FINANCIAL INFORMATION, TUITION, FEES, AID, SCHOLARSHIPS, AND EMPLOYMENT

University Controller: Larry D. Reese;
Associate Controller for Student Financial Services: Perry W. Crowell

Tuition and Fees

Fees are established by the Board of Regents and the Florida State Legislature and are subject to change without notice. The University will calculate and assess the charges to be settled for fees due based on the fee rates authorized by the Board of Regents, the students schedule, and whether the student is a resident of the state of Florida. Students should review their Student Assessment Payment Schedule to verify the accuracy of the charges. The amount of tuition due is available during registration via telephone or the web. At the time of payment, students should also review their payment receipt to verify the payment made, any outstanding charges owed, or any arrangements outstanding. All payments will be applied to current tuition first and then to the oldest debt.

Residency Requirements For Tuition Purposes

At The Florida State University there are three offices responsible for the initial review of residency for tuition purposes under Florida Statute 240.1201 and Board of Regents Rule 6C-7.005(6). These offices are: l) the Office of Admissions, 2) Law School Admissions, and 3) the Office of the University Registrar. The first two offices determine residency for all first-time-on-campus students; the Office of the University Registrar is the only office to which students can apply for changes in residency once they are enrolled. First-time-on-campus students will be classified in accordance with the information on their applications, including the Florida Resident Affidavit on the last page of the application, providing no other information is available calling into question the information on the application. The following is a summary of all the pertinent requirements for qualifying as a Florida resident for tuition purposes. For complete information, see Florida Statute 240.1201 and Rule 6C-7.005(6) of the Florida Administrative Code.

To qualify, students must: be a United States citizen, resident alien, parolee, Cuban national, Vietnamese refugee, or other refugee or asylee so designated by the United States Immigration and Naturalization Service,

Have established a legal residence in this state and maintained that legal residence for 12 months immediately prior to the term in which they are seeking Florida resident classification. BoldStudents residence in Florida must be as a bona fide domiciliary rather than for the purpose of maintaining a mere temporary residence or abode incident to enrollment in an institution of higher education,Bold and should be demonstrated as indicated below (for dependent students as defined by Internal Revenue Service regulations, a parent or guardian must qualify),

Submit the following documentation (or in the case of a dependent student, the parent must submit documentation) prior to the last day of registration for the term for which resident status is sought (Note: the various summer terms are considered one semester for the purpose of establishing residency):

1)   Documentation establishing legal residence in Florida (this document must be dated at least one year prior to the first day of classes of the term for which resident status is sought). The following documents will be considered in determining legal residence:

1. Declaration of Domicile.
2. Proof of purchase of a home in Florida which you occupy as your residence.
3. Proof that student has maintained residence in the state for the preceding year (e.g., rent receipts, employment records).

2)   Documentation establishing bona fide domicile in Florida Boldthat is not temporary or merely incident to enrollment in a Florida institution of higher education. The following documents will be considered evidence of domicile even though no one of these criteria, if taken alone, will be considered as conclusive evidence of domicile:Bold

1. Declaration of Domicile.
2. Florida voters registration.
3. Florida vehicle registration.
4. Florida drivers license.
5. Proof of real property ownership in Florida (e.g., deed, tax receipts).
6. Verification of employment by the employer, employment records, or other employment-related documentation (e.g., W-2, paycheck receipts), other than for employment normally provided on a temporary basis to students or other temporary employment.
7. Proof of membership in or affiliation with community or state organizations or significant connections to the state.
8. Proof of continuous presence in Florida during periods when not enrolled as a student.
9. Proof of former domicile in Florida and maintenance of significant connections while absent.
10. Proof of reliance upon Florida sources of support.
11. Proof of domicile in Florida of family.
12. Proof of admission to a licensed practicing profession in Florida.
13. Proof of acceptance of permanent employment in Florida.
14. Proof of graduation from high school located in Florida.
15. Any other factors peculiar to the individual which tend to establish the necessary intent to make Florida a permanent home and that the individual is a bona fide Florida resident, including the age and general circumstances of the individual.

3)   No contrary evidence establishing residence elsewhere.

4)   Documentation of dependent/independent status (copy of Internal Revenue Service tax return). Note: federal income tax returns filed by resident(s) of a state other than Florida disqualify such students for in-state tuition, unless said students parents are divorced, separated, or otherwise living apart and either parent is a legal resident of Florida.

Become a legal resident and be married to a person who has been a legal resident of the state of Florida for the required 12-month period,

Be a member of the Armed Forces on active duty stationed in Florida, or a spouse or dependent,

Be a member of the full-time instructional or administrative staff of a state public school, community college, or university in Florida, a spouse or dependent,

Be a dependent and have lived five years with an adult relative who has established legal residence in Florida,

Be a person who was enrolled as a Florida resident for tuition purposes at a Florida institution of higher education, but who abandoned Florida residency and then reenrolled in Florida within 12 months of the abandonment,

Be a Latin American/Caribbean scholar,

Be a United States citizen living on the Isthmus of Panama and have completed 12 consecutive months of college work at The Florida State University Panama Canal Branch, or a spouse or dependent,

Be a graduate student of the Southern Regional Education Boards Academic Common Market attending Floridas state universities,

Be a full-time employee of a state agency or political subdivision of the state when student fees are paid by the state agency or political subdivision for the purpose of job-related law enforcement or corrections training,

Be a qualified beneficiary under the Florida Pre-Paid Postsecondary Expense Program per 240.551 (7) (a),

Be a McKnight Fellowship Recipient,

Make a statement as to the length of residence in Florida and qualification under the above criteria.

