Financial Aid

General Policy Statement

The majority of Utica College’s financial assistance is provided to enable promising students to attend the College if family and personal resources are inadequate to support a college education. Promise is evaluated according to academic record (grades, rank in class, standardized tests, recommendations, community service, etc.) and personal achievements. Although it is not guaranteed, the College expects to continue to offer aid throughout the student’s education, provided that the student continues to demonstrate need, applies by the deadlines, and meets the academic achievement standards outlined on the following pages. A student who enters as a freshman will not normally be aided from College and state administered funds for more than eight semesters. Some federal funds may be available if a student requires more than eight semesters to complete a bachelor’s degree program. A transfer student can expect to be aided from federal and College administered funds for the number of credit hours required to complete bachelor’s degree requirements, providing academic standards are met. New York state funds are available for a total of eight semesters less any semesters used before transfer.

Through the Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP) , students may receive aid if educationally and financially disadvantaged. HEOP students who enter as freshmen may be aided for a maximum of 10 semesters from all sources. An HEOP transfer student can expect to receive up to 10 semesters of aid less any semesters used prior to transfer.

The amount of need-based financial assistance awarded is based on the financial analysis systems of Utica College and the Federal Student Aid Program. Many factors are considered in determining need. The cost of attending Utica College is compared to the income, assets, and liabilities of the student and parents. Every effort is made to consider individual financial situations or any special circumstances. Students are expected to contribute from their own savings and earnings, and parents are expected to make a reasonable contribution based on an evaluation of their ability to pay.

Types of Assistance

There are two main types of assistance: gift aid and self-help aid. Gift aid includes grants and scholarships that are direct awards and repayment is not required.

Self-help aid includes loans, work opportunities, internships, and tuition waivers for service to the College. Federal loans usually are guaranteed and offered at low interest; repayment usually is due after the student leaves college. The College provides work opportunities under the Federal Work-Study Program and the Student Payroll Program. Internships are positions requiring near-professional level skills and require year-round commitment. Internships generally are available only to juniors and seniors.

All forms of aid are awarded on an annual basis. Students are responsible for reapplying each year.

Available Financial Aid

Undergraduate On-Ground Students

Students applying for financial aid at UC are treated with fairness and confidentiality. A counselor from our Office of Student Financial Services will work closely with students to help them take full advantage of the resources available to them through:

• Direct aid from Utica College

Utica College awards a number of grants based on a student’s financial need. Students eligible for these awards will see them reflected in the financial aid award notice.

• Federal and state grants

Federal Pell Grants

Pell Grants are awarded based strictly on the student’s Expected Family Contribution (EFC). The maximum Pell Grant a student can receive is $5,645 for the academic year. Students eligible for these awards will see them reflected on the financial aid award notice.

Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grants (SEOG)

SEOG funds are awarded to Pell eligible undergraduate students based on their overall financial need. These funds are awarded to students directly by the College and are limited to the funds allocated to the College by the U.S. Department of Education. Students eligible for these awards will see them reflected on the financial aid award notice.

New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP)

TAP helps eligible New York residents pay tuition at approved schools in New York State. Depending on the academic year in which you begin study, an annual TAP award can be up to $5,000. Because TAP is a grant, it does not have to be paid back. The College will estimate the amount of TAP students may be eligible for but all New York State residents need to apply for TAP at https://www.tap.hesc.ny.gov/totw/ annually.

• Scholarships

Utica College offers access to a broad range of scholarships, endowed grants, and annual awards. Eligibility is determined on the basis of academic performance and some require financial need.

Link scholarships: http://www.utica.edu/finance/sfs/options/scholarships.cfm

• Student employment opportunities

Federal Work Study (FWS)

FWS funds are awarded to undergraduate students based on their overall financial need. These funds are awarded to students directly by the College and are limited to the funds allocated to the College by the U.S. Department of Education. Students eligible for these awards will see them reflected on the financial aid award notice.

• Student loans

Federal Direct Loans

There are two types of Federal Direct loans and your eligibility for both is determined using your financial aid application.

• Direct subsidized loans are interest-free while you are enrolled in college.
• Direct unsubsidized loans accrue interest while you are enrolled. You can choose to pay the interest each month while in school, or allow the interest to accumulate.

Borrowing limits for each academic year depend on your class level:

• $5,500 Freshmen (maximum $3,500 may be subsidized)
• $6,500 Sophomores (maximum $4,500 may be subsidized)
• $7,500 Juniors/Seniors (maximum $5,500 may be subsidized)

Interest rates

Direct subsidized:

• The interest rate for Federal Direct Subsidized Loans is fixed at 4.66% for 2014-2015 (subject to change on October 1, 2014 for the 2014-2015 academic year).

Direct unsubsidized:

• The interest rate for a Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan is fixed at 4.66% for 2014-2015 (subject to change on October 1, 2014 for the 2014-2015 academic year).

Each loan disbursement on or after October 1, 2014 will have a net fee of 1.073% deducted from each disbursement.

No credit check is required. If a student is not in default on a prior educational loan, does not owe a repayment of federal grant funds, and meets federal aid eligibility requirements, a student will be approved to borrow the Direct loan.

Loan Repayment

No payment is required while students are enrolled at least half-time. Repayment begins six months after graduation or if students drop below half-time status. The standard repayment period is ten years. Students can apply for additional deferment of payments if students enroll in graduate school at least half-time, become unemployed, experience economic hardship, or meet other approved criteria. Students can view additional information by visiting www.studentloans.gov.

Federal Perkins Loans

The Federal Perkins Loan Program is a loan option available for students that demonstrate exceptional financial need. Available Perkins funds are determined on repayment by prior loan recipients. Because of this, the pool of available Perkins loan funds is limited even in cases of financial need, so not all aid applicants can be offered Perkins loans.

