Child Care Access Means Parents in School (CCAMPIS)

Quick Facts

Purpose: Expands access to affordable, high-quality child care for Pell-eligible student parents, enabling persistence and graduation.
Funding structure: The Department of Education awards four-year grants to colleges and universities, which in turn provide subsidies, sliding-scale tuition, or free child care slots to eligible student parents.
Eligible students: Typically parents enrolled at least half time who receive Pell Grants and meet campus child care admission criteria.
Services covered: Campus-based child care centers, partnerships with community providers, extended hours, parenting workshops, and academic support tailored to parents.
Where to apply: Directly through the institution’s CCAMPIS office or child care center; each campus sets application processes and deadlines.

Program Overview

CCAMPIS addresses one of the biggest barriers to college completion for student parents: reliable, affordable child care. Since its launch in 1998, the program has helped institutions build or expand child care centers, extend operating hours, and offer comprehensive family services. Grants prioritize serving low-income students—often Pell Grant recipients—who might otherwise reduce course loads or stop out due to caregiving responsibilities. CCAMPIS-funded programs integrate child development best practices with student support, promoting success for both parents and children.

Institutional Participation

Not all colleges receive CCAMPIS funding. Grantees include community colleges, four-year universities, Tribal colleges, and Minority Serving Institutions. Schools must demonstrate high unmet need for child care, provide matching funds (at least 10% of the grant), and deliver high-quality care meeting state licensing standards. Institutions often collaborate with Early Head Start, Head Start, or local agencies to enhance services.

Services Offered

Campus programs may provide:

Subsidized full-day or part-day child care for infants through preschoolers, sometimes extending to school-age children during breaks.
Evening and weekend care aligned with class schedules.
Sliding-scale tuition fees tied to Pell eligibility or household income.
Parent education workshops on child development, financial literacy, and time management.
Academic advising, tutoring, and study spaces with child-friendly areas.
Connections to public benefits (SNAP, WIC) and community resources.
Family engagement events that build peer networks among student parents.

Student Eligibility and Enrollment

Although each campus sets policies, common requirements include:

Pell eligibility: Students must be Pell Grant recipients or demonstrate comparable financial need.
Enrollment status: Many programs require at least half-time enrollment, though some support part-time students balancing work and school.
Child age: Centers typically serve children aged six weeks to five years, with some offering care for school-age children during summer or evening programs.
Academic standing: Maintaining satisfactory academic progress is often a condition of continued support.
Documentation: Applicants submit proof of enrollment, Pell status, child immunization records, and income documentation.

Application Process

Contact the campus child care center or CCAMPIS coordinator: Obtain program details, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines.
Submit application materials: Provide financial aid award letters, class schedules, and child documentation. Some programs require essays or interviews about academic goals.
Schedule a tour: Many centers offer orientations to familiarize families with routines, curriculum, and policies.
Receive award determination: Programs notify families of subsidy amounts, co-pay expectations, and start dates. Waitlists are common; follow up regularly to confirm status.

Funding and Cost Structure

Sliding-scale fees: Families may pay a percentage of tuition based on income or Pell status. Some students receive full coverage.
Work-study or employment opportunities: Certain campuses offer on-site jobs for student parents within the child care center.
Emergency grants: CCAMPIS funds may support emergency child care, backup care, or supplies such as diapers and formula.
Extended hours: Grants enable centers to stay open during evenings or weekends, minimizing scheduling conflicts.

Benefits for Student Parents

Retention and completion: Access to affordable child care helps parents maintain credit loads and graduate on time.
Academic support: Many programs provide tutoring, advising, and dedicated study spaces for parents.
Child development outcomes: Children benefit from accredited early learning environments, socialization, and school readiness programs.
Community building: Parent cohorts share resources, organize study groups, and advocate for family-friendly campus policies.

Program Accountability

Institutions must report metrics to the Department of Education, including numbers of children served, student persistence rates, and child care quality indicators. Many campuses pursue accreditation through the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) or participate in state quality rating systems. Continuous improvement plans guide enhancements such as staff training, facility upgrades, and culturally responsive curricula.

Complementary Resources

Student parents can combine CCAMPIS support with other benefits:

Federal and state child care subsidies (e.g., Child Care Development Fund).
Head Start/Early Head Start partnerships.
Campus family housing, diaper banks, and food pantries.
Scholarships for student parents from foundations or local organizations.

Tips for Prospective Applicants

Apply early: Slots fill quickly, especially for infant and toddler care.
Maintain communication: Update the program about schedule changes, academic needs, or challenges. Staff can connect families with resources.
Stay engaged: Participate in parent councils or advisory boards to influence program improvements.
Plan finances: Understand co-payments and due dates to avoid service interruptions.
Document progress: Some programs require periodic reflections or academic plans; keep records organized.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is CCAMPIS available at every college? No. Only institutions that receive Department of Education grants offer CCAMPIS services. Check campus websites or contact financial aid for confirmation.

Can graduate students participate? Policies vary. Many programs prioritize undergraduates, but some include graduate students who meet Pell eligibility or equivalent need criteria.

Does CCAMPIS provide direct cash assistance? Generally no. Support is offered as tuition reductions, vouchers, or subsidized slots at campus or partner centers.

What if my child has special needs? Programs must comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Discuss accommodations with staff; some grants fund specialized training or partnerships with early intervention services.

How long can I receive support? As long as you meet eligibility requirements and funding is available. Renew applications each term and maintain academic progress.

References

Insider Tips to Win Child Care Access Means Parents in School (CCAMPIS)

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