Students wishing to change from out-of-state to in-state residency for tuition purposes shall apply to the appropriate admissions office if they have not yet enrolled, or to the University Registrar if they are already enrolled.

Tuition and Instructional Fees

The University Academic Calendar appearing in the Directory of Classes each term sets forth the beginning and ending dates of each term and all deadlines.

Assessment of Fees

The following fees and charges are based on proposed rates; however, since the Graduate Bulletin must be published in advance of its effective date, it is not always possible to anticipate changes, and the fee schedule may be revised. Every effort will be made to publicize changes for any semester in advance of the registration date for that semester.

Students are assessed fees based on the level of the course as established by the Board of Regents and the Florida State Legislature. Rates applicable to the main campus for fall term, 1998, and spring and summer terms, 1999, are used as a basis for estimating course charges per credit hour for Florida and non-Florida residents. Fees applicable to 19992001 had not been confirmed by the Florida Legislature at the time of the publication of this document.

Actual Course Fee Charge Per Credit Hour 19981999 Schedule

Students registered in courses for zero (0) credit hours (master's comprehensive examination, master's thesis defense, dissertation defense, or other graduate-level zero [0] credit hour courses) will be charged for one (l) Florida resident graduate credit hour, unless also enrolled in other credit courses at The Florida State University during the same academic term.

Special Fees, Fines, and Penalties

Application Fee: $20.00. Applicants for admission are assessed a nonrefundable application fee.

New Student Orientation Fee: $25.00. This fee is assessed when new students register to attend the required University orientation program. This is a nonrefundable fee.

Special Student(Orientation) Fee: $15.00. The charge will be included on the students schedule and can be paid through the Cashiers Office.

Late Registration Fee: $100.00. A late registration fee is assessed when a student does not begin registration during the time provided under the academic calendar.

Late Payment Fee: $100.00. A late payment fee is assessed against students who do not pay their tuition in full by the required due dates (see the Academic Calendar, published in the Directory of Classes).

Florida StateUniversity identification Card (FSUCard): This fee is assessed against first-time FSUCard recipients. This fee may be paid when tuition is paid.

Replacement FSUCards: A fee for the preparation of a new card is assessed against those students who lose their FSUCards.

Duplication/Photocopying Fee: At cost. A fee is assessed for duplicating or photocopying documents.

Standard Tests Fee: At cost. A fee is assessed for test materials and related factoring or grading charges levied by an external agency used in standardized tests, such as the Graduate Record Examinations.

Transcript Fee:$5.00. This fee is assessed for each transcript requested.

Installment Contract Fee: $10.00. This fee is assessed for executing an installment contract for tuition payment during fall and spring semesters only.

Returned Check Charge, Stop Payment Charge: $25.00 or five percent (5%) of the amount of the check, whichever is greater. A returned check charge is assessed against a students account who has a check returned by the bank to The Florida State University. The Florida State University automatically submits all personal checks twice for payment if the check was returned once for insufficient or uncollected funds. This is an automated process and the second submission cannot be stopped; however, there is no charge assessed by The Florida State University for this second submission.

Returned check charges are assessed for all personal checks that are written for tuition, fees, or any services provided by the University that are returned to The Florida State University for insufficient funds, uncollected funds, closed accounts, and stop payments placed on checks. In addition to the returned check charge, if the initial payment is for tuition and redemption of the returned check is not made prior to the fifth day of classes, a $100 late payment fee is assessed to tuition. The Florida State University places a hold on accepting any personal checks from the student for 90 days after redemption for any services, tuition, or fees that are owed to the University if a personal check is returned. If a second check is returned or a stop payment is placed on it, the student will be permanently listed on all departments ACCEPT CASH ONLY list, and no personal checks will be accepted from anyone that day forward.

Notification will be given to the student via mail to the address on the check or to the last maintained address in The Florida State Universitys records. A copy of the notification letter will be sent to the maker of the check at the address on the check, if the student is not the person on whose account the funds are drawn. After notification that a check has been returned, redemption including the service charge must be made within seven (7) working days. The Florida State University forwards all returned checks to the State Attorneys Office for redemption and prosecution after collection efforts are exhausted. After a returned check is forwarded to the State Attorneys office, redemption of the check will not prevent prosecution.

Thesis and Dissertation Fees: A graduate student submitting a thesis or dissertation is assessed a binding fee at cost (extra charge for oversize copies). In addition, doctoral students submitting a dissertation are assessed a microfilming fee and may pay a copyright fee, if desired.

Binding Fee: At cost.

Microfilming Fee: At cost.

Copyright Fee: Optional.