Additional information on the Perkins Loan:

• Maximum Award amount is $5,500 per year with a lifetime maximum loan of $27,500
• 5.0% fixed interest rate
• No interest is charged while enrolled in college at least half-time or during the nine-month grace period after leaving school
• Standard repayment period on the loan is 10 years

Federal Direct PLUS Loans

The Federal Direct PLUS program is a popular financing option for parents of undergraduate students.

• Borrow any loan amount up to the total cost of attendance determined by Utica College, less any awarded financial aid
• 7.21% fixed interest rate
• An origination fee of 4.292% is deducted from each disbursement
• A credit check is conducted when you begin the loan application process
• If a parent is credit denied the loan, an additional unsubsidized loan will be awarded to the student’s financial aid package.
  • Students with a status of “freshman”, or “sophomore”, will receive an additional $4,000, while students of “junior”, and “senior”, status will receive an additional $5,000.
• Students are required to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in order for their parents to use the Direct PLUS loan program.

Loan Repayment

For parents of undergraduate students repayment begins within 60 days after the loan is fully disbursed and lasts ten years. Parent borrowers may contact the Direct Loan Servicing Center to request deferment of monthly payments while the student is in school.

Alternative Educational Loans

Once students have exhausted their Federal availability for Financial Aid, Alternative Loans are another option to fill in the gap between the offered aid and the total Cost of Attendance. Please note that these lenders are for private student loans and are not to be used for Parent PLUS Loans or student Federal Direct Loans (Stafford Loans).

Students wanting more information about Alternative Loan Programs, please select the link below. By doing so, students will have access to a list of several alternative loan lenders.

www.collegefinancecenter.org/student-loans.html

Undergraduate Online Students

Students applying for financial aid at UC are treated with fairness and confidentiality. A counselor from our Office of Student Financial Services will work closely with students to help them take full advantage of the resources available to them through:

• Federal and state grants

Federal Pell Grants

Pell Grants are awarded based strictly on the student’s Expected Family Contribution (EFC). The maximum Pell Grant a student can receive is $5,730 for the academic year. Students eligible for these awards will see them reflected on the financial aid award notice.

New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP)

TAP helps eligible New York residents pay tuition at approved schools in New York State. Depending on the academic year in which you begin study, an annual TAP award can be up to $5,165. Because TAP is a grant, it does not have to be paid back. The College will estimate the amount of TAP students may be eligible for but all New York State residents need to apply for TAP at https://www.tap.hesc.ny.gov/totw/ annually.

• Student loans

Federal Direct Loans

There are two types of Federal Direct loans and eligibility for both is determined using the financial aid application.

• Direct subsidized loans are interest-free while enrolled in college
• Direct unsubsidized loans accrue interest while enrolled. Students can choose to pay the interest each month while in school, or allow the interest to accumulate.

Borrowing limits for each academic year depend on Student’s class level:

• $5,500 Freshmen (maximum $3,500 may be subsidized)
• $6,500 Sophomores (maximum $4,500 may be subsidized)
• $7,500 Juniors/Seniors (maximum $5,500 may be subsidized)

Interest rates

Direct subsidized:

• The interest rate for Federal Direct Subsidized Loans is fixed at 4.66% for 2014-2015.

Direct unsubsidized:

• The interest rate for a Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan is fixed at 4.66% for 2014-2015.

Each loan disbursement on or after October 1, 2014 will have a net fee of 1.073% deducted from each disbursement.

No credit check is required. If a student is not in default on a prior educational loan, does not owe a repayment of federal grant funds, and meets federal aid eligibility requirements, a student will be approved to borrow the Direct loan.

Loan Repayment

No payment is required while students are enrolled at least half-time. Repayment begins six months after graduation or if students drop below half-time status. The standard repayment period is ten years. Students can apply for additional deferment of payments if students enroll in graduate school at least half-time, become unemployed, experience economic hardship, or meet other approved criteria. Students can view additional information by visiting www.studentloans.gov.

Federal Direct PLUS Loans

The Federal Direct PLUS program is a popular financing option for parents of undergraduate students.

• Borrow any loan amount up to the total cost of attendance determined by Utica College, less any awarded financial aid
• 7.21% fixed interest rate
• An origination fee of 4.292% is deducted from each disbursement
• A credit check is conducted when you begin the loan application process
• If a parent is credit denied the loan, an additional unsubsidized loan will be awarded to the student’s financial aid package.
  • Students with a status of “freshman”, or “sophomore”, will receive an additional $4,000, while students of “junior”, and “senior”, status will receive an additional $5,000.

• Students are required to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in order for their parents to use the Direct PLUS loan program.

Loan Repayment

For parents of undergraduate students repayment begins within 60 days after your loan is fully disbursed and lasts ten years. Parent borrowers may contact the Direct Loan Servicing Center to request deferment of monthly payments while the student is in school.

Alternative Educational Loans

Once students have exhausted their Federal availability for Financial Aid, Alternative Loans are another option to fill in the gap between the offered aid and the total Cost of Attendance. Please note that these lenders are for private student loans and are not to be used for Parent PLUS Loans or student Federal Direct Loans (Stafford Loans)

Students wanting more information about Alternative Loan Programs, please select the link below. By doing so, students will have access to a list of several alternative loan lenders

www.collegefinancecenter.org/student-loans.html

Undergraduate Accelerated Second Degree in Nursing (ASDN) Students

Students applying for financial aid at UC are treated with fairness and confidentiality. A counselor from our Office of Student Financial Services will work closely with students to help them take full advantage of the resources available to them through:

• State grants

New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP)

TAP helps eligible New York residents pay tuition at approved schools in New York State. Depending on the academic year in which you begin study, an annual TAP award can be up to $5,165. Because TAP is a grant, it does not have to be paid back. The College will estimate the amount of TAP students may be eligible for but all New York State residents need to apply for TAP at https://www.tap.hesc.ny.gov/totw/ annually.

