Graduate Program Admissions & Financial Information

Admission, Financial Aid and Charges

Graduate Program Admissions

The Council determines the minimum requirements for graduate admissions as well as the typical admissions process used to review applicants for all graduate programs. Specific graduate programs may set additional requirements to meet the needs of specialized professional accreditors. Minimum admission requirements for all graduate programs are provided in the Academic Catalog.

Upon receiving notice of acceptance for admission to The University of Olivet, a student must confirm his or her intention to enroll by paying a $150 confirmation deposit. This deposit is non-refundable.

Admissions Into Accelerated Master’s Programs

Students interested in admission for accelerated graduate study should contact their faculty advisor, the graduate Program Director, and the Office of Admissions as early as possible. All applications for graduate program admission including early admissions for accelerated graduate studies must be formally submitted through the Office of Admissions. All applications for accelerated graduate study must be approved by the graduate Program Director.

The minimum requirement for undergraduate students to be admitted into an accelerated program to begin graduate coursework while still undergraduates is the completion of 60 undergraduate credits. Specific graduate programs may create additional admissions requirements including GPA minimums.

Students admitted into a master’s program to begin graduate study while completing the bachelor’s degree continue to be treated as either residential or online undergraduate students until the bachelor’s degree is awarded for purposes of tuition, fees, room/board requirements and other policies.

Accelerated Master’s Credit Limits and the Double Counting of Credits

A graduate program allowing undergraduate students to begin graduate coursework must limit the total graduate credits taken prior to completing the 120 required for the bachelor’s degree that will count towards completion of the graduate degree. The maximum number of accelerated credits is 12, or no more than 40% of the total credits required for the graduate degree for graduate programs requiring more than 30 graduate credits. Graduate credits taken while an undergraduate may be counted for the 120 credits required for the bachelor’s degree. These same credits may also be counted to fulfill the requirements of the graduate program subject to the maxima described above.

The University of Olivet has set a maximum of 12 graduate credits of transfer credit from other institutions of higher education; graduate programs may accept fewer than 12 credits. Transfer of graduate credit requires curricular review and approval of the Program Director.

Financial Aid

The University of Olivet awards over $20 million annually in grants and scholarships, making higher education accessible for many students.

Financial Aid Packages

Each student receives a personalized financial aid package, which may include:

• Need-Based Aid: Determined by financial circumstances.
• Merit-Based Scholarships: Based on academic or other achievements.
• Federal and State Aid: Including grants, loans, and work-study opportunities.

Students are notified of their aid eligibility upon submission of the FAFSA. Additional required documents will be requested as needed.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for financial aid:

• FAFSA Submission: Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at studentaid.gov after October 1. Early submission by March 1 is encouraged.
• Enrollment Status: Undergraduate students must enroll in at least six semester hours per term to receive federal student loans. Full-time status is 12 or more semester hours.
• Academic Progress: Maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) as defined by the university.
• Loan Status: Must not be in default on any federal student loans.

Types of Financial Aid

• Grants and Scholarships: Gift aid that does not require repayment.
• Loans: Borrowed funds that must be repaid with interest.
• Work-Study: Part-time employment opportunities to earn money for educational expenses.

Students are also encouraged to seek additional funding from external sources such as high schools, community organizations, and local businesses.

Institutional Aid Policies

• Internal Aid: The University-provided grants and scholarships are available to degree-seeking students enrolled at least half-time.
• Award Duration: Institutional aid is typically limited to eight semesters.
• Annual Renewal: Students must reapply for financial aid each year by submitting the FAFSA.

Communication

The university communicates important financial aid information primarily through official Olivet email accounts. Students are responsible for regularly checking their email for updates.

Financial Aid Policies at The University of Olivet

Accepting Financial Aid Awards

• Students have the right to accept or decline any financial aid offered.
• To receive funds, students must electronically accept their financial aid awards through the www.my.uolivet.edu. 
• No financial aid will be disbursed to a student’s account until the awards are accepted www.my.uolivet.edu.

Internal Aid Academic Requirements

• Students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher.
• If a student’s GPA falls below 2.0 at the end of a semester, their internal aid may be reduced by $500 for the following semester.
• Students facing aid reductions can appeal in writing to the Director of Financial Aid, especially in cases of extenuating circumstances.