Loss and Damage Fees: At cost. Students who lose or damage equipment may be assessed a breakage or loss fee to pay for breakage or loss of equipment. Upon completion of the course, the instructor will prepare a listing of the cost of all such lost and damaged equipment and assess the student a loss or damage fee. The charge varies based on the cost of the item and generally applies to students taking laboratory courses.

Scientific Laboratory Fees: Varies. Students enrolled in certain laboratory courses are assessed a fee which is used to offset the cost of scientific materials or items that are consumed in the course of the students laboratory activities. These fees are assessed based on the course.

Library Fees

Fines for Late Return (per book or unit, per day): $0.25. A fine for late return of a library book will be assessed against students who do not return library books by the due date.

Fines for Overdue Reserve Library Books(per book, per library hour): $0.25.

Fines for Failure to Respond to a "Recall Notice": (per book or unit, per day): $0.25. A fine for the failure to respond to a "recall notice" will be assessed against Faculty and A&P who do not return library books by the recall due date specified in the notice.

Borrowing Privileges Revoked: Faculty and A&P have a grace period of 30 days for late returns, at the end of which borrowing privileges (including the renewal of all loans) will be revoked.

Housing Costs

For complete descriptions of housing facilities, services, costs, and how to apply for University housing, refer to the Housing section of this Graduate Bulletin.

Annual Estimate of Cost

A reasonable estimate of the cost of attending The Florida State University is approximately $10,660 for the academic year for in-state graduate students living in a University residence and participating in a campus food plan. Students living and eating off campus should be prepared for generally higher costs for utilities, telephone service, transportation, housing, and food. For non-Florida residents, the cost of attendance is approximately $18,905 per academic year.

The tuition and fee estimate is based on twelve (12) credit hours at 1998 1999 tuition rates for a graduate student attending two terms per year. Note: Students are encouraged to contact the Office of Admissions for current esitmates.

* On - campus housing. Off - campus housing costs are considerably higher.

Note: International students should refer to the "Admissions" section of this Graduate Bulletin for an estimated cost of attendance.

Payment of Fees

Payment of registration fees and tuition detailed below is an integral part of the registration process. Grades and credit are not valid until all financial obligations are satisfied. Registration (including payment of fees) must be completed on or before the proper due date. The appropriate University office must be provided a properly executed authorization to defer fees prior to the deadline published in the academic calendar in those cases where fees are to be paid by a previously approved loan, scholarship, or other third-party arrangement.

Method of Payment

With the exception of financial aid students (see below) students who enroll must pay fees and tuition in full or initiate an installment contract by the fifth day of the term. Students who fail to pay tuition in full by the fee payment deadline will be assessed a late payment fee of $100.00. All waivers, agency billings, and department billings for all students, including those receiving financial aid, must be submitted by the fifth day of the term. The University Bolddoes notBold send out a bill. Students can, however, get the amount of their tuition and fees due when they register for classes by telephone or though the web. Other options include kiosks located on the first floor of University Center - A Building and second floor of Union - Krentzman Lounge, calling (850) 644-9452, or going to the Oglesby Student Union ballroom during the first week of the semester.

Students may pay by check, cash, money order, cashiers check or FSUCard. The Florida State University does not accept credit cards, two party checks or foreign checks for payment. Make checks payable to The Florida State University and include the students social security number, local phone and address on each check. Payment methods are described below.

Automated Debit to FSUCard for Tuition Payment. Students may authorize charges to be deducted from their FSUCard bank account by exercising an option during telephone registration. This option must be selected by the end of the drop/add period for each semester. Funds must be available in the students FSUCard for debit on the fifth day of the term. A "decline" message back to The Florida State University for the automated debit will result in an automatic late payment fee and the student must come to the office to pay his or her tuition. Students receiving financial aid may have their aid transferred to their FSUCard by completing a Disbursement Authorization Statement (DAS). The DAS need only be completed once during the students coursework, or if a change is desired. Authorized University charges are automatically deducted from all financial aid.

Installment Contracts. Students incurring tuition fees greater than $150.00 are eligible to execute an installment fee payment agreement for the fall and spring semesters (not available for summer semesters). The initial payment, which must be one half of the total tuition, is due by the fifth day of the semester. The second half of the installment payment is due by the sixth week of class, as specified on the agreement. Failure to pay the balance of tuition by the due date will result in a $100.00 late payment fee. Cancellation will occur and all records will be held if the balance is not paid by the end of the semester. Students must appear in person to initiate the installment agreement. A $10.00 fee will be assessed at the time of first payment for this option. Once an installment contract is executed, any course added at a later date must be paid in full. It will not be covered under the previously executed contract. Failure to pay tuition in full for such a course will result in the assessment of a late payment fee of $100.00. Installment contracts cannot be initiated through the mail.

Convenient Drop Box for Payments.The Office of Student Financial Services has computers for student use at building "A" of the University Center. Students may verify the amount due for tuition and fees, insert a check, money order or cashiers check in the provided envelope and put the envelope in the drop box. Payments are processed the next business day. Payments received in the drop box on the fifth day of class will not be considered late. The web-service computers are available Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., except holidays. Please do not deposit cash. We will not process foreign checks or two party checks. Make checks payable to Florida State University and write your social security number, current address and phone number on the check.

