Financial Information, Tuition, Fees, Aid, Scholarships, and Employment
Associate Vice-President and University Controller: Larry D. Reese;
Executive Director, University Financial Services: Dr. Perry W. Crowell;
Director: Marcia Murphy
Tuition and Fees
Fees are established by the Florida State University Board of Trustees 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 Florida State University Board of Trustees, the student's 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 usually available during registration via telephone or the web. However, because Fall semester tuition must be reviewed by the legislature, there is a delay in posting this amount. Fall fees should be available in mid-summer. 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, unless specified at time of payment.
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 Section 1009.21, Florida Statutes and Florida Board of Governors Rule 6C2-2.02416. 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 Section 1009.21, Florida Statutes and Rule 6C2-2.02416 of the Florida Board of Governors.
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,
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):
- 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:
- Declaration of domicile.
- Proof of purchase of a home in Florida which you occupy as your residence.
- Proof that student has maintained residence in the state for the preceding year (e.g., rent receipts, employment records).
- 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:
- Declaration of domicile.
- Florida voter's registration.
- Florida vehicle registration.
- Florida driver's license.
- Proof of real property ownership in Florida (e.g., deed, tax receipts).
- 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.
- Proof of membership in or affiliation with community or state organizations or significant connections to the state.
- Proof of continuous presence in Florida during periods when not enrolled as a student.
- Proof of former domicile in Florida and maintenance of significant connections while absent.
- Proof of reliance upon Florida sources of support.
- Proof of domicile in Florida of family.
- Proof of admission to a licensed practicing profession in Florida.
- Proof of acceptance of permanent employment in Florida.
- Proof of graduation from high school located in Florida.
- 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.
- No contrary evidence establishing residence elsewhere.
- 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, 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 The Florida State University Republic of Panama Branch, 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 Postsecondary Expense Program Section 1009.98(b)1, Florida Statutes,
Or
Be a McKnight Fellowship Recipient,
Or
Be an active member of The Florida National Guard who qualifies under Section 1009.21, Florida Statutes, for the tuition assistance program.
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 "University 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 Graduate Bulletin must be published in advance of its effective date, it is not 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 http://www.sfs.fsu.edu.
Students are assessed fees based on the level of the course as established by the State Board of Education and the Florida State Legislature. Rates applicable to the main campus for Fall term, 2002, and Spring and Summer terms, 2003, are used as a basis for estimating course charges per credit hour for Florida and non-Florida residents. Fees applicable to 2003–2004 and 2004–2005 had not been confirmed by the Florida Legislature at the time of the publication of this document.
Actual Course Fee Charge Per Credit Hour 2002–2003 Schedule
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Course Level
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Florida Students
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Non-Florida Students
|
|
0001–4999
|
$ 84.58
|
$402.71
|
|
5000 and above
|
$178.26
|
$670.92
|
|
Thesis/Dissertation
|
$178.26
|
$670.92
|
|
Law
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$199.43
|
$712.59
|
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
(All fees subject to change)
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.
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," published in the Registration Guide).
Florida State University identification Card (FSUCard): $10.00. This fee is assessed against first-time FSUCard recipients. This fee may be paid when tuition is paid.
Replacement FSUCards: $15.00. 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 per contract. This fee is assessed for executing an installment contract for tuition payment available during fall and spring semesters only.
Transportation Access Fee: $4.90 per credit hour. 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 Checks or Electronic Payments Charge: $25.00 or five percent (5%) of the amount of the check/electronic payment, 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, closed accounts, stop payments, etc. 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 due date, 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 from the student for ninety (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 departments' 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 given 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 within 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, at cost.
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
(All fees subject to change)
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 borrowers who do not return library books by the recall due date specified in the notice.
Housing Costs
For complete descriptions of housing facilities, services, costs, and how to apply for University housing, refer to the "Housing" chapter of this Graduate Bulletin.
Annual Estimate of Cost
The annual estimated costs listed below are for the 2002-2003 academic year. The tuition and fee estimate is based on two twelve (12) semester hour terms.
|
|
Graduate In-State
|
Graduate Out-of-State
|
|
Tuition/Fees
|
$ 4,396
|
$ 16,220
|
|
Housing
|
$ 4,320
|
$ 4,320
|
|
Food
|
$ 3,900
|
$ 3,900
|
|
Books and Supplies
|
$ 700
|
$ 700
|
|
TOTAL
|
$ 13,316
|
$ 25,140
|
Note: international students should refer to the "Admissions" chapter 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. The basic Florida Prepaid Plan 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. We encourage students to submit their third-party agency billings as soon as they have registered for classes. 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. Students can view 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 CenterA Building and second floor of UnionKrentzman Lounge, calling (850) 644-9452, or going to A1500 University Center 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m., Monday–Friday.