Reporting External Scholarships and Grants

• Students must report any external scholarships or grants (regardless of the amount) not listed on their financial aid award letter to the Office of Financial Aid.
• Adjustments to the financial aid package may be made to comply with federal and state regulations.
• Adjustments, if necessary, will be applied in the following order:
  1. The University of Olivet Institutional Aid
  2. Student loans
  3. Work-study awards
  4. State of Michigan grants

Tuition Remission Policy

• Tuition remission applies to remaining tuition charges after all other financial resources, such as federal and state grants and scholarships, have been applied.
• This ensures that tuition remission benefits are coordinated with other forms of financial aid.

Federal Financial Aid Eligibility for Additional Academic Pursuits

• Federal financial aid, including loans, is available only until a student completes their first bachelor’s degree.
• Students pursuing minors or dual majors must complete all requirements concurrently with their primary degree to remain eligible for federal aid.
• Post-baccalaureate coursework is not eligible for federal financial aid.
• Students should consult with academic advisors to plan their coursework accordingly and maintain financial aid eligibility.

Sources of Financial Aid

Federal Student Aid Programs (2025-2026)

1. Federal Pell Grant

• Maximum Award: $7,395 for the 2025-2026 academic year.
• Eligibility: Determined by financial need as assessed through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
• Repayment: Not required.
• Notification: Students are informed of their eligibility via the Student Aid Report (SAR).

2. Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)

• Maximum Award: Up to $4,000 per academic year.
• Eligibility: For students with exceptional financial need, typically Pell Grant recipients.
• Repayment: Not required.
• Availability: Funds are limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

3. Federal Work-Study (FWS)

• Program: Provides part-time employment opportunities for students with financial need.
• Wages: At least the federal minimum wage.
• Application: Students must proactively seek and secure employment positions.

4. Federal Direct Stafford Loans

Subsidized Loans (Undergraduate Students)

• Interest Rate: 6.39% fixed for loans disbursed between July 1, 2025, and June 30, 2026.
• Eligibility: For undergraduate students with demonstrated financial need.
• Interest Accrual: Interest does not accrue while the student is enrolled at least half-time and during the six-month grace period after leaving school.

Unsubsidized Loans

• Interest Rate:
  • Undergraduate Students: 6.39% fixed for loans disbursed between July 1, 2025, and June 30, 2026.
  • Graduate Students: 7.94% fixed for loans disbursed between July 1, 2025, and June 30, 2026.
• Eligibility: Available to both undergraduate and graduate students; not based on financial need.
• Interest Accrual: Interest accrues during all periods.

Annual Loan Limits:

• Freshmen (0-23 credits): $3,500 subsidized / $2,000 unsubsidized
• Sophomores (24-55 credits): $4,500 subsidized / $2,000 unsubsidized
• Juniors (56-87 credits): $5,500 subsidized / $2,000 unsubsidized
• Seniors (88+ credits): $5,500 subsidized / $2,000 unsubsidized

5. Federal Direct Parent PLUS Loan

• Interest Rate: 8.94% fixed for loans disbursed between July 1, 2025, and June 30, 2026.
• Eligibility: Available to parents of dependent undergraduate students; credit check required.
• Loan Limit: Up to the cost of attendance minus other financial aid received.
• Repayment: Begins 60 days after the loan is fully disbursed, but deferment options are available while the student is enrolled at least half-time.

6. Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan

• Interest Rate: 8.94% fixed for loans disbursed between July 1, 2025, and June 30, 2026.
• Eligibility: Available to graduate or professional students; credit check required.
• Loan Limit: Up to the cost of attendance minus other financial aid received.
• Repayment: Begins six months after graduation, withdrawal, or dropping below half-time enrollment; deferment options are available.

Michigan State Financial Aid Programs (2025-2026)

Michigan Competitive Scholarship (MCS)

• Award Amount: Up to $1,500 per academic year, applicable toward tuition and mandatory fees at participating institutions.
• Eligibility:
  • Must be a Michigan resident since July 1 of the previous calendar year.
  • Be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or approved refugee.
  • Possess a high school diploma or its recognized equivalent.
  • Demonstrate financial need.
  • Achieve a qualifying SAT score of at least 1200 prior to entering college.
  • Enroll at least half-time in a participating Michigan institution.
• Application: Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by March 1.
• Participating Institutions: Michigan public degree-granting community colleges, public universities, or private non-profit institutions.
• Note: The University of Olivet must be listed as the first choice on the FAFSA to be considered for this scholarship.

