Scholarships and Financial Aid

The University will help as many qualified students as possible to attain a college education. For this purpose, the University maintains a Financial Aid Office, and all inquiries concerning such assistance should be made to: Financial Aid Office, 401 St. Thomas Hall, telephone: (570) 941-7701. Assistance is also available via the web at scranton.edu/financialaid or by e-mail to finaid@scranton.edu.

Procedures for Applying for Scholarships and Financial Aid

All undergraduate students are considered for scholarship eligibility when accepted into The University of Scranton. No separate application is required.

Students who want to be considered for need-based assistance must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Priority filing date for incoming students is January 15; for returning students, April 15. FAFSA forms are available online at studentaid.gov./fafsa.  Financial Aid is awarded for one year only and renewal is not automatic.  All forms of need-based financial aid must be reapplied for annually.

To be eligible for financial aid, students are required to maintain satisfactory academic progress. Standards have been established for federal and University financial aid that measure a student’s progress toward a declared educational objective. These guidelines include a maximum time frame for completing a degree, a minimum percentage of credits completed each academic year and a minimum cumulative grade point average. A brief explanation is provided below. 

Financial Aid Notifications

The Financial Aid Office uses email correspondence to and from the Scranton email accounts and emails listed on the FAFSA.  Outstanding documents and notifications of eligibility for need based aid and loans will be sent by email to the Scranton email account. Students are advised to view their outstanding documents and Electronic Award Notification on the University’s Self-Service system via the my.scranton.edu portal. Students must opt-in to electronic consent.

Terms and Conditions

Terms and Conditions General Provisions

In accepting the award package offered, you indicate that you understand and agree to abide by the following terms and conditions:

1. All students must maintain satisfactory academic progress in order to remain eligible for Federal and Institutional financial aid. At the University of Scranton, the satisfactory academic progress requirement is to maintain Pace-earning 67% of total attempted credits. In addition, undergraduate students must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.00. Graduate students must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00. Presidential Scholarship recipients are required to maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.25.
2. All forms of need-based financial aid must be reapplied for annually. Renewal of awards will be based on continued eligibility and the timely completion of all required documents.
3. If a student receives additional aid from outside sources, the financial aid awarded may be subject to adjustments according to the University’s Gift Aid Policy. Receipt of outside awards must be reported to the Financial Aid Office.
4. Recipients of full-tuition scholarships, benefits, or discounts are limited up to the cost of tuition.
5. Financial aid recipients who plan to withdraw from the University or who change their enrollment to part-time status must notify the Financial Aid Office.
6. Awards funded by state or federal programs are subject to revision due to mandated changes in federal or state regulations or funding levels.
7. Direct Stafford Loan and PLUS Loan recipients must be enrolled on at least a half-time (6 credits) basis per semester for Undergraduate students and (3 credits) basis per term for Graduate students.
8. Failure to provide all requested documentation will result in the cancellation of the aid awarded.
9. The amount of aid awarded will be divided equally between the fall and spring semesters unless otherwise indicated.
10. Need-based awards are subject to change as a result of verification of financial information or changes to cost of attendance.  Awards are influenced by choice of housing.  Students who change from University owned housing to off-campus or commuter housing will have their need-based aid eligibility determined using a lower cost of attendance budget.
11. University of Scranton Undergraduate grants and scholarships are limited to a maximum of eight Undergraduate semesters.
12. Undergraduate students enrolled in combined Undergraduate/Graduate programs will be reviewed each term to determine if the coursework being taken is applicable towards their undergraduate degree program. Students will be sent revised notifications if their eligibility for undergraduate financial aid awards changes. Students enrolled in prerequisite undergraduate courses for admittance into a graduate level program are limited to one annual undergraduate loan for one consecutive 12-month period.
13. University of Scranton grants and scholarships for Undergraduate students will be prorated when attendance falls between half-time and full-time attendance.
14. Recipients of endowed and special awards agree to both acknowledge the donor’s generosity and to have their receipt of those funds publicized.

Federal Aid

Students must meet the following requirements to be considered for any of the federal financial aid programs: 

• Must have a high school diploma or GED;
• Must be enrolled as matriculating student in an eligible degree program or an eligible certificate program of at least 24 credits;
• Must be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen;
• Must maintain satisfactory academic progress;
• Must not already hold a bachelor’s degree (this requirement does not apply to the Federal Direct Stafford or FWS);
• Not owe any refund on Federal Aid and not be in default on Federal educational loans.

Federal Pell Grant

Provides federal grants, ranging from $767 to $7,395 per academic year, based on financial need. A FAFSA is required.

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant

A federal campus-based program administered by the University. Amounts may range from $250 to $1,000 per year to students who demonstrate exceptional need. Priority is given to Pell recipients. A FAFSA is required for this program.

Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant

Program designed for Education majors with concentrations designated by the U.S. Department of Education. Must have achieved a 3.25 high school GPA and maintain a 3.25 for renewal. Must serve as a full-time teacher for at least four academic years at a high-need school within eight years after completing the course of study; otherwise, obligation will be treated as a Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loan. The annual award is up to $3,772, with aggregates not to exceed $16,000 for undergraduates.

Federal Direct Stafford Loan Program

The Direct Stafford Loan allows students to borrow in their own name and requires no credit evaluation. A Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is required for all loan applicants. The U.S. Department of Education is the lender. Stafford loans have a fixed interest rate. The Stafford Loan can be either subsidized (federal government makes in-school and grace period interest payments) or unsubsidized (student makes interest payments during in-school and grace periods or has interest added onto the amount borrowed and repaid with principal after grace period). Eligibility for a subsidized Federal Direct Stafford Loan is based on family income and financial need established by standards set by the federal government. Payment of principal is deferred while the student is enrolled. Repayment begins six months after the student has completed his/her program of study or leaves school for more than six months.

