Financial Aid

The purpose of financial aid and scholarships is to supplement your and your family’s contributions toward the cost of attendance, as well as to recognize academic achievement and special talents. Ohio University offers a variety of scholarship, grant, loan, and part–time employment programs to assist you in financing your education. The Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (OSFAS) is responsible for the processing and awarding of all types of federal, state, private, and institutional (University) funds to students.

Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships
Ohio University
Chubb Hall 020
Athens OH 45701–2979
Telephone: 740.593.4141 (M–F 8 a.m.–5 p.m.)
Fax: 740.593.4140
financial.aid@ohio.edu
http://www.ohio.edu/financialaid/

All information in this section is subject to change because of congressional action or changes in federal regulations.

Click on a link to be taken to the entry below.

• Types of Financial Assistance
• Application Procedure
• Cost of Attendance
• Determining Need
• Eligibility Requirements
• Independent and Distance Learning Courses
• Award Package
• Award Letters
• Award Disbursements
• Withdrawal Policy for Financial Aid Recipients
• Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) Standards
• Descriptions of Available Aid

All types of financial assistance fall within two major categories—gift aid and self–help aid. Scholarships and grants are considered gift aid; loans and employment are considered self–help aid. These aid programs may be awarded on the basis of merit, financial need, or a combination of both. Scholarships are considered merit awards; other types of aid are based on financial need. Scholarships and grants do not have to be repaid; loans, however, must be repaid by the borrower.

Gift Aid

Scholarships. Ohio University has an extensive undergraduate scholarship program available to freshmen and upperclassmen (sophomores, juniors, and seniors). Scholarships are awarded on a competitive basis for academic achievement and special talent, as well as on the basis of geographical residence and area of study. Financial need is not always a prerequisite. Students are encouraged to seek outside scholarships from private sources.

Grants. Most grant aid is awarded on some type of need–based eligibility criteria. The sources include federal, state and institutional.

Self–Help Aid

Loans. Student loans play a significant role in financing postsecondary education. Ohio University participates in the William D. Ford Federal Direct Student Loan Program, which allows students to borrow directly from the federal government through Ohio University. These educational loans have favorable terms and conditions. Students should view borrowing as an investment in their futures. However, loans represent debts that must be repaid, and failure to repay will result in severe penalties.

Employment. Ohio University has a variety of student employment programs available to provide self–help aid if you wish to work on a part–time basis while pursuing your education. You should attempt to establish a reasonable balance between your academic efforts and your work schedule. Consequently, you may not work more than 20 hours a week on campus when classes are in session. Ohio University is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer.  The University is committed to the policy that no employer may discriminate on the basis of race, sex, creed, ethnic origin, or handicap in employment practices. There will be no discrimination because of age, except as governed by state and federal laws and guidelines. (See “Institutional Equity” in the Services for Students section of this catalog.)

Need–Based Financial Aid

There are many types of federal need–based financial aid: Federal Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, Academic Competitiveness Grant, National SMART Grant, Federal Work–Study, Federal Perkins Loan, and William D. Ford Federal Direct Subsidized Student Loan. Other types of financial aid, such as the Ohio University Access Grant, Ohio University Bobcat Award Program, Ohio University Regional Campus Grant, and Ohio College Opportunity Grant, are also available. To apply for all sources of financial aid, complete the U.S. Department of Education’s Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) on the Web at http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/, after January 1. You and your parent should each get a Personal Identification Number (PIN) from the Department of Education to electronically sign your FAFSA on the Web. You and your parent should visit http://pin.ed.gov/ to get your PIN before filing the FAFSA. You can also obtain a paper FAFSA by calling 800–4–FED–AID (800–433–3243), after January 1. However, we recommend filing the FAFSA on the Web to reduce errors and speed processing time. We recommend you complete your FAFSA on the Web by February 15, in order for your FAFSA results to be received by the University before the March 15 priority deadline.

If you must make corrections to the information on your FAFSA, provide documentation of those changes to the OSFAS. Appropriate corrections will be made.

Three of the seven need–based aid programs (Federal Work–Study [FWS], Federal Perkins Loan, and the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant [FSEOG]) are called campus–based aid (CBA). Campus–based aid is awarded differently, in that CBA funds are sent directly to the University from the federal government. The funds are then awarded by the aid administrator using federal eligibility criteria. Funding for these programs and for institutional grants is limited; therefore, priority is given to those students who demonstrate the highest financial need and who meet Ohio University’s priority deadline of March 15. However, it is recommended that all students file the FAFSA. The Federal Pell Grant and the Federal Direct Student Loan program do not have priority deadlines.