Michigan Achievement Scholarship

• Award Amount:
  • Up to $5,500 per year for students attending a Michigan public university or enrolled in a baccalaureate degree program at a Michigan community college, renewable for up to five years (totaling up to $27,500).
• Eligibility:
  • Graduate from a Michigan high school in 2023 or later with a diploma, certificate of completion, or high school equivalency certificate.
  • Be a Michigan resident since July 1 of the previous calendar year.
  • If a dependent student, the parent must also be a Michigan resident since July 1 of the previous calendar year.
  • Be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or approved refugee.
  • Have a Student Aid Index (SAI) of $30,000 or less as determined by the FAFSA.
  • Enroll full-time at an eligible Michigan post-secondary institution within 15 months of high school graduation.
• Application: Complete the FAFSA; no separate application is required.
• Renewal Requirements:
  • Complete the FAFSA annually.
  • Maintain Michigan residency.
  • Have an SAI of $30,000 or less.
  • Maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) as defined by the institution.
• Note: The University of Olivet must be listed as the first choice on the FAFSA to be considered for this scholarship.

Children of Veterans Tuition Grant (CVTG)

• Award Amount: Up to $2,800 per academic year for full-time students; $2,100 for three-quarter-time; and $1,400 for half-time enrollment.
• Eligibility:
  • Be between ages 16 and 26.
  • Be the natural or adopted child of a qualifying Michigan veteran who is totally and permanently disabled, missing in action, or deceased due to military service.
  • Be a Michigan resident for at least one year prior to application.
  • Enroll at least half-time in an undergraduate program at a participating Michigan institution.
  • Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.25 and meet the institution’s Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) policy.
  • Not have been convicted of a felony involving assault, physical injury, or death.
• Application: Submit the CVTG application and the FAFSA by July 15, 2025.
• Renewability: Eligible for up to four academic years, with a maximum total award of $11,200.

Michigan Tuition Grant (MTG)

• Award Amount: Up to $3,000 per academic year.
• Eligibility:
  • Be a Michigan resident.
  • Demonstrate financial need.
  • Enroll at least half-time in an undergraduate program at a Michigan non-profit, independent degree-granting college or university.
  • List the institution as the first choice on the FAFSA.
• Application: Submit the FAFSA by July 1, 2025.
• Note: Awards are restricted to tuition and mandatory fees.

Fostering Futures Scholarship (FFS)

• Award Amount: Up to $3,000 per academic year, based on available funding.
• Eligibility:
  • Have been in Michigan foster care on or after age 13.
  • Demonstrate financial need.
  • Enroll at least half-time in an undergraduate program at a participating Michigan degree-granting institution.
  • Meet the institution’s Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) policy.
• Application: Complete the FAFSA and the FFS application by the specified deadline.
• Usage: Funds can be applied toward tuition, mandatory fees, books, supplies, and room and board.

Tuition Incentive Program (TIP)

Phase I:

• Coverage: Full tuition and mandatory fees at the in-district rate for associate degree or certificate programs at participating Michigan community colleges.
• Eligibility:
  • Have (or have had) Medicaid coverage for 24 months within a 36-month period between ages 9 and high school graduation.
  • Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent prior to age 20 (or age 21 for Early/Middle College students).
  • Enroll at least half-time at a participating institution within four years of high school completion.
  • Be a Michigan resident since July 1 of the previous calendar year.
  • Meet the institution’s Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) policy.

Phase II:

• Coverage: Up to $2,000 total for tuition and mandatory fees at a Michigan degree-granting four-year institution.
• Eligibility:
  • Complete at least 56 transferable semester credits, an associate degree, or a certificate.
  • Begin using Phase II benefits within 30 months of completing Phase I requirements.
• Application: Eligible students are identified by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and will receive an acceptance form from the Office of Scholarships and Grants.

Internal Financial Aid at The Univeristy of Olivet (2025-2026)

Merit-Based Scholarships

The University of Olivet recognizes academic excellence by awarding merit scholarships based on high school achievements:

• Board of Trustees Scholarship: $20,000 per year ($80,000 over four years) for students with a GPA of 3.7 or higher.
• Presidential Scholarship: $18,000 per year ($72,000 over four years) for students with a GPA of 3.3 or higher.
• Dean’s Scholarship: $16,000 per year ($64,000 over four years) for students with a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
• Shipherd’s Scholarship: $14,000 per year ($56,000 over four years) for students with a GPA of 2.8 or higher.
• Olivet Award: $12,000 per year ($48,000 over four years) for students with a GPA of 2.5 or lower.