Mail-In Fee Payments. When paying fees by mail, send a personal check, money order, or cashiers check for the full amount of fees due. Please do not send cash. We will not process foreign checks or two party checks. Payments must be postmarked by the US Post Office no later than the fifth day of class for the term. Make checks payable to Florida State University and write your student identification number, current address and phone number on the check. Payments should be mailed to The Florida State University, Office of Student Financial Services, A1500 University Center, Tallahassee, FL 32306-2394.

Agency Billing,Department Billing. Students who are having their tuition paid by an agency or by department billing should submit the required documents no later than the fifth day of the term. Any remaining balance due must be paid by the fifth day of the term.

State Employee FeeWaivers. State employee fee waivers cannot be initiated through the mail and must be submitted to the Office of the University Registrar by the fifth day of the term. Students who fail to turn in their waiver or pay the balance of tuition in full by the fee payment deadline will be assessed a late payment fee of $100.00. Note:Tuition fee waivers for graduate courses may be taxable and reported on the employees W-2 forms, with the exception of graduate students employed as teaching and research assistants. For additional information contact your personnel office.

Panama City Campus

Students who intend to enroll at the Panama City campus of The Florida State University are to pay their fees at: Controller's Office, 4750 West Collegiate Drive, Panama City, FL 32405. This office will answer any questions concerning fee payments and financial aid distribution.

Fee Liability

Liability is incurred for all credit hours remaining on a students schedule at the close of the official drop/add period each term. Out-of-state tuition and matriculation fee waivers will not cover dropped or withdrawn classes.

Delinquent Fees

Students who have amounts owed to the University may not complete their registration, participate in graduation ceremonies, receive a diploma, or receive a transcript until all amounts owed to the University have been satisfactorily settled. This includes library charges, health center charges, parking fines, and student loans. All payments will be applied to the oldest outstanding debt first. Collection fees are added to a students account if the student has had an outstanding debt for 120 days or longer.

Registration "Stop" for Outstanding Charges

A "stop' is placed on all students who have outstanding charges due to the University. Students owing $50.00 or more, including current semester tuition, are not permitted to register for classes. The "stop" will not be removed and such students will not be permitted to register until the debt is cleared.

Tuition Waivers, Deferments, and Financial Arrangements

Out-of-State Tuition and Matriculation Waivers

In the interest of the general welfare of the state of Florida, and in order for Florida to contribute to the fulfillment of national and international obligations, the Board of Regents authorizes the President of the University to waive portions of out-of-state tuition and matriculation fees for a limited number of graduate students. Graduate assistants who have at least a one-quarter time assistantship (teaching or research) or students on a fellowship of at least $3,150 per term may apply.

Insofar as they are available, out-of-state tuition and matriculation fee waivers are reserved for full-time, degree-seeking graduate assistants and fellows. Graduate assistant and fellowship stipends are normally subject to federal income tax.

Provisional, special, and part-time students at the graduate level are not eligible for tuition waivers. Tuition waivers must be submitted by the appropriate school or college by the fourth day of classes.Waivers are canceled if the student withdraws from the University, drops below the required academic load, or terminates the assistantship. Waivers will not cover any dropped classes. The student will be responsible for any fees assessed.

Waivers for State Employees or Florida Residents Over 60 Years of Age

State employees may have fees waived for up to six (6) semester hours per term provided the courses receive approval of their supervisor, agency, or department head. Persons registering must meet all posted deadlines and all requirements of the University. Fees may not be waived for any course requiring individual instruction or audit. State employee waivers must be submitted to the appropriate University office, as follows, by the fee payment deadline: University employees and state employees - to the Office of the University Registrar.

When registering to audit courses, all fees are waived for citizens 60 years of age and older who are Florida residents. All requirements pertaining to auditing courses must be met, and, in addition, proof of age and residency must be presented. Note: Audited courses do not earn credit hours or appear on a students permanent record. For further information, refer to the 'Registration' entry of the "Admissions" and "Office of the University Registrar" section of this Graduate Bulletin.

Policy Concerning Late Fees

A student may request a waiver of the late registration fee at the Office of the University Registrar. Documentation supporting University error or extraordinary circumstances will be required.

A student may request a waiver of the late payment fee at the Office of Student Financial Services if payment was not made by the established deadline because of a University error, administrative error, or extraordinary circumstances beyond the control of the student. Note: lack of funds is not a valid reason for waiving the late fee. Request to waive late fees must be made by completing a waiver request form. If the request is denied, the student may appeal to the late payment fee appeals committee by contacting the Office of Student Financial Services at 644-9452.

The Late Payment Fee Appeals Committee, which consists of representatives from the Office of the University Registrar, Office of Financial Aid, and the Office of Student Financial Services, provides an opportunity for students to appeal a denial of their request for waiver of the penalty for late payment fees. The appeal committee's decision is the final step in the Universitys appeal process. Attendance by the student is recommended.

Deferments and Financial Arrangements

Unless students are scheduled to receive financial aid, which is disbursed during the second week of the semester, they must pay, or make arrangements to pay, all fees due by the end of the fifth day of the term. Acceptable arrangements include third-party agency billing, departmental billing, or installment contract. Failure to do so will result in a $100 late payment fee assessment.