Students will be able to borrow a base amount that may be subsidized or unsubsidized, and an additional $2,000 per year that will be unsubsidized. First-year students may borrow up to $5,500 ($3,500 base amount), sophomores, $6,500 ($4,500 base amount), juniors and seniors, $7,500 ($5,500 base amount). In addition, independent students (and dependent undergraduate students whose parents are unable to obtain a Direct PLUS Loan) can borrow under the Additional Unsubsidized Direct Stafford Loan.

The aggregate maximum for undergraduate study is $31,000 for dependent students and $57,500 for independent students; of these maximums, no more than $23,000 can be subsidized. 

Students will be required to complete an electronic Federal Direct Stafford Loan Master Promissory Note (MPN) and Entrance Counseling.  Further instructions and information are available online at scranton.edu/paymentoptions.

Proration of Loan Limits

Direct Stafford Loan limits will be prorated when an undergraduate student wishes to borrow for an additional period of time which is beyond eight semesters (the time expected to complete a baccalaureate program) and less than an academic year.

Loans for Students Enrolled in Teacher Certification or Pre-Professional Course Work

Students admitted in a Teacher Certification program and not in a master’s degree program are eligible to borrow up to $5,500 in the Stafford Loan and up to $7,000 in the Additional Unsubsidized Stafford Loan (if eligible under this program). Students admitted under a Pre-Professional status who are enrolled in pre-requisite courses for admission into an eligible graduate or professional program, are eligible to borrow up to $5,500 through the Direct Stafford Loan program and $7,000 through the Unsubsidized Direct Stafford Loan (if eligible under this program). Students are limited to one loan for one consecutive 12-month period for these maximum amounts for pre-professional course work. In addition to the required financial aid application process, students must submit a letter from their advisor stating that the course work is required for admission into a graduate or professional degree program. Repeated courses cannot be included when calculating Financial Aid.

Federal Direct PLUS Loans

The Direct PLUS Loan is available to credit-worthy parents of dependent undergraduate students. PLUS Loans have a fixed interest rate. Parents may borrow the difference between the student’s total cost of education and all other aid the student is receiving. PLUS Loans should be applied for the academic year. The U.S. Department of Education is the lender.

For parent borrowers, interest will accrue after the first disbursement and repayment of interest and principal begins 60 days after the second disbursement. Parents can apply for a deferment to delay making payments. While you are in deferment, you will receive interest statements. Paying the interest as it accrues will save you money over the repayment term of the loan.

Parents should apply for the Direct PLUS Loan beginning in June for the academic year. The Direct PLUS Loan process will be completed online. Parents will be required to complete a PLUS Loan application with the requested loan amount and successfully complete the credit check.  Credit checks are good for 180 days.  Once approved, an electronic Federal Direct PLUS Loan Master Promissory Note (PLUS MPN) will need to be completed. Further instructions and more information are available on The University of Scranton Financial Aid website online at scranton.edu/paymentoptions. 

Alternative Loan Programs

Students with a credit-worthy co-applicant may apply for a private educational loan to finance educational costs. Please note that with current credit market conditions, credit approval for these loans has become more restrictive. There are variable and fixed interest rate loans. Application and credit review requirements vary. Our advice is to apply early if you choose one of these loans as part of your financing plan. Visit scranton.edu/paymentoptions.

Federal Work-Study Programs

A federal campus-based program that provides employment during the academic year and in the summer for students demonstrating financial need. The majority of the jobs are on-campus positions in various departments and administrative offices. Some jobs, both on and off campus, involve community service. Students seeking campus employment must file a FAFSA. Indicate that you are interested in the work-study program and complete an online application.

Pennsylvania State Financial Aid Programs

PA State Grant

The Pennsylvania State Grant Program is admin­istered by the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) and provides grant assistance to undergraduate students enrolled in at least a two-year program and who are Pennsylvania residents and enrolled at least half-time. Eligibility is based on financial need as determined by PHEAA. Students may be awarded from $612 to $5,750 per year. A FAFSA must be filed by May 1. Continued eligibility requires the successful completion of a minimum of 12 new credits for each previously funded full-time term (or 6 new credits for each part-time term).

Ready to Succeed Scholarship Program (RTSS)

The program is administered by PHEAA in close cooperation with the Pennsylvania Department of Education. The student must meet all other Pennsylvania State Grant eligibility requirements to qualify for RTSS. This includes the submission of a FAFSA and Pennsylvania State Grant Form. The student must have completed one academic year defined as having earned 24 semester credits or the equivalent by the time that the student’s school checks academic progress for the Pennsylvania State Grant. Attain a minimum cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.25. Have a family income that does not exceed $126,000.  Additional information can be obtained online at pheaa.org by selecting RTSS under the Funding Opportunities heading or by calling 1-800-692-7392 and choosing Special Programs at the prompt.

PA State Grant and Ready to Succeed Scholarship Enrollment Mode Reporting for Online Courses

Students who may be eligible for a PA State Grant and Ready to Succeed Scholarship who are interested in taking on-line courses enrollment mode reporting is required for all awarded students on a term-by-term basis for students that are in a mode other than Enrollment Mode 1 — 100% Classroom.

Enrollment Mode 2 — Up to 50% distance education. No adjustment will be made to the PA State Grant and/or RTSS Scholarship. Example: Student enrolled in 15 credits classroom and 3 credits online.

Enrollment Mode 3 — Greater than 50%, but less than 100% distance education. Changes will be made to the PA State Grant and/or RTSS Scholarship. Example: Student enrolled 6 credits classroom and 9 credits online.

Enrollment Mode 4 — 100% Distance education. Changes will be made to the PA State Grant and/or RTSS Scholarship. Changes will be made to the PA State Grant and/or RTSS Scholarship. Example: Student enrolled 0 credits classroom and 12 credits online.