• Student loans

Federal Direct Loans

There are two types of Federal Direct loans and eligibility for both is determined using the financial aid application.

• Direct subsidized loans are interest-free while enrolled in college
• Direct unsubsidized loans accrue interest while enrolled. Students can choose to pay the interest each month while in school, or allow the interest to accumulate.

Borrowing limits for each academic year depend on Student’s class level:

• $5,500 Freshmen (maximum $3,500 may be subsidized)
• $6,500 Sophomores (maximum $4,500 may be subsidized)
• $7,500 Juniors/Seniors (maximum $5,500 may be subsidized)

Interest rates

Direct subsidized:

• The interest rate for Federal Direct Subsidized Loans is fixed at 4.66% for 2014-2015 (subject to change on October 1, 2014 for the 2014- 2015 academic year).

Direct unsubsidized:

• The interest rate for a Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan is fixed at 4.66% for 2014-2015 (subject to change on October 1, 2014 for the 2014-2015 academic year).

Each loan disbursement on or after October 1, 2014 will have a net fee of 1.073% deducted from each disbursement.

No credit check is required. If a student is not in default on a prior educational loan, does not owe a repayment of federal grant funds, and meets federal aid eligibility requirements, a student will be approved to borrow the Direct loan.

Loan Repayment

No payment is required while students are enrolled at least half-time. Repayment begins six months after graduation or if students drop below half-time status. The standard repayment period is ten years. Students can apply for additional deferment of payments if students enroll in graduate school at least half-time, become unemployed, experience economic hardship, or meet other approved criteria. Students can view additional information by visiting www.studentloans.gov.

Federal Direct PLUS Loans

The Federal Direct PLUS program is a popular financing option for parents of undergraduate students.

• Borrow any loan amount up to the total cost of attendance determined by Utica College, less any awarded financial aid
• 7.21% fixed interest rate
• An origination fee of 4.292% is deducted from each disbursement
• A credit check is conducted when you begin the loan application process
• If a parent is credit denied the loan, an additional unsubsidized loan will be awarded to the student’s financial aid package.
  • Students with a status of “freshman”, or “sophomore”, will receive an additional $4,000, while students of “junior”, and “senior”, status will receive an additional $5,000.
• Students are required to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in order for their parents to use the Direct PLUS loan program.

Loan Repayment

For parents of undergraduate students repayment begins within 60 days after your loan is fully disbursed and lasts ten years. Parent borrowers may contact the Direct Loan Servicing Center to request deferment of monthly payments while the student is in school.

Alternative Educational Loans

Once students have exhausted their Federal availability for Financial Aid, Alternative Loans are another option to fill in the gap between the offered aid and the total Cost of Attendance. Please note that these lenders are for private student loans and are not to be used for Parent PLUS Loans or student Federal Direct Loans (Stafford Loans).

Students wanting more information about Alternative Loan Programs should visit www.collegefinancecenter.org/student-loans.html. By doing so, students will have access to a list of several alternative loan lenders.

Special Aid Programs

Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP) Grants:

Limited to full-time undergraduate on-ground students

Application Procedure. Application for this New York state-sponsored program is through the Utica College Office of Admissions at the time of admission.

Selection of Recipients and Allocation of Awards. The student must be: (1) a New York state resident; (2) an admitted matriculated undergraduate student at Utica College; and (3) academically and economically disadvantaged according to guidelines approved by the New York State Education Department. Selection of eligible applicants for participation in HEOP is conducted by the Utica College Higher Education Opportunity Program at the time of admission.

Award Schedule. The amount of financial assistance and other support provided to HEOP participants is dependent on need as determined by Utica College, within the state guidelines.

Rights and Responsibilities. Students must continue to make satisfactory academic progress. Contact the Office of Student Financial Services for details.

Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program (CSTEP):

Limited to full-time undergraduate on-ground students

Application Procedure. Application is through the Utica College Office of Admissions for first time students. Continuing students may apply through the Office of Opportunity Programs.

Selection of Recipients and Allocation of Awards. Similar to HEOP, CSTEP is also a New York state-sponsored program and students must be New York state residents. Additionally, students must be a member of a CSTEP-targeted student population, be a matriculated student pursuing a degree in a CSTEP-targeted profession, and have earned the required cumulative grade point average.

Although CSTEP is not a financial aid program, it does provide financial assistance toward the cost of textbooks. The major emphasis of CSTEP is professional developmental activities for CSTEP students.

Aid for Part-Time Study (APTS):

Application Procedure. Application is made through the Utica College Office of Student Financial Services on an APTS application.

Selection of Recipients and Allocation of Awards. A student must be a New York state resident and a U.S. citizen or permanent resident alien, paroled refugee, or a conditional admit to the United States. He or she also must be a matriculated student at Utica College carrying between three and 11 hours.

Award Schedule. The award ranges from $1 to $2,000 per year.

Rights and Responsibilities. Students must continue to make satisfactory academic progress and apply for APTS annually.

United States Bureau of Indian Affairs Aid to Native Americans (Higher Education Assistance Program)

On-ground, online, and ASDN students may qualify

Application Procedure. Application forms may be obtained from the Bureau of Indian Affairs Office. An application is necessary for each year of study.

Each first-time applicant must obtain tribal enrollment certification from the Bureau, agency, or tribe that records enrollment for the tribe.

