Students considering classes at Anne Arundel Community College (AACC) this fall can lean on some financial aid before school starts up again.

The college issued a statement Wednesday detailing its no-fee, interest-free payment plan that helps students spread the cost of tuition throughout a term.

This year, the college's Board of Trustees raised tuition fees by $16 per credit hour to balance its budget. A full-time student taking 15 credit hours will see a $240 total increase per semester under these new rates.

Students can apply for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by filling out a free application. AACC's financial aid staff can provide one-on-one assistance in completing these applications.

Students who need financial assistance must be approved for financial aid or tuition assistance before they can enroll in fall classes, according to the release.

"Students are strongly encouraged to begin the FAFSA process now so that they can register in time for fall classes," according to the release.

Visit www.aacc.edu/aid today to find out how to get help from an AACC financial aid adviser.

The college's no-fee, interest-free payment plan is available for students who register before Aug. 27.

Under the payment plan, students pay just 20 percent of the total balance when registering for classes. Another 20 percent must be paid on Sept. 3, with 30 percent paid on Oct. 1 and the final 30 percent paid on Nov. 1.

A step-by-step guide to determining course costs is available online at www.aacc.edu/tuitionfees.

For information about financial aid, visit www.aacc.edu/aid, email finaid@aacc.edu or call 410-777-2203.

Students can also meet with a financial aid adviser on a walk-in basis at the Arnold campus, the Glen Burnie Town Center, at AACC at Arundel Mills or at the Fort Meade Army Education Center.