Financial aid deferments are authorized by the Office of Financial Aid. Departmental billings are authorized by the school or college issuing the billing. Agency billings are authorized by the previously approved agency to pay fees on behalf of the student. The billings are to be completed by the student at the Student Union Ballroom during fee collection by the fifth day of the term.

Veterans' Deferments. A student in training under the auspices of the Veterans Administration receives an education and training allowance each month from the federal government. Since the first subsistence checks are sometimes delayed, it is advisable for the veteran to be prepared to meet all expenses for about two months.Tuition and health fees for students receiving assistance from the Veterans Administration in accordance with provisions of Section 240.235, Florida Statutes, 1983, may be deferred each time there is a delay in the receipt of benefits. This deferment is not automatic and must be explicitly requested by eligible students through the Office of Veterans' Affairs by the fee payment deadline.

Note: if a student receives a veterans deferment and tuition is still not paid by the due date, the student will be assessed a $100 late payment fee and will not be eligible to receive a veterans deferment in the future.

Application Fee

Individuals who make application for admission to The Florida State University shall pay a nonrefundable application fee of $20.00. This fee may be waived for applicants who can document that they have received a fee waiver because of economic need as determined by the College Board or the American College Testing Program.

Refunds of Fees

Regulations Concerning Refunds of Fees Paid

A student incurs a liability for all credit hours that remain on the student's schedule of courses as of the end of the official drop/add period. The amount of this liability is identified on the Student Assessment Payment Schedule. Any amount paid in excess of the amount owed (assessed fee and outstanding University charges) during the term will be carried forward and may be applied against subsequent University charges incurred or may be refunded upon request. Full refunds of tuition fees may also be made in instances of withdrawal from the University under the following conditions:

1. Involuntary call to active military duty;
2. Death of the student or death in the immediate family (parent, spouse, child, sibling);
3. Illness of the student of such duration or severity, as confirmed in writing by a physician, that completion of the term is precluded;
4. Cancellation of the course by the University;
5. Exceptional circumstances that could not have been foreseen and were beyond the control of the student, as approved by the University refund committee;

Students who are enrolled at The Florida State University for the first time are eligible for a pro-rata refund of tuition fees based on the official date of withdrawal less an administrative fee of $100.00 or 5%, whichever is less. The refund calculation is done according to the week of the semester in which the student withdraws from the University. No refund will be granted to first time enrolled students who withdraw after the sixty percent (60%) liability period of the semester. Pro-rata refunds are made in compliance with Public Law 102-325.

Students who do not meet one of the above criteria but who withdraw after the fifth day of classes and prior to the end of the fourth week of the semester are eligible for a twenty-five percent (25%) refund of tuition fees. After the fourth week of the semester, such students are held fully liable for tuition fees.

Note: the refund request form or withdrawal form must be submitted to the Office of Student Financial Services within six months from the end of the term from which the student withdrew.

All tuition refunds due to a student who has received financial aid and who is enrolled for less than the hours required for the type of aid received will be refunded to the financial aid source. Students who receive financial aid and withdraw from school are expected to refund to the University a pro rata share of the financial aid received for the term. If a withdrawal occurs effective with the fifth day of the semester or prior thereto, all financial aid is returned to the source. After the fifth day of the semester, the refundable amount is based on the portion of the term for which enrollment was in effect.

Refunds requested of tuition fees are generally made within four weeks of application. For currently enrolled students, the refund will be processed as a credit to the students FSUCard account. Checks will be mailed to those students who are no longer enrolled.

An application for a request for refund of fees should be submitted as follows.

Tuition Fees:Office of Student Financial Services, A1500 University Center

Note: Please be advised that the current refund policy, which is governed by the 1998 Federal Title IV reauthorization provisions, were under negotiations at the time of printing this publication. Therefore, this refund policy may be subject to change based on final rulemaking by USDOE.

Food Plan: Director of Food Services, 144 Oglesby Union

Housing Fees: Director of Housing, 104 Cawthon Hall.

Student Cancellation of Schedule

A student may cancel registration during the first five days of a semester or summer session by submitting a written request to the Office of the University Registrar, A3900 University Center, or to Withdrawal Services, A4300 University Center. Beyond the fifth day of the semester a student cannot voluntarily cancel registration but must apply for withdrawal from the University. Students who cancel their registration within this time frame are not liable for tuition; if tuition has been paid, such students should request a full refund of fees. Students who cancel their registration and are not enrolled for the following term (not enrolled for two consecutive terms) must apply for readmission.

Financial Aid

Director, Office of Financial Aid:
Darryl Marshall

General Information

The Florida State University recognizes the high cost of education today and makes every effort to offer financial assistance through a variety of programs to qualified graduate students. In addition to providing funds on the basis of demonstrated financial need in the form of grants, work awards, and loans, the University offers scholarships to recognize and reward talent, academic achievement, and meritorious performance. Graduate students may apply for long-term loans and college work-study. Graduate fellowships and assistantships are handled through the Office of Graduate Studies and the respective academic departments.