Selection of Recipients and Allocation of Awards. To be eligible, a student must: (1) be at least one-fourth American Indian, Eskimo, or Aleut; (2) be an enrolled member of a tribe, band, or group recognized by the Bureau of Indian Affairs; (3) be enrolled in or accepted for enrollment at Utica College, pursuing at least a four-year degree; and (4) have financial need.

Rights and Responsibilities of Recipients. For grants to be awarded in successive years, students must make satisfactory progress toward a degree, and show financial need. Depending on availability of funds, grants also may be made to summer session students. Eligible married students also may receive living expenses for dependents.

Veterans (VA) Educational Benefits

On-ground, online, and ASDN students may qualify

Application Procedure. Application forms are available at VA offices, the VA website (www.va.gov), active duty stations, American Embassies, and from the Utica College veterans counselor. Completed forms are submitted to the nearest VA office.

Selection of Recipients and Allocation of Awards. For the most part, benefits under Chapter 30 end 10 years from the date of the veteran’s separation from active duty. VA can extend this 10-year period if the veteran was prevented from training during this period because of a disability or because he or she was held by a foreign government or power. The 10-year period also can be extended if an individual reenters active duty for 90 days or more after becoming eligible. Veterans serving periods of active duty of less than 90 days can qualify for extensions under certain circumstances. If the veteran’s discharge is upgraded by the military, the 10-year period begins on the date of the upgrade.

If eligibility is based on both the Vietnam Era GI Bill and the Montgomery GI Bill, and discharge from active duty was before December 31, 1989, the veteran will have until January 1, 2001. In most cases, VA will subtract from the 10-year period those periods the veteran was not on active duty between January 1, 1977, and June 30, 1985.

If eligibility is based on two years of active duty and four years in the Selected Reserve, the veteran’s eligibility will end the later of: (a) 10 years from separation from active duty; or (b) 10 years from completion of the four-year Selected Reserve obligation. This four-year obligation, however, does not apply to certain individuals separated because of downsizing the military between October 1, 1991, and September 30, 1995.

Montgomery GI Bill (Selected Reserve)

On-ground, online, and ASDN students may qualify

Application Procedure. Application forms are available at VA offices, the VA website (www.va.gov), active duty stations, American Embassies, and from the Utica College veterans counselor. Completed forms are submitted to the nearest VA office.

Selection of Recipients and Allocation of Awards. The Montgomery GI Bill (Selected Reserve) is a program of education benefits for members of the reserve elements of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard, as well as the Army National Guard and the Air National Guard. This program also is referred to as Chapter 1606. To be eligible for the program, a reservist must:

1. have a six-year obligation to serve in the Selected Reserve signed after June 30, 1985, or, if an officer, agree to serve six years in addition to the original obligation;
2. complete Initial Active Duty for Training (IADT);
3. meet the requirements for a high school diploma or equivalency certificate before completing IADT; and
4. remain in good standing in a Selected Reserve unit.

A six-year reserve commitment that begins after September 30, 1990, is needed to receive education benefits for pursuit of:

1. Courses leading to a certificate or diploma from business, technical, or vocational schools
2. Cooperative training
3. Apprenticeship or on the job training
4. Correspondence training
5. Accredited independent study programs
6. Tutorial assistance benefits
7. Flight training from September 30, 1990, to September 30, 1994

Army and Air Force ROTC

Limited to full-time undergraduate on-ground students

The Army ROTC program offers tuition scholarships that are awarded at different rates depending on the needs of the Army. There are also awards available for books and a monthly stipend to qualified students. The Air Force ROTC program offers tuition scholarships that are awarded depending on the needs of the Air Force. There is also a monthly stipend for qualifying students. Program availability is described in the “Academic Policies and Procedures ” section of this catalog. Specific information on scholarships may be obtained by writing the Professor of Military Science (Army), Room 308, Archbold Gym, or the Professor of Aerospace Studies (Air Force), 303 Archbold Gym North, at Syracuse University, Syracuse NY 13244-1140. The telephone number for the Army is (315) 443-2462. The telephone number for the Air Force is (315) 443-2461.

The Post 9/11 GI Bill and the Yellow Ribbon Program

On-ground, online, and ASDN students may qualify

Utica College is a participation institution in the Post 9/11 GI Bill and the Yellow Ribbon Program. For information, visit www.utica.edu/sfs.

Vocational and Educational Services for Individuals with Disabilities (VESID)

On-ground, online, and ASDN students may qualify

Application Procedure. Handicapped students may obtain a list of local VESID offices from their state’s education office.

Selection of Recipients and Allocation of Awards. Eligibility for vocational rehabilitation services is based upon: (1) the presence of a physical or mental disability that for the individual constitutes or results in a substantial handicap to employment; and (2) the reasonable expectation that vocational rehabilitation services may benefit the individual in terms of employability. Students may receive services including, but not limited to, counseling and guidance, evaluation of vocational potential, physical and mental restoration services, transportation, placement assistance and instruction, and training including that given at institutions of higher education.

The VESID office will consider college training for students when an appropriate specified vocational goal requiring this level of training has been established through the counseling and planning process between the eligible disabled individual and his or her vocational rehabilitation counselor. The training may involve full- or part-time study at the baccalaureate level leading to a degree or certificate. Training costs at institutions of higher education may be paid through the vocational rehabilitation program only after efforts have been made to secure grant assistance to cover these costs in whole or in part from other sources.

VESID policy established a maximum payment toward tuition for students in any one academic year. In some cases, students are required to share the expenses of college training according to the general VESID economic need policy.

Students should send the Office of Student Financial Services a statement indicating total benefits VESID will cover.

Tuition Assistance for Vietnam Veterans

On-ground, online, and ASDN students may qualify

Application Procedure. A special application must be filed with the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC), Albany, NY 12255. File application after January 1, 2011 for 2011 - 2012 year.