Partnerships for Access to Higher Education (PATH) Grant Program

Students are nominated by a participating PATH organization. They must be PA State Grant recipients the year for which PATH aid is requested, demonstrate financial need and be enrolled in a Pennsylvania postsecondary institution. Additional information can be obtained on line at pheaa.org by selecting Other Educational Aid under the Funding Opportunities heading or by calling 1-800-692-7392 and choosing Special Programs at the prompt.

Blind or Deaf Higher Education Beneficiary Grant Program (BDBG)

BDBG is a state-funded program administered by PHEAA that provides financial aid to blind or deaf students who are Pennsylvania residents and are enrolled at least half-time in a Pennsylvania postsecondary institution. To be considered for the grant, students must provide PHEAA with either written documentation stating that they have been evaluated and are eligible to receive benefits from the Pennsylvania Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) or PHEAA’s Medical Professional Certification Form completed by the students’ physician. The maximum award is $500. Additional information can be obtained online at pheaa.org by selecting Other Educational Aid under the Funding Opportunities heading or by calling 1-800-692-7392 and choosing Special Programs at the prompt.

Pennsylvania Chafee Education and Training Grant Program (Chafee)

Chafee is a federally funded program administered by PHEAA that offers grants to Pennsylvania undergraduate students aging out of foster care who are attending an eligible postsecondary institution. Student eligibility requirements for the program include:

• Be a Pennsylvania resident
• Be eligible for services under Pennsylvania’s John H. Chafee Foster Care Program for Successful Transition to Adulthood
• Be identified as a youth in foster care or a youth discharged or adopted from foster care at age 16
• Have not reached the age of 27 by July 1 of the upcoming academic year for which Chafee ETG is received
• Be enrolled as an undergraduate, at least half time in a college or career school that is approved by the U.S. Department of Education for Title IV student assistance programs
• Demonstrate financial need for the grant (as determined by the postsecondary institution)
• Maintain satisfactory academic progress (as determined by the postsecondary institution)
• Not be in default on a federal student loan or owe a refund on other Title IV aid.
• Have not received Chafee ETG for 5 years (consecutive or not), defined as 10 semesters or the equivalent, for undergraduate study
• Have graduated from high school or have received a Commonwealth Secondary School Diploma

The maximum award for the academic year is $6,000. Additional information can be obtained online at pheaa.org by selecting Other Educational Aid under the Funding Opportunities heading or by calling 1-800-692-7392 and choosing Special Programs at the prompt.

Pennsylvania National Guard Educational Assistance Program (EAP)

PHEAA and the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs administer this program which provides tuition assistance for students who enter into a commitment with the Pennsylvania National Guard for a period of 6 years and are enrolled in a degree or certificate granting program of study at an approved Pennsylvania institution. Students, who do not honor their service commitment, will be required to repay the total EAP award received plus interest. Additional information can be obtained online at pheaa.org by selecting Aid for Military & PA National Guard under the Funding Opportunities heading or by calling 1-800-692-7392 and choosing Special Programs at the prompt.

Pennsylvania National Guard Military Family Education Program (MFEP)

PHEAA and the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs administer this program which provides tuition assistance for dependents (spouses and children) of Pennsylvania Guard Members who enter into an additional 6-year commitment with the Pennsylvania National Guard. The PA Guard member must have completed an initial service obligation on or after July 1, 2019 and be eligible to reenlist for an additional 6-year period. The PA Guard Member can assign the entire benefit to one dependent or a portion of the benefit to more than one dependent. The MFEP grant can be used for a degree granting curriculum or certificate-granting program as determined by PHEAA at an approved institution for up to 5 academic years. If the service commitment is not honored, the total MFEP award received will need to be repaid plus interest. Additional information can be obtained online at pheaa.org by selecting Aid for Military & PA National Guard under the Funding Opportunities heading or by calling 1-800-692-7392 and choosing Special Programs at the prompt.

PA Fostering Independence Tuition Waiver (FosterEd) Program

In 2019, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania passed Act 16, creating the Fostering Independence Tuition Waiver (FosterEd) Program, amended by Act 91. The FosterEd Program provides tuition waivers at postsecondary institutions for eligible youth who are or have been in foster care. The program is being administered collaboratively by the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) in conjunction with the PA Departments of Education (PDE), Human Services (DHS), and Labor & Industry (L&I).

Student Eligibility Requirements:

• To be eligible for a FosterEd waiver, the student must:
• Be a current resident of Pennsylvania at the start and during the term for which the waiver is awarded.
• Have not reached the age of 26 by July 1 of the upcoming academic year for which the FosterEd waiver is received.
• Have graduated from high school or have received a Commonwealth Secondary School Diploma.
• Be eligible for services under Pennsylvania’s John H. Chafee Foster Care Program for Successful Transition to Adulthood.
• Be identified as a youth who is in foster care, or was discharged from foster care on or after attaining age 16, OR has exited foster care on or after age 16 to adoption or permanent legal guardianship.
• Be enrolled as an undergraduate, at least half-time, in a postsecondary institution that is approved by the U.S. Department of Education for Title IV student assistance programs in PA.
• Have unmet cost for the PA Chafee Education and Training Grant (Chafee ETG), as determined by the postsecondary institution.
• Maintain satisfactory academic progress as determined by the institution.
• Not be in default on a federal student loan or owe a refund on other Title IV aid.
• File a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) for the academic year for which the waiver is being requested.
• File an application for Chafee ETG.
• Have not previously received a waiver for five (5) years (consecutive or not), defined as ten (10) semesters or the equivalent, for undergraduate study.

For more information please visit pheaa.org, additional funding opportunities, under other educational aid. For point of contact information at The University of Scranton, please visit scranton.edu/financialaid, select PA Fostering Independence Tuition Waiver (FosterEd) Program.

State Work Study Program (SWSP)

The State Work Study Program, administered by PHEAA, provides eligible Pennsylvania students with opportunities to earn money for college education while working for a high tech or community development employer. Participating agencies include non-profit organizations, private businesses and industry. The University of Scranton is also an eligible employer.  Students must be enrolled in an eligible program of study to be considered. Applications will be mailed by PHEAA to state grant applicants and are also available in the Financial Aid Office.

