Summer classes start late at Big Bend

MOSES LAKE- Big Bend Community College summer quarter classes will start later than usual this year.

After a change in federal financial aid regulations, summer classes will begin July 5, about two weeks later than in previous years.

A new federal rule prohibits students from using financial aid funds awarded during one fiscal year to pay for classes in the next year. Big Bend has traditionally scheduled summer quarter to begin in one fiscal year and end in the next.

"It is necessary to make the change to ensure that students have the financial support they need to pay their tuition," said Bob Mohrbacher, BBCC vice president of Instruction and Student Services.

The fiscal year for the community college system begins July 1.

The new July 5 start date will be the beginning of the financial aid year and BBCC students only need to fill out one form for the 2011-2012 academic year, according to college officials.

- Staff report