Proof of service in Indochina is necessary. Students must be matriculated.

Selection of Recipients and Allocation of Awards. The student must be a New York state resident, apply for TAP and Pell, have served in Indochina between December 22, 1961, and May 7, 1975, and have been discharged from the service under other than dishonorable conditions.

Rights and Responsibilities. See New York State Tuition Assistance Program.

Regents Awards for Children of Deceased Police Officers, Firefighters, and Corrections Officers

On-ground, online, and ASDN students may qualify

Application Procedure. A special application, obtained from a high school principal or counselor, must be filed with the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC), Albany, NY 12255. Documentary evidence to establish eligibility is required with the application.

Selection of Recipients and Allocation of Awards. Students must be a resident child of a resident police officer, firefighter, or corrections officer of New York state or any of its municipalities who died as the result of an injury sustained in the line of duty.

Award Schedule. Award amounts vary with tuition.

State Aid to Native Americans

On-ground, online, and ASDN students may qualify

Application Procedure. Application forms may be obtained from the Native American Education Unit, New York State Education Department, Albany, NY 12234. The completed application form should be forwarded by the student to the Native American Education Unit along with the following materials: (1) official transcript of high school record or photostat of General Equivalency Diploma; (2) letter(s) of recommendation from one or more leaders in the community attesting to personality and character; (3) personal letter, clearly setting forth in detail educational plans and desires; (4) signatures of the parents of minor applicants, approving education plans; (5) official tribal certification form; and (6) copy of letter of acceptance to Utica College. Students must be on the official tribal roll of a New York state tribe or the child of an enrolled member of a New York state tribe, and a resident of New York state.

Selection of Recipients and Allocation of Awards. Students must be enrolled at Utica College.

State Aid to Native Americans is an entitlement program. There is neither a qualifying examination nor a limited number of awards.

Award Schedule. The award is $1,000 for 12 or more credits per semester; the award is prorated if less than 12 credits.

Rights and Responsibilities of Recipients. Students are responsible for notifying the Native American Education Unit in writing of any change in student status or program or institutional enrollment. Students must maintain good academic standing and submit semester grades at the end of each semester to the Native American Education Unit.

Financial Consumer Information

www.utica.edu/finance/sfs/selective%20service.pdf

Conditions to Federal Financial Aid

• Selective Service Registration (Men Only)

Federal regulations, as confirmed by the Supreme Court ruling issued on June 24, 1983, require all federal financial aid recipients to complete a Statement of Education Purpose/Registration Compliance.

You will be required to complete this before any federal aid funds may be disbursed to you. These funds include: Federal Perkins Loan, Nursing Student Loan, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, Federal Pell Grant, Federal Work-Study Program, Direct Loans, and Direct PLUS Loans.

• Title IV Authorization

This document requires a student state that s/he has never defaulted on any federal educational loans. It also certifies that a student has paid any refund due on a federal grant which the student has been asked to repay. Federal regulations require completion of a Title IV Authorization for all recipients of federally funded financial aid, including the Direct Loans.
www.utica.edu/finance/sfs/title%20IV%20autorization%20_student_.pdf

Direct Parent Loan applicants must also have a Title IV Certification signed by their parent before the College can certify the loan. This signed statement must be file at Utica College before the loan application can be processed or the student account credited with federal funds.
www.utica.edu/finance/sfs/title%20IV%20authorization%20_parent_.pdf

• Academic Status

All financial aid awards carry these stipulations:

That you maintain satisfactory academic progress toward a degree.

That you be a matriculated student - in other words, students who are enrolled as non-degree students are not eligible for federal financial aid.

The College’s Undergraduate Catalog and Graduate Catalog provide additional specific information on academic status and what constitutes satisfactory academic progress at Utica College. It is your responsibility to be sure that you meet all requirements for satisfactory academic progress.

After attempting 60 credit hours, you must have a 2.0 grade point average or higher to receive federal aid. In addition, full-time undergraduate students must complete at least 20 credits per academic year (average 10 per semester), with part-time undergraduate students completing at least 10 credits per academic year (average 5 per semester) graduate before attempting 180 credit hours (for majors requiring 120 credits) or graduate before attempting 192 credit hours (for majors requiring 128 credits). Full-time graduate students must earn an average of 5 credits per semester, complete a master’s program in 6 academic years, and maintain a 3.0 or better GPA after the first year, while part-time graduate students must earn at least 50% of the credit hours attempted, complete the degree in 6 academic years, and maintain a 3.0 or better GPA after the first year. This is a Higher Education Amendments of 1986 (October 17, 1986) mandate.

• Financial Aid Recipient Withdrawals

If you are a recipient of Title IV federal financial aid funds and your enrollment terminates through official withdrawal, your financial aid award must be reviewed for possible adjustment.

Financial aid eligibility is based on the cost of education (tuition, mandatory fees, housing, meal plan, books, etc.) incurred for the entire semester and is contingent upon completion of that semester. When a student withdraws, federal regulations mandate that any unearned aid be returned to the federal aid programs. The percent of aid earned is based on the date of withdrawal divided by the total number of days in the semester. If the institutional charges are reduced or recalculated, this change may result in the reduction of recipient’s other sources of financial aid.

• Failure to Withdraw Officially

Students are required to adhere to the College’s official withdrawal policy when terminating their enrollment prior to the end of a given term.

Failure to withdraw officially will result in the registrar office determining a last day of attendance, and the student going through the Title IV earned aid calculation.

Conditions to College Grants and Scholarships

Undergraduate On-Ground Students and Graduate On-Ground Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Students

• Enroll full-time (12 credit hours) each Fall and Spring Semester, and maintain full-time enrollment by earning a minimum of 10 credits each semester towards your degree. Audit and withdrawn credits do not count as progress, but pass/fail grades do.
• Maintain the minimum cumulative grade point averages specified for your scholarship.