Off Campus Work Study

This program, administered by PHEAA, offers eligible students the opportunity to work in federal, state and local government agencies or non-profit community organizations. Placement referrals are made by PHEAA.

University of Scranton Scholarships and Grants and Other Programs

University of Scranton Scholarships and Grants

The University offers a number of awards based on academic merit (see “Scholarships”) and financial need (see “Grants”). All accepted traditional first-year students and transfer students are automatically evaluated academically for scholarship aid. University of Scranton grants and scholarships are limited to eight Undergraduate terms (students enrolled in the Master of Occupational Therapy Program are eligible for two additional terms for fall and spring during Graduate year, exclusive of internal transfers prior to fall 2021). Aid not to exceed Gift Aid Policy. In order to be considered for need-based aid, students must file a FAFSA. For a more complete description of aid programs and policies, please review the Comprehensive Guide to Financial Aid Programs at scranton.edu/financialaid, click on Publications. 

Presidential Scholarship

Renewable, merit-based, full-tuition scholarships awarded to incoming first-year students based on their exemplary academic record. To remain eligible, students must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.25.

Dean’s Scholarship

Renewable, merit-based partial-tuition scholarship awarded to incoming first-year students who demonstrate the highest level of academic achievement. 

Loyola Scholarship

Partial-tuition scholarships are awarded to incoming first-year students and incoming transfer students based on their prior academic record. 

Faber Scholarship

Renewable, partial-tuition scholarships awarded to incoming first-year students and transfer students who are not eligible for any other merit-based awards, but who demonstrate academic promise through their high school achievements. 

Business Analytics Scholarship

Renewable, merit-based scholarship awarded to incoming first-year students on an annual basis for a maximum of four years of undergraduate study. 

Communication Sciences & Disorders Scholarship

Renewable, merit-based scholarship awarded to incoming first-year students on an annual basis fora maximum of four years of undergraduate study. 

Cybercrime & Homeland Security Scholarship

Renewable, merit-based scholarship awarded to incoming first-year students on an annual basis fora maximum of four years of undergraduate study. 

Mathematical Sciences Scholarship

Renewable, merit-based scholarship awarded to incoming first-year students on an annual basis fora maximum of four years of undergraduate study. 

University Award

Renewable, partial-tuition scholarships, in recognition of high school achievement. 

University Grant

These grants are awarded to students who demonstrate financial need.  Non-renewable.  Students must file the FAFSA.

Xavier Grant

These grants are awarded to students who demonstrate financial need. Renewal is contingent continued demonstrated financial need. Students must file the FAFSA each academic year.

Endowed Awards

Endowed and Special Awards are funds that benefactors provide to The University of Scranton to assist students in accordance with the award guidelines. 

Awards for Non-Traditional Undergraduate Students

Dexter Hanley Full-Time Grant-For non-traditional undergraduate students enrolled for a minimum of 12 credits per term. Recipients are chosen based upon demonstrated financial need. Students must file a FAFSA each academic year.

Dexter Hanley Part-Time Grant-For non-traditional undergraduate students enrolled for fewer than 12 credits per term. Recipients are chosen based upon demonstrated financial need. Students must file the FAFSA each academic year.

Special Scholarships

Other scholarships available to non-traditional undergraduate students are the Robert L. McDevitt Scholarship, the Newcombe Scholarship for Mature Women, and the Oppenheim Award. To be considered for the McDevitt Scholarship, the student must demonstrate financial need and academic excellence. To be considered for the Newcombe Scholarship, candidates must be an undergraduate, mature student (defined as students 25 years of age and older).  If there are not sufficient undergraduate candidates, scholarship funds may be awarded to graduate, mature students who are studying in any of the helping professions (including but not limited to social work, nursing, education and physical therapy or occupational therapy). To be considered for the Oppenheim Award, students must demonstrate financial need. Preference is given to displaced homemakers. Students must file the FAFSA each academic year.

University Work Study

The University of Scranton funds a number of jobs in various departments and administrative offices for students who do not demonstrate financial need. Applicants must follow the same filing procedures as those specified for the federal work study program. Payment procedures, pay rates, earning limits and maximum hour limitations are identical to those of the federal program.

Family Tuition Reduction Program

Whenever two or more dependents from the same family attend the University as full-time undergraduate students in the same semester or session, a Family Tuition Reduction will apply. Each student will receive a 10% discount on total tuition charges. Fees and housing and food are not included in the calculation of the discount. The discount is not automatic. An application must be filed with the Bursar’s Office each academic year to receive the discount. Forms and additional information may be obtained from the Bursar’s Office. Visit scranton.edu/bursar, click Tuition Discount Programs and select Family Tuition Reduction Program.

Proration of Aid

Undergraduate students in the final semester(s) that are typically full-time (twelve credits or more) that are enrolled less than full-time and enrolled at least six credits will have their Institutional Financial Aid prorated based on a per-credit tuition rate verses a flat rate tuition rate. Federal and/or State Aid will be determined based on policy guidelines for each program.

Tuition Remission

A Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which covers both state and federal aid, must be filed each year prior to May 1 for the subsequent academic year for eligible employees, spouses and eligible children who intend to enroll as at least a half-time student for any term during the subsequent academic year. Visit studentaid.gov.  If it is determined that the student is not eligible to receive state or federal aid, a short form may be required in subsequent years. This short form may be obtained from the Financial Aid Office, and must be submitted for review prior to March 1. The tuition remission benefit will not be paid to a student’s account until all required financial aid forms and applications are officially filed. If all applicable financial aid forms are not completed in a timely manner, the actual amount of state and/or federal grants that the student would have been eligible for will be deducted from the University’s tuition remission benefit. As a result, the student or parent will be responsible for paying the portion of the financial aid package that was forfeited.

