Financial Aid

 Return to: General Financial Information   

General Policy Statement

The majority of Utica University’s financial assistance is provided to enable promising students to attend the University if family and personal resources are inadequate to support a college education. The 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 University 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 University 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 University 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 University and the Federal Student Aid Program. Many factors are considered in determining need. The cost of attending Utica University 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 University. Federal loans usually are guaranteed and offered at low interest; repayment usually begins six months after the student leaves college or falls below half-time. The University 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 Utica University are treated with fairness and confidentiality. A counselor from the Center for Student Success will work closely with students to help them take full advantage of the resources available to them through:

Utica University 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 $6,495 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 $5,665. 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.

New York State Enhanced Tuition Awards (ETA)

               The Enhanced Tuition Awards (ETA) program provides tuition awards to students who are New York State residents attending a participating private college located in New York State. Recipients will receive up to $3,000 in additional funding for families who have a combined federal adjusted gross income of $125,000 or less. 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. Please follow this link scholarships, grants and awards: http://www.utica.edu/finance/sfs/options/index.cfm

Student employment opportunities

Federal Work Study (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.

Federal Direct Student Loans

There are two types of federal direct loans and your eligibility for both is determined using your financial aid application. The Federal Direct Subsidized Loans are interest-free while you are enrolled in college. The Federal 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)

Borrowing limits for students who meet the independent criteria and depending on your class level:

• $9,500 Freshmen (maximum $3,500 may be subsidized)
• $10,500 Sophomores (maximum $4,500 may be subsidized)
• $12,500 Juniors/Seniors (maximum $5,500 may be subsidized)

Interest rates and credit checks

• Direct subsidized
  • The interest rate for Federal Direct Subsidized Loans is fixed and is determined June 1 each year.
• Direct unsubsidized
  • The interest rate for a Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan is fixed.
  • An origination fee is deducted from each disbursement.  The fee is determined annually on October 1. 
• 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, the student leaves college, 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 https://studentaid.gov

Federal Perkins Loans

The Federal Perkins Loan Program was an option through the federal government for students that demonstrated exceptional financial need.  Available Perkins funds were determined on repayment by prior loan recipients. Because of this, the pool of available Perkins loan funds was limited even in cases of financial need, so not all aid applicants would be offered Perkins loans.  If awarded, criteria is below.

• 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 University, less any awarded financial aid
• The fixed interest rate is fixed for the life of the loan and is determined annually on June 1.
• An origination fee is determined annually on October 1.
• 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

Alternative loans are another option to fill in the gap between the offered aid and the total cost of attendance. 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. Please visit: http://www.utica.edu/loan-compare

Undergraduate Online Students and Undergraduate Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) Students

Students applying for financial aid at Utica University 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 $6,495 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 $5,665. 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.

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)

Borrowing limits for students who meet the independent criteria and depending on your class level:

• $9,500 Freshmen (maximum $3,500 may be subsidized)
• $10,500 Sophomores (maximum $4,500 may be subsidized)
• $12,500 Juniors/Seniors (maximum $5,500 may be subsidized)

Interest rates and credit checks

• Direct Subsidized
  • The interest rate for a Direct Subsidized loan is fixed for the life of the loan and is determined annually on June 1.
• Direct Unsubsidized
  • The interest rate for a Direct Unsubsidized loan is fixed for the life of the loan and determined annually on June 1.
  • An origination fee is deducted from each disbursement.  The fee is determined annually on October 1.
• 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 https://studentaid.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 University, less any awarded financial aid.
• The interest rate is fixed for the life of the loan and is determined annually on June 1.
• An origination fee is deducted from each disbursement. The fee is determined annually on October 1.
• 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

Alternative loans are another option to fill in the gap between the offered aid and the total cost of attendance. 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. Students can view additional information by visiting http://www.utica.edu/loan-compare 

Special Aid Programs

Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP) Grants

This program is 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:

•  New York state resident;
• An admitted matriculated undergraduate student at Utica University; and
• 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 University 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 University, within the state guidelines.

Rights and Responsibilities. Students must continue to make satisfactory academic progress. Contact the Center for Student Success for details.

Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program (CSTEP)

Limited to full-time undergraduate on-ground students

Application Procedure. Application is through the Utica University 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 Center for Student Success 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)

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:

• Be at least one-fourth American Indian, Eskimo, or Aleut;
• Be an enrolled member of a tribe, band, or group recognized by the Bureau of Indian Affairs;
• Be enrolled in or accepted for enrollment at Utica University, pursuing at least a four-year degree; and
• 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.

