Due to the generosity of many private donors, Sandhills Community College is able to award more than $350,000 in merit and need-based scholarships each academic year. Applications for early consideration for the 2012-13 academic year are being accepted through Wednesday, Feb. 29.

Scholarships are administered through the college's financial aid office. A scholarship committee, appointed by President Dr. John Dempsey, selects the scholarship recipients.

The scholarship process includes a completed admissions application, the completion and filing of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), and a scholarship recommendation form from two college faculty or staff members. All forms, as well as the complete list of scholarships, are posted on the college's website, www.sandhills.edu, in the financial aid section of the site. Forms can also be obtained in the financial aid office in Stone Hall on the campus in Pinehurst.

Current high school students are encouraged to apply if they plan to attend Sandhills Community College after high school graduation in June. In addition to the aforementioned steps, they must submit a current high school transcript.