Undergraduate students qualifying for 100% tuition remission is the difference between the actual tuition costs per term less federal and/or state benefits. When eligible for federal and/or state benefits, the total value will be extended to cover the cost of books and academic fees. The maximum allowance for books and academic fees is $250 per semester. Bookstore charges will be issued by the Bursar’s Office and placed on the student’s Royal Card upon request.

Undergraduate students qualifying for partial tuition remission are limited to actual tuition costs per term less any federal, state, and/or university aid.

Army ROTC Scholarships

The Army provides ROTC Scholarships based on merit. Army ROTC Scholarships provide full tuition and fees, total stipend and book allowance is $4,980. There are two types of scholarships: High School and College Campus. Winners of High School level (four year and three-year advanced designee) ROTC Tuition and Fees Scholarship recipients also receive free campus housing and food at The University of Scranton. Free University housing and food awards are available to students offered ROTC tuition and fees scholarships prior to the beginning of the academic year. ROTC College Campus Based recipients receive ROTC Tuition and Fees Scholarship along with free campus HOUSING ONLY. University first-year and sophomores, as well as prospective graduate students, can apply for College Campus Scholarships. For additional information, contact our Military Science Department by phone at (570) 941- 7457, fax (570) 941-4340 or e-mail at ROTC@ scranton.edu. Students are subject to the general financial aid and gift aid policy.

Air Force ROTC Scholarships

Air Force ROTC Scholarships provide up to $18,000 in tuition and a monthly stipend. Four-year Air Force ROTC Scholarship recipients will also receive free on-campus housing at The University of Scranton. Combination of Air Force Tuition Scholarship and University scholarship, grants and/or any other aid (exclusive of loans or work study funds) will not exceed the student’s tuition cost.

For more information, contact the Aerospace Studies Department at Wilkes University at 570-408-4860, ext. 4872.

Office of Vocational Rehabilitation

OVR provides educational assistance to medically qualified students. When determining the amount of assistance, OVR requests information from the Financial Aid Office pertaining to the student’s eligibility for state, grants and other scholarships and federal grant assistance. To find out more about OVR requirements, contact the OVR representative in your area.

Veterans Education Programs

The University of Scranton is partnering with the federal government and Department of Defense to help fund the cost of tuition for military veterans, their eligible dependents, members of the Guard Reserves and Active Duty personnel by offering VA Education Benefits and Tuition Assistance. Further, the University proudly participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program along with the VA and has chosen to contribute the maximum 50% funding for eligible recipients. When matched by the VA, this contribution, plus the Post 9/11 GI Bill®, will fund the full cost of tuition at the University of Scranton. In the event that Post 9/11 GI Bill® funds are exhausted, it is the student’s responsibility to provide documentation to the Financial Aid Office that their benefits have met the delimiting date.

Service members, veterans and eligible dependents should consult their regional Veterans Administration (VA) counselor to establish their eligibility for veterans’ education benefits or apply online. Information is available on the Veterans Administration website at va.gov. Once eligibility is established through the VA, students must submit a copy of their Certificate of Eligibility or Statement of Benefit to the Financial Aid Office. (Students need only to submit another copy of their Letter of Eligibility if they elect benefits under a different chapter of the GI Bill® at a later date.) In addition, students using VA or TA benefits must submit a University of Scranton Request for Certification form to the Financial Aid Office prior to each term for which they wish Scranton to certify their enrollment to the VA. This form is available to students through student’s my.scranton.edu, Home Tab, Student Link (found to the left) and click on Veteran to locate the Request for Certification Form.  For additional information, please contact the Financial Aid office at finaid@scranton.edu.

Tuition Assistance information and application must be made by consulting your individual Unit or base education office. They will provide procedures on establishing your benefit as well as rules and payment rates. Once you receive your TA Authorization form, please provide it to the University of Scranton by emailing it to finaid@scranton.edu.  In addition, service members must submit a University of Scranton Request for Certification form to the Financial Aid Office prior to each term. This form is available to students through student’s my.scranton.edu, Home Tab, Student Link (found to the left) and click on Veteran to locate the Request for Certification Form. If using both VA & TA education benefits in the same semester, consult your School Certifying Official in the Financial Aid department. For more information, visit scranton.edu/financialaid, click on Veterans Information.

*GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.

Department of Defense Tuition Assistance

The University of Scranton offers Tuition Assistance (TA) to Service members for voluntary off-duty education programs in support of professional and personal self-development goals.

The TA program provides financial assistance to service members for voluntary off-duty education programs in support of professional and personal self-development goals. TA provides up to a maximum of $250 per credit and a personal maximum of $4,500 per fiscal year per student in tuition covered costs by the individual branches of military services. 

Active duty, National Guard and Reserve Component Service members who are interested in enrolling in an approved program of study by the VA may be eligible for TA and need to consult their individual Unit or Base Education office for procedures on establishing benefits, as well as rules and payment rates, as all branches of service have different rules and regulations for service members to follow. Once application is made through the individual’s Unit, contact the University of Scranton’s Financial Aid office for information on certification and next steps. 

More information on TA and VA education benefits can be found on the Veteran Information page of our website.

Financing Your Education at The University of Scranton

Families should develop their own unique financing plan that is based on their individual financial situation. A financing plan provides different approaches, including loans and monthly payment plans that families may consider as options for meeting costs not covered by scholarships and grants. We recommend direct payment to the University, Nelnet monthly payment plan, Federal Direct Stafford Loan, Federal Direct Parent PLUS Loan program, and Alternative Loans. Visit scranton.edu/paymentoptions.

Direct Payment to The University of Scranton

Payments can be made directly to the Bursar’s Office via check and for payments from 529 or Educational Savings Plan. Electronic check and credit card payment options available at my.scranton.edu portal or authorized party login nbspayments.com.

