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

University Controller: Larry D. Reese; Associate Controllers: Perry W. Crowell; Marcia Murphy

General Information

Tuition and fees are collected by the University Controller's Office of Student Financial Services. Payment of registration fees and tuition detailed below is an integral part of the registration process. Academic progress may be stopped and official University documents and services (transcripts, diplomas, registration etc.) withheld if tuition and fees are not paid within the established timeframe listed.

Tuition Payments and Arrangements. The student's web name and password are required to access the Online Billing Statement at http://www.fees.fsu.edu. Tuition and fees are due according to the posted deadline at http://www.sfs.fsu.edu. Financial aid is disbursed during the second week of the semester, and as received thereafter. Due by the fifth day of each semester are all third-party agency billings, departmental billings, FSU employee scholarships, state employee tution vouchers, and Veteran's deferments. Outstanding tuition and charges from a previous semester will be deducted from financial aid received during a current semester, if registration is permitted.

Assessment of Fees. Fees are established by the Florida Board of Education and the Florida State Legislature and are subject to change. The University will calculate and assess the charges to be settled for fees due based on the fee rates authorized by the Florida Board of Education and the student's schedule. Students should review their Student Assessment Payment Schedule on the Internet at http://www.fees.fsu.edu to verify the accuracy of the charges. 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. Credit and debit card payments can be made through the Internet at http://www.fees.fsu.edu.

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, (Barron Building, 1st Floor) Panama City, FL 32405. This office will answer any questions concerning fee payments and financial aid distribution. For further information, please call (850) 644-2090, ext. 175. Inquiries and payments can be made through the Internet at http://www.fees.fsu.edu.

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 Florida Board of Education Rule 6C-7.005. These offices are: 1) 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. To qualify as a Florida resident for tuition purposes in accordance with Rule 6C-7.005 of the Florida Administrative Code, 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,

And

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. Students' 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, and should be demonstrated as indicated below (for dependent students as defined by Internal Revenue Service regulations, a parent or guardian must qualify),

And

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 the 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 that 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:
1. Declaration of Domicile.
2. Florida voter's registration.
3. Florida vehicle registration.
4. Florida driver's 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. k)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 student's parents are divorced, separated, or otherwise living apart and either parent is a legal resident of Florida.

Or

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,

Or

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

Or

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

Or

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

Or

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,

Or

Be a Latin American/Caribbean scholar,

Or

Be a United States citizen living on the Isthmus of Panama and have completed 12 consecutive months of college work at FSUPanama, or a spouse or dependent,

Or

Be a graduate student of the Southern Regional Education Board's Academic Common Market attending Florida's state universities,

Or

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,

Or

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

Or

Be a McKnight Fellowship Recipient,

And

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 "Academic Calendar" appearing in the Registration Guide 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 General 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. Current information is available on the Internet at the "Money Matters" section of http://www.studentsfirst.fsu.edu.

Students are assessed fees based on the level of the course as established by the Florida Board of Education and the Florida State Legislature. Rates applicable to the main campus for fall term, 2001, and spring and summer terms, 2002, are used as a basis for estimating course charges per credit hour for Florida and non-Florida residents. Fees applicable to 2002 - 2003 had not been confirmed by the Florida Legislature at the time of the publication of this document.

Actual Course Fee Charge Per Credit Hour 2001 - 2002 Schedule

Note: course fees may vary depending upon course location.

Students enrolled in cooperative education courses with zero (0) semester hours will be charged for one (1) semester hour of Florida resident undergraduate work, unless also enrolled in other credit courses at The Florida State University during the same academic term.

Students registered in courses for zero (0) semester hours (master's comprehensive examination, master's thesis defense, dissertation defense, or other graduate-level zero [0] semester hour courses) will be charged for one (1) Florida resident graduate semester 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 first-time special student's schedule and can be paid through Student Financial Services.

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. (Rate subject to change.) 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," in the Registration Guide).

Florida State University Identification Card (FSUCard): This fee is assessed against first-time FSUCard recipients, including high school students. 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, including high school 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 official transcript issued.

