WATCH OUT FOR SCHOLARSHIP SCAMS

IF IT LOOKS TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE – IT PROBABLY IS

We have all heard about scammers targeting the most vulnerable among us, particularly senior citizens, often taken in by professionally designed materials and compelling personalized messages.  Perhaps less familiar are some recent scams targeting a much younger audience – college students desperate for help in meeting rising college costs.  Again, the pitch is, typically, very professional in appearance, and is often personalized, lending it further credence.

Please be on the lookout for the following:

• Any offer that asks for payment. You should never have to pay for a scholarship – not even a few dollars for postage/handling!
• Any offer that requests personal information like Social Security number, credit card information, banking information, etc.
• Any offer that suggests you won something you never applied for.
• Any offer that requires you to attend a seminar or webinar.

In terms of MCC scholarships, all are internally established and controlled, eliminating the concerns regarding fraudulent intent.  And all applications are processed through our secure online application system.

On our website, we offer search engines for outside scholarship opportunities that we believe are worthwhile to pursue.  However, please always check them carefully to be sure you are not required to pay anything or to provide sensitive personal information.

Please do not hesitate to contact our office if you have questions.  We appreciate knowing when scam emails are sent to MCC students so we can alert others; and if you are uncertain, we can advise you of the legitimacy of the scholarship offer.