The Office of Financial Aid is committed to serving and guiding students through the lengthy and complicated process of applying for financial aid. Students are urged to begin investigating the following avenues of help promptly.

A Financial Aid brochure is updated yearly and explains the requirements and processes for application for financial aid. It may be obtained by writing: The Florida State University, Office of Financial Aid, A4400 University Center, Tallahassee, FL 32306-2430.

Help in completing the financial aid forms is available from professional financial aid counselors located in the University Center and periodically at other locations in the greater Leon County area. Continuing students are mailed a federal renewal form in December by the federal processor.

To obtain information on financial aid and the status of their application, students may call the Express Telephone System (ET) from 8:00 a.m. through 6:00 a.m. (22 hours per day) at (850) 644-0539. The hours of operation for the Office of Financial Aid are 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. The Information Center is open Monday - Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Telephone counseling is available Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

The Student Aid Resource (STAR) Center is a multimedia resource center designed to provide information about sources of financial aid, information about short- and long-term personal financial planning, referral services to the Office of Financial Aid, and other campus and community resources. A more complete description of the center's services follows under "Additional Sources of Aid."

Panama City Campus

Students who intend to enroll at the Panama City campus and are in need of financial support should contact: Coordinator for Financial Aid/Veteran Affairs, Office of Student Affairs, 4750 West Collegiate Drive, Panama City, FL 32405.

Eligibility

Financial aid eligibility requirements normally include a minimum enrollment of twelve (12) semester hours in a degree- granting program. Regulations governing federal and state financial aid programs require that students maintain satisfactory progress and good academic standing to receive financial aid. Twelve (12) hours per semester constitutes a full-time load for graduate students and fellowship holders. Nine (9) hours is defined as a full-time load for graduate assistantship holders on a quarter-time appointment or larger.

Deadlines

The federal financial aid application period for the 1999 - 2000 year begins January 1, 1999, and ends June 30, 2000. Some federal and institutional grant funds and federal work-study funds are limited, so students are encouraged to apply as soon as possible after January 1, 1999. The Florida State University priority deadline is February 15, 1999. Students may still apply after this date, but some program funds may be exhausted. Estimated student/parent tax data is allowed for completion of the FAFSA document.

Financial Aid Application Process

To apply for federal, state, and institutional aid at The Florida State University students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Students may complete a paper application (available from any high-school or post-secondary school) or application may be made directly over the Internet by accessing the following web page: http:www.ed.gov/offices/OPE/express.html

Internet applications can be completed from any home computer with secure Internet access, or through Internet capable computers in many libraries and schools. Students in the Tallahassee area may use computers at The Florida State University to submit their application. Continuing students may have access to various computer labs on campus; prospective students may use computer terminals located in the Office of Financial Aids Information Center.

Whether a student applies through a paper or an Internet application, the following materials will be necessary to complete the data required:

• The students social security card and drivers license card
• W-2 forms or other records of income earned.
• Student's (and student's spouse's if married) Federal Income Tax Return (estimated figures are acceptable for application before filing of return).
• Students parent's federal income tax return if the student is required to file as a dependent student (estimated figures are acceptable for application before filing of return).
• Records of other untaxed income received, such as welfare benefits, social security benefits, TANF, veterans benefits, or military or clergy allowances.
• Current bank statements and records of stocks, bonds, and other investments.
• Business or farm records, if applicable.
• Student's alien registration card, if student is not a U.S. citizen.

Note: Students may apply for financial aid before applying for admission to The Florida State University, but while early application for aid is recommended (as soon after January 1, 1999 as possible) a student can not be awarded aid until he/she is officially accepted for admission to The Florida State University.

Loan Entrance Counseling Sessions

Federal regulations require all students receiving a Federal Stafford/Unsubsidized Stafford Loan or Federal Perkins Loan to participate in a loan entrance counseling session prior to receiving the first distribution of the loan. No Federal Stafford loan or Federal Perkins loan can be disbursed until this requirement is met. A student accepting a loan award for the first time at The Florida State University can complete the loan entrance requirement by accessing The Florida State University Office of Financial Aid web page at http://www.aus.fsu.edu/finaid/ and clicking on the loan entrance counseling link. This will connect the student with an official loan entrance counseling site, where the required information will be covered. The student will be asked to provide certain information, including reference addresses for future use. Students are strongely encouraged to print a copy page to retain for their records. Students who prefer an alternative format, or who have questions about loans or the loan entrance counseling information/process may contact the Office of Financial Aid.

Fees and Financial Aid Students

The University distributes aid in three ways for all registered financial aid students whose funds are available to the Office of Student Financial Services. Students must complete a Disbursement Authorization Statement (DAS) choosing one of the following two ways to receive financial aid:

1.By Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) to your FSUCard Account at Sun Trust. Approximately 90% of the student body receiving financial aid at FSU have chosen to process their aid electronically and take advantage of the latest technology in banking services; or

2. By a check mailed to your local address.

3.Exceptions:

1. Students who either have a hold on their funds or will receive a check that must be personally endorsed will receive an Administrative Voice Message to appear in person at the Office of Student Financial Services, A1500 University Center. You may pick-up your check on the published date. You must present a picture ID to either pick-up your financial aid or receive a short term loan. In order to receive your aid, you must be enrolled for the required number of hours; and
2. Students whose financial aid has not arrived by the beginning of the semester should receive a tuition deferment if application was made by August 1 , of each year. After the mass distribution dates at the beginning of the semester, additional funds that become available will be disbursed daily and mailed or sent to the FSUCard account in accordance with the selection made on the students Disbursement Authorization Statement(DAS).