Federal regulations and institutional policies are subject to change without prior notice. The OSFAS will attempt to keep you updated through various media on campus, such as the OSFAS Web site, student e–mail, and/or written notices. To avoid costly delays, it is vital that you update your permanent and local addresses with the Office of the University Registrar (http://www.ohio.edu/registrar/myaddress.cfm), and regularly access your university e–mail account. 

Merit–Based Financial Aid

Freshman Scholarships. There is no application for freshman scholarships at Ohio University. Simply complete the Application for Admission and Scholarships available from the Office of Undergraduate Admissions or apply online at http://www.ohio.edu/admissions. To be considered a priority applicant, you must be accepted for admission by February 1. Eligible applicants are considered for all scholarships.

To assure consideration for all possible institutional scholarship awards, you must also complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and have the results on file by March 15. If you plan to enter the College Of Fine Arts, you also will be evaluated by interview and portfolio or audition.

Many scholarships require a student to enroll for 16 hours per quarter. Please review your online award letter for the hours requirement for your specific scholarship award.

Upperclass and Transfer Student Scholarships (Undergraduate). You can apply for Deans Scholarships and other upperclass scholarships by completing Ohio University’s online scholarship application. The eligibility requirements for most upperclass scholarships include: an accumulative GPA of 3.4 or above by the end of winter quarter of the application year; at least 32 credit hours earned during the fall and winter quarters of the application year; and at least 48 credit hours earned over fall, winter, and spring quarters combined. You also must have completed at least two quarters at Ohio University.

To apply for an upperclass scholarship, complete the online scholarship application through the OSFAS Web site. The application period opens the first week of winter quarter, and the application deadline is the last day of winter quarter final exams.

All transfer students admitted by May 15 will automatically be considered for scholarships awarded by the Office of Admissions based on the transcripts submitted for review. No separate application is required.

If you receive a scholarship, you are required to enroll for and earn a minimum of 16 hours per quarter.

Regional Campus Scholarships. Upperclass students must complete their applications online by using the online scholarship application on the OSFAS Web site. The criteria are somewhat different from those on the Athens campus, and you should check with the individual regional campus for application deadlines.

Each year, the Ohio University Board of Trustees determines the fixed costs (tuition and fees, out–of–state surcharge, and room and board rates on campus). Variable indirect costs (books and supplies, travel, and personal and miscellaneous) are estimated by the OSFAS to arrive at a reasonable estimate of the total cost for the academic year. Estimates are based on the Consumer Price Index and biannual surveys. The total fixed and variable costs make up your total Cost of Attendance (Budget) for the academic year. Final annual budgets are available from the OSFAS after July 1 of each award year.

Completion of the FAFSA will determine your Expected Family Contribution (EFC). This EFC does not indicate the actual amount your family is expected to contribute toward your postsecondary expenses. Rather it is a figure used to determine your aid eligibility. The EFC is the result of all information provided on your FAFSA and is calculated according to a formula established by law.

Special circumstances, such as divorce, separation, unemployment, or death in the family, should be discussed with a financial aid administrator to determine if adjustments should be made to your FAFSA information.

The following formula is used for calculating financial need:

To receive federal and state aid you must:

1. Be a U.S. citizen (U.S. national or permanent resident) or other eligible noncitizen status.
2. Comply with U.S. Selective Service registration requirements.
3. Be enrolled or accepted for enrollment in a degree–seeking program. Certificate programs or preparatory coursework cases should be discussed with a financial aid administrator.
4. Be making satisfactory academic progress as defined by Ohio University and the OSFAS. (See Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards.)
5. Not be in default on a Federal Perkins Loan, a Federal Family Educational Loan (FFEL), Federal Direct Student Loan, or Federal Supplemental Loan for Undergraduate Students (SLS), from any school, agency, or lender, or owe a repayment on any Title IV funds. (Parents also must not be in default if applying for a PLUS loan.)

Some types of financial aid, such as most grants, are not available if you have already earned a bachelor’s degree.

