Financial Aid and Scholarships

Director, Financial Aid Office: Steven J. Sharp
Location: Taggart Student Center 106
Phone: (435) 797-0173
FAX: (435) 797-0654
E-mail: finaid@cc.usu.edu
WWW: http://www.usu.edu/finaid/

Associate Director: Tamara Allen
Assistant Director: Sharon B. Robinette
Assistant Director: Cedra H. Jensen
Business Manager: Karen S. Marshall

Students are assigned to a financial aid counselor based on the first letter of their last names. Following is a list of financial aid counselors, the students assigned to them, and their e-mail addresses.

Counselor: Patti Kohler (A-B, X-Z), patti.kohler@usu.edu
Counselor: Cedra H. Jensen (C-D), cedra.jensen@usu.edu
Counselor: Amanda Alles (E-HA), amanda.alles@usu.edu
Counselor: Jacob R. Brazell (HB-K), jacob.brazell@usu.edu
Counselor: Raquel Friddle (L-N), raquel.friddle@usu.edu
Counselor: Jennifer McGaughey (O-SL), jennifer.mcgaughey@usu.edu
Counselor: Sophara Tieng (SM-W), sophara.tieng@usu.edu

Perkins Loan and Collection Officer:

Justin Gereau, Taggart Student Center 248, (435) 797-1057, justin.gereau@usu.edu

Application for financial aid begins in January for the following academic year. In most instances, early application benefits the applicant. Those who apply early have a greater chance of receiving more aid and of having aid available in time to meet school needs. Pell Grant and Stafford Loans are available throughout the year. Contact the Financial Aid Office for assistance. The free online application can be found at: http://www.fafsa.gov

Scholarships are awarded to qualifying applicants who apply on or before February 1, prior to the academic year. Students should contact the Admissions Office or the department of their major for the exact deadline.

Financial aid programs, policies, and procedures described herein reflect the latest information at publication. Changes may occur in response to state and federal requirements. Appropriate notice will be made whenever possible before any change takes effect.

For further information concerning financial assistance available for graduate students, see the School of Graduate Studies  section of this catalog.

Grants, Work-Study, and Loans

Federal Pell Grant

Available to undergraduates. In most cases, grants do not need to be repaid.

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity (FSEOG) Grant

Available to undergraduates. Grants do not need to be repaid. The maximum award varies yearly. Awarding is based on need and funding.

Utah Centennial Grant (UCOPE)

Available to undergraduate residents of Utah. Awards are based on availability of funds.

Other Grants and Special Benefits

Contact the Financial Aid Office for details concerning BIA or Tribal Grants.

Federal College Work-Study

Provides part-time on-campus employment to enable students to earn a portion of their educational expenses during the college year. Awarding is based on need and the availability of funds.

Federal Perkins Loan

Undergraduate students generally may borrow up to $3,000 per year, to a total school amount of not more than $15,000. Graduate students may borrow $4,000 per year, up to $30,000. Monthly payments and interest begin after graduation, withdrawal, or otherwise leaving school, or after dropping below 6 credits. A 5 percent simple interest rate applies. Awarding is based on need and funding.

Federal Stafford Loan

Stafford loans have up to a 6.8 percent interest rate. Students may qualify for subsidized and unsubsidized loans, depending upon need. Interest accrued prior to the beginning of repayment is paid by the federal government for “subsidized” Federal Stafford Loans. Repayment is generally required within 10 years. Starting in 2008, freshmen may apply for up to $5,500 per regular school year; sophomores may apply for up to $6,500 per year; juniors, seniors, and second bachelor’s degree students may apply for up to $7,500 per year; and graduates may apply for up to $8,500 per year. Aggregate borrowing limits are $31,500 for undergraduates and second bachelor’s degree students, and $65,500 for graduates. Monthly repayment begins after completing or leaving school, or after dropping below 6 credits. Additional unsubsidized amounts are available to students in some circumstances.

Federal TEACH “Grant”

The TEACH “Grant” program provides up to $4,000 per year in “grant” aid to undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in a teacher credential program. Students must serve as full-time teachers at specified schools and teach in a specified field for four academic years within eight years after completing the college course. TEACH “Grant” recipients who do not fulfill their teaching obligations must repay the “grant” as if it were an unsubsidized loan.

