8 Million to Relieve Student Debt

As a national conversation about erasing student debt continues this summer, Pasadena City College is starting with a local approach.

PCC students who accrued unpaid balances during the COVID-19 pandemic can re-enroll in classes this fall and have their debt erased – no questions asked.

This means that more than 5,100 students can return to PCC to continue their studies, earning associates degrees or certificates and moving closer toward their educational goals. They will also be able to move up in their careers, earn better wages and new skills, and help their families.

All told, PCC is prepared to waive more than $1.8 million in student debt that had accrued during the pandemic. The funds for this effort come from COVID-relief programs at the state and Federal level.

“We know that the pandemic has shifted folks’ expectations of college and work, and we want to be flexible and shift along with them,” said Erika Endrijonas, PCC’s superintendent/president. “We want to make sure we’re removing barriers for our students as they seek a brighter future.

“Waiving student debt is one step we can take to help get our students back on track.”

The debt-waiver program is open to any students who enrolled in classes in Fall 2020 through Spring 2022. Students seeking relief should contact a member of the Financial Aid team at PCC to discuss their individual situation and understand what steps are necessary to re-enroll in classes. The Financial Aid office is available online here: https://pasadena.edu/admissions-and-aid/financial-aid/index.php.

The program is only the latest in a series of steps PCC has taken to provide cash grants and other relief to students since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. To date, the college has released more than $27.6 million in funds directly to students.

Fall 2022 semester classes begin August 29. For more information and to start registration, visit https://pasadena.edu/current-students/guide-to-fall.php