State Aid to Native Americans

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:

• Official transcript of high school record or photostat of General Equivalency Diploma;
• Letter(s) of recommendation from one or more leaders in the community attesting to personality and character;
• Personal letter, clearly setting forth in detail educational plans and desires;
• Signatures of the parents of minor applicants, approving education plans;
• Official tribal certification form; and
• Copy of letter of acceptance to Utica University. 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 University. 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.

Veterans (VA) Educational Benefits

Application Procedure. Application forms are available at VA offices, the VA website (www.va.gov), active duty stations, American Embassies, and from the Utica University 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.

Despite any policy to the contrary, for any students using U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Post 9/11 G.I. Bill® (Ch. 33) or Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (Ch. 31) benefits, while payment to the institution is pending from the VA, the institution will not:

• Prevent their enrollment;

• Assess a late penalty fee to;

• Require they secure alternative or additional funding;

• Deny their access to any resources (access to classes, libraries, or other institutional facilities) available to other students who have satisfied their tuition and fee bills to the institution.

However, to qualify for this provision, such students may be required to:

• Produce the VA’s Certificate of Eligibility by the first day of class; • Provide written request to be certified;

• Provide additional information needed to properly certify the enrollment as described in other institutional policies (see our VA School Certifying Official for all requirements).

If you have any questions, please contact the Center for Student Success at sfs@utica.edu or 315-792-3179.

Military Tuition Assistance Program

Montgomery GI Bill® (Selected Reserve)

Application Procedure. Application forms are available at VA offices, the VA website (www.va.gov), active duty stations, American Embassies, and from the Utica University 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

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

Tuition Assistance for Vietnam Veterans

Application Procedure. A special application must be filed with the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC), Albany, NY 12255. An application must be filled after January 1 of the current academic year.

Proof of service in Indochina is necessary and 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.

The Fry Scholarship for Fallen Military Service members

Application Procedure. A special application can be downloaded from http://www.benefits.va.gov/GIBILL/Fry_scholarship.asp

Selection of Recipients and Allocation of Awards. Children of those who died in the line of duty and surviving spouses can be eligible for this scholarship opportunity.  Recipients and allocation of awards will be determined by the Department of Veteran Affairs. 

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

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.

Adult Career and Continuing Education Services - Vocational Rehab (ACCES-VR)

Application Procedure. Students with disabilities 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:

• The presence of a physical or mental disability that for the individual constitutes or results in a substantial handicap to employment; and
• 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 ACCES-VR 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.

Award Schedule. ACCES-VR 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 ACCES-VR economic need policy.

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

Financial Consumer Information

Conditions to Federal Financial Aid

• Selective Service Registration (Men Only) http://www.sss.gov/

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

This requirement was for the disbursement of funds. These funds included: 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

Federal regulations require completion of a Title IV Authorization for use of federal student aid to pay for allowable educationally related charges other than tuition, fees, room and board (if the student contracts with the school).  This can be rescinded in writing at any time to the Center for Student Success.

• Academic Status

All financial aid awards carry these stipulations:

That you maintain satisfactory academic progress toward a degree, taking pre-requisite courses to become matriculated, or to obtain teacher certification.

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

For additional information on academic standards and what constitutes satisfactory academic progress at Utica University please visit this the Academic Standards page.

At the end of each academic year, undergraduate students must have completed a cumulative GPA of 1.4 or better after their first academic year and a 2.0 or better after their second academic year and beyond. In addition, undergraduate students must have successfully completed at least 67% of the credit hours they attempted at the end of each academic year.

• 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 it 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. For on ground programs, the percent of aid earned is based on the date of withdrawal divided by the total number of days in the semester.  For distance education programs, the percent of aid earned is based on the last date of academic activity in the payment period. If the institutional charges are reduced or recalculated, this change may result in the reduction or loss of the 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 or last date of academic activity, and the student going through the Title IV earned aid calculation.

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 Center for Student Success 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

Student Bill and Funding

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).

Verification

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.

Federal Perkins

Students receiving Federal Perkins loans 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. These adjustments may include a reduction in aid based on changes in the student or family resources, or changes brought about because of other aid sources.

Federal Work-Study

Federal Work-Study will not be taken as a credit on student accounts; however, a payroll deduction form can be obtained from the Center for Student Success.

Accepting the Financial Aid Award

Students must actively accept or decline offered awards through Bannerweb. Loans can be accepted in full or partial award amounts.