Geographic Scholarships

• New Michigander Award: $5,000 per year (renewable for up to four years) for non-Michigan residents with a minimum GPA of 2.5.
• International Student Scholarship: Awarded to international students based on academic merit and other criteria.

Need-Based Scholarships

The University of Olivet Advantage Scholarship: This scholarship aims to make college more affordable for Michigan students :

• Eligibility: Michigan Achievement Scholarship (MAS) qualified students.
• Benefits:
  1. MAS and Federal Pell Grant Eligible: Receive gift aid covering full tuition and published fees.
  2. MAS Eligible with AGI under $100,000 (Not Pell Eligible): Pay no more than $5,000 in tuition and published fees.
  3. MAS Eligible with AGI over $100,000: Receive at least $20,000 in institutional funds toward tuition and published fees.

Honors Scholarships

• Global Citizen Honors Program Scholarship: Qualified students are invited to participate in the Global Citizens Honors Program and receive a $1,000 academic scholarship. Additionally, a $2,000 scholarship is banked for future study abroad participation.
• Scholar’s Day Scholarship: $1,000 awarded to students who attend Scholar’s Day and meet specified criteria.

Relationship Scholarships

• Alumni Connection Scholarship: $1,000 for students connected to a University of Olivet alumnus or a non-alum Board of Trustee member. The alumnus must complete the Alumni Connection Slate form to document the connection.
• Legacy Scholarship: $2,500 for students with a grandparent, parent, or sibling who graduated from The University of Olivet.
• Sibling Scholarship: $2,000 for students with a sibling enrolled at The University of Olivet during the same academic year.

 Participatory Scholarships

Students must apply, be admitted, and actively participate in the respective program as detailed by the program director. Non-participation may result in loss of the scholarship. Programs include:

• Art
• Band
• Choir
• Gospel Choir
• Bowling
• Esports
• Archery
• Clay Target
• Women’s Leadership Institute

Private Student Loan Options

Private loans are additional options beyond scholarships, grants, and federal loans. The University of Olivet recommends researching alternative sources of scholarships and grants before pursuing private loans. Student Services certifies several private loans to help meet costs not covered by other financial aid. A list of private lenders previously used by students is available at www.uolivet.edu. This list is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Borrowers may choose any lender, including those not on the list.

For additional scholarship opportunities, consider visiting finaid.org and fastweb.com.

Student Financial Aid Rights and Responsibilities

Understanding your rights and responsibilities as a financial aid recipient is essential to managing your educational funding effectively. Below are the key aspects every student should know:

Your Rights as a Financial Aid Recipient

1. Access to Information:

• You have the right to know the types of financial aid available at your school.
• You are entitled to information on how financial aid is distributed, how eligibility is determined, and how and when funds are disbursed.

2. Cost and Financial Aid Breakdown:

• You have the right to understand the school’s cost of attendance (tuition, fees, room and board, etc.) and how your financial aid package covers those costs.

3. Explanation of Awards:

• You can request clarification on how your financial aid package was determined, including the amount and type of aid awarded.

4. Policy Transparency:

• You have the right to be informed about the school’s refund and withdrawal policies and how they may affect your financial aid.

5. Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP):

• You are entitled to know the school’s SAP policy and how your academic performance impacts your financial aid eligibility.

6. Appeal Process:

• You have the right to appeal financial aid decisions if there are special or unusual circumstances affecting your financial situation.

Your Responsibilities as a Financial Aid Recipient

1. Provide Accurate Information:

• You must complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and other required forms accurately and honestly. Providing false information is a federal offense.

2. Understand Terms and Conditions:

• You are responsible for understanding the terms of all financial aid you accept, including repayment obligations for loans.

3. Use Funds Appropriately:

• Financial aid must be used solely for educational expenses (tuition, fees, housing, books, supplies, and transportation).

4. Maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP):

• You must meet the school’s SAP requirements to continue receiving financial aid. This includes maintaining a minimum GPA and completing a certain percentage of courses attempted.

5. Report Changes in Circumstances:

• You are responsible for notifying the financial aid office of any changes in your financial situation, enrollment status, or other factors that could affect your aid eligibility.

6. Loan Repayment:

• If you accept federal loans, you must complete the required entrance, exit counseling, and understand your repayment terms.

7. Meet Deadlines:

• You must submit all required documents by the stated deadlines to avoid delays or loss of aid.

