A recently released study by the Campaign for America’s Future found that President Obama’s budget proposal would extend Pell grants to nearly 8,000 more North Carolina students by cutting lender subsidies.

Richmond Community College President Dr. Sharon Morrissey said there is no real way to predict how many of the college’s students could be helped , but any help is welcome.

“Any economic stimulus package that provides more students access to Pell grants and the opportunity to get an education and prepare for jobs is welcome news,” Richmond Community College President Dr. Sharon Morrisey said. ”You can never predict the impact on an individual institution, but we are very pleased over the recent increase in the amount of Pell awards. As tuition and textbook costs rise, along with the cost of living, it is hard for students to make ends meet and afford to attend college without this assistance.”

The release asserts the college affordability proposals in the president’s budget proposal would increase and expand Pell Grants and Perkins loans, providing an average Pell Grant of about $3,500 to nearly 148,000 students in the state.

It also points out the average cost of tuition at a public college in North Carolina increased by 36 percent between 2000 and 2007, and shot up 6 percent last year alone.

“... President Obama’s budget calls for a cut in lender subsidies to make the financial aid system more efficient,” the release reads.

“Family incomes and college grants haven’t kept pace with soaring tuition costs,” Campaign for America’s Future co-Director Robert Borosage was quoted. “No student should be priced out of the college they need to succeed in the modern economy. With more and more high school graduates putting off higher education because they can’t afford it, the president’s budget would help provide the change students and families need.”

The availability of financial aid is essential to the operation of Richmond Community College.

Approximately 65 percent of its students receive financial assistance, according to college spokesman Anne Morris.

In addition, she advised the tax season is the best time to file a Free Application for Federal Student Assistance (FAFSA), since awards are based on students’ tax information from the last year.

An individual must fill out a FAFSA to apply for most scholarships.