Students pursuing coursework through the Ohio University Office of Independent and Distance Learning are considered for the Federal Pell Grant and Federal Direct Student Loan, once the results of the FAFSA have been received by the OSFAS. Financial aid awards are calculated differently for distance learning courses than they are for traditional coursework. The amount of any Pell Grant award is determined by the student’s cost of attendance, which includes tuition and fees as well as a book allowance, the number of credit hours the student is taking, and the EFC as calculated by the U.S. Department of Education. Federal Direct Student Loan eligibility is determined by the cost of attendance not covered by the Pell Grant, the number of credit hours the student is taking, and the EFC. The Pell Grant is paid in two disbursements. The first disbursement (half of the annual award) is made once the OSFAS has received notification from the Office of Independent and Distance Learning that 25 percent of the student’s coursework has been completed. The final disbursement is made once the OSFAS has received notification that 75 percent of the student’s coursework has been completed. The Federal Direct Student Loan is also paid in two disbursements. The first disbursement (half of the annual award) is made once the student has registered for courses. The final disbursement is made after the halfway point in a student’s enrollment period, provided that the OSFAS has received notification that 50 percent of coursework has been completed. The cycle for correspondence coursework runs from July to June; Pell Grants for the award year must be disbursed by September 1. The deadline for disbursement of Federal Direct Student Loans is based on the student’s enrollment date. Please contact the OSFAS for further information.

Students pursuing correspondence studies must also meet Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) standards to remain eligible for financial aid. SAP standards are calculated differently for correspondence studies than they are for traditional coursework. For details of correspondence SAP policies, please contact the OSFAS.

After the FAFSA results and other requested documents have been received, reviewed for accuracy, and verified (if applicable), an award package is offered to all eligible applicants. The award package can be a combination of merit scholarships; institutional, state, and federal grants; employment; and loan assistance. Not all students receive all types of financial aid, but in general the OSFAS attempts to balance gift aid (grants and scholarships) with self–help aid (employment and loans), within the limits of available funds and the eligibility and need of the applicants. If you meet the March 15 priority deadline, you may receive a more attractive package than if you apply later.

Notification of specific award offers will be sent to eligible applicants, because all eligible applicants qualify for some form of aid. Award notifications will be e–mailed to enrolled students and award information is available online at www.ohio.edu/financialaid. Certain students will have letters mailed to permanent or local addresses. If you are adjusting or declining any of the awards, you can do so through your online award letter, or you can return the award letter indicating the changes to the OSFAS. All awards are subject to revision because of changes in federal allocations, student eligibility (EFC), clerical errors, failure to provide requested documents, or other circumstances beyond our control.

Federal aid recipients must be officially enrolled in a degree–seeking program to receive any type of financial assistance. All requested documents (e.g., income tax returns and W–2s) used in verifying the data provided on the FAFSA must be received by the OSFAS before financial aid can be disbursed. Disbursement dates and procedures will vary depending on the type of awards offered. Specific dates and information regarding the disbursement of financial aid are listed in each quarter’s Schedule of Classes. In general, financial aid awards will be credited to your account each quarter, and total financial aid credits greater than your University charges will be mailed to your local address. For direct deposits, refunds from your student account are processed on a daily basis, beginning on the first day of classes. For paper checks, refunds from your student account are mailed on Fridays, once classes have begun.

Federal Work–Study awards are not credited to your account because these awards must be earned before being paid. You will be paid by check or direct deposit every two weeks.

Please note the payment due dates on the eBill from the Office of the Bursar. (See the Schedule of Classes each quarter for specific disbursement dates.) If you will be away from campus in a co–op or education abroad, contact the OSFAS well in advance to discuss your eligibility and arrange for disbursement of your financial aid.

Title IV Funds

You are a Title IV financial aid recipient if you receive a Federal Direct Loan (Subsidized, Unsubsidized, or PLUS), Federal Perkins Loan, Federal Pell Grant, Federal SEOG, Academic Competitiveness Grant, National SMART Grant, or TEACH Grant. If you receive Title IV financial aid and withdraw from Ohio University, the amount of aid earned and unearned will be calculated using the Federal Return of Title IV Funds policy. This policy is a formula that measures the percentage of days enrolled during a quarter. The percentage is determined by dividing the number of days enrolled by the number of calendar days in the quarter, including weekends and holidays. Based on this percentage, Title IV financial aid will be prorated to reflect the amount of aid that was earned during the period of enrollment. The amount of aid that is earned will remain on your student account and the amount of aid that is unearned will be returned to the appropriate program. Once the attendance percentage reaches 60 percent, all Title IV aid is considered to be earned.

