Scholarship Now Limited to Fall and Spring Terms to Help
New, Degree-Seeking Students Start and Finish Strong
ODESSA, TEXAS — Odessa College is making an important change to its popular First Class Free Scholarship program to better support student success and timely degree completion.
Beginning MidWinter 2025, the First Class Free Scholarship will only be available during the Fall 1, Fall 2, Spring 1, and Spring 2 semesters. This adjustment is part of the college’s broader effort to help new students not only start strong, but finish strong at Odessa College.
“OC is growing rapidly and offering more scholarships than ever before,” said Kim McKay, Vice President of Student Services and Enrollment Management “Refocusing First Class Free on the Fall and Spring terms ensures new, degree-seeking students receive the support they need at the most critical points in their academic journey.”
About First Class Free
The First Class Free Scholarship covers the tuition and standard fees for a student’s first credit class (up to 3 credit hours) at Odessa College. It is a one-time benefit available to:
- Students who have never earned college credit at Odessa College (including dual credit)
- Students enrolling in a credit class in Fall 1, Fall 2, Spring 1, or Spring 2 (Continuing education and workforce non-credit classes are not eligible for First Class Free.)
There is no application required. Eligible students will automatically receive the scholarship when they register for classes. The award may be used for in-person, online, or hybrid courses, and is open to all students regardless of residency.
What the Scholarship Covers
The First Class Free Scholarship includes tuition and standard fees for the first class (up to 3 credit hours).
The scholarship does not cover books, supplies, special course fees, or additional classes. It also does not cover Summer, MayMester, or MidWinter classes.
Students who receive the First Class Free Scholarship are still encouraged to complete the FAFSA or apply for other scholarships to support the cost of additional courses or materials.
Students with questions about the scholarship or eligibility are encouraged to visit https://www.odessa.edu/enrollment-aid/scholarships/fcf-faq.html or contact Odessa College at:
Visit: Wrangler Express Center
Call: 432-335-6400
Email: wranglerexpress@odessa.edu