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 Florida State University and include the student's social security number, local phone and address on each check. Payment methods are described below. Credit card and debit card payments can be made through the Internet at http://www. fees.fsu.edu or at kiosks located around campus.
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 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. 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 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 five (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 contract. This option is not available on the Internet.
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 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 cashier's check in the provided envelope and put the envelope in the drop box located outside our office and other locations as posted. 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 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. Checks not properly completed will be considered late. Payments should be mailed to The Florida State University, Office of Student Financial Services, A1500 University Center, Tallahassee, FL 32306-2394.
Agency Billing. Students are responsible for all tuition and fees upon registration. Forms are available at http://www.sfs.fsu.edu. Students who are requesting their tuition paid by an agency must submit the required documents as soon as possible, but no later than the fifth day of the semester, and preferably thirty (30) days in advance. Those students receiving financial aid should submit the documents by the fourth day of the semester; otherwise, tuition will be deducted from the student's financial aid and refunds will not be made to the student until the agency or department makes their payment to the Office of Student Financial Services. Financial aid students must report this payment as an income source on their application, or upon further evaluation by the Office of Student Financial Aid, the student may be "over-awarded" and may be required to repay financial aid to the University. If the agency or department has not paid the tuition by the end of the current semester, a late payment fee of $100.00 will be assessed to the student's account and the student is required to pay it before being granted other University services. Accounts left unpaid at the end of the semester will be put in a delinquent status and the student will not be able to receive University services (registration, transcripts, diplomas, etc.) Outstanding tuition and charges from a previous semester will be deducted from financial aid, if permitted to register. Agencies that do not pay in a timely manner may cause the Office of Student Financial Services to put the student's account in a non-billing status for subsequent semesters; consequently, the student will be required to pay tuition by the regularly scheduled deadline and the University will refund to the student the amount the agency pays (less University charges) after the agency has paid it. Students with agency payments that are contingent upon grade(s) received are not eligible for agency billing and tuition must be paid by the regularly scheduled deadline. The Office of Student Financial Services does not bill agencies for housing, books, meals, etc.
Department Billing. Department billings must be submitted to the Office of Student Financial Services by the appropriate college or school as early as possible and preferably by the fourth day of each semester, but definitely no later than the fifth class day of the semester. Financial aid students must report this payment as an income source on their application, or, upon further evaluation by the Office of Student Financial Aid, the student may be "over-awarded" and may be required to repay financial aid to the University. For information regarding department billings, undergraduate students should contact the Dean of the Faculties at 644-3375; graduate students should contact the Dean of Graduate Studies at 644-3500.
State Employee Registration
State employees may use the state employee tuition waiver to register for Florida State University classes. Registration in classes using the state employee tuition waiver is limited to a space-available basis. Individuals using the state tuition waiver must be fully admitted degree-seeking or non-degree seeking students. The Florida State University does not consider the following as space-available courses: limited access programs; remedial courses; dissertation, thesis, and directed individual study (DIS) courses; internship courses; distance learning courses; Center for Professional Development (CPD) courses; College of Medicine courses; College of Law courses; all graduate program courses in the College of Business; and other one-to-one instruction courses. Accordingly, state employee tuition waivers may not be used for these courses.
The Florida State University accepts only the official FSU State Employee Tuition Wavier Form. Agencies may require additional paperwork or forms that will not be accepted unless accompanied by the FSU State Employee Tuition Waiver Form.
State employees using a tuition waiver must complete the registration process and submit the tuition waiver to the Office of the University Registrar on the fifth day of classes only. State employee tuition waivers may not be used for any course that is registered for prior to this space-available registration window. Thus, for any class obtained prior to the fifth day of classes, the student assumes personal financial liability for tuition.
Additional restrictions and deadlines apply. See the Office of the University Registrar's website at http://registrar.fsu.edu/services/emp_tuit_waive for additional information including the link to download the State Employee Tuition Wavier Form.
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. 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.
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 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, but is not limited to, library charges, health center charges, parking fines, and student loans. All payments will be applied to 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 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, 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 State Board of Education 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. Tuition waivers do not cover the total amount of fees due and may have an effect on financial aid awards.
Waivers are canceled if the student withdraws from the University, drops below the required academic load, or terminates the assistantship or fellowship. Waivers will be revoked if any University authority terminates the assistantship upon which the waiver is based or cancels the student's enrollment. Waivers will not cover any dropped classes. The student will be responsible for any fees assessed.