If it is determined that Title IV funds need to be returned, by Federal Law they will be returned in the following order: Unsubsidized Direct Loans, Subsidized Direct Loans, Federal Perkins Loans, Federal PLUS Loans, Federal Pell Grant, Academic Competitiveness Grant, National SMART Grant, Federal SEOG, TEACH Grant, and other Title IV assistance.

State and Institutional Grants

If you receive financial aid that consists of state or University grant funds, they are subject to the University Refund Policy. If you officially withdraw during the first 15 calendar days of the quarter, 80% of the grant funds will be returned to the appropriate program. After the first 15 calendar days of the quarter, 100% of the grant funds will remain on your student account.

Undergraduate and Graduate Scholarships

If you receive financial aid that consists of undergraduate or graduate scholarships, they are subject to a special university policy. If you officially withdraw during the first 15 calendar days of the quarter, 100% of the scholarship funds will be returned to the appropriate program. After the first 15 calendar days of the quarter, 100% of the scholarship funds will remain on your student account.

Unofficial Withdrawals

If you stop attending the University and do not officially withdraw, it is considered to be an unofficial withdrawal and will be subject to the above Withdrawal Policies. The date of withdrawal will be the latest date based on a student’s attendance at an academically related event. If the last date of attendance is not known, the midpoint of the quarter will be used as the withdrawal date. If you never attend all of the courses you have registered for, you are considered to be an unofficial withdrawal. It is determined you have not earned any financial aid. Therefore, all aid will be returned to the appropriate program.

If you are receiving financial aid, a change in your enrollment status or your withdrawal from the University may result in you having to repay programs from which you received financial assistance. In addition, you may owe fees to the University after funds are returned to the financial aid programs.

A student is not eligible for a refund until all Federal Title IV programs and other grants and scholarships are reimbursed as required, and all outstanding balances with the University have been cleared.

Federal regulations require that all financial aid applicants meet Ohio University’s satisfactory academic progress standards: (1) minimum credit hours earned for the appropriate enrollment status (full time, three–quarter time, half time, or less than half time); (2) maximum time frame during which a degree or certificate must be granted; and (3) minimum 2.0 accumulative GPA.

Minimum credit hour standards require you to earn a minimum number of hours based on your enrollment status. As an undergraduate student, you are required to earn 12 hours if you are enrolled full time; 9 hours if you are enrolled three–quarter time; 6 hours if you are enrolled half time; and all hours attempted if you are enrolled less than half time. Your minimum credit hour requirement is determined based on your enrollment as of the fifteenth calendar day of the quarter.

Maximum time frame standards require you to complete a degree in a timely manner. A bachelor’s degree student can remain eligible through the first 288 hours of undergraduate enrollment. A student seeking an associate’s degree can remain eligible through the first 135 hours of enrollment. Students seeking an associate’s degree in nursing can remain eligible through the first 162 hours.

If you are a first–time federal aid applicant, you must earn a minimum 2.0 accumulative GPA by the end of your second academic year of enrollment. If you are a continuing aid applicant, you must maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA. If you are a transfer student, hours accepted by Ohio University will be included as part of the maximum time frame toward the completion of a degree or certificate and as part of the minimum credit hour component of SAP. If you are re–enrolling, your prior Ohio University hours are considered in determining satisfactory academic progress. If you attend summer sessions, you will have the time frame, hours attempted, and GPA counted for that quarter. In the event of repeated courses, only the final hours count toward the completion of a degree or certificate, but courses count toward both the minimum credit hour component and the maximum timeframe component of SAP each time they are taken. Proper withdrawal from classes prior to the 15th day of enrollment will not affect the fulfillment of the requirements, but attempted hours after the 15th day of enrollment will be counted.

You will be notified annually if your SAP status is other than satisfactory after spring quarter grades are recorded. If you are placed on warning status, you are considered on probation for financial aid purposes for the following academic year. During this probationary period, you remain eligible to receive any financial aid for which you qualify. Your SAP status is reviewed again in the next annual review, which takes place after spring quarter. Students in warning status will not have their aid packaged for the following year until they are found to be in “satisfactory” SAP status during the annual review in June. If you still do not meet SAP standards when you are reviewed again, you are placed on unsatisfactory status and are not eligible to receive any financial aid for that academic year. You may appeal the decision if your failure to meet SAP criteria was due to mitigating circumstances. Appeal forms are available on the OSFAS Web page and must be submitted no later than the 21st day of the quarter in which reinstatement of aid is sought. Please contact the OSFAS for specific dates.