PLUS Loans

PLUS loans are for parents who want to borrow for their children’s education. This loan provides additional funds for educational expenses. Repayment begins within 60 days after the last loan disbursement. This loan has an interest rate of 8.5 percent. This loan is available when other awarded federal aid to the student does not fully meet the school’s estimated cost of education.

Emergency Check Loan

Ten-week loans of up to $400 are available to enrolled students with fees paid for at least 6 credits. These loans are not available for tuition. Interest is assessed at 12 percent from date of issue until the date of maturity.

Method of Awarding Financial Aid

A student’s Estimated Family Contribution (EFC) is calculated from information provided by the student on the federal financial aid application. A student’s Financial Need is the difference between the estimated cost of education and the EFC. Financial aid is awarded to fill this need, as much as possible, using whatever funds are available.

Estimated Cost of Undergraduate Education for Two Semesters for 2011-2012 Academic Year

Repayment of Federal Funds Policy

Students who are withdrawing from the University and who have Federal Financial Aid must meet with their financial aid counselor prior to withdrawing.

Students who completely withdraw from the University during the course of a semester are required to return a percentage of their Federal Student Financial Aid. All types of Federal Financial Aid are included in the repayment, including: Pell Grants, Supplemental Grants, Perkins Loans, and Stafford Loans. The amount of repayment is based on the percentage of the semester completed. For example, if a student withdraws after completing 40% of the semester (calculated using calendar days), the student must return 60% of his or her Federal Student Aid. Students who withdraw, or cease attending, after completing 60% of the semester are not required to return aid. (However, they will still face suspension from financial aid for failing to complete the required number of credits.) If the student is eligible for a refund of tuition and fees, according to the University refund policy, the refund will be applied to the Federal Financial Aid obligation. A refund may or may not completely repay the obligation. Either way, the student will not be allowed to register for future classes, nor be eligible for future financial aid, until the debt is repaid.

For example, suppose a student has Federal Aid in the following amounts:

If the semester has 115 calendar days and the student completely withdraws from the University on day 20, the repayment would be calculated as follows: 115/20 = 17% of the semester completed, and 83% not completed. Therefore, 83% of the Federal Aid must be repaid (i.e., $5,450 x 83% = $4,523.50).

Students who receive all Fs for the semester must document participation in an academic activity (including attending class, taking exams, turning in assignments, etc.) past 60 percent of the semester or will have to repay 50% of the federal funds received.

Note: If a tuition refund is given by the Registration Office, the refund will reduce the amount of Federal Aid that must be repaid.

Responsibility of Financial Aid Recipients

Undergraduate financial aid recipients are expected to maintain a USU GPA of at least 2.0. Graduate students must maintain a USU GPA of 3.0. Students must also pass 70 percent of the credits they attempt.

Students not passing the required amount of credits or not maintaining the required grade point average will be placed on financial aid warning and must return to good standing in one semester. Students who do not return in good standing will be suspended from further aid. In exceptional circumstances, students may appeal to have the suspension lifted.

In addition to maintaining academic progress as defined above, recipients may not owe a repayment on grants previously received, or be in default of any student loan fund at USU or any other institution.

Scholarship Policy

Scholarships for new undergraduate students and undergraduate transfer students are awarded by the Admissions Office. Scholarships for continuing students are awarded by the various colleges and academic departments.

Scholarships for New Undergraduate Students

To be considered for scholarships, applicants must be admitted to Utah State University, attend classes at the main Logan campus, and intend to graduate from USU. (Students majoring in programs sponsored by other academic institutions, such as the Cooperative Nursing Program with Weber State University, are not eligible for Utah State University sponsored scholarships.) Utah State University offers a variety of scholarships based on academic merit using the cumulative GPA (a four-point scale is used to determine cumulative GPA) and ACT or SAT score. Some other criteria may be used in determining eligibility, such as achievements, leadership, talent, family size and income, ethnicity, and first-generation college student status. The scholarship application deadline (as listed on the dual admissions and scholarship application) is different than the admissions deadline. To be considered for scholarships, the priority deadline is December 1. For 2011, all scholarships will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. Therefore, applicants are encouraged to apply early. See below for information about scholarships available to new freshmen. For more information, contact the Admissions Office by phone at 1-800-488-8108 or (435) 797-1079, or by e-mail at: admit@usu.edu.