All financial aid students must call 1-888-FSU-CARD (378-2273) on the scheduled call-in date. Students will not need to appear in person for financial distribution unless they have an administrative voice message (AVM) saying they must attend. If their message says they have a deferment or their tuition has been paid, they do not need to come to the Office of Student Financial Services. Students required to attend financial aid distribution should report to the Office of Student Financial Services, A1500 University Center on the published pick-up date.

Note: If your message says you have a deferment or your tuition has been paid, you do not need to come to the Office of Student Financial Services. If you cannot get through using this phone number or if you need a financial aid deferment or you do not receive a message, you should report to the Office of Student Financial Services, A1500 University Center on the pick-up date as posted. Please do not get this date confused with your telephone call-in date.

Your administrative messages will not appear in your voice mail box until the call-in date. After entering your social security number and your telecommunications PIN, select the optional features menu by pressing *82.

We have developed two voice messages. The first message is to notify you whether or not to attend financial aid distribution. If your message states that you must attend financial aid distribution then you must attend. Failure to attend may result in a late fee assessment of $100. The second message is for those students who have chosen to have their financial aid processed using EFT and their FSUCard account. This message will provide a detailed description of each debit and credit involved in the transaction.

You will need a campus telecommunications personal identification number (PIN) to gain access to your administrative messages using this voice mail system. If you do not have the PIN, you should call the MCI Customer Service telephone number printed on the back of your FSUCard (1-800-274-8170). If you need further information, contact the FSUCard Center at (850) 644-7777.

If you have any questions, please call (850) 644-9452 at the Office of Student Financial Services.

Deadline:If the financial aid is not sufficient to cover all charges, the student is responsible for paying the balance by the last day of financial aid distribution, (see date on the "Academic Calendar" in this Graduate Bulletin). After this date a $100 late payment fee is assessed and grades will be held at the end of the semester until fees are paid in full.

Note: Financial Aid students who are having their tuition paid by an agency or department billing should submit the required documents no later than the last day to pay fees. Intern Participation Certificates do not pay the full amount of tuition. Students must pay the remaining balance due by the fifth day of the semester. All state employee waivers must be turned into the Registrars office at the University Center by the fifth day of the semester.

Deferments, Loans, and Check Cancellation

Deferments

If aid is not available during the second week of the semester, financial aid recipients may be eligible for a tuition deferment. Check your Administrative Voice Message at 1-888-378-2273 to determine whether your aid has arrived or if you have received a deferment. Students who are ineligible for a deferment must pay their fees or make other arrangements by the last day of financial aid distribution. All students receiving a financial aid deferment must pay their tuition in full by the date stated for the deferment expiration. Failure to pay by these dates will prevent you from registering for subsequent semesters and will cause a cancellation comment to appear on your permanent record in lieu of grades being posted.

Delayed Delivery Loans

Students who have need of funds as a result of financial aid being delayed may apply for a delayed delivery loan at the financial aid distribution site. To be eligible for a delayed delivery loan, a students financial aid application must be complete by August 1 of each year. Eligibility for the loan will be determined by the type of aid awarded and the hours enrolled. A pictured ID is required in order to receive a delayed delivery loan.

Delayed delivery loans are not available until the financial aid distribution period. Students should come prepared to buy books and make deposits for housing as financial aid distribution does not take place until the second week of the term.

Emergency Loans

Students who have emergency situations such as a death in the family or unexpected major medical or dental bills may apply for an emergency loan at the Office of Financial Aid. Documentation is required. A pictured ID is required in order to receive an emergency loan.

Check Cancellation

Any Stafford Loan check available at the mass distribution and not picked up by the check cancellation deadline will be returned to the lender for cancellation.

Exit Interviews

All graduating or withdrawing students who receive a Federal Perkins Loan and/or a Federal Stafford Loan (formerly Guaranteed Student Loan [GSL]) are required to attend an exit interview. The exit interviews are held one week prior to final exams each semester on an assigned appointment basis. Withdrawing students should come by the Office of Student Financial Services and participate in the exit interview prior to leaving The Florida State University. Exit interviews are held by the Student Accounts Section of the Office of Student Financial Services, A1500 University Center.

Additional Sources of Financial Aid

The Student Aid Resource (STAR) Center, located in the Office of Financial Aid, is a multimedia resource center designed to provide information on sources of financial aid such as university-based scholarships, funds from private donors, grants, and fellowship for graduate students.

The center provides current computerized assistance programs, books, pamphlets, articles and other materials as resources for alternative types of financial aid, and it addresses individual concerns of scholarship recipients once they are on campus.

Individual departments described in the "Academic Departments and Programs" section of this Graduate Bulletin list scholarships, as well as assistantships, available for students of specific majors.