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

Transportation Access Fee: This fee is assessed per credit hour to all main campus students. It covers all modes of transportation on campus such as sidewalks, bikes, mass transit (on- and off-campus buses) and vehicles. Revenue generated by this fee is used to improve the overall infrastructure of campus for all students. For additional information about parking locations, rules, regulations and rates, go to http://www.vpfa.fsu.edu/parking.

Returned Check Charge, Stop Payment Charge: $25.00 or five percent (5%) of the amount of the check, whichever is greater (rate subject to change). A returned check/stop payment charge is assessed against a student's account who has a check or electronic authorization for payment 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 written and electronic payments authorized for tuition, fees, or any services provided by the University that are returned to The Florida State University for insufficient funds, uncollected funds, wrong account numbers, 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 item is not made prior to the tuition payment deadline, a late payment fee is assessed to tuition. The Florida State University places a hold on accepting any personal checks or electronic payment authorizations from anyone on the student's account for 90 days after redemption for any services, tuition, or fees that are owed to the University if a personal check or electronic payment is returned. Redemption must be paid with cash, money order or cashier's check. If a second check is returned or a stop payment is placed on it, the student will be permanently listed on all department's ACCEPT CASH ONLY list, and no personal checks will be accepted from anyone on the student's account from that day forward.

Notification will be sent to the student via mail to the address on the check or to the last maintained address in The Florida State University's 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 by seven (7) working days with cash, money order or cashier's check. The Florida State University forwards all returned checks to the State Attorney's office for redemption and prosecution after collection efforts are exhausted. After a returned check is forwarded to the State Attorney's 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 the late return of a library book will be assessed against students as well as graduate teaching assistants and associates who do not return library books by the due date.

Fines for Overdue Reserve Library Books: (per book, per library hours): $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" chapter of this General Bulletin.

Annual Estimate of Cost

The annual estimated costs listed below are for the 2001 - 2002 academic year. Costs for the 2002 - 2003 academic year were not available at date of publication.

+ The tuition and fee estimate is based on fifteen (15) semester hours for an undergraduate student attending two (2) terms (fall and spring) per year. Contact the Office of Admissions or refer to website http://admissions.fsu.edu for the approved 2002 - 2003 fees.

* Annual mid-range cost for on-campus residence halls. The range is $2,770 - $4,050. Contact the Housing Office or refer to website http://www.housing.fsu.edu for the approved 2002 - 2003 rental rates.

# The most popular meal plan allows students up to fourteen (14) meals per week. Other annual options range from $2,194 - $2,844. Note: these figures are subject to change. Contact FSU Dining Services or refer to website at http://sodexhomarriott.fsu.com for the 2002 - 2003 actual costs.

Note: international students should refer to the "Admissions" section of this General 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. 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. Florida Prepaid does not pay the full amount due, nor do Intern Participation Certificates. Students must pay the remaining balance due by the published deadline.

Method of Payment

Students who enroll must pay fees and tuition in full, or initiate an installment contract by the tuition payment deadline. 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. If tuition is not paid or arrangements have not been made by the posted deadlines, a late payment will be assessed. The University does not send out a bill. Students can, however, get the amount of their tuition and fees due on the Internet at http://www.fees.fsu.edu or when they register for classes by telephone or through the web. Other options include kiosks located on the first floor of University Center A Building and second floor of Union - Krentzman Lounge, by calling (850) 644-9452, or going to the published fee payment location.

Students may pay by check, cash, money order, cashiers check or FSUCard when paying in person. The Florida State University does not accept two party checks or foreign checks for payment. Make checks payable to The Florida State University and include the student's social security number, local phone and address on each check. We accept FSUCards, American Express, Discover, MasterCard and electronic checks. Visa has elected not to participate in our web payment service. Payment methods are described below. Credit card payments can only be made through the Internet at http://www.fees.fsu.edu or at kiosks located around campus. There is a convenience fee for the online payment option.