Scholarships for Home Schooled Students

To be considered for scholarships, home schooled students must have a minimum ACT score of 25.

Scholarships for Transfer Students

To be considered for scholarships, a transfer student must submit the Undergraduate Admission and Scholarship application. Official transcript(s) must accompany the application. To be considered for transfer scholarships, the priority deadline is February 1. Transfer students must have earned a minimum of 24 post high school graded semester credits. See below for information about scholarships available to transfer students.

Freshman Resident Scholarships

The scholarships listed below are based on the 2011-2012 applicant pool and are subject to change without notice. For the latest information on freshman scholarships, visit: http://www.usu.edu/admissions/scholarships

Presidential Scholarship

Awarded for four years, this scholarship awards full tuition and student body fees each semester for eight semesters. To be considered, applicants must have an admissions index score of 133 or higher. This award applies only to undergraduate coursework. To remain eligible for this scholarship, a student must enroll for and complete at least 12 credits each semester, for a total of 24 credits per year, and maintain a 3.5 USU cumulative GPA.

Dean’s Scholarship

Awarded for two years, this scholarship awards full tuition each semester for four semesters. To be considered, applicants must have an admissions index score of 129 or higher. This award applies only to undergraduate coursework. To remain eligible for this scholarship, a student must enroll for and complete at least 12 credits each semester, for a total of 24 credits per year, and maintain a 3.5 USU cumulative GPA.

University Ambassador Scholarship

During eight semesters (four years), full tuition and student body fees are awarded. To be considered, applicants must have a minimum 108 index score and a minimum ACT score of 21 or SAT score of 980. In addition to a separate application, applicants must submit an extensive recruitment portfolio and two letters of recommendation. This award applies only to undergraduate coursework. To remain eligible for this scholarship, a student must enroll for and complete at least 12 credits each semester, for a total of 24 credits per year. 

Aggie Scholar Scholarship

During four semesters (two years), $1,250 per semester is awarded toward tuition. To be considered, applicants must have an admissions index score of 124 or higher. This award applies only to undergraduate coursework. To remain eligible for this scholarship, a student must enroll for and complete at least 12 credits each semester, for a total of 24 credits per year, and maintain a 3.5 USU cumulative GPA.

Merit Scholarship

During two semesters (one year), $1000 per semester is awarded toward tuition. To be considered, applicants must have an admissions index score of 120 or higher. This award applies only to undergraduate coursework. To remain eligible for this scholarship, a student must enroll for and complete at least 12 credits each semester, for a total of 24 credits per year, and maintain a 3.5 USU cumulative GPA..

Achievement Scholarship

During two semesters (one year), $400 per semester is awarded toward tuition. To be considered, applicants must have an admissions index score of 115 or higher. This award applies only to undergraduate coursework. To remain eligible for this scholarship, a student must enroll for and complete at least 12 credits each semester, for a total of 24 credits per year.

Alumni Chapter Scholarships

To be considered for a chapter scholarship, a student must be (1) living in an area with a chartered alumni chapter, (2) be an incoming freshman or transfer student (cannot have previously attended USU), and (3) be a child or grandchild of a USU alumnus. The amount of each scholarship is based on the funds raised in each chapter. Therefore, the scholarships may be different each year. For information about these scholarships, contact the Alumni Office at (435) 797-2055, or visit http://www.usu.edu/alumni/scholarships/

ROTC Scholarships

For information about these scholarships, contact the Air Force ROTC Office at (435) 797-8723 or the Army ROTC Office at (435) 797-3637. Information is available on the Web at: http://www.afrotc.com/scholarships and http://www.goarmy.com/rotc/scholarships.jsp

Freshman Nonresident Scholarships

The scholarships listed below are based on the 2011-2012 applicant pool and are subject to change without notice. For the latest information on freshman scholarships, visit: http://www.usu.edu/admissions/scholarships

Presidential Nonresident Scholarship

Awarded for four years, this scholarship awards full tuition and student body fees each semester for eight semesters. Nonresident students are able to apply for Utah residency after 12 continuous months in the state, after establishing domicile, and upon providing proof of financial independence (not claimed as a dependent for tax purposes by someone living outside of Utah). Students are encouraged to gain residency during their first year at USU, as multiple-year scholarships will only cover out-of-state tuition for the first year. To be considered, applicants must have an admissions index score of at least 133. This award applies only to undergraduate coursework. To remain eligible for this scholarship, a student must enroll for and complete at least 12 credits each semester, for a total of 24 credits per year, and maintain a 3.5 USU cumulative GPA.

