College Costs & Financial Aid

Tuition and Fees 2014/2016

All tuition and fees are subject to change without notice.

Tuition

* Residency-In order to qualify for the New York State Resident tuition rate, you must be a permanent resident of New York for one year AND be a permanent resident of Ulster County for six months prior to the start of a semester. For those who have a permanent residence in another New York county, present to the Student Accounts Office, VAN 204, a Certificate of Residence issued by the Chief Fiscal Officer of your home county in New York State. (See “Certificate of Residence” below.)

Fees

This is a partial listing of fees. For a full list, see our website: www.sunyulster.edu.

Activity Fee

Insurance Fee

Technology Fee

All students are required to pay a $65 technology fee per course. Web payments accepts checks or credit cards.

Payment Options

Personal check, money order, cash or credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, and Discover) can be paid to the Student Accounts Office

Web payment accepts checks or credit cards.

Tuition Payment Plan - View your account and make payments online at My.SUNYUlster.edu

Any balances not paid on time are subject to late charges, litigation fees, and collection costs.

Other Course Related Fees

Student Service Fees

Certificate of Residence

According to State law, students attending SUNY Ulster whose legal residence is in a county other than Ulster are required to submit to the Student Accounts Office a Certificate of Residence from their home county. This document can be obtained from the Chief Fiscal Officer of their home county and must be submitted to the SUNY Ulster Student Accounts Office NO LATER THAN 30 DAYS AFTER THE FIRST DAY OF THE SEMESTER and no earlier than two months prior to the first day of the semester. Failure to supply a Certificate of Residence will result in billing at non-resident tuition rates of $318 per credit hour or $4,230 full time.

A Non-Resident tuition charge will be assessed on their account until the Certificate of Residence is received. Those students who do not obtain the Certificate of Residence will be responsible for paying the Non-Resident charge. SUNY Ulster policy requires students to submit a new Certificate of Residence for every school year starting in September. Certificate of Residence application forms are available at SUNY Ulster’s Admissions Office, Registrar’s Office, Student Accounts Office, and on the College’s website.

Insufficient Funds Policy

All students who have a check returned to the College’s bank by their bank because of insufficient funds will be sent a written notice of this when the check is returned. This letter will indicate that the student has five working days from the date of the letter to contact the SUNY Ulster Student Accounts Office. The College will try to redeposit the check. Once a letter is sent to the student, all College records are placed on hold.

Refund Policy

Full-Time and Part-Time Credit Students
(Regular Semester)

Tuition and fees are refundable in accordance with the following schedule. Students are required to officially notify the Registrar’s Office (845: 687-5075) if they drop courses or withdraw from the College to be eligible for a refund.

*Students entering the Armed Forces will be refunded the unused portion of tuition on a pro rata basis upon presentation of evidence of call-to-duty.

Summer Session Refund Policy (Part-Time Students)

Tuition and fees are refundable in accordance with the following schedule if students drop courses or withdraw from the College:

ExpresSemester Refund Policy
(Within Fall & Spring semester)

Tuition and fees are refundable in accordance with the following schedule if students drop courses or withdraw from the College:

Students Paying With Financial Aid

If payment was made with a financial aid award, students must consult the Financial Aid Office before dropping courses for the following reasons:

• You may lose your financial aid for the current semester and future semesters.
• You will have to pay the tuition that financial aid does not cover.

Federal Financial Aid (Title IV) Refund Regulation

As of the Fall 2000 semester, students who receive federal financial aid (PELL grants, SEOG grants, Direct Stafford Loans, PLUS Loans) are subject to a new federal refund policy (Return of Title IV Funds). This policy could substantially decrease the amount of financial aid the student will receive if they withdraw or stop attending prior to approximately the tenth week of the semester (prior to completing 60% of the semester). This also means the amount the student must pay out of pocket for tuition charges could increase.

Students will now “earn” their financial aid based upon the percentage of the semester they are in school and attending. For example, if a student withdraws or stops attending after completing 20% of the semester (approximately the first day of the fourth week of classes) they will earn only 20% of their financial aid. If the student’s federal financial aid awards totaled $2,000 for the fall semester and they only complete 20% of the semester, they will only earn an award of $400. The college must return 80% or $1,600 of the financial aid to the federal government.

Please contact the Student Accounts Office or Financial Aid Office if you have any questions about your withdrawal and the effect on your financial aid. If you do withdraw, you should contact the Student Accounts Office to determine how much of your charges will be covered by financial aid and how much you will have to pay from your own funds.

Annual Costs*

The components of the annual budget include direct and indirect expenses. Direct expenses are paid directly to the College for tuition and fees. Other direct costs are for the purchase of books and supplies. Indirect costs are expenses related to attending college, such as transportation, personal costs, and room/board.

Estimated expenses for the dependent student living at home with parents based on full-time attendance fall and spring semesters:

Estimated expenses for all other students (dependent students living away from parents and independent students):

*These figures are subject to change. Budgets may vary depending on who students reside with, their receiving shelter assistance from an outside agency, or not having to pay rent.

Tuition Deferrals

Requests for deferral of tuition will be considered if students are unable to pay full tuition by the established deadlines. In all cases, students must provide proof that they have applied for financial aid through appropriate federal and/or State programs. Deferrals will be granted only if it is determined by the Financial Aid Office that the student is eligible to receive sufficient financial aid to cover tuition and fees. All students granted deferrals are required to pay at least 50% of their total bill. If an award is received, the award can be used as the down payment. For further information, students should contact the Student Accounts Office or the Director of Financial Aid.

Tuition Budget Plan

The College has made arrangements with an outside service that allows students to participate in a tuition budget plan. Participation in the payment plan allows students to make installment payments on their tuition account over an extended period of time. There is a per-semester fee required to enroll in this program. Additional information may be requested by calling the Student Accounts Office at 800: 724-0833, extension 5099, or 845: 687-5099.