Phi Theta Kappa requires at least a 3.2 GPA

Pinnacle, Presidential, Founders, Transfer Achievement and Graduate Award require at least a 3.0 GPA

UC Achievement, UC Leadership, Transfer Leadership, Pioneer Grant, and Graduate Award require at least a 2.5 GPA

All other grants and scholarships from UC require at least a 2.0 GPA

• Need-based Grant renewals depend on filing the FAFSA each year by the deadline, and showing relatively the same level of need each year.

Rights and Responsibilities

Utica College believes it is important that all students know in advance their rights and responsibilities as financial aid recipients.

• Student Rights

Students have the right to know:

• all available aid programs
• program application deadlines
• aid distribution methods and the policies and the financial resources considered when calculating your aid
• the extent your determined financial need was met
• the College’s refund policy
• College standards for satisfactory academic progress and what happens if you don’t meet them
• the amount of grant aid
• if the aid includes loans
  • how much must be repaid
  • the interest rate(s)
  • pay back procedures
  • the length of time to repay
  • the time repayment must begin

• Student Responsibilities

Students’ responsibilities are to:

• complete all application forms accurately and submit them on time.
• provide correct information. Misreporting of information on financial aid application forms is a violation of the law and may be considered a criminal offense that could result in indictment under the U.S. Criminal Code.
• return all additional documentation, verification, corrections, and any new information requested by either the Financial Aid Office or the agency to which you submitted your application.
• read and understand the forms you are asked to sign. It is also your responsibility to retain a copy for your records.
• accept responsibility for all agreements that you sign.

• Things to Remember

If you are selected for Verification, you must provide any requested documents promptly. This process must be complete before any federal funds can be credited to your account.

Students receiving Federal Perkins must complete a Promissory Note before funds can be credited to their accounts.

“Revised Awards” Whenever your financial aid is adjusted, you will receive an updated award letter.

Revised awards illustrate changes to your aid package. Adjustments may include reductions based on changes in student or family resources or changes brought about because of other aid sources.

Federal Work-Study will not be taken as a credit on student accounts.

You are responsible for payment of your student bill regardless of any financial assistance offers. You are also responsible for late/penalty fees that may incur because of failure to complete financial aid requirements within the designated timeline.

Your need-based funding is determined by the difference between the student budget and the expected family contribution.

Due to limited funding, you may receive less aid than demonstrated need. This “unmet need” may be addressed by obtaining other financing resources (including loans and outside scholarships).

Confirming the Financial Aid Award

Utica College considers all awards accepted, unless the student puts in writing that s/he is declining any award fund in full or partially.

Loan Information

• Federal Direct Student Loans

Master Promissory Note

Student and Parents who are first-time borrowers under the Federal Direct Loan Program (Direct Loans-Subsidized/Unsubsidized, Direct PLUS Loans, Direct Graduate PLUS Loans) are required to complete and sign a master promissory note (MPN) before their loan proceeds can be released. The MPN is a legally binding agreement to the terms and conditions of the loan. Signing the MPN constitutes a promise to repay the loan. It is a good idea to save a copy for your records.

Entrance Counseling

First time Federal Direct Student Loan (Subsidized/Unsubsidized and/or Graduate PLUS) borrowers at the Utica College must complete the online Loan Entrance Counseling and Quiz before loan funds can be disbursed. Completion of the Loan Entrance Counseling and Quiz is a federal requirement that discusses your rights and responsibilities as a Federal Direct Student Loan borrower. Entrance Counseling is completed electronically at www.studentloans.gov.

Exit Counseling

Exit Counseling is required of any federal loan borrower, who graduates, separates or drops below half-time enrollment. Graduating students are informed of the Exit Counseling requirement prior to graduation via their Utica College email. Borrowers who withdraw or fall below half-time are notified of the Requirement in writing sent via the US mail within 30 days of their last date of attendance. Exit Counseling is completed electronically at www.studentloans.gov. An Exit hold which will prevent the student from receiving diplomas, grades and transcripts and registering for a future term is applied to a borrower’s account when notification is sent. Once electronic confirmation that Exit Counseling is complete is received from the National Student Loan Data System the hold is removed. Completed Exit files are downloaded regularly.

• Federal Perkins Loans

Entrance Counseling is included in the Master Promissory Note for the Federal Perkins Loans and is required of any first time borrower under the Perkins Loan Program and must be complete before a Perkins loan can be disbursed. Entrance Counseling explains how the Perkins Loan process works as well as informs borrowers of their rights and responsibilities. Entrance Counseling is completed electronically at https://www.ecsi.net/promu9/.

Exit Counseling is required of any Perkins Loan borrower, who graduates, separates or drops below half-time enrollment. Students are informed of the Exit Counseling requirement in writing via US mail. Exit Counseling is completed electronically at www.ecsi.net. An Exit hold which will prevent the student from receiving diplomas, grades and transcripts and registering for a future term is applied to a borrower’s account when notification is sent. Once electronic confirmation that Exit Counseling is complete is received from the National Student Loan Data System the hold is removed. Completed Exit files are downloaded regularly.

Repayment

Repaying educational loans can be a significant challenge, and how you handle your repayment can greatly impact your credit rating. Just as responsible repayment habits can help you to build excellent credit, defaulting on student loans can make it very difficult to make major purchases such as a car or home. For these reasons, we urge you to take your student loan repayment responsibilities seriously.

Procedures for Applying, Accepting, and Payment of Aid from Utica College

Including College Grants, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), Federal/Perkins Loan, Federal Work-Study (FWS), and Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP), which are described in the “Sources of Assistance” section.

