Students who apply for and receive financial aid have certain rights and responsibilities. Understanding these expectations will help ensure you remain eligible for financial assistance and avoid delays in receiving your aid.
Your Rights as a Financial Aid Recipient

As a student receiving financial aid, you have the right to:

1. Know What Financial Aid Programs Are Available

You have the right to receive information about the federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs offered by the college.

2. Understand the Application Process

You have the right to receive clear instructions on how to apply for financial aid, including required forms, deadlines, and supporting documentation.

3. Receive Information About Aid Awards

You have the right to know the types of financial aid available, the amount of aid you are eligible to receive, how your financial need was determined, and how and when aid will be disbursed.

4. Know the Terms and Conditions of Your Aid

You have the right to understand the terms of any financial aid offered to you, including loan repayment requirements, interest rates, and grant or scholarship conditions.

5. Understand Institutional Policies

You have the right to information regarding tuition and fees, refund and withdrawal policies, Return of Title IV (R2T4) policies, and Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) requirements.

6. Request a Review of Your Aid

If you experience a significant change in your financial circumstances, you may request that the Financial Aid Office review your situation.

7. Know How to Maintain Eligibility

You have the right to understand what academic and enrollment requirements must be met to maintain financial aid eligibility.

Your Responsibilities as a Financial Aid Recipient

As a financial aid recipient, you are responsible for:

1. Completing the Financial Aid Application Accurately

You must provide accurate and complete information on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and any other required forms.

2. Submitting Requested Documentation

You must provide all requested documents and verification materials in a timely manner.

3. Monitoring Your Student Account and Email

You are responsible for reviewing communications from the Financial Aid Office and responding to requests promptly.

4. Understanding the Aid You Accept

You must understand the terms and conditions of your financial aid awards, particularly for student loans.

5. Maintaining Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP)

You must meet the institution’s academic standards, including minimum GPA requirements, successful completion of attempted coursework, and maximum timeframe for degree completion.

6. Using Financial Aid for Educational Expenses

Financial aid funds must be used only for expenses related to your education, such as tuition, fees, books, supplies, housing, and transportation.

7. Reporting Changes

You must notify the Financial Aid Office if any of the following occur: change in enrollment status, withdrawal from classes, change in residency or marital status, or receipt of outside scholarships or financial assistance.

8. Repaying Student Loans

If you accept federal or private student loans, you are responsible for repaying those loans according to the terms of the promissory note.

Important Reminder

Receiving financial aid is a privilege that carries responsibilities. Failure to comply with financial aid policies and federal regulations may result in the reduction or cancellation of your financial aid awards.