Student Obligations

Students are responsible for purchasing their textbooks and supplies. For the convenience of students, the College maintains a bookstore in the Student Life wing of Vanderlyn Hall. Registration of returning students will not be permitted unless all previous College financial obligations have been met and all College property (including library books) from the previous semester have been returned in satisfactory condition. Unless all these obligations have been met, there will be no release by the College of information, including transcripts, to the military, business, or industrial employers or other colleges and universities.

Student Insurance

Each full-time and part-time student at the College is insured under a mandatory student accident policy, which is financed by College insurance fees. Additional information and accident insurance forms are available from the College Nurse, SEN 139.

Financial Aid

Financial Aid Office
Vanderlyn Hall 105
845: 687-5058
FAX 845: 687-5172
financialaid@sunyulster.edu

When SUNY Ulster was founded in 1961, one of its guiding principles was to offer a college education that everyone could afford. In a vastly changed world where education beyond high school is more vital than ever, SUNY Ulster’s mission has not changed. The College continues to provide quality educational programs at affordable tuition rates, and this is augmented by SUNY Ulster’s extensive financial aid opportunities. Most of the College’s students find that they are eligible to receive some form of aid through grants, loans, or scholarships. On the average, SUNY Ulster’s Financial Aid Office assists more than 75% of students to secure funding.

Definition of Financial Aid and How to Qualify

Financial aid is any grant, loan, paid employment, or other scholarship awarded to matriculated students with academic potential who are in need of financial resources to help meet educational expenses. The direct objective of financial aid is to provide opportunities for students to complete their college education. Such aid is usually provided by federal and State agencies, foundations, corporations, and College scholarships. Grants and scholarships are regarded as gift assistance and need not be repaid (although they may carry certain provisions to which students must adhere). Loans are usually offered at low interest rates and can be repaid over an extended period after students stop attending school. Aid offered in the form of a job is paid every two weeks on an hourly rate for work actually performed.

• In order to qualify for financial aid, students must enroll for courses that apply toward their declared program of study.
• Enrichment courses are courses that do not apply toward the student’s declared program of study but prepare students for required courses.
• Courses taken for an audit grade do not count in the minimum course load requirements to receive financial aid and do not count toward the degree.
• Courses that are being repeated can be counted as necessary for the degree if required. For example, a nursing student who receives a D grade in SCI 107  or NUR 152  must repeat the course, since a C is required for the degree. For Federal Aid students may also retake a previously passed course one time. This does not apply If the student must retake the course due to failing other coursework.
• Students may take more than 12 credits each semester, and as long as 12 of those credits apply toward the degree, financial aid awards are not in jeopardy for that semester. However, future semesters may be impacted.
• Students must be enrolled in programs of study that are at least 24 credits in length to receive federal and State financial aid.

How to Apply for Financial Aid

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) School Code 002880

The preferred method of submitting the FAFSA is online by going to www.fafsa.gov. Students receive a Student Aid Report that should be reviewed carefully for errors or incomplete information. The comment section will identify specific requirements, such as Selective Service registration, confirmation of U.S. citizenship, etc. The College must have correct, complete information by the last date of enrollment or June 30 of the current award year, whichever comes first.

Express Tap Application (ETA) School Code 2230

The Express TAP Application is the application for the New York State TAP grant for full- and part-time study. After completing the online Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the student will be prompted to complete the TAP application. Go to www.hesc.ny.gov at Managing Your Account to

• check on the status of a TAP award
• request a duplicate TAP application
• change an address
• change a school code

Students can phone HESC at 1-888-NYS-HESC.

Master Promissory Note (MPN)

The MPN is completed when the student intends to apply for a Federal Direct Stafford Loan. To apply for a loan, students must complete the FAFSA, submit all requested income documentation, complete an entrance interview and electronic promissory note online, and submit a loan cover sheet to the Financial Aid Office.

NYS Aid for Part-Time Study (APTS)

The APTS application can be completed by matriculated part-time students taking at least 3 but less than 12 college credits (ISP classes do not count). Students must submit the application with 2013 NYS Tax Returns for the 2014-2015 academic year to the Financial Aid Office. The award amount is determined by the number of students who apply and are eligible and the funds provided by New York State. Deadline dates are available at the Financial Aid Office and on the website.

Federal Verification Form

This form is required when students are selected for verification by the federal government or the College.

How to Learn More About Financial Aid

Attend a financial aid workshop (details available from the Financial Aid Office, VAN 105 and www.sunyulster.edu). Call (845)687-5058 to make a reservation. Workshops are usually held every month.

Read “The Student Guide,” which is prepared by the U.S. Department of Education and available from the Financial Aid Office.

Read “Paying for College,” which is prepared by the N.Y.S. Higher Education Services Corporation and available from the Financial Aid Office.

Visit the Financial Aid Office, VAN 105, to access other pamphlets and additional information.

Visit the Macdonald DeWitt Library to access resources that lead to additional funding sources.