Nelnet Business Solutions Monthly Payment Plan

Nelnet Payment Plan provides an installment payment plan that allows families to spread payments over 4, 5, or 6 monthly payments per term beginning July and December. This eliminates the need to make lump sum payments prior to the beginning of each term. Families can budget an amount not to exceed term charges less any aid that will be received. No interest is charged. Apply per semester. Enrollment fee per semester (subject to change). You may contact Nelnet Campus Commerce at 800.609.8056 or visit mycollegepaymentplan.com/uscranton.

Federal Direct Stafford Student Loan Program

Review the Federal Direct Stafford Student Loan Program above.  

Federal Direct Parent PLUS Loan Programs

Review the Federal Direct Parent Plus Loan Programs above.

Alternative Loan Programs

Review the Alternative Loan Programs above.

Summer Aid

Institutional aid is not awarded during summer for Undergraduate students. However, an undergraduate student may be eligible for the Federal Pell Grant, PA State Grant, Federal Direct Stafford and/or Parent PLUS Loan (mandatory credit check required) on a case by case basis. Alternative Loans can be awarded during the summer as long as the student is approved. Students must contact the Financial Aid Office to be reviewed for possible summer Financial Aid.

Payment/Aid Disbursement

Invoices and class schedules are emailed by the Bursar’s Office before the start of each semester. The invoice will list the charges for tuition, fees, housing and food. Payment will be due before the start of the semester. Any pending financial aid will be listed and deducted from the total amount due. Financial aid is typically divided equally between the fall and spring semesters, therefore, one-half of the annual award will be deducted for the fall and spring semesters. Aid received from federal grants, SEOG, Federal Direct Stafford Loan or PA State Grant, as well as all institutional aid, will be credited directly to the student’s account when all eligibility requirements/documents have been satisfied.

Gift Aid Policy

Maximum Gift Aid

University of Scranton scholarship aid, including multiple family discounts and grants, combined with federal and state grants and scholarships are limited as follows:

• Resident students: tuition, housing and food charges
• Commuter and off-campus students: tuition, general fee and a $1,000 allowance for books and supplies.

Outside Gift Aid Policy

Students should notify the Financial Aid Office if they are receiving any privately funded scholarships or grants by submitting a photocopy of any scholarship notification and information on availability of these funds for subsequent years. The University will then be able to notify students of any impact on their financial aid package.

Satisfactory Academic Progress Requirements for Receipt of Financial Aid

The U.S. Department of Education regulations require that educational institutions measure students’ progress toward a declared educational objective, both quantitatively and qualitatively in order to be eligible to receive Federal Title IV aid, which includes Federal Pell Grants, Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grants (SEOG), Federal Work Study, Federal Stafford Loans, and Parent PLUS Loans. The Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) and other state grant agencies have separate satisfactory academic progress requirements for their scholarship and grant programs. University of Scranton scholarship and grant recipients must meet the minimum federal requirements and are also subject to minimum, cumulative grade point averages, as specified by the award. External scholarships and grants may have different satisfactory academic progress renewal requirements.

Detailed information about academic probation for continuation in a program of study may be found in the Academic Policies and Regulations section of the undergraduate catalog under the topic Grade Difficulties: Academic Probation and Dismissal.

Requirements

The measurement of satisfactory academic progress for receipt of federal student aid is broken down into three categories:  maximum time frame, PACE and qualitative measure as explained in the following sections.

Maximum Time Frame

A student may not exceed a maximum number of attempted credits in any program(s), even if aid was not received during all periods of enrollment.  The maximum number of credits is 150% of a student’s program(s) required credits.  Once a student reaches the maximum amount of credits attempted as specified by the program(s), the student will be ineligible to receive further Title IV aid. Students in this category may submit appeals in accordance with the Appeals section of this policy.

PACE

This measurement ensures that a student is completing their program(s) within the maximum time frame allowed. PACE is calculated by dividing total credits earned by total credits attempted and includes accepted transfer and advanced standing credits in both the numerator and denominator. PACE is measured annually at the conclusion of the spring semester. 

Qualitative Measure

In addition to the maximum time frame and PACE requirements specified above, all students must maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.00 in order to demonstrate satisfactory academic progress for receipt of federal aid. The 2.00 cumulative GPA requirements apply to all Federal Student Aid Programs and need-based University of Scranton funds and University of Scranton Work Study Program.

Monitoring Satisfactory Academic Progress Requirements

Both PACE and GPA requirements are measured at the end of each spring semester. In the interim, all students are responsible to monitor their compliance with all satisfactory academic progress requirements for receipt of aid funds. Students not meeting PACE and/or the minimum grade point average for receipt of federal aid must earn the sufficient number of credits and/or meet the minimum cumulative grade point average requirements before having aid reinstated, or have successfully appealed for an exception to the requirements.

Financial Aid Suspension

In the event a student’s federal and/or University aid is canceled, a formal notice will be sent to the student informing him/her of the action and requirements for reinstatement and procedures for appeal.

Reinstatement of Aid

Financial aid eligibility may be reinstated when the student has reestablished satisfactory academic standing. It is the student’s responsibility to notify the Financial Aid Office in writing when cumulative GPA requirements have been met and/or PACE deficiencies are corrected.

Once matriculated at The University of Scranton, credits taken at another institution must be approved by the dean of the college in which the student is enrolled. Detailed academic policies about this topic may be found in the Academic Policies and Regulations section of the undergraduate catalog under Transferring Credits from Other Institutions Once Matriculating at The University of Scranton.

Appeals

If, due to extenuating circumstances, a student fails to meet satisfactory academic process, they may appeal the termination of their financial aid. Students that fail to meet satisfactory academic process will be notified of their deficiencies in writing and a formal letter will be mailed to the address on file with the University. In addition, the student will receive an email to their scranton.edu email address with a link to the online SAP Appeal Form. 

Deadline: An appeal with all appropriate documentation must be submitted no later than 30 days of the start of the semester for which the student’s aid is being requested (contact the Financial Aid Office for specific dates). 