Dean’s Nonresident Scholarship

Awarded for two years, this scholarship awards full tuition each semester for four semesters. Nonresident students are able to apply for Utah residency after 12 continuous months in the state, after establishing domicile, and upon providing proof of financial independence (not claimed as a dependent for tax purposes by someone living outside of Utah). Students are encouraged to gain residency during their first year at USU, as multiple-year scholarships will only cover out-of-state tuition for the first year. To be considered, applicants must have an admissions index score of 129 or higher. This award applies only to undergraduate coursework. To remain eligible for this scholarship, a student must enroll for and complete at least 12 credits each semester, for a total of 24 credits per year, and maintain a 3.5 USU cumulative GPA.

USU/ISU Scholarship

This award waives the out-of-state nonresident differential for two semesters (one year). During these two semesters, recipients will only need to pay the in-state portion of tuition. To be considered, an applicant must be a resident of Idaho and must have an admissions index score of at least 117. This award applies only to undergraduate coursework. To remain eligible for this scholarship, a student must enroll for and complete at least 12 credits each semester, for a total of 24 credits per year.

100-Mile Radius Scholarship

This award is worth approximately $8,000. During two semesters (one year), $4,000 per semester is awarded toward the out-of-state portion of tuition. To be considered, an applicant must live within 100 miles of Utah State’s Logan campus and must be admitted in good standing to the main campus in Logan with an admissions index scope of at least 101.

University Ambassador Scholarship

During the first four semesters (two years), full tuition and student body fees are awarded. To be considered, applicants must have a minimum 108 index score and a minimum ACT score of 21 or SAT score of 980. In addition to a separate application, applicants must submit an extensive recruitment portfolio and two letters of recommendation. This award applies only to undergraduate coursework. To remain eligible for this scholarship, a student must enroll for and complete at least 12 credits each semester, for a total of 24 credits per year. 

Aggie Scholar Scholarship

Awarded for two years during the first two semesters (one year), $5,200 per semester is awarded toward tuition. During the second year after the student gains residency, $1,250 per semester is awarded toward tuition. To be considered, applicants must have an admissions index score of 124 or higher. This award applies only to undergraduate coursework. To remain eligible for this scholarship, a student must enroll for and complete at least 12 credits each semester, for a total of 24 credits per year, and maintain a 3.5 USU cumulative GPA.

Western Undergraduate Exchange

Utah State University participates in the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE), a program of the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE). Through WUE, certain students who are not residents of the State of Utah may enroll at Utah State University by paying resident tuition plus 50 percent of that amount (plus other fees that are paid by all students).

Because Utah State University participates in the WUE program, residents of Utah may enroll under the same terms in designated institutions and programs in other participating states.

Information about and applications for WUE programs available at USU may be obtained from the USU Admissions Office, 0160 Old Main Hill, Logan UT 84322-0160, tel. (435) 797-1079 or (800) 488-8108. Utah residents may obtain information about WUE programs in other states from the Certifying Officer for Utah WICHE Student Exchange Program, #3 Triad Center, Suite 550, 355 West North Temple, Salt Lake City UT 84180-1205, tel. (801) 321-7124 or from WICHE Student Exchange Program, P.O. Box 9752, Boulder CO 80301-9752, tel. (303) 541-0214 or 0210, FAX (303) 541-0291.

Nonresident Alumni Legacy Scholarship

Nonresident students having at least one parent who earned a degree from USU (associate-level degree or higher) can receive a waiver of the nonresident portion of tuition, allowing them to pay resident tuition during their academic career at USU. To qualify for the Alumni Legacy Nonresident Scholarship, a student must be enrolling for the first time at USU and submit a verification application online for their parent(s).