Automated Debit to FSUCard for Tuition Payment. The Florida State University offers a free online payment service to students with FSUCard accounts at SunTrust for the payment of tuition and fees, and other University charges. Students may authorize charges to be deducted from their FSUCard bank account by going to the online billing feature at http://www.fees.fsu.edu and clicking on the option: "Would you like information about automatic debit payment from your FSUCard?" This payment option is available for a limited time during Fall and Spring semesters, and certain restrictions are applied. Additional information is available on the Internet.

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, plus a $10.00 fee (subject to change), is due by the tuition payment deadline. The second half of the installment payment is due by the sixth week of class, as specified on the agreement. This option is not available on the Internet. Failure to pay the balance of tuition by the due date will result in a late payment fee and a financial hold on your account. Students should appear in person to initiate the installment agreement. A $10.00 fee (rate subject to change) 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 within 5 days. 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. Installment contracts may be initiated through the mail or drop box, with a letter attached requesting the installment contractand the $10.00 fee included with the first installment.

Convenient Drop Box for Payments. The Office of Student Financial Services has kiosks for student use at the first floor of the University Center Building A, near our offices at A1500, and in the Krentzman Lounge at the Student Union. Students may verify the amount due for tuition and fees (at the kiosks or through the Internet at http://www.fees.fsu.edu), 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 by close of business on the tuition payment deadline will not be considered late. 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. Checks not completed properly will be considered late.

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, checks not completed properly, or two-party checks. Payments must be received no later than the tuition payment deadline. 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 tuition payment deadline. Forms are available at http://www.sfs.fsu.edu. Outstanding tuition and charges from a previous semester will be deducted from financial aid received during a current semester. Accounts not paid by the agency by the end of the semester will be assessed a late payment fee, and the student is required to pay it before being granted other University services.

Florida Prepaid College Program

This program was created by the State of Florida to guarantee payment of tuition and may include optional dormitory contract guarantees. The plan excludes local fees (i.e., health, athletics, student activity, laboratory, transportation access, and books) which are to be paid by the student using one of the options described above and by the deadlines stated above. The student is to verify that the billing is being processed by going to http://www.fees.fsu.edu. The fees (FBOE approved 01/02 fees), excluding books, not covered by the Prepaid College Program total approximately $17.71 per hour, plus lab fees ranging from $3.25 to $35.00, plus the Transportation Access Fee. Students using the Florida Prepaid College Program are responsible for paying local fees by the tuition payment deadline of the main campus semester or they will be assessed a $100 late payment fee. (Rate subject to change.) Fees applicable to the 2002–2003 academic year had not been confirmed by the Florida Legislature at the time this document was published. Additional information may be obtained by writing: Florida Prepaid College Program, P.O. Box 6448, Tallahassee, FL 32314-6448 or by calling 1-800-552-4723 or http://www.fsba.state.fl.us/prepaid.

Fee Liability

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

Repeat Course Surcharge

Section 240.124 Florida Statutes mandates that each student attempting the same non-repeatable undergraduate course more than twice beginning with the Fall Semester 1997 shall be assessed an additional per credit hour surcharge beginning with the third attempt. Attempted hours include those hours dropped, withdrawn, and repeated under FSU forgiveness which are fee liable. Undergraduate level courses are numbered 1000 to 4999.

Effective Fall 2001 Semester, the repeat course surcharge was $185.34 per credit hour. (Subject to change for academic year 2002 - 2003).

The only exceptions:

• Any course taken prior to Fall 1997;
• Attempts taken at an institution other than FSU;
• Graduate level courses (courses numbered 5000 and above);
• Any non fee-liable course dropped or withdrawn;
• Excludes courses taken through cooperative education, military, waivers, and audits;
• Individualized study, courses that are repeated as a requirement of a major, and courses that are intended as continuing over multiple semesters. However, courses repeated more than two times to increase GPA or meet minimum course grade requirements are eligible for the surcharge.