Students applying for aid described in the “Sources of Assistance” section which indicate there is a specialized application procedure need not follow these directions.

All prospective and returning matriculated students taking at least six hours at Utica College may apply for aid. Full-time (12 hours per semester) students may apply for all forms of aid described in the “Sources of Assistance” section. Matriculated students carrying at least six hours, but less than 12 hours, may be eligible for loans, Aid for Part-Time Studies (APTS), part-time TAP, and Federal grants. Some assistance may be available to matriculated students carrying three hours. See the Office of Student Financial Services for details.

Students Applying for Admission and Applying for Aid for 2014 - 2015

www.fafsa.gov

1. Students must file the 2014 - 2015 FAFSA (online method preferred) so it is received on or before February 15, 2014, for preferred consideration. Forms filed after that date also will be considered.

Accepting the Award

1. Students will be sent an award letter. All awards are considered accepted unless the student declines specific awards in writing.
2. The students must provide documentation of all income by the deadline, if requested. Documentation includes, but is not limited to, federal tax transcripts, W2s, 1099 forms, and all untaxed income sources.

Students Currently Matriculated and Applying for Aid for 2014 - 2015

www.fafsa.gov

1. Students must file the 2014 - 2015 FAFSA (online method preferred) to the Federal Student Aid Processor so they will receive it on or before April 15, 2014.
2. Students must submit verification of their family’s income, if requested. Verification includes federal tax transcripts, W2s, 1099 forms, and all untaxed income sources, etc.

All Students - Appeal

Students who feel that they have been given an inappropriate financial aid award can do the following:

1. Submit a letter of appeal and a complete application form to the Office of Student Financial Services.
2. If the student (or the student’s parents) remain dissatisfied with the award, the student (or the student’s parents) may request in writing a review by the Admissions and Financial Aid Committee. The committee will not review requests for changes of an individual award that entail a revision of general policies.

Academic Standards

All students are expected to meet academic standards in order to receive need-based aid after their first semester of enrollment. The criteria for measuring academic standards are outlined below in three charts. Only the chart appropriate to the individual student’s enrollment will be used to measure program pursuit and satisfactory progress. Academic standards differ for New York state TAP and federal/institutional aid.

TAP Standards

BACHELOR’S DEGREE • FULL-TIME

BACHELOR’S DEGREE • FULL-TIME • HEOP

Federal/Institutional Standards

Students must earn a prescribed number of credits by the end of each academic year in order to continue to receive federal/institutional aid. An academic year is defined as the fall and spring semesters. Summer may be used to make up deficiencies but students will receive no aid consideration if they have not made satisfactory progress by May (or spring term’s end).

Full-time students must earn a minimum of 20 credits during an academic year and earn the minimum required grade point average for the year enrolled to continue to receive federal/institutional aid.

Students must earn the following to continue to receive aid for the next year.

As of April 29, 1994, the maximum time frame of an undergraduate program may not exceed 150 percent of the published length for full-time students or 180 credit hours (for most programs) per federal regulations.

Interpretation of the Charts

Credits completed - hours completed with a grade of A, B, C, D, F, or Pass.

Credits accrued - hours completed with a passing grade of A, B, C, D, or Pass over the student’s college career.

Cumulative Grade Point Average - grade point average over the student’s career at Utica College.

Withdrawals - are not considered in the charts as attempted, completed, or accrued credits.

Repeated courses - are considered as the credits enrolled and completed. The repeated course will not increase the accrued credit hours.

Non-credit courses - are not evaluated on the academic progress charts.

Incomplete - are not considered hours completed and are assumed to be an F until requirements are met.

Failure to Meet Academic Standards

Students who fail to make satisfactory academic progress will lose eligibility for financial aid from federal, state, and College sources. Students may apply for a waiver for the reinstatement of aid on the basis of physical illness or extraordinary personal difficulty due to unusual circumstances. The Dean for Student Success will consider the student’s full history when determining if a waiver is appropriate. For further details regarding aid reinstatement, contact the Office of Student Financial Services.

Title IV Refund Policy

This policy is for all students receiving Federal and Institutional aid who completely withdraw from classes or students who unofficially withdraw by ceasing to attend classes. The Title IV refund formula has six steps, and is concerned with the amount of Title IV aid a student received and earned.

1. Determine date of withdrawal and percentage of payment period attended by student
2. Calculate amount of Title IV aid earned by the student
3. Compare amount earned and amount disbursed to determine amount unearned
4. If amount earned is greater than amount disbursed, determine late disbursement
5. If amount earned is less than amount disbursed, determine amount of Title IV aid that must be returned
6. Calculate portion that must be returned by institution and student

Further information regarding this policy is available in the Office of Student Financial Services

Refund Policies

Undergraduate On-Ground Students

• Tuition (complete withdrawal)
  • The date on which a student notifies the Office of the Registrar of his or her complete withdrawal in writing will be used as the basis for determining tuition refund. Deferred fees or other fees are not refunded.
    • 100% on or before the last day to drop/add
    • 90% through 7 days following the drop/add deadline for the term
    • 50% through 14 days following the drop/add deadline for the term
    • 25% through 24 days following the drop/add deadline for the term
    • Thereafter, no refund will be given
• Room

100% refund through the end of Week 2

• Board

• 100% prior to the first meal offered
• Prorated through the end of Week 9

Undergraduate Online Students

• Tuition (complete withdrawal)

• 100% on or before the 5th day of classes for each 8 week part of term
• Thereafter, no refund will be given

Undergraduate Accelerated Second Degree in Nursing (ASDN) Students

• Tuition (Complete Withdrawal)

• 100% on or before the 5th day of classes for the term
• Thereafter, no refund will be given

All Students

• Students who partially withdraw but are still in attendance for one or more classes at the College will receive a 100% refund during the add/drop period only. Thereafter, no refund will be given.