If you are placed on warning status and decide to attend summer sessions, you should be prepared to do so at your own expense. Summer classes will have been in session for one to two weeks before the SAP annual review; therefore, your SAP status might become unsatisfactory for the summer term, and you would be ineligible for financial aid for that session.

Eligibility and Renewal Criteria for Scholarships

If you receive scholarship aid, you must meet the following requirements before you can be considered for renewal (if your scholarship is renewable) or be considered an eligible applicant for nonrenewable scholarships:

Hours Requirement. If you receive scholarship aid while attending the Athens campus, you must earn a minimum number of credit hours for each quarter during the academic year for which you receive funds. Students with disabilities or those experiencing extenuating circumstances making them unable to carry the required course load should contact the Associate Director of Scholarships and Client Services to submit an appeal. If you attend a regional campus and receive a regional campus scholarship, you must earn at least 12 credit hours for each quarter during the academic year for which you receive the award.

GPA and Hours Requirements for Renewable Scholarships. To renew the Gateway Excellence Scholarship, you must carry at least 16 hours per quarter and earn at least 48 credit hours with an accumulative GPA of at least 3.3 annually. To renew the Gateway Scholarship, you must carry at least 12 credit hours per quarter and earn an accumulative GPA of at least 3.0 annually. To renew the Gateway Trustee Award for nonresident students, you must carry at least 12 credit hours per quarter and earn an accumulative GPA of at least 3.0 annually.

National Merit Scholarships and outside agency scholarships have different GPA requirements, set by the National Merit Corporation and outside agencies. Academic requirements for regional campus scholarships vary. Contact the Office of Student Services at your campus for further information.

Gift Aid—Scholarships

Below is a listing of some of the scholarships offered at Ohio University. A complete listing of all scholarships is available on the OSFAS Web site.

Gateway Award Program. The Gateway Award Program is a combination of scholarship and grant opportunities for incoming freshmen students. The program comprises the Gateway Excellence Scholarship and the Gateway Scholarship, which are based on academic merit as, demonstrated by ACT or SAT results and high school GPA; and the Gateway Grant, which is based on both academic merit and financial need, as demonstrated by FAFSA results. This program will affect many students who enter Ohio University with a composite ACT of at least 25 or a combined SAT score of at least 1130, and a minimum high school GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Eligible recipients who are non–Ohio residents will receive a $6,000 discount off the nonresident surcharge. More details about specific eligibility criteria for this program can be found at http://www.ohio.edu/admissions/gateway/.

Deans Scholarships. These scholarships are one–year awards, valued at $1,250 to $2,000, for upperclass students who have earned more than 48 credit hours. Selection is based on undergraduate enrollment, hours earned, and accumulative GPA. You must reapply and compete annually for renewal. To be considered, you must have a 3.4 accumulative GPA after winter quarter, have earned 32 hours during fall and winter quarters, and be projected to earn 48 credit hours for the year. Recipients must carry at least 16 hours each quarter to receive the award.

Fine Arts Talent Awards. These scholarships, with varying award amounts, are awarded to students in the College of Fine Arts, based on academic test scores, class rank, and talent. The College of Fine Arts places particular emphasis on talent through an audition or portfolio review for applicants. To renew the award, recipients must maintain a 3.0 accumulative GPA and earn 48 credit hours a year. Recipients must carry at least 16 hours each quarter to receive the award.

Templeton Scholar Awards. These scholarships are valued at the cost of in–state tuition and fees, room, board, and a book allowance and are awarded to academically talented incoming first–year students from disproportionately represented groups. The awards are renewable for three additional years for a total of 12 quarters of undergraduate study on the Athens campus. To renew the award, recipients must maintain a 3.0 accumulative GPA and earn 48 credit hours a year. Recipients must carry at least 16 hours each quarter to receive the award. In addition to the scholarship, the award includes an academic success program.

