Talk of a new policy concerning the Board of Governors (BOG) fee waiver has some students worried that they won’t meet the new requirements. Here’s what students need to know about the new policy.

The BOG fee waiver allows enrollment fees to be waived for eligible students. According to Primavera Arvizu, the Director of Financial Aid at Bakersfield College, the new policy regarding the BOG waiver will require students to have a 2.00 GPA and pass 50 percent of their classes in order to qualify. Arvizu says this new policy will be implemented fall of 2016.

Arvizu encourages students to apply for the BOG waiver, as well as financial aid (FASFA) in general even if they have doubts they’ll qualify.

“Financial aid is there to assist students with their education; we’re here to help. Even if you don’t think you’re eligible, still apply,” said Arvizu.

Arvizu also said for students concerned about missing the priority registration deadline on March 2 for FASFA to still apply.

“We want students to apply early because if other documents need to be submitted, there is enough time to submit those documents so the student receives their financial aid on time,” explained Arvizu.

One thing Arvizu stressed was the need for students to check their emails. If there is a problem with a student’s application for financial aid or if more documents need to be submitted, students will be informed over their BC email and some students do not check theirs. This results in students waiting longer than they needed for their financial aid to process.

For help with applying for financial aid, check the BC website for a list of the financial aid workshops. The BC website also has financial aid 101 and financial aid TV to assist students with any questions they have.