Repeat Course Surcharge Appeal

Section 240.124, F.S. and FBOE Rule 6C.7.001(4)(c), F.A.C. provide authority to universities to consider appeal of the repeat course surcharge based on documented evidence of financial hardship. Appeal forms are available in the Office of the University Registrar, A3900 University Center, Tallahassee, Florida 32306-2480, (850) 644-3403. Appeals must be submitted to the Office of the University Registrar no later than the last day of classes for the term in which the surcharge is assessed.

Delinquent Fees

Students who have amounts owed to the University may not complete their registration, participate in graduation ceremonies, receive a diploma, receive an associate in arts certificate, 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 University debt. All payments will be applied to the current tuition first and then to the oldest outstanding debt. Non-refundable collection fees are added to a student's account if the student has had an outstanding debt for 120 days or longer.

Registration Stop for Outstanding Charges

A "stop" is placed on the registration of all students who have outstanding charges due to the University. Students owing any amount, 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 or receive other University services until the debt is cleared.

Tuition Waivers

Out-of-State

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 Florida Board of Education authorizes the University to waive portions of out-of-state tuition for a limited number of students in specific categories. Students in the following categories may apply:

1. Out-of-state graduate students having at least a one-quarter time assistantship (teaching or research) or a fellowship equivalent in value to at least a one-quarter time assistantship;
2. Foreign student programs, or student exchange programs;
3. Students having special skills in music, dance, theatre, or athletics;
4. Graduate students with outstanding academic credentials and abilities. Special and part-time students at the undergraduate and graduate level are not eligible for out-of-state tuition waivers. Tuition waivers must be submitted by the appropriate college or school preferably by the fourth day of each semester but definitely no later than the fifth class day of the semester. Tuition waivers do not cover the total amount of fees due and may have an effect on financial aid awards. For information regarding out-of-state waivers, undergraduate students should contact the Dean of the Faculties, graduate students should contact the Dean of Graduate Studies.

Florida Residents Over 60 Years of Age

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. For further information, refer to the "Office of the University Registrar" section of this General 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. Supporting documentation is required. Note: lack of funds or not applying for financial aid on time 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 (850) 644-9452. The committee meets once a month, or as needed.

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 a late payment waiver. The appeals committee's decision is the final step in the University's late payment appeal process. The attendance of the student is recommended. Forms are available through the Internet at http://www.sfs.fsu.edu.

Deferments and Financial Arrangements

Financial aid is disbursed during the second week of the semester. Students must pay, or make arrangements to pay, all fees due by the end of the tuition payment deadline.

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 approved agency to pay fees on behalf of the student. The billings are to be completed by the student at A1500 University Center no later than the fifth day of the term. Outstanding tuition from a previous semester will be deducted from financial aid received during a current semester. A refund will not be processed until payment is made by the agency or department. Agency billing forms are available through the Internet at http://www.sfs.fsu.edu.

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 forabout 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, Registrar's Office by the fifth day of the semester.

Note: if a student receives a veterans' deferment and tuition is still not paid by the deferment expiration date, the student will be assessed a $100 late payment fee and will not be eligible to receive a veterans' deferment in the future. Registration, transcripts and diplomas will not be processed until debts are paid in full.

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.

Refund 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 by request.

Full refunds of tuition fees may be granted 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 drop a course without fee liability after their tuition and fees are paid may be eligible for a tuition refund. Any amount paid in excess of the amount owed to the University during the semester/term will be carried forward and may be applied against subsequent University charges incurred or may be refunded upon request. Any outstanding charges owed to the University will be deducted and the balance will be issued as a refund. At the beginning of a semester, refunds will not be processed until the end of the third week of class to ensure that all checks have cleared the bank. Refunds requested during the fiscal year close-out, during the last two weeks of June, will not be processed until the first week of July. The refund will be processed as a credit to the student's FSUCard account for currently enrolled students, unless the student requests a check to be mailed to the address on file. However, payments made by credit card will be refunded to the credit card. Checks will be mailed to those students who are no longer enrolled. Refund request forms are available at the Office of Student Financial Services, A1500 University Center or online at http://www.vpfa.fsu.edu/control/forms/printonly/mp371.pdf.