Websites

www.sunyulster.edu
Financial Aid Office hours, programs

www.fafsa.ed.gov
Apply online for federal financial aid - the FAFSA

www.pin.ed.gov
Sign up for a PIN number (parent and student), which serves as signature when applying online for the FAFSA

www.hesc.ny.gov
New York State financial aid, TAP and links to other financial aid sites

www.fastweb.com
Online scholarship search and additional topics (e.g., how to write a scholarship essay)

www.finaid.org
College cost projector, timeline for applying

www.direct.ed.gov
U.S. Department of Education Direct Loan information website

www.studentaid.ed.gov
U. S. Department of Education’s “Financial Aid for Students Home Page” gives in-depth descriptions of federal financial aid programs, eligibility criteria, application process, and additional website links

www.irs.gov
Information about the Hope Scholarship (tax credit) and Lifetime Learning (credit), tax forms and schedules

www.nysfaaa.org
New York State Financial Aid Administrators Association financial aid information, links to IRS for Hope Scholarship, Lifetime Learning Credit information; College Aid Awareness Network Information

www.studentloans.gov
Loan entrance and exit interviews, direct loan electronic promissory note

Applying for Financial Aid

1. Students, spouses and parents who complete the appropriate applications before May 1 for the fall semester and November 1 for the spring semester will receive first consideration for campus-based aid. Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA, school code 002880) and the New York State Express TAP application (or APTS, school code 2230). Students selected for verification must provide all required documents before any aid can be disbursed.
2. The Financial Aid Office reviews each completed application. Incomplete applications remain inactive until the necessary forms are received. At the time the application is considered complete, the amount of the awards will be finalized. Campus-based aid is limited and students greatly reduce their chances of being awarded these funds if their forms are not received by the deadline date. Campus-based aid will be awarded for the spring semester, provided sufficient funds are available. All resources to students from entitlement programs, scholarships, employers, and other gift assistance are included before campus-based aid is awarded. Campus-based aid is awarded first to students who
   1. apply by the deadline date and meet all eligibility criteria
   2. show financial need according to federal methodology (the College awards campus-based aid first to students showing the highest need and are Pell eligible; all other students are then reviewed
   3. are admitted, registered, and in good academic standing. Additionally, continuing work-study students are reviewed first for College Work Study funding to provide continued work opportunity and job continuity. Students with unusual or exceptional circumstances that occur during the academic year may receive a campus- based aid award.
3. Award materials are sent electronically to the student. Award information may also be available on my.sunyulster.edu. Students must sign to accept a loan or Federal Work Study as follows:
   1. students must initiate a Master Promissory Note for the Direct Stafford Loan and sign acceptance for that loan;
   2. students must complete a Work Authorization Form and I-9 and sign acceptance for Federal Work Study.
4. Financial aid may be credited to the students’ tuition bill when awards become actual. Financial assistance is disbursed by semester. The amount indicated on the award authorization is the financial aid awarded by semester. The aid for each semester will be disbursed usually in equal payments after tuition and fees have been paid. Students can get a schedule of payment dates at the Financial Aid Office. Awards are based on full-time attendance unless otherwise noted. If financial aid a student receives is less than tuition and fees, students are responsible for paying the remainder by the payment deadline date.
5. All transfer students (students who have attended any other post-secondary institutions) will be reviewed for default status, outstanding funds owed to the U.S. Department of Education, and remaining eligibility. This is completed prior to any federal and NYS funds being disbursed.

Students’ Rights and Responsibilities

It is the student’s responsibility to

• Complete applications for financial aid accurately and submit them in time to the correct address or website. Errors can delay financial aid.
• Adhere to the deadlines for applying or reapplying for aid.
• Provide all required documentation, corrections, and new information requested by the Financial Aid office, the College, or the agencies to which you submitted your applications.
• Notify the College of any information that has changed since you applied.
• Read, understand, and keep copies of all forms you sign.
• Read and understand the College’s refund policy.
• Perform the work agreed to in a college work study (or student aide) job in a satisfactory manner. Read the promissory note for the Direct Stafford Loan and repay any student loans you have in a timely fashion.
• Maintain satisfactory academic progress to maintain your State and federal financial aid eligibility.

How to Determine Financial Aid Eligibility

Although expenses vary from student to student, you can get an idea of average annual costs here.

Financial need is the figure reached by subtracting the total of all of the following from the cost of education at SUNY Ulster:

• Expected family contribution (EFC)
• Federal Pell Grant
• TAP award
• Other resources (including scholarships)

Federal Aid Programs

Students must file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to be considered for federal financial aid programs. The U.S. Department of Education Student Guide provides detailed information about the federal financial aid programs, eligibility criteria, and important phone numbers and websites. To be eligible, students must be matriculated, in good academic standing, and not in default on a federal student loan. Other eligibility criteria may apply.

Federal Eligibility Requirements for Students

Regulations are subject to change.
(www.studentaid.ed.gov)

Students need to review all federal eligibility criteria in The Student Guide: Financial Aid 2014-2015 from the U.S. Department of Education. (New York State eligibility criteria are listed at www.hesc.com.)

1. Students must have financial need.
2. Students cannot be in default on any of the following: Perkins Loan, Stafford Loan, PLUS loan.
3. Student must be officially admitted into the College and have a high school diploma or a General Equivalency Diploma (GED) on file in the Admissions Office. Provisionally accepted students are not eligible for financial aid.
4. Students may not owe a refund on any of the following programs: Pell Grant, Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG), or Stafford Loans.
5. Students must be matriculated in a college program that meets federal eligibility regulations.
6. Students must agree to use any federal student aid received for educational purposes.
7. Students must meet enrollment criteria as specified by a financial aid program.
8. Students must sign a statement of educational purpose and certification statement on refunds and default on the FAFSA.
9. Students must be United States citizens or eligible noncitizens.
10. Students must make satisfactory academic progress.
11. Students must be registered with the Selective Service, if required.
12. Students cannot have been convicted of a drug-related crime while receiving federal financial aid. Call 1-800-4FEDAID for more information.

Loss of Student Eligibility for Federal Aid Due to Drug Conviction

The Higher Education Amendments of 1998 provide that students are ineligible for federal student aid if convicted, under federal or State law of offenses involving the possession or sale of a controlled substance during a period of enrollment in which federal student aid was received. Federal aid can be grants, student loans, and/or college work study. The period of ineligibility begins on the date of conviction and lasts until the end of a statutorily specified period. The student may regain eligibility early by completing a drug rehabilitation program or if the conviction is overturned.