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) 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. Signing the MPN can be completed electronically at https://studentaid.gov

Entrance Counseling

First time Federal Direct Student Loan (Subsidized/Unsubsidized) borrowers at the Utica University must complete the online loan entrance counseling before loan funds can be disbursed. Completion of the loan entrance counseling is a federal requirement that discusses your rights and responsibilities as a Federal Direct Student Loan borrower. Entrance counseling is completed electronically at https://studentaid.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 University 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 https://studentaid.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 University

All prospective and returning matriculated students taking at least six hours at Utica University 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 Center for Student Success for details.

This includes College Grants, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), Federal Work-Study (FWS), and Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP), which are described in the “Sources of Assistance” section. Students applying for all other aid described in the “Sources of Assistance” section that indicates a specialized application procedure need not follow these directions.

Students Applying for Admission and Applying for Aid

Application for Aid

Students must file the 2021 - 2022 FAFSA (online method preferred) so it is received by Utica University. This can be completed at https://studentaid.gov

Accepting the Award

• Students will be sent an award letter. Students must actively accept or decline offered awards through Bannerweb.

1. 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

Application for Aid

Students must file the 2021 - 2022 FAFSA (online method preferred) to the Federal Student Aid Processor. This can be completed at https://studentaid.gov

Accepting the Award

• Students will be sent an award letter. Students must actively accept or decline offered awards through Bannerweb.
• 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, etc.

Appeals

All students who feel that they have been given an inappropriate financial aid award can appeal the award.

• Submit a letter of appeal to the Center for Student Success with supporting documentation.
• The appeal will be reviewed by the Financial Aid Committee.
• The committee will not review requests for changes of an individual award that entail a revision of general policies.

Academic Standards

Federal Satisfactory Academic Progress

Policy For Undergraduate Financial Aid Applicants

Federal regulations (General Provision CRF 668.1) require that Utica University review the academic progress of students who apply for and/or receive financial assistance. Satisfactory academic progress is comprised of three areas as required by federal regulations. Students must complete their degree within a specified period, demonstrate they are making progress towards the completion of their degree by earning a minimum number of credits hours each semester, and achieve a GPA that is consistent with meeting graduation requirements. This regulation applies to each financial aid applicant, whether a previous recipient or not.

This policy on satisfactory academic progress relates specifically to undergraduate students who apply for and/or receive federal financial aid and/or Utica University scholarships and grants. In addition to meeting the standard for receiving financial aid, students must also meet the academic standards of Utica University. Note that the criteria for the New York State Tuition Assistance Program satisfactory academic progress differs from the federal and Utica University satisfactory academic progress criteria.

Financial Assistance Programs Affected

Annual Evaluation

Annual financial aid Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) evaluations will be completed at the end of each academic year and cannot take place until final grades have been posted. This review will determine academic eligibility for the upcoming summer, fall, and/or spring terms. Every student who applies for financial aid must be making Satisfactory Academic Progress, regardless of whether they are a first-time applicant or have received financial aid in the past. Any financial assistance offered for the year ahead is subject to cancellation if the minimum standards of satisfactory academic progress were not met in the year prior.

Incoming freshmen and new transfer students will be considered for financial aid for one academic year prior to the evaluation of Satisfactory Academic Progress. At the end of the first academic year of attendance at Utica University, all students will be evaluated based on the standards of their designated academic level. They will then be reviewed annually until graduation.

Each student’s record will be reviewed under the direction of the Director of Financial Aid. Students will be notified of their failure to meet the SAP guidelines via a letter from the Center for Student Success.

Federal/Institutional Standards

Students must earn 67% of attempted 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 for Summer.  If a student has successfully appealed SAP for the Summer semester they will be eligible for federal financial aid.

Standards for Receiving Aid:

All undergraduate students must earn 67% credits attempted per year and;

Maintain a cumulative GPA of 1.4 or better after their first academic year and a 2.0 or better after their second academic year and beyond.

Undergraduate students must complete their degree within maximum timeframe of 150% of the published length of the program.

Earned credit hours include:

Grades of A through D-, P, or S (with credit)

Transferred credits - provided they meet degree requirements

Credits earned from a Consortium Agreement or Study Abroad Program

Attempted credit hours include:

Completed credits - Passed (A through D-), Pass (P), Satisfactory (S)

Billed course hours

Repeated courses - both attempts

Withdrawals

Failures - Failed (F), Unsatisfactory (U) or No Credit (NC)

Incompletes (It is the responsibility of the student to notify the Center for Student Success when the incomplete grade is changed to a letter grade.)