Students who withdraw after the fifth day of the semester/term, but prior to the end of the fourth week of the semester (or for Summer sessions by the first twenty-five percent [25%] of the term) are eligible for a twenty-five percent (25%) refund of tuition and fees. After this period, students who withdraw are held fully liable for fees. Students who withdraw and have received federal financial aid (Title IV programs), state or university aid may be required to repay to the aid source the amount of unearned financial aid funds disbursed to them as of their withdrawal date as described in the section on 'Withdrawals and Return of Financial Aid.' In the case where a withdrawal petition is approved, a refund only can be provided if the refund withdrawal request is submitted within six months after the end of the semester/term in which the withdrawal occurred.

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

Tuition Fees. Office of Student Financial Services, A1500 University Center. http://www.sfs.fsu.edu .

Food Plan. Director of Food Services, 144 Oglesby Union.

Housing Fees. Director of Housing, 109 Student Life Building.

Parking Decals. Director of Parking, C2300 University Center.

Textbooks. Manager of Florida State University Bookstore, Parking Garage, Main Level.

Withdrawal and Return of Financial Aid

Effective Fall 2000, students who withdraw and have received financial aid will be required to repay to the program source the amount of unearned financial aid funds disbursed to them as of their withdrawal date. Programs include Pell Grants, Perkins Loans, Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG), Stafford Loans (subsidized and unsubsidized), and Parent Loans (the Federal PLUS program), and other awards. The unearned amount of program funds is calculated based on the percentage of the semester completed before the date of withdrawal. Both the University and students receiving financial aid are required to return unearned financial aid to the aid source. The University is required to return the unearned portion of the financial aid funds it received from withdrawing students that was used to pay institutional charges such as tuition, fees, housing and other educationally-related expenses assessed by the institution. The funds returned to the aid source by the University will be credited against the student's total liability of unearned funds. However, students will owe the University the amount returned to the aid source for institutional charges.

Students must repay the unearned Title IV funds to any Title IV loan program in accordance with the terms of the loan. For Title IV loan programs, unearned grant program funds are considered overpayments and students are required to return 50 percent of the grant. Students who owe grant overpayments remain eligible for Title IV program funds for 45 days if during those 45 days the student: 1) repays the overpayment in full to the University; or, 2) enters into a repayment agreement with the University. However, entering into a repayment agreement does not mean the student is eligible to register for additional classes, receive a transcript, diploma, etc. Students can lose financial aid eligibility if they do not comply with the options above. These are new requirements for financial aid programs and students should consider their repayment responsibilities for these programs as part of any withdrawal decision.

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. 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. 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 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 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.

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

A brochure, Financial Aid at Florida State University (updated yearly), is included in the financial aid packet. This brochure explains the requirements and processes of 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, or by calling (850) 644-0539. Information on financial aid is also available on our website at http://www.fsu.edu.

Help in completing the financial aid forms is available from professional financial aid counselors located in the University Center and at workshops held regularly during the month of January on campus and periodically at other locations in the greater Leon County area.

To obtain information on financial aid and the status of their application, students may access their status online through http://www.studentsfirst.fsu.edu. Access is available through http://www.fsu.edu or they 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. Counseling is available by phone or at the information center Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The Student Aid Resource (STAR) Center. A complete description of the center's services follows under 'Additional Sources of Financial 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.

Undergraduate Students

Undergraduate students may apply for many types of aid including scholarships, grants, work study and loans. To apply for federal and state grants, federal work-study and/or federal loans, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Students who have previously completed a baccalaureate degree may not be eligible for all types of aid when seeking a second undergraduate degree.

Graduate Students

Graduate students may apply for federal loans and federal work-study by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Graduate fellowships and assistantships are handled through the Office of Graduate Studies and Research, and the respective academic departments.

Deadlines

The federal financial aid application period for the 2002–2003 year begins January 1, 2002, and ends June 30, 2003. 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, 2002. The Florida State University priority deadline is February 15, 2002. 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. The University requires a separate application for Summer financial aid, which may be obtained from the Office of Financial Aid.

Students may apply for the Florida Student Assistance Grant (FSAG) by submitting the FAFSA.