Urban Scholars Program. The Urban Scholars Program is a scholarship initiative that actively seeks high school students from urban areas to come to Ohio University. Students from historically disproportionately represented groups are eligible for the program, which provides scholarship support to those who demonstrate excellent academic achievement and financial need. The Urban Scholars Program includes: a four–year renewable scholarship, an annual book stipend, participation in a summer prematriculation program, participation in academic support seminars, a mentoring experience with an Ohio University alum throughout the student’s academic career, funding to attend an approved professional conference in the junior year, an annual leadership seminar, participation in a residential learning community, participation in a faculty–guided research experience, internship experience opportunities, and technology and research training.

King/Chavez/Parks Awards. These awards, which vary in amount, are awarded to academically talented incoming first–year students from disproportionately represented groups. The awards are renewable for three additional years for a total of 12 quarters of undergraduate study on the Athens campus. To renew the award, recipients must maintain a 2.75 accumulative GPA and earn 48 credit hours a year. Recipients must carry at least 16 hours each quarter to receive the award. In addition to the award, students participate in an academic success program.

OU Incentive Awards. These awards, with varying amounts, are awarded to academically talented incoming first–year students from disproportionately represented groups. The awards are renewable for three additional years for a total of 12 quarters of undergraduate study on the Athens campus. To renew the award, recipients must maintain a 2.50 accumulative GPA and earn 48 credit hours a year. Recipients must carry at least 16 hours each quarter to receive the award. In addition to the award, students participate in an academic success program.

Appalachian Scholars Program. The Appalachian Scholars Program provides scholarship opportunities for students from counties designated as Appalachian Ohio and who demonstrate enthusiasm, motivation to succeed, academic achievement, and financial need. Five Ohio University campuses participate in this program. Ohio University works with the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio to identify potential scholars, to form partnerships with regional high schools, and to identify prospective supporters of the program. For each student selected, the program includes a four–year renewable scholarship, an annual book stipend, participation in a summer prematriculation program, participation in an annual leadership seminar, funding to attend an approved professional conference in the junior year, internship opportunities, and technology and research training.

Cutler Scholars Program. This endowed undergraduate scholarship program provides tuition, fees, and room and board for the academic year, as well as funds for a structured summer internship or related experience. Students do not apply but are nominated by their high school or an Ohio University alumni chapter. Students selected for the program are evaluated against rigorous standards and must excel both in and out of the classroom. Awards are limited to students from certain locations or high schools, or to those in specific fields of study. These awards are offered to first–year students are are available for three additional years for a total of 12 quarters of undergraduate study on the Athens campus. Recipients must carry at least 16 hours each quarter to receive the award. Contact the executive director of the Cutler Scholars Program, Trisolini Gallery 210, Ohio University, Athens, OH 45701–2979; telephone 740.593.4266.

Corporate Scholarships. Corporate scholarships are available to students majoring in specific academic areas (engineering, business, sciences) on the basis of high academic achievement. Eligibility requirements normally include high academic achievement and demonstrated financial need. You must reapply annually for renewal. These awards range from approximately $300 to $2,000 a year. Recipients must carry at least 16 hours each quarter to receive the award.

Endowed Scholarships. Available to students with high academic achievement and/or demonstrated financial need, these scholarships are made available from contributions of alumni and friends of Ohio University and are usually restricted by geographic location, major, or other special criteria. Awards range from $150 to $3,000 a year. Recipients must carry at least 16 hours each quarter to receive the award.

National Merit Scholarships. These scholarships are awarded to National Merit finalists who indicate Ohio University as their first–choice institution. National Merit Scholarships are renewable for three additional years of undergraduate study with awards ranging in value from approximately $750 to $2,000, depending on financial need.

Reserve Officers’ Training Corps Scholarships. Scholarships ranging from one to four years are available on a competitive basis for qualified students participating in the Air Force (Aerospace Studies) or Army (Military Science) ROTC programs. These scholarships pay costs of tuition, lab fees, and a flat rate for books. In addition, you receive a subsistence allowance at the rate of up to $400 a month for the period the scholarship is in effect. Contact the Department of Aerospace Studies or the Department of Military Science.

Gift Aid—Grants

Federal Pell Grant. The Federal Pell Grant is a quasi–entitlement program from the federal government. All eligible undergraduate aid applicants with an eligable EFC who have not received a bachelor’s degree will receive funds based on their Expected Family Contribution and enrollment status (full time, three–quarter time, half time, or less than half time). Upon submission of a FAFSA, you will receive your Expected Family Contribution (EFC). For 2009–10, awards range from a minimum of $976 to a maximum of $5,350 (subject to change according to congressional appropriations). The Federal Pell Grant serves as the foundation upon which all other aid may be added, but ineligibility does not automatically exclude you from all other types of financial aid.