Graduate On-Ground Students

Students applying for financial aid at UC are treated with fairness and confidentiality. A counselor from our Office of Student Financial Services will work closely with students to help them take full advantage of the resources available to them through:

• Direct aid from Utica College (For On-Ground Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Students)

Utica College awards grants to on-ground graduate Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy students based on a student’s financial need. Students eligible for these awards will see them reflected in the financial aid award notice.

• Student loans

• Federal Direct Loans

For Graduate students, there is only one type of Federal Direct loan and eligibility is determined using the financial aid application.

• Direct unsubsidized loans accrue interest while enrolled. Students can choose to pay the interest each month while in school, or allow the interest to accumulate.

Borrowing limits for each academic year for Graduate Students:

• $20,500 per academic year maximum

Interest rates

Direct unsubsidized:

• The interest rate for a Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan is fixed at 4.66% for 2014-2015 (subject to change on October 1, 2014 for the 2014-2015 academic year).

Each loan disbursement on or after October 1, 2014 will have a net fee of 1.073% deducted from each disbursement.

No credit check is required. If a student is not in default on a prior educational loan, does not owe a repayment of federal grant funds, and meets federal aid eligibility requirements, a student will be approved to borrow the Direct loan.

Loan Repayment

No payment is required while students are enrolled at least half-time. Repayment begins six months after graduation or if students drop below half-time status. The standard repayment period is ten years. Students can apply for additional deferment of payments if students enroll in graduate school at least half-time, become unemployed, experience economic hardship, or meet other approved criteria. Students can view additional information by visiting www.studentloans.gov.

• Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loans

The Federal Direct Graduate PLUS program is a popular financing option for graduate students.

• Borrow any loan amount up to the total cost of attendance determined by Utica College, less any awarded financial aid
• 7.21% fixed interest rate
• An origination fee of 4.292% is deducted from each disbursement
• A credit check is conducted the loan application process is started
• Graduate students are required to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in order to use the Direct Graduate PLUS loan program.

Loan Repayment

For graduate students repayment begins immediately after the student graduates or drops below half-time status and lasts ten years under the standard repayment plan.

• Alternative Educational Loans

Once students have exhausted their Federal availability for Financial Aid, Alternative Loans are another option to fill in the gap between the offered aid and the total Cost of Attendance. Please note that these lenders are for private student loans and are not to be used for Parent PLUS Loans or student Federal Direct Loans (Stafford Loans).

Students who wish to find out more information about Alternative Loan Programs, please select the link below. By doing so, students will have access to a list of several alternative loan lenders.

www.collegefinancecenter.org/student-loans.html

Graduate Online Students

Students applying for financial aid at UC are treated with fairness and confidentiality. A counselor from our Office of Student Financial Services will work closely with students to help them take full advantage of the resources available to them through:

• Student loans

Federal Direct Loans

For Graduate students, there is only one type of Federal Direct loan and eligibility is determined using the financial aid application.

• Direct unsubsidized loans accrue interest while enrolled. Students can choose to pay the interest each month while in school, or allow the interest to accumulate.

Borrowing limits for each academic year for Graduate Students:

• $20,500 per academic year maximum

Interest rates

Direct unsubsidized:

• The interest rate for a Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan is fixed at 6.21% for 2014-2015 (subject to change on October 1, 2014 for the 2014-2015 academic year).

Each loan disbursement on or after March 1, 2013 will have a net fee of 1.015% deducted from each disbursement.

No credit check is required. If a student is not in default on a prior educational loan, does not owe a repayment of federal grant funds, and meets federal aid eligibility requirements, a student will be approved to borrow the Direct loan.

Loan Repayment

No payment is required while students are enrolled at least half-time. Repayment begins six months after graduation or if students drop below half-time status. The standard repayment period is ten years. Students can apply for additional deferment of payments if students enroll in graduate school at least half-time, become unemployed, experience economic hardship, or meet other approved criteria. Students can view additional information by visiting www.studentloans.gov.

• Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loans

The Federal Direct Graduate PLUS program is a popular financing option for graduate students.

• Borrow any loan amount up to the total cost of attendance determined by Utica College, less any awarded financial aid
• 7.21% fixed interest rate
• An origination fee of 4.292% is deducted from each disbursement
• A credit check is conducted the loan application process is started
• Graduate students are required to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in order to use the Direct Graduate PLUS loan program.

Loan Repayment

For graduate students repayment begins immediately after the student graduates or drops below half-time status and lasts ten years under the standard repayment plan.

• Alternative Educational Loans

Once students have exhausted their Federal availability for Financial Aid, Alternative Loans are another option to fill in the gap between the offered aid and the total Cost of Attendance. Please note that these lenders are for private student loans and are not to be used for Parent PLUS Loans or student Federal Direct Loans (Stafford Loans).

Students who wish to find out more information about Alternative Loan Programs, please select the link below. By doing so, students will have access to a list of several alternative loan lenders.

www.collegefinancecenter.org/student-loans.html

Annual Cost of Attendance 2014-2015

For tuition, room, board, and other fees, see the Student Financial Services website at www.utica.edu/enrollment/

Net Price Calculator

Utica College’s Net Price Calculator is a tool is designed to provide First Year students and their families an early indication of what the net price for a Utica College education may be based on academic achievement and need. Each student’s calculator results will include the amount and types of financial aid s/he may qualify for if s/he enrolls at UC as a full-time college freshman. A more accurate financial award package is provided upon admission with a valid FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).

http://www.utica.edu/enrollment/estimator.cfm