Section 484(r), Higher Education Act of 1965, detailing the suspension of eligibility for drug-related offenses and rehabilitation, follows.

Suspension of Eligibility for Drug-Related Offenses

1. In general. - A student who has been convicted of any offense under any federal or State law involving the possession or sale of a controlled substance shall not be eligible to receive any grant, loan, or work assistance under this title during the period beginning on the date of such conviction and ending after the interval specified in the following table:

Rehabilitation

A student whose eligibility has been suspended under paragraph (1) may resume eligibility before the end of the ineligibility period determined under such paragraph if

1. The student satisfactorily completes a drug rehabilitation program that - complies with such criteria as the Secretary shall prescribe in regulations for purposes of this paragraph; and
2. Includes two unannounced drug tests; or
3. The conviction is reversed, set aside, or otherwise rendered invalid.

Definitions

In this subsection, the term “controlled substance” has the meaning given the term in section 102(6) of the Controlled Substances Act (21 U.S.C.802(6)).

For more information on this topic, please visit www.fafsa.ed.gov.

Verification

Students may be selected by the United States Department of Education or the Financial Aid Office to verify the information provided on the financial aid application. APTS applicants must verify NYS income information.

For 2014-2015, the FAFSA must be received at the processor no later than June 30, 2015; however, SUNY Ulster must have students’ correct, complete information by the last day of their enrollment. Students can call 1-319-337-5665 to verify receipt of the FAFSA by the processor or check online at www.fafsa.ed.gov. The deadline for filing the NYS Express TAP Application is June 20, 2015.

Students who are selected may be asked to verify information, such as income, federal income tax paid, household size, number of family members enrolled in post-secondary education at least half time, certain untaxed income and benefits received, citizenship, and Selective Service registration.

Students may be asked to provide copies of income documents (copies of federal income tax return transcripts, Social Security Administration statements, ADC budget sheets).

If students receive federal financial aid as a result of reporting incorrect information, they will have to repay any portion of aid that should not have been received. Any person who intentionally makes false statements on a federal aid application is violating the law and is subject to fine, imprisonment, or both.

The following documentation may be required to verify the information provided on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid or the Federal Verification Form.

For 2014-2016

• Federal Tax Returns and Transcript
• Social Security Card
• Driver’s License
• Alien Registration Card
• U.S. Passport
• Separation/Divorce Agreements
• Outside Scholarship Awards
• Others, as required

Obtaining a Tax Transcript

Students, spouses, and parents may be required to obtain a transcript of their tax return, which will list the adjusted gross income, income tax paid, earned income credit, and number of exemptions.

Federal Pell Grant

A Federal Pell Grant is an award of gift assistance to help undergraduates pay for their education. For many students, Pell Grants provide a foundation of financial aid to which aid from other federal, State, and institutional sources may be added. For 2014-2015, students must have the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) processed by June 30, 2015. Applicants must have a valid Student Aid Report or Institutional Student Information Report with the school code of 002880 available to the Financial Aid Office while still enrolled and attending classes or by June 30, whichever comes first. Students must meet all eligibility criteria to receive disbursement. Dates of disbursement are available from the Financial Aid Office, the website, or on the portal at my.sunyulster.edu.

Professional Judgments

Some students, their parents, or both, may have special conditions that have affected their ability to pay for college. In order to review a student’s request, the Financial Aid Office requires that the student meet with a Financial Aid counselor, provide documentation of the special condition, and provide income documentation. These special conditions may include loss of employment, loss of nontaxable income or benefits, separation or divorce, death, dislocated worker certification, or excessive medical expenses.

Campus-Based Aid

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG)

FSEOG is for undergraduates with exceptional financial need (students with the lowest EFCs) and gives priority to students who receive Federal Pell Grants. FSEOG does not have to be paid back. There is no guarantee every eligible student will be able to receive FSEOG (or other campus-based aid). Students at SUNY Ulster will be awarded FSEOG based on the funds available. Students who complete the application/verification process by May 1, 2014, will be given priority review for the 2014-2015 academic year.

Federal Work-Study

The Federal Work-Study Program provides jobs for students with financial need, allowing them to earn money to help pay educational expenses. The program encourages community service work and work related to students’ majors.

Students identify job opportunities at Job Services and receive final authorization to work at the Financial Aid Office. Students receive timesheets, payroll schedules, and additional employee information.

Federal Loan Programs

William D. Ford/Direct Stafford Loan - Subsidized and Unsubsidized

Dependent freshmen (under 30 credits accrued) may borrow up to $5,500 per academic year. Sophomores (30 or more credits accrued) may borrow up to $6,500 per academic year. Independent students may be eligible for up to $4,000 more. (Refer to the 2014-2015 United States Department of Education “Student Guide” for details.) An origination fee is deducted from the loan proceeds. The loan amount is determined by the maximum allowed and financial need.

For loans disbursed between July 1, 2013 and June 30, 2014 the Interest rate for both subsidized and unsubsidized stafford loans is 3.86%.

For the Direct Subsidized Stafford Loans, the government pays the interest while the student maintains at least half-time status in college.

The Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loan has the same loan amount limitations and payment requirements as the Subsidized Stafford Loan. Unlike the Subsidized Stafford Loan, the student is charged interest from the time the loan is disbursed until it is paid in full.

All Direct Subsidized Stafford and Unsubsidized Stafford Loan recipients must meet all loan requirements, including having an Entrance Interview.

Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students

The Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students (PLUS) can be available for undergraduate students. The loan is a fixed rate loan at 6.41%, is limited to Cost of Attendance minus Financial Aid, and has credit limitations. Students and parents will be reviewed for eligibility that includes certifying they are not in default or owe a refund to a Title IV fund.