All accepted transfer credits (including consortium agreements and Study Abroad courses) toward the degree program.

Note: P and NC are neutral grades that do not factor into the calculation of a term or cumulative GPA.

In accordance with the provisions of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), students may elect to utilize the option to have courses graded on a P/NC (Pass or No Credit) basis. Courses graded in this way will be recorded permanently on the transcript as such. Furthermore, P/NC grades for the Spring 2020 semester as a result of the qualifying emergency, COVID-19 pandemic, will be excluded from the quantitative component of satisfactory academic progress, i.e. the requirement to achieve completion of 67% of registered credits.  

Maximum Time Frame for Degree Completion

Federal regulations specify that a student must complete his/her degree within 150% of the published length of the program. For example, if a degree program requires 120 credits for completion, the maximum time frame is 180 attempted credits (120 x 150% = 180). Credits counted in the maximum time are all attempted credits (even when not a financial aid recipient). Federal regulations do not allow for the exclusion of courses in which a student has remained past the drop period and earned a grade of ‘W” from its calculation of the maximum time frame.  Students who change their major or add a second major still must adhere to the maximum time frame requirements.

Failure to Meet Satisfactory Academic Progress

Students failing to meet Satisfactory Academic Progress standards will lose their financial aid eligibility. They will be notified in writing of their status by the Center for Student Success.

Students terminated from receiving financial aid can re-establish eligibility. This is accomplished by successfully completing the required number of credit hours, and attaining the cumulative required grade point average by the end of the next semester. Neither paying for one’s classes nor sitting out a semester is sufficient to re-establish the financial aid eligibility of a student who has failed to meet SAP. If an unusual or extraordinary circumstance contributed to a student’s lack of satisfactory academic progress, the student may appeal the denial of financial aid.

Appeal Process

The letter of denial from the Center for Student Success will describe the appeal process and a SAP appeal application will be provided. Examples of unusual or extraordinary circumstances are a personal injury or illness, death of a relative, or other personal circumstances. Unusual or extraordinary circumstances do not include: withdrawing from classes to avoid failing grades, not buying books and/or supplies, pursuing a second major or degree, etc. The appeal must explain how the unusual or extraordinary circumstances have been resolved so that the student will now be able to complete the required number of credit hours or attain the required grade point average.

The appeal must be submitted to the Center for Student Success for evaluation. The Director of Financial Aid will respond to the appeal in writing, within two weeks after the date of receipt. All SAP decisions are final, and students cannot appeal the decision.

If the appeal is approved and the college determines that the student should be able to meet cumulative SAP standards by the end of the fall semester, the student may receive aid during the fall semester while on financial aid probation. Students who fail to make SAP by the end of the fall semester will have their future financial aid eligibility terminated, and they will be notified in writing by the Center for Student Success. If the appeal is approved and the college determines that the student will require more than one semester to meet cumulative SAP standards, the college may develop an academic plan specifically for the student. The student may also receive aid during the fall semester while on financial aid probation. All students on financial aid probation during the fall semester will have their SAP reevaluated before the spring semester.  To remain eligible for financial aid during the spring semester, the student must be meeting cumulative SAP standards, or the standards specified in their individual academic plan.  As stated previously, students terminated from receiving financial aid can reestablish eligibility by successfully earning the cumulative credits and GPA required for SAP at their own expense.

There is no limit to the number of appeals a student can submit if he or she can document there are new circumstances preventing the student from meeting SAP standards.

SAP appeals must be received by the last date of the semester for which they are appealing their eligibility. If students do not submit an appeal by the deadline he or she will lose their eligibility for Federal and institutional aid and will be responsible for any charges remaining on their account.

If students who decide to change their academic major or add a second major he or she are still responsible for meeting SAP for their program. Only credits that count towards the completion of their new degree can be used in determining whether or not a student has successfully obtained the passing level of 67% successful courses completed out of courses attempted.                                

Glossary of Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) Terms

Attempted credits -  any hours attempted by the student (includes completed credits, billed course hours, repeated courses, withdrawals, failures, incompletes, and all accepted transfer credits)

Billed course hours - most billable course hours can be considered attempted of hours if not retaking a course with a passing grade.

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 University.

Withdrawals - are considered in the charts as attempted, completed, or accrued credits.

Repeated courses - are considered as the credits enrolled and completed for a course previously failed. A withdrawal from the repeated course will increase the accrued credit hours.

Retaken courses - are considered as the credits enrolled and completed for a course previously passed. The retaken 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.