Time spent in Utah on the Alumni Legacy Nonresident Scholarship cannot be counted toward establishing resident student status. The Alumni Legacy Nonresident Scholarship was implemented July 1, 2009 and made possible by the signing of House Bill 364. It is not the same Legacy Scholarship given by the Utah State University Alumni Association. Other requirements may apply. For further scholarship information, contact the USU Admissions Office, Taggart Student Center 102, (800) 488-8108.

Transfer Resident Scholarships

Transfer Presidential Scholarship

Awarded for two years, this scholarship awards full tuition and student body fees each semester for four semesters. To be considered, applicants must have completed a minimum of 24 graded post-high school transferable credits with a 4.00 cumulative GPA. To  remain eligible for this scholarship, a student must enroll for and complete 12 credits per semester, for a total of 24 credits per year, and maintain a 3.5 USU cumulative GPA.

Transfer Dean’s Scholarship

Awarded for two years, this scholarship awards full tuition each semester for four semesters. To be considered, applicants must have completed a minimum of 24 graded post-high school transferable credits with a minimum 3.8 to 3.99 cumulative GPA. To remain eligible for this scholarship, a student must enroll for and complete 12 credits per semester, for a total of 24 credits per year, and maintain a 3.5 USU cumulative GPA.

Transfer Aggie Scholar Scholarship

During four semesters (two years), $1,250 per semester is awarded toward tuition. To be considered, applicants must have completed a minimum of 24 graded post-high school transferable credits with a 3.6 to 3.79 cumulative GPA.

Transfer Ambassador Scholarship

During four semesters (two years), this scholarship awards full tuition  and student body fees. This scholarship is awarded to a select group of students who demonstrate leadership and recruiting skills through experience, activities, and involvement in both school and community. In addition to a separate application, applicants must submit an essay and two letters of recommendation. To be considered, applicants must have a minimum of 48 semester credits and a minimum 3.2 cumulative GPA. The application deadline is February 1.

Transfer Nonresident Scholarships

Presidential Nonresident Transfer Scholarship

Awarded for two years, this scholarship awards full tuition and student body fees each semester for four semesters. Nonresident students are able to apply for Utah residency after 12 continuous months in the state, after establishing domicile, and upon providing proof of financial independence (not claimed as a dependent for tax purposes by someone living outside of Utah). Students are encouraged to gain residency during their first year at USU, as multiple-year scholarships will only cover out-of-state tuition  for the first year. To be considered, applicants must have completed a minimum of 24 graded post-high school transferable credits with a 4.00 cumulative GPA. To remain eligible for this scholarship, a student must enroll for and complete 12 credits per semester, for a total of 24 credits per year, and maintain a 3.5 USU cumulative GPA.

Dean’s Nonresident Transfer Scholarship

Awarded for two years, this scholarship awards full tuition each semester for four semesters. Nonresident students are able to apply for Utah residency after 12 continuous months in the state, after establishing domicile, and upon providing proof of financial independence (not claimed as a dependent for tax purposes by someone living outside of Utah). Students are encouraged to gain residency during their first year at USU, as multiple-year scholarships will only cover out-of-state tuition for the first year. To be considered, applicants must have completed a minimum of 24 graded post-high school transferable credits with a minimum 3.8 to 3.99 cumulative GPA. To remain eligible for this scholarship, a student must enroll for and complete 12 credits per semester, for a total of 24 credits per year, and maintain a 3.5 USU cumulative GPA.

Aggie Scholar Nonresident Transfer Scholarship

This scholarship awards $5000- $9,000 for two years, based on applicant pool. To be considered, applicants must have completed a minimum of 24 graded post-high school transferable credits with a 3.6 to 3.79 cumulative GPA. Students with a 3.4 to 3.79 GPA should apply by the February 1 deadline to be considered. To remain eligible for this scholarship, a student must enroll for and complete 12 credits per semester, for a total of 24 credits per year, and maintain a 3.5 USU cumulative GPA.

USU/ISU Scholarship

This award waives the out-of-state nonresident differential for two semesters. During these two semesters, recipients will only need to pay the in-state portion of tuition. To be considered, an applicant must be a resident of Idaho and must have completed a minimum of 24 graded post-high school transferable credits with a minimum 3.4 to 3.79 cumulative GPA.