Visit the U.S. Department of Education’s Financial Aid for Students Home Page at www.studentaid.ed.gov for more information.

Satisfactory Academic Progress
Federal Title IV Aid

According to federal regulations, two standards are needed to maintain satisfactory academic progress for all matriculated students, even if they do not receive Federal Title IV financial aid. Future Federal Title IV financial aid eligibility is determined at the end of the spring semester.

Section 668.16(e) of the final regulations governing the Student Assistance General Provisions requires institutions to establish, publish, and apply reasonable standards for eligible students. These provisions apply to the satisfactory progress for the receipt of Title IV student financial aid.

These regulations establish a maximum time frame in which students must complete their educational objectives. The maximum time frame can be no longer than 150% of the published length of the educational program. At SUNY Ulster, that means students have three full-time equivalent semesters to complete a one-year program of study, and six full-time equivalent semesters to complete a two-year program of study, including remedial/developmental course work.

Quantitative Standards: Pursuit of Program

Students must be successfully pursuing their program of study within the six semester full-time equivalent time frame. By the end of the time frame, students must complete the necessary courses for graduation (required number of credits for graduation varies by program). The chart indicates the minimum number of credits a student needs to complete.

Pursuit of a program is defined as having cumulative credits with grades of A, B, C, D, or S greater than, or equal to, 18 credits multiplied by the cumulative full-time equivalent years of enrollment.

Full-Time Chart of Pursuit of Program

Three-Quarter-Time Chart of Pursuit of Program

Half-Time Chart of Pursuit of Program

Qualitative Standards: Good Academic Standing

Students must also maintain good academic standing as measured by the cumulative grade-point average. Students are evaluated and are expected to maintain a minimum cumulative grade-point average based on their course work attempted at SUNY Ulster as follows:

Transfer Credit - Federal

The number of credits accepted for transfer from other institutions will be included in the number of credits attempted to determine the student’s eligibility status.

Repeated Courses-Federal

Students can repeat classes they have already passed if the Catalog lists a requirement of C or better. They may also repeat a previously passed class one time provided that the repeat Is not required due to failing other coursework.

Incomplete Courses

A grade of incomplete for a course is included in both determining the cumulative grade-point average and pursuit of program. Students who lose their State and/or Title IV financial aid eligibility should contact the Financial Aid Office after the incomplete grade is changed for a re-review.

Developmental Course Work

Students required to take developmental or remedial course work will have those courses counted in the maximum number of attempted credits when determining eligibility. Students enrolled in two or more developmental courses will be reviewed by a separate Academic Review Committee to ensure that a “C” equivalent average is being maintained and that students are completing a minimum of 50% of the course work attempted.

Title IV federal financial aid is limited to six semesters for a two-year degree at SUNY Ulster. Students who have exceeded that number as a result of unusual, exceptional circumstances, including the need for retraining through education, may apply for a waiver (see waiver  section).

Losing Title IV (federal) Financial Aid Eligibility

Students who do not meet the Satisfactory Academic Progress and Pursuit of Program standards will lose their future Federal Title IV financial aid eligibility.

Students who lose their Title IV financial aid eligibility have several options:

1. Return and raise their grade-point average, complete the required number of credits, and/or complete the program without Title IV funding; or
2. Apply for and receive an undergraduate appeal from the Financial Aid Review Committee. This appeal is granted because of an exceptional or unusual circumstance and is good for one year (with a review after one semester), or for the completion of the degree or diploma, whichever comes first; or
3. Attend another college or other post-secondary institution.

Students can apply on a Financial Aid Appeal Request form and submit the request (with all required documentation) to the Financial Aid Review Committee. The conditions of the appeal are explained to each student receiving an appeal. Students may be required to meet with other college personnel (Academic Advisor, Career Services, Student Support Services, Learning Center, etc.) as part of the appeal approval process.

New York State Financial Aid Programs

(www.hesc.ny.gov)

State regulations are subject to change.

New York State financial aid programs require that matriculated students be residents of New York State and be attending a college in New York State.

Tuition Assistance Program (TAP)

SUNY Ulster school code is #2230.

Eligibility criteria include

• being matriculated in an approved program of study
• maintaining satisfactory academic progress
• being a New York State resident
• taking courses which are applicable toward student’s declared program of study
• not in default on a federal student loan
• being a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen

TAP is an annual award that can cover up to 100 percent of tuition at SUNY Ulster. Awards for 2014-2015 are determined from the income of the student/spouse and parents. Students are considered dependent if they answer YES to any one of the following questions:

1. Did you or will you live in an apartment, house, or building owned or leased by your parents for more than six weeks during 2013, 2014, and/or 2015? (You must answer YES even if you paid rent to your parents.)
2. Were you or will you be claimed as a dependent on your parents’ federal or State income tax return for 2013 and/or 2014?
3. Did you or will you receive gifts, loans, or other financial assistance worth more than $750 from your parents during 2013, 2014, and/or 2015?

Independence for TAP

Students are automatically considered independent if they are 35 years old as of 7/1/2014 (for the 2014-2015 academic year). Students are also considered independent if they are 22 years old as of 7/1/2014 AND answered NO to the above questions. Students claiming independence who do not meet the age requirements must provide proof of independence to NYS-HESC, who will make the final determination. Special conditions for independence include parents deceased, disabled, or declared incompetent; the student is a ward of the court, ward of the State, or has been rendered independent due to the involuntary dissolutionment of the family.

Six Semester Limitation

Students enrolled in a two-year program cannot receive more than three years of TAP. Accordingly, students who have already received payment for three years of TAP are not eligible for an award. A student accumulates six TAP points for each full-time TAP award received. After receiving 24 TAP points, a student must maintain a “C” average (2.0 cumulative grade-point average).