New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) Satisfactory Academic Progress

POLICY FOR UNDERGRADUATE FINANCIAL AID APPLICANTS

The New York State Education Department regulations regarding eligibility to receive Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) and all other New York State Scholarships require that students be in good academic standing. To maintain good academic standing a student receiving a general or academic performance award must: (1) make satisfactory academic progress (SAP) toward the completion of his or her program’s requirements, and (2) pursue the program of study in which he or she is enrolled. The two elements of satisfactory academic progress and program pursuit must be met for each term of study in which a State award is received.

To be making satisfactory academic progress toward a degree, students must maintain specified grade point averages and proceed through the program at a pace leading to completion within a specified time frame. Note that the criteria for the New York State Tuition Assistance Program satisfactory academic progress differ from the Federal and Utica University satisfactory academic progress criteria.

The tables below illustrates the specific requirements needed to receive TAP. It is important to note that the number of credit hours that must be completed and earned depends on the number of TAP payments the student has received, not on the year of enrollment. Visit the NYS HESC website (www.hesc.ny.gov) for full information.
 

Effective 2011-12 for non-remedial students receiving first New York State award payment in 2010-11 and thereafter:

Students enrolled in the HEOP program are eligible for ten TAP payments. The maximum number of payments for all other students is eight.

Pursuit of Program

Successful pursuit of the program requires students to enroll in courses that apply to their primary program of study. In pursuit of the program of study, students must enroll in a certain number of credit hours each semester and earn a specific number of credit hours for that semester. Program pursuit is defined in regulations as completing (getting a grade in) a percentage of the minimum full-time course load in each term an award is received. The percentage, as specified in regulations begins at 50 percent of the minimum full-time course load in each term of the first year an award is received, to 75 percent in each term of the second year an award is received, to 100 percent in each term of the third year an award is received and thereafter. Please see the chart below:
 

Pursuit is an effort or completion requirement rather than an achievement requirement, so courses in which a student receives either passing or failing grades can be used to satisfy the pursuit requirement. Thus, grades of A through F and any other grade that indicates the student completed the course and all necessary assignments (e.g., P, S, U, R) are acceptable to meet the pursuit requirement. W grades or any grade which indicates the student failed to complete the course or assignments cannot be used to satisfy the pursuit requirement. Incomplete (I) grades can be used to meet the pursuit requirement providing college policy requires the grade to be resolved to a passing or failing grade no later than the end of the subsequent term. (It is the responsibility of the student to notify the Office of Student Financial Services when the incomplete grade is changed to a letter grade.)

Grades earned in remedial courses as well as credit-bearing courses can be included in meeting the pursuit requirement.

Note: Credit-bearing courses in the student’s minimum full-time course load (12 semester hours or the equivalent) must consist of courses applicable to the student’s program of study as a general education requirement, major requirement, or elective. The only exception is in the student’s final term of study: if the student needs fewer than 12 credits to complete the program, other courses may be included to determine full-time status even if not required to complete graduation requirements.

Failure to meet Pursuit of Program will result in the loss of state financial aid eligibility.

Failure to Meet Satisfactory Academic Progress

Students failing to meet Satisfactory Academic Progress standards will lose their state financial aid eligibility. They will be notified in writing of their status by the Center for Student Success.

Students who have lost good academic standing may restore this standing in one of the following ways:

• Make up past academic deficiencies by completing one or more terms of study without receiving any state grants or scholarships;
• Be readmitted to school after an absence of at least one calendar; or
• Transfer to another institution.
• Be granted a state SAP appeal

Neither paying for one’s classes nor sitting out a semester is sufficient to re-establish the state financial aid eligibility of a student who has failed to meet SAP. If an unusual or extraordinary circumstance contributed to a student’s lack of satisfactory academic progress, the student may appeal the denial of state financial aid.

The Center for Student Success will notify students who fail to meet the New York State criteria for receiving TAP. These students will receive an academic deficiency letter indicating how they lost TAP eligibility and what is required in order to re-establish TAP eligibility.

Students found ineligible to receive their next TAP payment may have their eligibility for that payment restored if an unusual or extraordinary circumstance contributed to the student’s lack of satisfactory academic progress. The student may submit a written appeal to the Center for Student Success detailing the extenuating or mitigating circumstances and provide documentation where applicable.