Waivers for Florida Residents Over 60 Years of Age
When registering for audit courses not for credit, 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 student's permanent record. For further information, refer to the 'Registration' entry of the "Admissions" and "Office of the University Registrar" chapters 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 (850) 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 University's appeal process. Attendance by 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 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 previously 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 for about two months.
Tuition and health fees for students receiving assistance from the Veterans Administration in accordance with provisions of Section 1009.27(2), Florida Statutes, 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, Office of the University Registrar, by the fee payment deadline. Students with financial aid pending will have their tuition paid by their financial aid and will have their veteran's deferment nullified.
Note: if a student receives a veteran's deferment and tuition is still not paid by the due date, the student will be assessed a late payment fee and will not be eligible to receive a veteran's deferment in the future. Registration, transcripts and diplomas will not be processed until debts are paid in full.
Application Fee
Individuals who make application to The Florida State University shall pay a nonrefundable application fee of $20.00 (subject to change). 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 fees and outstanding University charges) during the term will be carried forward and will 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:
- Involuntary call to active military duty;
- Death of the student or death in the immediate family (parent, spouse, child, sibling);
- Illness of the student of such duration or severity, as confirmed in writing by a physician, that completion of the term is precluded;
- Cancellation of the course by the University;
- 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 fees are paid may be eligible for a tuition refund. Refunds will be processed weekly by the Office of Student Financial Services. Any amount paid in excess of the amount owed (assessed fees and outstanding University charges) during the term will be carried forward and may be applied against subsequent University charges incurred or will be refunded upon request. The refund will be processed as a credit to the student's FSUCard account for currently enrolled students. Checks will be mailed to those students who are no longer enrolled. Over-payments made by credit card will be refunded to the credit card. Any outstanding charges owed to the University will be deducted and the balance will be issued as a refund. Refunds for financial aid may be returned to the source as specified by federal law. See the subsection 'Withdrawal and Return of Federal Financial Aid' in the "Financial Information" chapter of this Graduate Bulletin. 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. Students who withdraw after the fifth day of the semester, but prior to the end of the fourth week of the semester (or for summer sessions by the first twenty-five percent [25%] liability period 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.
Note: in the case where a withdrawal petition is approved, a refund can only be provided if the refund or withdrawal request is submitted within six months after the end of the semester in which the withdrawal occurred. If financial aid is received by the student during the term in which the refund is granted, state and federal regulations may require that the refund be returned to the aid source.
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.
Withdrawal and Return of Federal Financial Aid
Effective Fall 2000, students who withdraw and have received state or federal financial aid (Title IV programs) will be required to repay to state or the federal program the amount of unearned financial aid funds disbursed to them as of their withdrawal date. Title IV programs includes Pell Grants, Perkins Loans, Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG), Stafford loans (subsidized and unsubsidized), and Parent Loans (the Federal PLUS program). The unearned amount of federal program funds is calculated based on the percentage of the semester completed before the date of withdrawal. Both the University and students receiving federal financial aid are required to return unearned financial aid to the federal government. The University is required to return the unearned portion of the Title IV 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 state or federal government 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 state or federal government 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 grant 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 Title IV financial aid eligibility if they do not comply with the options above. Students should consider their repayment responsibilities for these programs as part of any withdrawal decision. Students should contact the Florida Bright Futures office for the most current restrictions on eligibility.
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 awarded 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 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 to: 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 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 access their status online via the web at http://www.studentsfirst.fsu.edu. Access also is available through http://www.fsu.edu or by calling 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 Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) The Information Center is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Telephone counseling is available Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
The Student Aid Resource (STAR) Center is a multimedia resource center designed to provide information about sources of financial aid, 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 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.
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 2003–2004 year begins January 1, 2003, and ends June 30, 2004. 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, 2003. The Florida State University priority deadline is February 15, 2003. 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 an application may be completed directly over the Internet by accessing the following web page: http://www.fafsa.edu.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.
Whether a student applies through a paper or an Internet application, the following materials will be necessary to complete the data required:
- The student's social security card and driver's license;
- 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);
- If the student is required to file as a dependent student, Federal Income Tax Returns for both student and parents are required. Estimated figures are acceptable for applications completed before filing of tax return);
- Records of other untaxed income received, such as welfare benefits, social security benefits, TANF, veteran's benefits, or military or clergy allowances;
- Current bank statements and records of stocks, bonds and other investments;
- Business or farm records, if applicable; and
- 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 Subsidized/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.finaid.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 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.