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 are encouraged to apply directly over the Internet by accessing the following web page http://www.fafsa.ed.gov.

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 have access to various computer labs on campus. Prospective students may use computer terminals located in the Office of Financial Aid's Information Center. Paper applications are available from any high school or post-secondary school.

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

1. The student's social security card and driver's license;
2. W-2 forms or other records of income earned;
3. Student's and student's spouse's (if married) Federal Income Tax Return (estimated figures are acceptable for application before filing of return);
4. Student's 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);
5. Records of other untaxed income received, such as welfare benefits, social security benefits, TANF, veteran's benefits, military or clergy allowances;
6. Current bank statements and records of stocks, bonds and other investments;
7. Business or farm records, if applicable; and
8. 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 as possible after January 1) 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.fsu.edu 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 strongly encouraged to print a copy of the completion confirmation 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 two 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. It is the student's responsibility to keep his or her address record current with The Florida State University. Checks are not forwarded by the post office.
3. Exceptions:
1. Students who have a hold on their funds must clear it by the posted deadline. Loans must be returned to the lender within three (3) weeks of receipt. The University will make every effort to contact students by phone and e-mail. Students whose aid has not been processed by the end of the second week of the term should contact the Office of Student Financial Services at sfs@admin.fsu.edu or in person at A1500 University Center. In order to receive aid, a student 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 initial 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 student's Disbursement Authorization Statement (DAS).

All financial aid students must check their financial aid status at http://www.fees.fsu.edu or by calling (850) 644-0539 on the scheduled call-in date. 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 clear a financial aid hold should report to the Office of Student Financial Services, A1500 University Center, on the published dates and times.

Note: if you do not receive a message, cannot get through using this phone number or on the Internet, or if you need a financial aid deferment, you should report to the Office of Student Financial Services, A1500 University Center on the dates as posted. Please do not get this date confused with your telephone call-in date.

Your message will not appear in your voice mail box until the call-in date. After entering your social security number and your registration PIN, follow the voice instructions.

Failure to confirm that financial aid has been processed by the deadline may result in a late payment fee assessment of $100. (Rate subject to change.) There is a message 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. Call 1-800-SUNTRUST for bank account details.

If you have any questions, please call (850) 644-9452 at the Office of Student Financial Services, via e-mail at sfs@admin.fsu.edu or go to http://www.sfs.fsu.edu for more information.

Deadline: if the financial aid is not sufficient to cover all charges, the student is responsible for paying the balance by the tuition payment deadline (see date on the "Academic Calendar" in this General 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 fifth day of the semester. Intern Participation Certificates and the Florida Prepaid College Program do not pay the full amount of tuition. Students must pay the remaining balance due by the tuition payment deadline. Outstanding tuition and charges from a previous semester will be be deducted from financial aid received during a current semester, if registration is permitted.

Deferments, Loans, and Check Cancellation

Deferments

Students must confirm their application is complete during the first week of the semester by going to http://www.studentsfirst.fsu.edu and clicking on the appropriate category under "check financial aid status" subheading in the "Money Matters" section.

Financial aid deferments will be processed automatically for all financial aid students who meet the following criteria:

1. The student has completed the financial aid application process by the published deadline (indicated in the Financial Aid Application Packet); and
2. The student does not have financial aid available during financial aid distribution (the second week of the term).

Financial aid students who do not receive a financial aid deferment must pay their tuition in full by tuition payment deadline. See the dates published in the "Academic Calendar," included in each semester's Registration Guide. Failure to pay by the published deadline will result in a late payment fee assessment.