Appeal Process

The letter of denial from the Center for Student Success will describe the appeal process and a SAP appeal application will be provided. Examples of unusual or extraordinary circumstances are a personal injury or illness, death of a relative, or other personal circumstances. Unusual or extraordinary circumstances do not include: withdrawing from classes to avoid failing grades, not buying books and/or supplies, pursuing a second major or degree, etc. The appeal must explain how the unusual or extraordinary circumstances have been resolved so that the student will now be able to complete the required number of credit hours or attain the required grade point average.

The appeal must be submitted to the Center for Student Success for evaluation. The Executive Director of Student Success will respond to the appeal in writing.

Please be aware that an appeal may only be approved once. Students who lose TAP eligibility a second time can only re-establish eligibility for future TAP payments by successfully completing the required number of credit hours and by attaining the overall required grade point average by the end of the next semester.

Failure to Meet Academic Standards

Students who fail to make satisfactory academic progress (SAP) will lose eligibility for financial aid from Federal, state, and College sources. Students may apply for a SAP appeal for the reinstatement of aid on the basis of extraordinary and unusual circumstances with appropriate documentation. The Executive Director for Student Success will consider the student’s full history when determining if a SAP appeal is appropriate. For further details regarding aid reinstatement, contact the Center for Student Success.

Return to Title IV Federal Refund Policy

This policy is for all students receiving federal and/or institutional aid who completely withdraw from classes. This includes students who complete the official withdrawal process and students who unofficially withdraw by ceasing to attend classes.

Federal financial aid (Title IV funds) is awarded to a student under the assumption that the student will attend school for the entire period for which the assistance is awarded. When a student withdraws or stops attending all of his or her classes before completing more than 60% of the enrollment period, the student may no longer be eligible for the full amount of federal financial aid the student was originally awarded.

A student who withdraws or stops attending a class that only meets for part of the term and is not attending another class at that time may provide a written statement to the college indicating his or her intent to attend the future class within that term. If the student does not submit the statement or submits the statement and doesn’t actually attend, the student is considered a withdrawal and a Return to Title IV calculation must be completed.

A student’s Federal aid must be recalculated based on the number of days the student attended classes. This return calculation is not the same as the College’s tuition refund policy.

A simple equation to explain the process is:

(% of term completed) x (total aid awarded) = earned aid
(Total aid awarded) - (earned aid) = unearned aid to be returned to the federal government

The College is required to return unearned financial aid to the Federal government for all withdrawals.

If there are any outstanding financial obligations to the College a hold will be placed on your student account and it will prevent all requests for transcripts, registration, and graduation. 

If you are considering dropping or withdrawing from your courses, please contact the Center for Student Success immediately regarding the financial implications of this decision.

Withdrawals are processed as soon as possible but no later than 45 days after the school determined that the student withdrew.

Financial Aid funds are returned to the Federal Department of Education in the following order:

Unsubsidized Direct Loans (other than Direct PLUS Loans)

Subsidized Direct Loans

Direct PLUS Loans

Federal Pell Grants for which a return of Title IV funds is required

FSEOG for which a return of Title IV funds is required

If a student is subject to an overaward of Federal financial aid funds he or she will only become overpayments if Utica University cannot correct them before funds are disbursed to a student. An overpayment exists when some or all of the funds that make up an overaward have been disbursed to the student.

If a student is responsible for repaying the overpayment and the student withdrew after the 60% point in the payment period or period of attendance, as applicable, Utica University will attempt to collect the overpayment from the student by issuing a student bill for immediate payment.  If the college is unable to collect the overaward from the student, the student will be reported to the Department’s Default Resolution Group for future collection actions.

Return to Title IV Federal Refund Policy for Programs Offered in Modules

A program is considered to be offered in modules if a course or courses in the program do not span the entire length of the payment period or period of enrollment.  For example, for online programs at Utica each semester is 16 weeks, but each course is only 8 weeks.  This means that our online programs are considered modular programs.

As defined in the July 1, 2021 final regulations, for all programs offered in modules, a student is a withdrawal for Title IV purposes if the student ceases attendance at any point prior to completing the payment period or period of enrollment. When a student withdraws or stops attending all of their classes before completing more than 49% of the enrollment period, the student may no longer be eligible for the full amount of federal financial aid the student was originally awarded. Exceptions to this rule are: if the institution has written confirmation from the student that they will attend a module that begins later in the same enrollment period; the student completes the requirements for graduation; the student completes one or more modules that, together, comprise at least 49% of the days in the payment period; or the student completes coursework equal to or greater than the coursework required for half-time enrollment. 

The regulations require the institution to determine whether Title IV funds must be returned based on the number of days actually completed versus the number of days the student was scheduled to attend in the payment period.  The new regulations prevent students from enrolling in modules spanning the period, completing a portion of the period, and retaining all aid for the period.