Appeals must be entered online by using the link provided when you are notified you did not meet satisfactory academic progress and must specify the reason(s) why satisfactory academic process was not achieved and how the deficiencies can be remediated during any approved probationary period. The appeal committee assumes that each student appealing is dependent upon financial aid for the completion of his/her degree. Please do not discuss your need for financial aid in your appeal. Documentation of the reason(s) for the appeal may be requested or it will not be processed. All applicants will receive a written response as soon as possible, but no later than 10 business days after submitting all necessary forms. 

The Financial Aid Office will consult with the Dean’s Office of the college in which the student is enrolled to obtain a recommendation on the appeal request. An appeal will be granted in cases where the University determines that a student should be able to meet satisfactory academic process standard during the subsequent payment period or develops an academic plan for a student that, if followed, will ensure that he or she is able to meet satisfactory academic progress by a specific point of time to meet satisfactory academic progress requirements. All final decisions will be communicated by the Financial Aid Office. 

Financial Aid Probation

A student on financial aid probation may receive federal student aid funds for one payment period, which includes summer and special sessions. The institution may require a student on financial aid probation to fulfill specific terms and conditions such as taking a reduced course load, enrolling in specific courses or availing themselves of specified University or private resources. At the end of one payment period on financial aid probation, the student must meet the University’s satisfactory academic progress standards for receipt of financial aid or meet the requirements of the academic plan developed by the Dean’s Office and the student to qualify for further federal student aid funds.

Drops, Withdrawals and Incomplete Grades

Credits dropped during the drop refund period of the term as defined on the published academic calendar are not counted as attempted credits. Incomplete courses are counted as attempted credits for the determination of PACE and maximum time frame.

Stop Outs and Re-admitted Students

When a student has a break in enrollment and is readmitted, satisfactory academic progress will be evaluated taking into consideration any transfer and advanced standing credits earned during the break in enrollment and accepted by the University.

Terms, Parts of Term and Summer

Terms are comprised of all sessions and parts of term within a term.  For measurement of satisfactory academic progress, January Intersession will be combined with spring term.

Advanced Standing Credit

All forms of advanced standing credit such as advanced placement, transfer, validation, challenge, that are accepted by the University are considered as both attempted and earned in the calculation of PACE and maximum time frame.

Audited Courses

Audited Courses are not considered as attempted or earned in the calculation of PACE and maximum time frame.

Repeated Courses

Repeated courses will be counted each time attempted and will be only counted in earned once. However, if a course which had been passed is repeated and the latter grade is an “F,” the course will no longer be counted in earned.

Multiple Majors/Degrees

The maximum time frame will be calculated using all required credits to complete multiple majors and all credits attempted and earned will be used in the calculation of PACE.

Change of Major

The maximum time frame will be calculated using the current major and all credits attempted and earned, including those for prior major(s) will be part of PACE and cumulative grade point average calculations.

Subsequent Degrees

Measurement of maximum time frame and PACE will be calculated based on the requirements of the subsequent degree.   

Consortium Agreement

Credits taken at another institution under an approved Consortium Agreement will be used when determining the student’s number of credits earned. They will not affect a student’s cumulative grade point average.

Students Rights and Responsibilities

Student’s Rights You have the right to ask for the following information about the University and financial aid:

• What federal, state, institutional and private financial aid programs are available?
• What must students do to apply for aid and how is eligibility determined?
• How is aid distributed to students?
• What are the rights and responsibilities of aid recipients?
• How and when is financial aid awarded?
• What are the terms and conditions of any work program that is included in your financial aid award notification?
• What is the interest rate, repayment schedule, total amount borrowed, and deferment or cancellation provisions for any student loan borrowed?
• What are the satisfactory academic progress standards used, and what needs to be done to reestablish eligibility once one has failed to maintain progress for financial aid?
• What are the names of the organizations that accredit or license the University and its programs?
• What special facilities and services are available to handicapped students?
• What is the cost of attending the University?
• What is the University’s refund policy?
• Information on the University’s programs, and the instructional, laboratory and physical plant facilities associated with those programs.
• What are the names of the University’s faculty?
• Who are the Financial Aid Officers, where are they located and who should I contact with questions on financial aid?

Student’s Responsibilities It is your responsibility to:

• Comply with all financial aid filing procedures including the completion of required applications by the published deadline(s).
• Understand academic progress requirements necessary for retaining aid.
• Complete all financial aid applications accurately, honestly and on time.
• Provide all required documentation when requested.
• Notify the Financial Aid Office of any changes to the information initially reported.
• Notify the University of any changes in enrollment status, permanent home address, phone number, local address or name.
• Complete entrance and exit counseling for loan borrowers.
• Understand and comply with loan repayment obligations.
• Understand the refund policy.
• Perform work study duties in a responsible manner and in compliance with the terms and conditions of employment.
• Request in writing a reevaluation of aid eligibility when academic progress requirements or credit deficiencies have been corrected.
• Read, understand and keep copies of all forms sent to you for signature.
• Complete the third-party authorization form to allow access to their student record.

Financial Aid Refund Policy

In accordance with federal regulations, all students who receive federal financial aid and who completely withdraw from the University during the first 60% of a semester, or who fails to earn a passing grade during an enrollment period, will have their federal financial aid (Pell Grants, Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants, Teach Grants, Stafford Loans and PLUS Loans) adjusted based on the percent of the semester completed prior to the withdrawal. That is, students will be entitled to retain the same percent of the federal financial aid received as the percent of the semester completed. This percent is calculated by dividing the number of days in the semester (excluding breaks of five days or longer) into the number of days completed prior to the withdrawal. The date of withdrawal will be the date the student begins the withdrawal process in accordance with the official procedures outlined in the catalog.

Students who do not follow the official withdrawal procedure, but who stop attending classes for all their courses will be considered to have withdrawn at the midpoint of the semester unless attendance is documented after that time. There will be no adjustment to federal financial aid after 60% of the semester is completed.