Students enrolled in a one-year program (at least 24 credits) are eligible to receive three semesters of TAP.

Aid for Part-Time Study (APTS)

Students who are attending part-time (at least 3 but less than 12 credits per semester) may be eligible for APTS. Applications are available in the Financial Aid Office, VAN 105 and at www.sunyulster.edu. Students must meet all criteria as defined on the application. This includes

• NYS residency
• U.S. citizenship/eligible non-citizen (per definition)
• being in good academic standing
• maintaining a 2.0 GPA
• having no more than 10% of Withdrawal, Audit, and/or Incomplete grades of the total credits attempted
• providing copies of NYS tax returns
• tuition not being paid or reimbursed by an employer or agency
• not being in default status
• matriculated through the Admissions office (or accepted by)

The deadline dates for submitting the completed APTS application to the Financial Aid Office are available at the Financial Aid Office and at www.sunyulster.edu. A completed application includes

• completed and signed APTS application
• signed 2013 NYS Tax Return (for 2014-2015)
• completed course registration for at least 3 but less than 12 credits of college-level courses
• completed and signed SUNY Ulster Financial Aid Application
• completed all admissions requirements
• verified NYS good academic standing status

Part-Time Tap

An alternative to APTS for part-time eligible New York State residents attending in-State colleges for tuition assistance.

Educational Opportunity Program (EOP)

The State University of New York’s Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) provides academic support and financial aid to students who show promise for mastering college-level work. Offered primarily to full-time students who are New York State residents, EOP accepts students who qualify academically and financially. The number of EOP students is limited to 133 per year (per the EOP guidelines for 2013-2014).

Eligibility: To be eligible for admission to EOP, you must be a New York State resident for 12 months prior to enrollment, demonstrating potential for completing a college program, and in need of financial assistance within established income guidelines. In selecting students for the program, priority is given to applicants from historically disadvantaged backgrounds.

Support Services: When you enroll as an EOP student, you will receive tutoring and academic career and personal counseling at the EOP Office in VAN 105, the Learning Center in VAN 247, Student Support Services in VAN 247, and career/transfer counseling in VAN 119.

Transfer: You are eligible for EOP as a transfer student provided you have been enrolled in EOP, College Discovery, SEEK, and/or HEAP. If your previous college did not have EOP or a similar program, you may be considered for transfer eligibility and should notify the College.

EOP Financial Eligibility: In order to be determined economically disadvantaged, a student’s household income must not exceed the income in any category based on the household size (including head of household). Check the suny.edu/student website for any changes to the guidelines for financial eligibility for 2014-2015.

New York State Scholarships

Memorial Scholarships for Families of Deceased Firefighters, Volunteer Firefighters, Police Officers, Peace Officers, and Emergency Medical Service Workers provides financial aid to children, spouses, and financial dependents of deceased firefighters, volunteer firefighters, police officers, peace officers, and emergency medical service workers who have died as the result of injuries sustained in the line of duty in service to the State of New York. The student must establish eligibility by submitting a Memorial Scholarship Web Supplement at www.hesc.com. Peace Officers are defined in the criminal procedures law and include many categories including New York State Correction Officers.

Military Service Recognition Scholarship (MSRS) provides financial aid to children, spouses, and financial dependents of members of the armed forces of the United States or state-organized militia who, at any time on or after August 2, 1990, while New York State residents, died or became severely and permanently disabled while engaged in hostilities or training for hostilities. The student must establish eligibility by submitting a Military Service Recognition Scholarship Web Supplement at www.hesc.com.

NYS Scholarship for Academic Excellence provides up to $1500 per year for up to five years of undergraduate study in New York State for outstanding graduates from registered NY State high schools based on Regents exam scores. To apply see the high school guidance counselor.

NYS Volunteer Recruitment Service Scholarship offers scholarships to new members of volunteer fire companies and volunteer ambulance squads.

New York State Math and Science Teaching Incentive Scholarship provides awards to eligible full-time students that lead to math or science teaching careers in secondary education.

Veterans Tuition Awards provide full- or part-time study awards to Vietnam, Persian Gulf, Afghanistan, or other eligible combat veterans matriculated as undergraduate students.

Robert C. Byrd Honors Scholarship, a competitive federal honors program, provides scholarships to academically talented high school seniors who are New York State residents and plan to attend any approved institution of higher education in the United States.

Flight 587 Memorial Scholarship provides financial aid to children, spouses, or financial dependents of persons who died as a direct result of American Airlines Flight 587’s crash in Rockaway, Queens, on November 12, 2001.

Flight 3407 Memorial Scholarship provides financial aid to children, spouses, and financial dependents of individuals killed as a direct result of the crash of Continental Airlines flight 3407 on February 12, 2009.

The World Trade Center Memorial Scholarship provides access to a college education for the families and financial dependents of victims who died or were severely and permanently disabled as a result of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks and rescue and recovery efforts.

New York State Aid to Native Americans provides aid to enrolled members of tribes listed in the official roll of New York State tribes or to the child of an enrolled member of a New York State tribe.

New York State Regents Awards for Children of Deceased and Disabled Veterans provides awards to students whose parents have served in the U.S. Armed Forces during specified periods of war or national emergency.

New York State Standards of Satisfactory Academic Progress for Purpose of Determining Eligibility for Student Aid

To maintain good academic standing, students must

• Pursue the program of study they are enrolled in, and
• Make satisfactory academic progress toward the completion of the program’s requirements.