Schools can determine whether a student enrolled in a series of modules is a withdrawal by asking the following questions:

1. After beginning attendance in the payment period or period of enrollment, did the student cease to attend, or fail to begin attendance in a course s/he was scheduled to attend?

If the answer is NO, this is not a withdrawal.

If the answer is YES, go to question 2.

2. When the student ceased to attend or failed to begin attendance in a course s/he was scheduled to attend, was the student still attending any other courses?

If the answer is YES, this is not a withdrawal; however other regulatory provisions concerning recalculation may apply.

If the answer is NO, go to question 3.

3. Did the Student confirm attendance in a course in a module beginning later in the period (for non-term and nonstandard term programs, this must be no later than 45 calendar days after the end of the module the student ceased attending)?

If the answer is YES, this is not a withdrawal, unless the student does not return.

If the answer is NO, this is a withdrawal and the Return to Title IV Funds requirements apply.

Refund Policies

Refund Policy for Main Campus Students

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.  There is no rebate applicable to deferred fees or other fees.  (See also “Housing Policy” in the student handbook).   The following refund schedule applies only to the standard fall and spring terms for complete withdrawal from the college.

Please be aware - Programs with earlier start dates will not follow this refund schedule.  Please refer to your department for exact dates.  This may affect any financial aid and the billing statements. Any concerns, please contact a Financial Counselor in the Center for Student Success at 315.792.3179 or sfs@utica.edu

Refund Schedule:

Tuition
On or before the scheduled drop/add deadline for the term: 100%
through the 7 days following drop/add deadline for the term: 90%
through the 14 days following drop/add deadline for the term: 50%
through the 24 days following drop/add deadline for the term: 25%

Thereafter, no refund will be given.

Room
100% Refund through end of week 2

Board
100% prior to 1st meal offered.

Pro-rated through end of week 9

Students who partially drop but are still in attendance for one or more classes at the College will receive a 100% refund for the first week only (fall and spring terms).  Thereafter, no refund will be given.

During any term there are no refunds for partial withdrawals after the drop/add period.

Refund Policy for Online and Hybrid Students

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. Please refer to your department for exact dates. The student will need to contact his or her Financial Aid Counselor to discuss the financial implications of the withdrawal. The student may need to receive an official withdrawal code from the Financial Aid Counselor to complete the process. Any refund resulting from completion of the process will be issued within 30 days.  Title IV recipients, please be aware, any financial aid withdrawal calculations are based on the last date of academic activity in the course(s).

Please be aware - this may affect any financial aid and the billing statements.  Any concerns, please contact a Financial Counselor in the Center for Student Success at 315.792.3179 or sfs@utica.edu

Undergraduate Online and Hybrid Students

• Tuition (complete withdrawal)
• 100% refund on or before the scheduled drop/add deadline for the period of enrollment (up until midnight EST)
• Thereafter, no refund will be given

Undergraduate Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) Students

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. Please refer to your department for exact dates. The student will need to contact his or her Financial Aid Counselor to discuss the financial implications of the withdrawal. The student may need to receive an official withdrawal code from the Financial Aid Counselor to complete the process. Any refund resulting from completion of the process will be issued within 30 days.  Title IV recipients, please be aware, any financial aid withdrawal calculations are based on the last date of academic activity in the course(s).

Please be aware - this may affect any financial aid and the billing statements.  Any concerns, please contact a Financial Counselor in the Center for Student Success at 315.792.3179 or sfs@utica.edu

• Tuition (Complete Withdrawal)
• 100% refund on or before the scheduled drop/add deadline for the period of enrollment (up until midnight EST)
• Thereafter, no refund will be given

Annual Cost of Attendance 2021-2022

Please visit the following links for annual cost of attendance.

Main Campus Undergraduate 

Online Undergraduate

ABSN

Net Price Calculator

Utica University’s Net Price Calculator is a tool designed to provide first year students and their families an early indication of what the net price for a Utica University 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 Utica University 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/npc

Tuition and Expenses

Undergraduate, on-ground tuition at Utica University is payable on a per semester basis, plus a student activities fee, a technology fee, and a health and safety fee. In addition, there is a fee-per-term for each laboratory science course and for occupational therapy laboratory courses. In the face of rising costs, charges will be subject to change.

Undergraduate students and Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) students should consult the Utica University website for program tuition and fee charges.