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG). The FSEOG is awarded to undergraduate students on the basis of exceptional financial need beyond the Federal Pell Grant. These funds are awarded directly by the University and are limited to the funds allocated to the University by the U.S. Department of Education. Ohio University must have received the results of the FAFSA by the March 15 priority deadline. The award is restricted to Federal Pell Grant recipients. The amount awarded to eligible applicants varies each year depending on the need of the student population enrolled at Ohio University. Students with a prior bachelor’s degree are ineligible.

Federal Academic Competitiveness Grant (ACG). This is a grant program for undergraduate students who receive Federal Pell Grant. Students also must have completed a rigorous secondary education program after January 1, 2005. Eligible students attending for the first time will be awarded $750 for the year. Eligible students in their second year of attendance with a minimum accumulative 3.0 GPA at the beginning of the year will be awarded $1,300 for the year.

National SMART Grant. The National Science and Mathematics Access to Retain Talent Grant (SMART Grant) is a grant program for undergraduate students who receive a Federal Pell Grant. Students must be in the third or fourth year of an eligible science, engineering, math, or foreign language four–year program. The annual award is $4,000.

Institutional Grants. Institutional grants include the Ohio University Bobcat Grant, Ohio University Access Grant (OUAG), Ohio University Bobcat Award (OUBA), and the Regional Campus Grant, and are made available by the University to students with need. Ohio University must have received the results of your FAFSA by the March 15 priority deadline to be considered for these programs.

Ohio College Opportunity Grant (OCOG). The OCOG is a need–based state–funded grant to assist Ohio residents in meeting the cost of undergraduate education. To be considered, you must submit the FAFSA. The deadline is October 1 of the award year, but you are encouraged to apply as soon as possible after January 1.

Self–Help Aid—Student Loans

Federal Perkins Loan. The Federal Perkins Loan is a federal loan for students enrolled in a degree program at a participating postsecondary institution. No interest is charged while you remain in school, and the repayment period begins nine months after you graduate or leave school. To apply, file the FAFSA. The interest rate is currently 5%. You must sign a Master Promissory Note (including the “personal and confidential” form) or confirm your acceptance on our Web site (if you signed a Master Promissory Note in a previous year) before a disbursement can be made.

William D. Ford Federal Direct Student Loans. The Federal Direct Loan is a low–interest loan for students enrolled at least half time in a degree–seeking program. Since 1994–95, Ohio University has been a Direct Lending Institution. The University acts on behalf of the U.S. Department of Education and disburses Federal Direct Loan funds directly to student accounts. The University cannot process Federal Family Education Loans from lending institutions such as banks.

There are two kinds of Federal Direct Loans—subsidized and unsubsidized. The federal government will pay the interest on the Federal Direct Subsidized Loan while you are in school and during a grace period or deferment period. You are responsible for paying the interest on any Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan. However, you may defer payments and capitalize the interest until you enter repayment.

If you wish to apply for a Federal Direct Loan (subsidized or unsubsidized), you must file the FAFSA to determine your eligibility. The Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan is available if you do not qualify for the Federal Direct Subsidized Loan or if your eligibility for subsidized funds is limited. You will receive notice of eligibility on your award letter and must complete the Electronic Master Promissory Note or confirm your eligibility on our Web site (if you signed a Master Promissory Note in a previous year) before funds can be credited to your account. Funds credited in excess of charges will be refunded by the Office of the Bursar at regular intervals during the quarter. All first–time borrowers are required by federal regulations to complete entrance counseling before funds can be disbursed. If you are in repayment on prior loans, you might be eligible for a deferment, and loans can be consolidated under certain conditions. Additionally, federal regulations require that all borrowers complete exit counseling before graduating or once you have dropped below half–time enrollment. Exit counseling provides information regarding borrower rights and responsibilities and outlines repayment options.

Ohio University Loans. During periods of enrollment, funds are made available by the University to provide short–term loans for students. These loans are available to assist in the payment of educationally related expenses, provided you are enrolled at least half time and have a guaranteed source of repayment that will be available by the end of the same quarter. A one–page application must be completed. The completed application will be reviewed to determine if you qualify for a short–term loan. Checks are generally available within three working days after the loan is approved. A personal interview with a financial aid administrator might be required. Students are not eligible if in default of previous institutional or federal loans. Borrowers are charged a $5 processing fee and may be charged an interest rate of 9%. Ohio University loans are not available during periods of nonenrollment.