Note: financial aid deferments expire before the end of the semester. See the Registration Guide for the expiration date. Students must confirm their financial aid has arrived and all requirements have been met by the deferment expiration date. Go to http://www.fees.fsu.edu and log in; you will then see your courses and fees detailed. To view your deferment amount and deadline, click on the "Details" button next to "Arrangements." With your temporary deferment, your total balance may show $zero for the Current Term Tuition. When your financial aid arrives, the screen will show how much has been paid toward your tuition. You must ensure your financial aid pays your tuition by the deferment deadline. If you have questions, contact us at sfs@admin.fsu.edu or (850)644-9452. Also, check your financial aid status at http://www.studentsfirst.fsu.edu. If the student's aid is not available by the expiration date, it is the student's responsibility to pay tuition in full. Failure to pay by the expiration date will result in a late payment fee assessment of $100. Additionally, registration will not be permitted and transcripts and diplomas will not be mailed until debts are paid in full.

Delayed Delivery Loans

Students who have need of funds as a result of financial aid being delayed may apply for a delayed delivery loan. To be eligible for a delayed delivery loan, a student's 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, and the student's account status is not delinquent. A picture ID is required in order to receive a delayed delivery loan. Students must have either paid or deferred their full amount of tuition in order to be eligible for short term loans. Delayed delivery loans are due when the financial aid arrives, or by the financial aid deferment deadline. Debts not paid will prohibit students from using University services such as registration, transcripts, etc.

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 death in the family or unexpected major medical or dental bills may apply for an emergency loan at the Office of Financial Aid. Documentation and a picture ID is required to receive an emergency loan. Loans must be paid by the due date and university services will not be granted until paid in full.

Check Cancellation

Any Stafford Loan check available at financial aid distribution that is not picked up by the check cancellation deadline will be returned to the lender for cancellation.

Loan Cancellation and Refusals

Students should notify the Office of Financial Aid to decline or refuse an awarded loan (Perkins, GSL, UGSL) prior to it being disbursed to the student. Financial aid is processed at the end of the first week of each semester and as it arrives thereafter. If the loan has already been disbursed, the student is required to notify Student Financial Services in writing within 14 days that they do not want part or all of the loan they have recieved. A form can be completed at the Office of Student Financial Services and repayment can be made to The Florida State University by FSUCard, cash, cashier's check or money order, or the original check can be brought to our office. Students who want to refuse loans after the 14 day notification period must contact their lender for repayment.

Exit Interviews

Loan Exit Interviews

Federal and University regulations require that all recipients of federal loans participate in an exit interview counseling session upon graduation, withdrawal from the university, or dropping below six (6) semester hours. These loans include Perkins (NDSL), subsidized Stafford (GSL), Unsubsized Stafford (UGSL) and SLS loans. Failure to complete this procedure will result in the withholding of diploma, transcripts, and other University services. To complete this requirement, students should go to the "Money Matters" section of http://www.studentsfirst.fsu.edu and select the "exit interview for financial aid" option. Students will need their Social Security Number and registration PIN or web name and password to sign onto the session. Students planning to continue their academic studies at The Florida State University should contact the Office of Student Financial Services at A1500 University Center to ensure that their exit interview stop is removed.

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 additional information about sources of financial aid and private scholarships.

The center provides current website assistance, books, pamphlets, articles and other materials as resources for alternative types of financial aid for all individuals.

Scholarships

The Florida State University recognizes and rewards high academic achievement and awards scholarships on a competitive basis. All eligible students will automatically be considered at the time of their admittance for these scholarships, which are administered by the Office of Admissions.

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

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

The Florida Department of Education, located in Tallahassee, FL, offers a multiplicity of programs for scholarships, grants, and loans to help defray a student's cost of education. These programs are generally available to Florida residents. Contact the Florida Department of Education at (888) 827-2004; http://www.firn.edu/doe. Residents of other states should check with their state's Department of Education for additional aid that may be available to them.

Students receiving scholarship checks directly from a benefactor must bring them to the Office of Student Financial Services for processing at A1500 University Center.

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 offer a variety of job listings grouped by category (e.g. accounting, computers, retail, clerical, child care, state/county/city agencies). These listings can be accessed on the web at http://nwrdc.fsu.edu:1204/fsyjpr01. 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 work schedule cannot interfere with a student's schedule.

Students may also utilize their Federal Work Study awards by participating in community service through the Community Service Learning Program (CSLP). This program is designed to locate and develop off-campus community service jobs and 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.