Financial Aid Distribution and Payment of Tuition and Fees
Financial aid includes scholarships, Bright Futures, grants and loans. 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:
- By Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) to your FSUCard Account at SunTrust. Approximately 80% of the student body receiving financial aid at FSU have chosen to process their aid electronically and take advantage of these convenient banking services; or
- By a check mailed to the local address on file. 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.
- Exceptions:
- Students who have a hold on their funds will be sent a message to their University Garnet e-mail account advising them of the required action to clear the hold. Students must present a picture ID to pick-up financial aid on hold or receive a short-term loan. In order to receive aid, a student must be enrolled for the required number of hours; and
- 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. After the inital 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. Students will not need to appear in person for financial distribution unless their online billing statement states that they must clear a hold. 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 you 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 distribution date as posted. Please do not get this date confused with your telephone call-in date.
Your message will not appear on the Internet or in your voice mail box until the call-in date. After entering your social security number and your registration PIN, follow the voice instructions.
For those students who have chosen to have their financial aid processed using EFT and their FSUCard account, you will receive a message with a detailed description of each debit and credit involved in the transaction at (850) 644-0539. Call 1-800-SUNTRUST for account details.
If you have any questions, please call the Office of Student Financial Services at (850) 644-9452 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 the Registration Guide). 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 but preferably immediately after registration. Intern Participation Certificates do not pay the full amount of tuition. Students must pay the remaining balance due by the tuition payment deadline. All state employee waivers must be turned into the Registrar's office at the University Center on the fifth day of classes only. Outstanding tuition and charges from a previous semester will be deducted from financial aid received during a current 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 (850) 644-0539, or go online to http://www.fees.fsu.edu 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 tuition payment deadline. 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 the student from registering for subsequent semesters and will cause a cancellation comment to appear on the permanent record in lieu of grades being posted.
Delayed Delivery Loans
Students in need of funds as a result of financial aid being delayed may apply for a delayed delivery loan at the Office of Financial Aid, A4700 University Center. To be eligible for a delayed delivery loan, a student's financial aid application must be completed by August 1. Eligibility for the loan will be determined by the type of aid awarded, the hours enrolled, and the account status. Accounts in delinquent status (past due) are not eligible for loans. 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 by the tuition payment deadline 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 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 and a pictured ID is needed in order to receive an emergency loan. Accounts in delinquent status are not eligible for loans. Past due loans will prohibit students from using University services such as registration, transcripts, etc. Loans must be repaid by the due date, or when financial aid arrives, whichever comes first.
Check Cancellation
Any Stafford Loan check available on the published distribution date and not picked up by the check cancellation deadline will be returned to the lender for cancellation.
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) credit hours. These loans include Perkins (NDSL), subsidized Stafford (GSL), and Unsubsidized Stafford (UGSL) 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://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 within 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 fellowships for graduate students.
The center provides current website assistance, books, pamphlets, articles and other materials as resources for alternative types of financial aid for all students.
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. The scholarship staff is available to address the individual concerns of scholarship recipients once they are on campus. Students should contact the Student Aid Resource (STAR) 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. Private scholarships must be turned in to the Office of Student Financial Services for processing and disbursement.
Financial support, in the form of fellowships, teaching and research assistantships, is also available. The student should be aware that only minimum qualifications are noted in the following list, and the selection process is highly competitive. In general, deadlines for applications 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.
- College Teaching Fellowships. There are 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.
- University Fellowships. Awards are made annually to a limited number of students in any discipline for $15,000 per year plus out-of-state and matriculation fees. Application forms may be obtained from the chair of the student's proposed major department. Applications are judged by a University-wide committee.
- McKnight Doctoral Fellowship Program. This program is for newly enrolling African American students and includes all academic disciplines except law, medicine, and most fields in education (doctoral students in mathematics and science education are eligible to apply). Awards are $12,000 per year plus tuition and fees, renewable for a total of four years. Contact the Office of Graduate Studies, 408 Westcott Building, for information.
- 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. A graduate student with less than a 3.0 cumulative grade point average is not allowed to continue more than one term as a graduate assistant.
Leslie N. Wilson Assistantships are for newly enrolling African-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 2900 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 Student Employment Services.
A variety of job listings are grouped by category (e.g. accounting, computers, retail, clerical, child care and state/county/city agencies). These listings may 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 schedule cannot interfere with a student's class schedule. Federal Work Study is awarded on a first-come, first-serve basis.
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 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 complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), and submit all other required documentation.
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