Students who plan to live in the residence halls should budget accordingly. See “Schedule of Tuition, Fees, and Deposits” at http://www.utica.edu/enrollment/

Payment Plan

Although semester balances are due and payable by a designated date for graduate and undergraduate on-ground students, payment plans are available for the Fall and Spring terms. To enroll in Utica University’s payment plan the student must log in to their Banner Web account: Go to bannerweb.utica.edu then follow this path: Student Account > Access My Account > Installment Payment Plans. Then choose the appropriate option.

The payment plan for main campus students (undergraduate and graduate) is divided into six (6) monthly payments with a $75 enrollment fee for the semester.  The remaining balance will be payable in five installments during the course of the semester. Graduate and undergraduate on-ground students should refer to http://www.utica.edu/finance/sfs for important dates and deadlines listed on your payment guide.

Online and ABSN students have a four-payment plan with one-fourth due 3-4 weeks prior to the start of the semester. Online and ABSN students should refer to the Academic Calendar for important dates and deadlines.

Credit-Hour Charges

Full tuition is charged for both day and continuing education students for 12 credit hours with a maximum of 19 hours for all majors. For each credit hour above this limit, students will be charged a per credit hour rate.

Permission to register for more than nine credits during the summer session will be granted only with approval of the school dean and is only allowable for matriculated students.

Undergraduate on-ground students carrying less than 12 hours are charged at a per credit hour rate.

An independent study course, not part of a full-time program, is charged at the undergraduate on-ground rate.

Tuition for experience credit is $431 per credit hour rate for main campus students, and charged at the per credit hour rate for other programs (Online and ABSN tuition rates).

Online and ABSN students should refer to the Utica University website for specific program rates.

Financial Responsibility

All students are responsible for any College debts they have incurred, including library fees, parking fines, tuition charges, fees, monetary penalties, fines, and any changes in their financial aid packages. A student will not receive their transcript until all bills have been paid. A student who is graduating will not receive his or her diploma until all outstanding debts have been paid.

If a college debt must be referred to outside sources for collection, the student will be responsible for paying any additional collection costs including, but not limited to, reasonable attorneys’ fees and disbursements.

Schedule of Tuition, Fees, and Deposits

Full Time Fees

    Full-time, on-ground Tuition (per semester) ………………….  $11,157

    Student Activity Fee (per semester) ……………………………………  $75

    Technology Fee (per semester) ………………………………………..  $175

    Health and Safety Fee (per semester) ………………………………… $100

    Excess Credit Tuition (per credit hour) ……………………………..  $743

Part-time Tuition for matriculated student

    (per credit hour, less than 12 hours) ………………………………….. $743

Tuition that differs from undergraduate on-ground available online.

One-Time Fees

Application Fee (new students only) ………………………..  $40

Graduation Fee ……………………………………………………..  $55

Academic Service Fees

All-Access Book Fee (per credit hour)………………………. $26

Technology Fee - per semester

 (students enrolled in less than 12 hours……………………. $67

Film Course Fee……………………………………… $50

Laboratory Fee………………………………………………………. $65

(per course for laboratory science, and occupational therapy
laboratory, studio, and workshop courses)

Gross Anatomy Laboratory Fee…………………………….. $150

(Biology 201, Physical Therapy 201)   

Distance Learning Support Services

per course (full-time and part-time students)……………… $70

Administrative Service Fees

Affiliation Change Fee……………………………………………. $60

Payment Plan Enrollment Fee for on-ground students
(per semester)……………………………………………………….. $75

Late Payment Fee…………………………………………………… $50

Paper Transcript Fee………………………………………………… $5

Insufficient Funds Check Fee (per return by bank)…….. $30

Deposits

Accepted Candidate Deposit for new students………… $ 300

(Non-refundable after May 1 for on ground students)

HEOP Deposit ……………………………………………………. $200

Room Deposit for Returning Resident Students ………  $200

Deferred Enrollment Deposit (non-refundable) ……….  $200

Gymnasium Locker Deposit ……………………………………..  $5

All fees and deposits listed above are for the 2021 - 2022 academic year.

Schedule of Room and Board Charges

* Please note that tripling may occasionally be necessary due to space constraints. On those occasions, the triple room rate reflects a twenty-percent discount from the double room rate for the respective residence hall. The double room rate will apply for students electing to remain in a triple room when double rooms become available.

Scholarships, Grants and Awards 

Utica University 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. Incoming students are evaluated at the time of admissions, and returning students will be invited to apply. For more information see: www.utica.edu/finance/sfs/options/index.cfm