Successful pursuit of program requires

• During the first payment year, students must complete 6 credits each semester. (Receive a grade other than withdrawal, incomplete, audit, or unsatisfactory.)
• During the second payment year, students must complete 9 credits each semester.
• In the third year of State awards, students must complete 12 credits each semester. TAP awards are limited to 6 semesters for students enrolled in a two-year program.
• Students must enroll in courses that apply to the students’ program of study.

If students do not complete the minimum number of credits in a given term, they are ineligible for State financial aid in the following academic year or until additional hours are completed to reach the minimum level.

Satisfactory academic progress is defined on the following chart for determining eligibility for student aid. This chart is for students enrolled in associate degree and certificate or diploma programs. Certificate and diploma programs must be at least 24 credit hours in length.

Please note: These charts are subject to change.

TAP SAP for remedial students and those 1st receiving State aid in 2009-2010 or earlier.

Applies to non-remedial students and those first receiving aid in 2010-2011 and after.

Noncredit, remedial instruction can be counted toward a full-time academic load as set forth in 145.2.1 of the Commissioner’s Regulations. The number of credits in this chart refers to work completed toward the degree, certificate, or diploma.

State Education Department regulations allow for one waiver during a student’s undergraduate career. Students may ask for and receive the waiver when documentation is presented to explain the inability of the student to meet minimum standards. A written appeal will be made to the Financial Aid Review Committee outlining unusual or exceptional circumstance. The waiver is not automatically given, and students must consent to its use, if granted.

All students making normal progress toward the degree (completion of a full-time load with a 2.0 average) will remain eligible for State financial assistance. If, however, a student’s grade-point average falls below 2.0, or only a small percentage of courses are completed, State awards may be withdrawn until the deficiencies are remedied.

Transfer Credit - State

Students who transfer from other post-secondary institutions will be positioned on the Standards of Academic Progress Chart. This placement will be done to the students’ best advantage as indicated by the number of credits hours approved for transfer in the students’ program of study. Students are limited to six semesters of TAP at a two-year college. EOP eligible students may be granted an additional two semesters of TAP eligibility.

Repeated Courses-State

Students can repeat only classes and have credits count toward full-time status if the College Catalog requires a grade of C or better, and they did not previously achieve that grade.

Incomplete Courses

A grade of incomplete for a course is included in both determining the cumulative grade-point average and pursuit of program. Students who lose their State and/or Title IV financial aid eligibility should contact the Financial Aid Office after the incomplete grade is changed for a review.

Developmental Course Work

Students required to take developmental or remedial coursework will have those courses counted in the maximum number of attempted credits when determining eligibility. Students enrolled in two or more developmental courses will be reviewed by a separate Academic Review Committee to ensure that a “C” equivalent average is being maintained and that students are completing a minimum of 50% of the coursework attempted.

Deadlines for Various Application Forms

Transfer Students Financial Aid Information

Students who transfer to SUNY Ulster from another post-secondary institution will be reviewed for financial aid received at those institutions. Students may be ineligible for federal financial aid at SUNY Ulster if they have received all or part of their 2014-2015 federal financial aid at other institutions and/or have been reported as in default or owing a refund to the U.S. Department of Education. EOP students will be required to provide certification of EOP/HEOP status from the prior institution(s). Students receiving TAP will be reviewed for placement on the TAP Progress Chart.

Readmitted Students

Students who are readmitted to SUNY Ulster will be reviewed for satisfactory academic standing per federal and State regulations at the time of readmission.

Veterans Benefits (Federal)

The Education Service administers the following benefit programs. If you need additional assistance, please call the toll-free number at (888) GI-BILL-1 or (888) 442-4551 to speak with a Veterans Benefits Counselor, visit the Veteran website at www.gibill.va.gov or call our Financial Aid Office.

Montgomery GI Bill - Active Duty (MGIB Chapter 30)

The MGIB program provides up to 36 months of education benefits. This benefit may be used for degree and certificate programs, flight training, apprenticeship/on-the-job training, and correspondence courses. Remedial, deficiency, and refresher courses may be approved under certain circumstances. Generally, benefits are payable for 10 years following your release from active duty. This program is also commonly known as Chapter 30.

Tuition Assistance “Top-Up”

On October 30, 2000, the President signed into law an amendment to the Montgomery GI Bill, an Active Duty education program that permits VA to pay a Tuition Assistance Top-Up benefit. The amount of the benefit can be equal to the difference between the total cost of a college course and the amount of tuition assistance that is paid by the military for the course.

Post 9/11 GI Bill

Provides new education benefits for individuals who served on active duty on or after September 11, 2001. Persons may be eligible if they served at least 90 aggregate days on active duty after September 10, 2001 and are still on active duty or were honorably discharged from active duty. Additionally, the following criteria may apply: released from active duty and placed on the retired or temporarily disabled list, released from active duty and transferred to the Fleet Reserve or Fleet Marine Corps Reserve, or released from active duty for further service in the reserves. See www.gibill.va.gov for more specifics about this new program.

Montgomery GI Bill - Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR Chapter 1606)

The MGIB-SR program may be available to students who are members of the Selected Reserve. The Selected Reserve includes the Army Reserve, Navy Reserve, Air Force Reserve, Marine Corps Reserve, Coast Guard Reserve, the Army National Guard and the Air National Guard. This benefit may be used for degree and certificate programs, flight training, apprenticeship/on-the-job training, and correspondence courses. Remedial, deficiency, and refresher courses may be approved under certain circumstances. Check www.gibill.va.gov for current benefit rates.

Veterans Educational Assistance Program (VEAP)

VEAP is available to students who first entered active duty between January 1, 1977 and June 30, 1985, and elected to make contributions from military pay to participate in this education benefit program. Contributions are matched on a $2 for $1 basis by the government. This benefit may be used for degree and certificate programs, flight training, apprenticeship/on-the-job training, and correspondence courses. Remedial, deficiency, and refresher courses may be approved under certain circumstances.

Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program (DEA Chapter 35)

DEA provides education and training opportunities to eligible dependents of veterans who are permanently and totally disabled due to a service-related condition or who died while on active duty or as a result of a service- related condition. The program offers up to 45 months of education benefits. These benefits may be used for degree and certificate programs, apprenticeship, and on-the-job training. Spouses may take correspondence courses. Remedial, deficiency, and refresher courses may be approved under certain circumstances.

Reserve Education Assistance Program (REAP)

REAP benefits may be available to Guard members and Reservists who were called to active duty in a contingency operation for at least 90 continuous days after September 11, 2001. It provides up to 36 months of full-time entitlement.

Veterans Educational Benefits (Chapter 31)

Students having service-connected disability of 10% or more may be entitled to Vocational Rehabilitation under Chapter 31, Title 38, U.S.C., which usually provides more favorable benefits than other veterans educational benefits.

Veterans Work Study Program

Available to students receiving VA education benefits who are attending school three-quarter time or more. Individuals working under this program may work at the school Veterans Office, VA Regional Office, VA Medical Facilities, or at approved State employment offices. Work study students are paid at either the State or federal minimum wage, whichever is greater. Contact the Veterans toll-free number at (888) 442-4551 with questions.

Tutorial Assistance Program

Tutorial assistance is available for students receiving VA educational assistance at the half-time or more rate with a deficiency in a subject making tutoring necessary. Contact the Veterans toll-free number at 1-888-442-4551 with questions.

Veterans Benefits (State)

Additional information can be found at www.hesc.com, by entering “military corner” in the search engine, or by calling (888) 697-4372, or from our Financial Aid Office.

Vietnam Veterans Tuition Awards (VVTA) and Persian Gulf Veteran Tuition Awards (PGVTA) are now called Veterans Tuition Awards and also include Veterans of Afghanistan hostilities.

These programs are available to New York State residents enrolled in full-time or part-time (3 to 11.5 credits per semester) undergraduate work at SUNY Ulster. Eligible students include residents discharged under other than dishonorable conditions from the U.S. Armed Forces who are

Vietnam Veterans who served in Indochina between December 22, 1961 and May 7, 1975

Persian Gulf Veterans who served in the Persian Gulf on or after August 2, 1990

Afghanistan Veterans who served in Afghanistan during hostilities on or after September 11, 2001

Awards range from $500 to $1000 per semester with an aggregate limit of $10,000. If a Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) award is also received, the combined academic year award cannot exceed tuition.

National Guard Tuition Program

This is an educational incentive program of the Division of Military and Naval Affairs for members of the Army National Guard (ARNG), Air National Guard (ANG), and Naval Militia (MNNM) in the State of New York.

Federal Pell and TAP awards will be deducted from tuition first, and the balance of tuition would be paid through this program. The Division of Military and Naval Affairs Educational Incentive Program Application is available from the National Guard at www.nationalguard.com. Students are responsible to pay the money back if they drop out of classes.

Policy on Fraud

If in the course of reviewing student information, the College has reasonable grounds to believe that in applying for aid, the student has engaged in fraud or other criminal misconduct, such as the use of false identities, forgery of signatures on certifications, or false claims of income, citizenship, or independent student status, the College will seek immediate repayment for all financial aid received. No refunds will be issued. Action will be taken up to and including permanent suspension and notification to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Education Office of the Inspector General, and the State or local law enforcement agency that has jurisdiction to investigate the matter.

Other Financial Aid Opportunities

The SUNY Ulster TRIO:

Student Support Services program is 100% federally funded by the U.S. Department of Education. This program strives to promote academic success of the students who meet federal-eligibility requirements and who elect to participate. The goals of the program are to increase the retention, graduation, and transfer rates of students who are low income, first-generation college students and of students with disabilities.

Student Support Services participants who receive the Pell Grant may be eligible to receive the SSS Supplemental grant. These funds are awarded to students who meet specific eligibility and participation criteria.

Students who are interested in participating in the Student Support Services Program are invited to visit the office located in Vanderlyn Hall (VAN 128) or to call 800: 724-0833, extension 6054 or 845: 688-6054.

Scholarships Available through Ulster Community College Foundation, Inc.

SUNY Ulster has scholarship opportunities for students. The scholarship applications are available during January for the following academic year.. Students can pick up applications at several locations around campus and at the College Foundation Office in Clinton Hall. Applications may be printed from the website www.sunyulster.edu/scholarships. A list of scholarships can be found on the Facilities & Services  section.

Scholarship Searches

There are many scholarship opportunities outside of SUNY Ulster that students can utilize. Academic department offices often post scholarship opportunities on bulletin boards; the Transfer Office posts scholarship opportunities for students planning to transfer, and students can take advantage of other scholarship opportunities by visiting the Library, doing online scholarship searches, and searching for local organizations that provide opportunities.

Resources

www.fastweb.com
Free scholarship search service

www.scholarsaid.com
Free scholarship search service

www.studentedge.com
Helps students to select majors and careers and identifies scholarship opportunities

www.petersons.com
Information on SAT, scholarships and college selection

www.nysfaaa.org
Information and links regarding financial aid and scholarships

www.nasfaa.org
Information and links regarding financial aid and scholarship

www.edupass.org
Financial aid information for foreign students

www.edfund.org
Information on college planning, financial aid planning, and managing loans

www.wiredscholar.com
Scholarship search and financial aid information

www.collegenet.com
Offers college and scholarship search information

www.irs.gov
Offers information about Hope Scholarship and Lifetime Learning Credit

www.armedforcescareers.com

Information on armed forces funding for higher education and careers

www.mappingyourfuture.org
College, career, and financial aid information