100-Mile Radius Scholarship

This award is worth $8,000. During two semesters (one year), $4,000 per semester is awarded toward the out-of-state portion of tuition. To be considered, an applicant must attend a high school within 100 miles of Utah State’s Logan campus, and must have completed a minimum of 24 graded post-high school transferable credits with a minimum 3.0 to 3.39 cumulative GPA.

Transfer Ambassador Scholarship

During four semesters (two years), full tuition and student body fees are awarded. This scholarship is awarded to a select group of students who demonstrate leadership and recruiting skills through experience, activities, and involvement in both school and community. In addition to a separate application, applicants must submit an essay and two letters of recommendation. To be considered, applicants must have a minimum of 48 semester credits and a minimum 3.2 cumulative GPA. The application deadline is February 1.

Western Undergraduate Exchange

Utah State University participates in the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE), a program of the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE). Through WUE, certain students who are not residents of the State of Utah may enroll at Utah State University by paying resident tuition plus 50 percent of that amount (plus other fees that are paid by all students). For further information, see WUE text.

Nonresident Alumni Legacy Scholarship

Nonresident students having at least one parent who earned a degree from USU (associate-level degree or higher) can receive a waiver of the nonresident portion of tuition, allowing them to pay resident tuition during their academic career at USU. To qualify for the Alumni Legacy Nonresident Scholarship, a student must be enrolling for the first time at USU and submit a verification application online for their parent(s).

Time spent in Utah on the Alumni Legacy Nonresident Scholarship cannot be counted toward establishing resident student status. The Alumni Legacy Nonresident Scholarship was implemented July 1, 2009 and made possible by the signing of House Bill 364. It is not the same Legacy Scholarship given by the Utah State University Alumni Association. Other requirements may apply. For further scholarship information, contact the USU Admissions Office, Taggart Student Center 102, (800) 488-8108.

New Century Scholarship

The New Century Scholarship encourages students to accelerate their education by earning an Associate’s degree in high school from an institution within the Utah System of Higher Education. The scholarship may be used at a 4-year public college or university within the Utah System of Higher Education, as well as at Brigham Young University-Provo and Westminster College.

New Century Information:

Email: newcentury@utahsbr.edu
Phone: 801-321-7221
Website: www.higheredutah.org/scholarship_info
Mailing address:
New Century Scholarship Program
PO Box 145116
Salt Lake City, Utah 84114-5116

Regents’ Scholarship

The Regents’ Scholarship encourages Utah high school students to prepare for college academically and financially by taking a core course of study and saving for college. The scholarship may be used at any public college or university in the Utah System of Higher Education, as well as at Brigham Young University-Provo, LDS Business College and Westminster College.

Regents’ Scholarship Contact Informatin:

Email: regentsscholarship@utahsbr.edu
Phone: 801-321-7294 (parents and students)
Website: www.higheredutah.org/scholarship_info
Mailing Address:
Regents’ Scholarship Program
PO Box 145114
Salt Lake City, UT 84114-5114

University Research Fellowships

Utah State University is known nationally for its emphasis on hands-on learning in research, scholarship, and the creative arts. University Research Fellowships of $1,000 per year (renewable) are awarded to students who successfully compete in the application and interview process. Fellows are paired with a faculty member and begin inquiry in their fields of study as freshmen, which prepares them to compete for prestigious scholarships and entry into graduate studies. Presidential Dean’s, and Aggie Scholars are eligible to compete for Research Fellowships.

Continuing USU Student Scholarships

Department Scholarships

Each department has its own scholarship application, which is available at the department’s office and must be returned there by the given deadline. For most departments, the application deadline is February 1.

Tuition waivers and other forms of academic scholarships are awarded to students who are or who have been students at USU. Such applicants compete with other students within their department. Students should check with their department for application requirements and deadlines.

Private Endowment Scholarships

Each of the eight colleges at USU awards scholarships to undergraduate and graduate students. Although most of these scholarships are awarded to students who have already attended USU for one or more semesters, a few of them are available to new freshmen who have already decided upon their major area of study. Application forms are available from the dean’s office of each college.