You will not be subject to returns of your Title IV program assistance if you meet one of the fol­lowing exemptions for enrollment in modules:

• You complete all of the requirements for graduation;
• You successfully complete a class or multiple classes that comprise at least 49 percent of the days in the term; or
• You successfully complete a class or multiple classes that comprise at least half-time enrollment.

Students who must withdraw from school should consult with the Financial Aid Office on how the refund policy applies to their situation.

When a Student Fails to Earn a Passing Grade During an Enrollment Period

For students who began attendance and have not officially withdrawn and fail to earn a passing grade in at least one course offered (ALL “F” GRADES) during an enrollment period will be considered to have withdrawn at the midpoint of that semester if a last date of attendance cannot be determined for financial aid purposes.

For students who receive all “I” grades, “I’s” indicate postponement of the completion of the courses and are given an extension; students must complete all of the required work before the midpoint of the next regular semester. If students do not earn a passing grade in at least one course offered, they will be considered to have withdrawn at the midpoint of that semester if a last date of attendance cannot be determined for financial aid purposes.

For students who receive all “NG” grades, “NG” will indicate temporary grades. Temporary grades are issued when a faculty member fails to meet the deadline for submission for grade reports. Such temporary grades will be changed to permanent grades when issued by the professor. If students do not earn a passing grade in at least one course offered, they will be considered to have withdrawn at the midpoint of that semester if a last date of attendance cannot be determined for financial aid purposes.

Overpayment Policy

If a student leaves the University after receiving a cash disbursement for living expenses from Title IV grants, the University must determine if the student must repay a portion of the cash disbursement. If it is determined that an overpayment has been made, the institution will notify and bill the student for the amount of the overpayment.

A student would owe a repayment if the cash disbursement exceeds the living expenses incurred up to the point of the student’s withdrawal. Certain non-refundable expenses, such as books and supplies, will be included in the overpayment calculation at full cost.

Work Study funds are excluded from the calculation because they have been earned by the student as well as other federal loan funds, because the student is already obligated to repay them.

Submission of Requested Documentation

All requested information must be provided to The University of Scranton Financial Aid Office within six weeks of the notification date. If the requested documentation is unavailable at the time of the request, an extension can be granted provided the Financial Aid Office receives a written request explaining the reason the documentation is not provided and an estimated date the information will be available. Please note, however, that Federal and institutional aid cannot be finalized until such time as all requested documentation is provided. Failure to satisfy all requests will result in the cancellation of all Federal aid and University of Scranton need-based grant aid.

Overpayment of Federal Funds

In cases where corrections result in an overpayment of federal funds, you will receive notice on steps required to repay the federal programs and the consequences of not making proper repayment. Any questions concerning these policies and procedures should be directed to the Financial Aid Office.

FINANCIAL AID FOR STUDY ABROAD

University students participating in the Study Abroad Program may be eligible to receive financial aid, including federal, state and institutional aid, for their enrollment in a program that is approved by the University’s Study Abroad Advisor. There are several additional requirements, however, that must be met before the Financial Aid Office can process any student’s financial aid for use at another institution. Please note that the cost for the Study Abroad terms may impact the participant’s financial aid package.

Consortium Agreements With Other Institutions

Upon approval of the dean of the student’s college, the University will execute a consortium agreement with another eligible institution so that the combined costs and credits can be used in determination of financial aid eligibility. Please note that because of differences in costs, a student’s financial aid package could be affected.

Endowed Academic Positions

The Alperin Chair in Business Administration: This academic chair was endowed in 1980 through the gifts of three Scranton businessmen, Joel, Irwin, and Myer Alperin, and their families. The late Joel Mitchell Alperin was the originator and the principal sponsor of the chair and its endowment. Income from the Alperin brothers’ gift is applied to the salary of a professor in the Kania School of Management.

The William and Elizabeth Burkavage Fellowship in Business Ethics and Social Responsibility in Memory of William & Elizabeth Burkavage: Established in 2009 by local business owner Bill Burkavage and his wife, Judith, this endowment provides funds to assist University faculty in new research on issues of sustainability, social responsibility, and business ethics.

The Chair in Judaic Studies: Income from an endowment established by alumni and friends of the University makes it possible for the University to invite, for short visits to Scranton, Judaic scholars from Israel or other parts of the world, for public lectures and meetings with students and faculty.

John J. Krafsig, Sr. Endowed Professorship in History: This academic professorship was established in 2016 by John J. Krafsig, Jr., Esq.’49 in memory of his father.  Income from this endowment may be used to augment a professor’s salary or support a professor’s scholarly and research activities.

The Rev. John J. Long, S.J., Fund: Contributions to this fund were made by friends of the Rev. John J. Long, S.J., president of the University (1953 to 1963) on the occasion of his Golden Jubilee in the Society of Jesus and later as a memorial after his death in 1971. The endowment supports projects and programs concerned with the spiritual growth of students.

The Robert L. McDevitt, K.S.G., K.C.H.S. and Catherine H. McDevitt, L.C.H.S. Endowed Chair in Philosophy in Honor of the late Rev. Dexter Hanley, S.J. and The Robert L. McDevitt, K.S.G., K.C.H.S. and Catherine H. McDevitt, L.C.H.S. Endowed Chair in Theology in Honor of the late Rev. Dexter Hanley, S.J.: Robert McDevitt established these endowments for teaching positions in the University’s Philosophy and Theology Departments through an estate gift received in 2009 to honor the memory of Rev. Hanley, his dear friend and former University of Scranton President.

The NEH Endowment: This endowment was established through a challenge grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities to support the acquisition of materials for the humanities collection in the Weinberg Memorial Library.

The Noble C. and Jule Quandel Professorship in Entrepreneurship: Established in 2011 by Noble C. and Jule Quandel, this professorship was created to recognize and support distinguished faculty in the Kania School of Management whose dedication furthers entrepreneurship education and supports the economic development of Northeast Pennsylvania and beyond.