William D. Ford Federal Direct Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students (PLUS). The Federal Direct PLUS Loan is a supplemental loan for parents of dependent undergraduate students. Your parent must be your natural parent, adoptive parent, or supporting stepparent. Parent borrowers are subject to a credit check and must not have an adverse credit history. We require that you and your parent(s) file the FAFSA to determine eligibility for other sources of aid. The Federal Direct PLUS Loan must be used for your educational expenses. Loan proceeds are applied directly to your account, and any refund may be refunded to you (with parent approval) or to your parent each quarter throughout the year. Repayment begins 60 days after the final disbursement. The parent borrower can contact the Direct Loan Servicing Center to request a deferment on repaying the loan until six months after the student graduates. For additional information, visit our Web site at www.ohio.edu/financialaid.

Alternative Loans. Students may apply for additional loans through private lenders to help cover expenses. You can borrow the total estimated cost of attendance (see your award letter) less your total financial aid. Students are encouraged to apply with a creditworthy cosigner. Interest rates and loan fees vary from lender to lender. Repayment begins six months after you graduate or cease to be enrolled. For more information and a list of private alternative lenders, visit our Web site at http://www.ohio.edu/financialaid/loans/loans_alt.cfm.

Self–Help Aid—Employment

Federal Work–Study (FWS). This need–based federal program allows you to earn a portion of your educational expenses through part–time employment. If you have not been employed through FWS in the past, your award letter will direct you as to how to select a position. If you are a returning student, you will be reassigned to your previous job site, unless you indicate that you wish to be assigned elsewhere. You are paid at least minimum wage for the number of hours actually worked. Students can choose to set up direct deposit or be paid by check every two weeks. Seven percent of Ohio University FWS positions must meet the definition for community service, and you may apply for available community service positions. The federal government stipulates that jobs available under the FWS program may not displace presently employed persons or fill regular job openings, including student hourly employment.

Program to Aid Career Exploration (PACE). The PACE program is unique to Ohio University. The intent of the program is to provide you with the opportunity to earn money to help meet educational expenses, while gaining career–oriented work experience. PACE students work an average of 10 hours a week at the current minimum wage. To be eligible for PACE employment, you must:

1. Be an undergraduate
2. Have earned at least 30 hours by the time of application
3. Have at least a 2.3 accumulative GPA
4. Be in need of earnings as defined by the OSFAS.

International undergraduate students who meet the above criteria are eligible to participate in the PACE program.

PACE employment is available only to Athens campus students who are enrolled full time and not simultaneously employed in FWS. PACE information and applications are available on the OSFAS Web site at http://www.ohio.edu/financialaid/.

Student Hourly Employment (SHE). Ohio University established the SHE program to provide job opportunity information for all students enrolled at least half time. Its purpose is to assist in hiring students for part–time jobs, to maximize employment opportunities and job placement, and to help coordinate student employment policies and procedures. SHE job opportunities are posted from all hiring departments at the Athens campus. More information can be found on the Human Resources Web site at http://www.ohio.edu/hr/employment/student.cfm.

Self–Help Aid—Other

Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant. This is a new grant program for students who are currently enrolled in eligible majors and admitted to professional education to begin a career in teaching fields designated by the U.S. Department of Education. Students must complete a FAFSA to apply, but need is not required. Maximum award is $4,000 per year. Students who fail to fulfill the teaching service requirement will have to repay the grant as an Unsubsidized Direct Student Loan with interest from the date(s) of the original disbursement(s).

Services to Students

The OSFAS is open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. All financial aid applicants are assigned an adviser to assist with financial aid matters. You may schedule an appointment with your assigned adviser during OSFAS service hours (excluding the lunch hour from noon–1 p.m.). Adviser assignments are made alphabetically according to last name and are listed on the OSFAS Web site. Services provided by the advisers include confirmation of financial aid for priority registration, review of financial need and eligibility, and review of policies and procedures for different types of financial aid programs. Emergency situations may be accommodated immediately on a case–by–case basis. To ensure access to services, applicants with disabilities who require special assistance should contact the financial aid office to make arrangements.