Contingent upon funding, certain need-based scholarships are available based on eligibility for financial aid and criteria set by donors. Please contact the STAR Center in the Office of Financial Aid for further information.

Scholarships, Fellowships, Assistantships

The Florida State University recognizes and rewards high academic achievement and awards scholarships on a competitive basis. A scholarship staff is available to address the individual concerns of scholarship recipients once they are on campus. Students should contact the Student Aid Resource Center in the Office of Financial Aid. Information regarding scholarships offered to law students can be obtained from the College of Law's Admissions Office.

Financial support in the form of fellowships and teaching and research assistantships are also available. The student should be aware that only minimum qualifications are noted in the following list, and the selection process is frequently highly competitive. In general, deadlines for application occur early in January for the following academic year. Students are urged to make specific inquiry to each program, with reference to both deadline and eligibility. Refer to the individual school, college, or department in the appropriate entry of this Graduate Bulletin.

Fellowships

There are a variety of fellowships offered through the University. Some require duties and some do not. Students should check with their graduate department for awards available in their discipline.

1. College Fellowships.There is a limited number of fellowships allocated to each college or school for the purpose of recruiting first-time graduate students at The Florida State University. Duties may or may not be required. Students must apply directly to their academic department. An academic nine-month stipend is $6,300.
2. University Fellowships.Awards are made annually to a limited number of students in any discipline for $10,000 per year plus out-of-state and matriculation fee waivers. Application forms may be obtained from the chair of the student'
3. s proposed major department. Applications are judged by a University-wide committee.
4. University Dissertation Fellowships. A very limited number of dissertation fellowships are available to support doctoral students in their last year of study. Awards are made annually for $10,000 and are for one year only. Nominations are made by the department. Students should consult the chair of their department for details.
5. McKnight Doctoral Fellowship Program.This program is for newly enrolling Black American students and includes all academic disciplines except law, medicine, and most fields in education (doctoral students in mathematics education and science education are eligible to apply). Awards are $11,000 per year plus tuition and fees, renewable for a total of four years. Contact the Office of Graduate Studies, 408 Westcott Building, for information.
6. Delores Auzenne Fellowship for Black Graduate Students.Awards are $2,500 per semester, for up to two semesters. For details, contact the Office of Graduate Studies, 408 Westcott Building.

Assistantships

Graduate assistants are selected by academic departments for duties connected with instruction or research of mutual benefit to the University and the student. Only students with regular graduate student status are eligible for graduate assistantships. Special and provisional students are ineligible.

Application for a graduate assistantship should be made to the chair of the major department. The stipend varies depending on the amount of service rendered, the nature of the service, and the qualifications of the student.

Graduate assistants may request a waiver of the out-of-state tuition and matriculation fees. Refer to the previous section on "Tuition Waivers, Deferments, and Financial Arrangements" for details.

A new student whose application for an assistantship is under consideration must also complete an application for admission through the Office of Admissions in the usual manner.

To remain eligible for an assistantship, a student must discharge the assigned duties satisfactorily as determined by the director of the program. No graduate student with less than a 3.0 cumulative grade point average is to be continued more than one term as a graduate assistant.

Leslie N. Wilson Assistantships are for newly enrolling Black American students with a minimum of $5,000 per year plus an out-of-state tuition and/or matriculation fee waiver. For information contact the Office of Graduate Studies, 408 Westcott Building.

Student Employment Services

Last year over 1000 students found work in Tallahassee through Student Employment Services (SES). This program provides opportunities for part-time employment for students and is a comprehensive source for jobs in the private sector, at state agencies and on campus. SES facilitates the job search process by offering an array of job locator services. Students do not need to be eligible for (or even apply for) financial aid in order to use the services of Student Employment Services.

Job Boards, located in the Office of Financial Aid (University Center A) and on the south wall of Moore Auditorium (Union Complex) offer a variety of job listings grouped by category (e.g. accounting, computers, retail, clerical, child care, state/county/city agencies). Job listings are database-managed and computer printed with all pertinent information: job title, description, location, employer's name, contact number, prerequisite experience and salary offered. Listings are updated daily.

The Federal Work Study Program (FWSP)is a federally funded financial aid program, administered by the Office of Financial Aid, that enables students to earn a portion of their financial aid award. This program offers a positive alternative to loan indebtedness through meaningful part-time employment. Weekly work schedules are mutually determined by the student and the employing department to suit the student's class/exam schedule, and the employer's needs. By federal regulation the schedule cannot interfere with a students schedule.

Students may utilize their Federal Work Study awards by participating in community service through the Community Service Learning Program (CSLP), administered through the Center for Civic Education and Service. This program is designed to locate and develop off-campus community service jobs and to offer referrals for eligible students. Community service improves the quality of life of local residents, as well as encourages student awareness and continued participation in society at large. Students assist with programs related to health care, child care, literacy training, education (including tutoring), welfare, and social services. Some students may serve as mentors for educational and recreational activities, or work as counselors in areas such as career counseling.

To determine eligibility for the Federal Work Study Program and CSLP, students must apply for financial aid at The Florida State University by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), and by submitting all other required documentation.