8. Renew FAFSA Annually:

• You are responsible for renewing your FAFSA each year to continue receiving financial aid.

9. Respond to Communication:

• You must regularly check your school email and student portal for important financial aid notifications and updates.

Charges

Tuition and Fees

Graduate study is charged per semester hour each term at a rate of $600 per semester hour.

Special Fees

The following are special fees currently in effect at The University of Olivet for graduate students. Additional fees may be added at the discretion of the university.

• Finance Charge - currently 12 percent (per year) for unpaid tuition and fee balances.
• Late Registration Fee - $75.
• Master of Education Course Fee - $200 per course.
• Returned Check Fee - $25 for each occurrence.
• Transcript Fee - a nominal fee is charged per official transcript request

Late Registration

Current students are required to register online during the designated registration period for each term. Students who fail to register during this period will be assessed a late registration fee. New or returning students who wish to register after the payment due date will not be eligible to register until the following requirements are fulfilled:

• A financial aid file is completed which includes the FAFSA and any required documentation.
• An entrance counseling session is held.
• Any Direct Loan Master Promissory Note is signed.
• Payment in full is made, or acceptable payment arrangement is established.
• Late Registration Form with appropriate signatures is submitted to Student Services.

Payment of Accounts

Students will receive a statement of account at their billing address. Final grades will be withheld if an account is not paid in full. A one percent finance charge is assessed each month on an unpaid balance that is 30 days past due. Failure to make payment when due cancels the student’s privilege of attending classes. Diplomas, letters of honorable dismissal, or recommendation letters will not be granted to students who have outstanding balances with the university.

Payment Options

The University of Olivet accepts cash, checks, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover and The University of Olivetapproved tuition payment plans. Credit card and e-check payments may be made online at https://my.uolivet.edu/ICS/. Students must create a PIN number to allow another individual to make online payments within this system.

The University of Olivet Payment Plans

The University of Olivet offers installation payment plans for the balance of tuition accounts not covered by financial aid. Please visit the website for terms of the payment plans available. Registration for a payment plan may be done through the online portal at my.uolivet.edu. All payment plans require a $30 activation fee.

Defaulting on Payment Plans - Students and parents or guardians who default on payment plans will not be allowed to reregister for payment plans. Additionally, upon default of a payment plan, students will be removed from classes and full payment for the term will be due immediately.

Payment of Balances Due After Leaving The University of Olivet

Students who have left The University of Olivet with a balance due on their student account will need to make satisfactory payment arrangements immediately by contacting Student Services to arrange payment. It is the policy of The University of Olivet to refer unpaid balances to a collection agency after 90 days. Certain official records will not be released for students who fail to meet their financial obligations to the university.

International Students

Prospective international students who wish to apply for a Federal I-20 Certificate of Eligibility for Non-Immigrant Student Status and students with immigrant status via issuance of a Federal I-9 are required to prepay all estimated charges pertaining to one full year of study as a prerequisite to formal admittance to the university and again prior to each subsequent year of study. Proof of external scholarship(s), sponsorship(s) or financial aid is required if it is to be considered as part of the annual payment.

Refund Policy

In order for a student to receive a refund from his or her student account in any term, all of the following requirements must be met:

• The student’s account must show a credit balance;
• The student must have indicated on his or her award letter that he or she wishes to have his or her credit balance refunded;
• All financial aid requirements must be met;
• If student has been awarded a Pell Grant, the student must have this paperwork on file in Student Services;
• If the student has a Michigan Tuition Grant, a student’s name must appear on the verification roster; and
• Any loan proceeds must be received by The University of Olivet.

The refund process will begin after the drop period each term. Only the Chief Financial Officer of the university is authorized to make adjustments on the refund provisions, and all such requests should be directed to him or her.

Tuition and Fee Adjustment Policy (Upon Formal Withdrawal)

Upon formal withdrawal from the university prior to the end of a term, a student may be eligible for a tuition and fee adjustment. The adjustment will be based upon the date on which Student Services is informed in writing of the withdrawal by the student (see Withdraw/Leave of Absence  under Academic Procedures).

Academic withdrawal and financial withdrawal are distinct and separate procedures, each with its own policy. For instance, a student withdrawing after the drop period may receive a grade of “W” (see Academic Procedures ). However, the student would not receive a tuition and fee adjustment.

The university policy for tuition and fee adjustment for graduate students who financially withdraw is in accordance with federal regulations, and is as follows:

The University of Olivet adjusts tuition and fees on the following basis:

• Prior to the end of drop period, the student will receive a full tuition adjustment;
• During the 9 calendar days following the initial course begin date, the student will receive a 50 percent tuition adjustment;
• Withdrawal after 9 calendar days following initial course begin date results in no tuition adjustment.

Financial Aid Adjustment Policy

This policy applies to students who receive financial aid assistance while enrolled at The University of Olivet. The University of Olivet complies with the U.S. Department of Education and Michigan Department of Education regulations regarding refunds of student charges and financial aid. All policies are available at the student’s request in Student Services, Mott 205. Students who drop from full-time to part-time status will have their tuition prorated based on the criteria outlined for an institutional withdrawal. When a student’s enrollment status drops below full time (6 semester hours), a reduction in financial aid might be required.

If a student receiving Title IV (Federal) Financial Aid withdraws from the university, his or her funds must be adjusted in accordance with the policy established by the U.S. Department of Education. This calculation may result in the student owing the university. The adjustment policy is as follows:

• The percentage of Federal Financial Aid that has been earned by the student is equal to the percentage of the term that the student completed as of the withdrawal date. If this date occurs after the completion of 60 percent of the term, the student is considered to have earned 100 percent of the Federal Financial Aid funds for that term and no Federal funds must be returned.
• The percentage of unearned Federal Financial Aid must still be returned regardless of whether the student is eligible to receive an adjustment of a portion of university charges (tuition, fees, room or meal plan). The return of Federal Financial Aid funds will be in the following order:
  • Federal Unsubsidized Stafford Loan
  • Federal Direct PLUS (Parent) Loan
  • Other federal loan or grant assistance
• In addition to Federal Financial Aid adjustments, the institution will distribute remaining aid back to its source in the following order:
  • Private aid
  • The student

Private aid generally has criteria and guidelines pertaining to withdrawals specific to the funding source and these criteria and guidelines will be honored.

In addition, students will have funds returned to them only if remaining aid and cash payments exceed charges as determined under the Tuition and Fee Adjustment Policy.

Return to Title IV (R2T4) Policy

This policy applies to all students who receive federal financial aid and who withdraw officially or unofficially are administratively withdrawn or drop all classes within a semester or term.

Federal Title IV Aid Covered Under This Policy:

• Federal Pell Grant
• Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
• Federal Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans
• Federal Direct PLUS Loans (Parent or Graduate)
• TEACH Grant (if applicable)

When R2T4 Applies

A Return to Title IV calculation is required if the student:

• Officially withdrawals from all classes
• Stop attending all courses (unofficial withdrawal)
• Fails all courses in a term (may be treated as an unofficial withdrawal)
• Is dismissed or otherwise administratively withdrawn

Determining Withdrawal Date

• Official Withdrawal: Date student initiates withdrawal with the Registrar.
• Unofficial Withdrawal: Determined using the last date of participation in an academically related activity, or the midpoint of the term if no date is available.

Calculating Earned vs. Unearned Aid

The percentage of aid earned is calculated as follows:

• If the student withdraws before 60% of the term is completed, the unearned portion must be returned to the federal government.
• If the student withdraws after 60%, they are considered to have earned 100% of their Title IV aid.

Return of Unearned Funds

The University is required to return the lesser of:

• The amount of unearned aid, or
• The percentage of institutional charges multiplied by the unearned aid percentage

Funds are returned in the following order:

1. Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan
2. Federal Direct Subsidized Loan
3. Federal PLUS Loan
4. Federal Pell Grant
5. FSEOG
6. TEACH Grant (if applicable)

Post-Withdrawal Disbursements

If the student qualifies for aid that was earned but not disbursed prior to withdrawal:

• The University will notify the student in writing within 30 days
• Loan disbursements require the student to accept within 14 days
• Grant aid will be disbursed automatically, if eligible

Deadlines and Notifications

• R2T4 calculation must be performed within 30 days of the date the school determined the student withdrew
• Return of funds must occur within 45 days of that determination
• Notification of overpayment is sent within 45 days if required

Student Responsibilities

• Repay any Title IV grant overpayments within 45 days
• Complete loan exit counseling if required
• Remain informed about how withdrawal impacts Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) and future aid eligibility
• Settle any remaining institutional balance caused by the return of aid

Appeals and Exceptions

Students may appeal R2T4-related aid reductions under documented extraordinary circumstances. Appeals must be submitted in writing to the Office of Financial Aid.