Financial Aid

General Information

Daemen College offers students many types of financial assistance in the form of scholarships, grants, and loans. The College can help any qualified student who needs financial aid. Daemen College participates in the federal Title IV programs and complies with the regulatory requirements as mandated by the Higher Education Opportunity Act – 2008 (HEOA). The following is a breakdown of the types of assistance and the means by which a student may apply. It is important to note that students interested in Daemen College should not hesitate because of financial circumstances. DAEMEN COLLEGE IS AFFORDABLE.

Students applying for financial aid must submit the following forms that are used to establish eligibility and financial need.

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

This is available from the Daemen Financial Aid Office or any high school guidance office. Students are also able to apply online  at fafsa.gov. After completing the FAFSA, the student returns it directly to the U.S. Department of Education in the envelope provided, designating Daemen College as a recipient. The Daemen College Title IV institution code number is 002808.

Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) Application

For New York State residents only, the student completes the FAFSA releasing the information to New York State and indicating Daemen College. The New York State Higher Education Services Corporation (NYSHESC) receives the FAFSA data and sends a preprinted Express TAP Application (ETA) application to the student. The student must review, add and change any information only as needed. All students (spouse/parents) must sign and return the TAP application in the envelope provided to NYSHESC. Students are also able to apply online at www.tapweb.org.

Verification of Income

All students who receive federal, state, or institutional aid and who have been selected for verification must submit to the Financial Aid Office verification of their family income. Students can use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool in FAFSA on the web to retrieve and transfer IRS income information into the student’s FAFSA or request the IRS Tax transcript at www.IRS.gov. Students who receive a request for additional information should respond promptly as it is the policy of the Financial Aid Office not to disburse aid until the student’s FAFSA has been verified.

When to Apply for Financial Aid

The Free Application For Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and Express TAP Application should be submitted as soon as possible after October 1st.

SUGGESTED FILING DEADLINES FOR:

  • Fall Semester November 15th

Allow at least six weeks for processing the application.

TO BE CONSIDERED FOR FINANCIAL AID, STUDENTS MUST RE-APPLY EACH YEAR AND CONTINUE TO SHOW FINANCIAL NEED AND SATISFACTORY ACADEMIC PROGRESS.

Notification of Financial Aid Awards

After the student has been accepted for admission, and the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is reviewed, notifications of award packages will be sent to students who qualify. They are asked to accept or decline the award within two weeks of notification.

Eligibility for Financial Aid

Financial aid exists because most qualified students need help to pay for a college education. In general, financial aid eligibility is based on academic qualifications, specific program requirements, financial need, and academic progress or standing. All applicants must meet entrance requirements for admission to the College. Some competitive or merit scholarships are awarded for examination scores, grade averages, or class standing. Specific eligibility requirements for many financial aid programs are described in the text that follows. The most important criterion by far, however, is financial need. Once awarded, continuation of financial aid depends upon maintaining satisfactory academic progress.

Otherwise, once the basic eligibility requirements are met, financial aid is awarded on a “first-come, first-served” basis. Except for certain designated equal opportunity and affirmative action programs, financial aid awards are not affected by race, color, creed, sex, or sexual orientation.

Financial Aid for Combined Undergraduate/Graduate Degree Programs

A student’s eligibility for financial aid and type of aid is determined in accordance with the student’s classification as an undergraduate or graduate student. Students in combined degree programs (e.g., Physical Therapy, Physician Assistant Studies, Professional Accountancy, Athletic Training) will be classified as follows. Students who do not possess a previous baccalaureate degree are classified as undergraduates for their first four years of study, and graduate students in subsequent years. Students possessing a baccalaureate degree will be classified as graduate students regardless of enrollment in any undergraduate-level coursework in pursuit of their Daemen graduate degree.

Federal Student Financial Aid Penalties for Drug Law Violations

Students who are currently enrolled and are completing the FAFSA will be asked: “Have you been convicted for the possession or sale of illegal drugs for an offense that occurred while you were receiving federal student aid?” Students who answer “Yes” will be asked an additional series of questions to determine if the conviction affects their eligibility for federal student aid.

Students convicted of a federal or state offense of selling or possessing illegal drugs that occurred while they were receiving federal student aid should still complete and submit the FAFSA to determine if there is aid for which they are still eligible. Students who leave question 23 blank cannot receive federal financial aid until they respond by making a correction to their FAFSA.

A student who has been convicted of possession or sale of illegal drugs loses Title IV eligibility for a period of time specified in law. The period of ineligibility depends on whether the conviction was for possession or sale of (including conspiring to sell) illegal drugs.

FOR CONVICTIONS INVOLVING POSSESSION, THE PERIODS OF INELIGIBILITY ARE AS FOLLOWS:

  • One conviction: one year after the date of conviction.
  • Two convictions: two years after the date of the second conviction.
  • Three or more convictions: indefinite from the date of the third conviction

FOR CONVICTIONS INVOLVING SALE, THE PERIODS OF INELIGIBILITY ARE AS FOLLOWS:

  • One conviction: two years after the date of conviction.
  • Two or more convictions: indefinite from the date of the second conviction.

A federal or state drug conviction can disqualify a student for federal financial aid.

Convictions only count if they were for an offense that occurred during a period of enrollment for which the student was receiving Title IV aid—they do not count if the offense was not during such a period. Also, a conviction that was reversed, set aside, or removed from the student’s record does not count, nor does one received when the student was a juvenile, unless the student was tried as an adult.

Regaining Eligibility

A student regains eligibility the day after the period of ineligibility ends or when the student successfully completes a qualified drug rehabilitation program. Further drug convictions will make the student ineligible again.

A student whose Title IV eligibility has been suspended indefinitely may regain eligibility only by successfully completing a drug rehabilitation program. A student who is under a one- or two-year penalty may regain eligibility before the expiration of the period of ineligibility by successfully completing a drug rehabilitation program. If the student successfully completes an approved drug rehabilitation program, eligibility is regained on the date the student successfully completes the program. It is the student’s responsibility to certify to the school that he/ she has successfully completed the rehabilitation program.

To qualify the student for eligibility, the drug rehabilitation program must include at least two unannounced drug tests, and:

  • have received or be qualified to receive funds directly or indirectly under a Federal, State, or local government program; or
  • be administered or recognized by a Federal, State, or local government agency or court; or
  • have received or be qualified to receive payment directly or indirectly from a Federally- or State-licensed insurance company; or
  • be administered or recognized by a Federally- or State-licensed hospital, health clinic or medical doctor.

FINANCIAL NEED ASSESSMENT

The vast majority of all financial aid programs from all sources are based on financial need. The amount of aid a student receives is determined by the student’s budget for anticipated expenses minus the expected contribution from the student or his/her family.

Student’s Budget
(determined by Financial Aid Office)
— Expected Family Contribution
(determined by FAFSA data)
_____________________________________
= Financial Need

EXPENSES USED IN DETERMINING THE STUDENT’S BUDGET

For a full-time undergraduate student at Daemen College, the costs of attendance are estimated as follows:

Commuter Resident
Tuition $27,990 $27,990
Fees $590 $590
Books & Supplies *$1,000 *$1000
Room & Board *$2,000 *$12,915
Personal Expenses *$800 *$800
Transportation *$700 *$700
* These figures represent average costs and will vary from person to person depending upon individual needs. All costs are subject to change.

Student/Family Contributions

The Financial Aid Office uses information from your processed FAFSA application to estimate how much students or families can afford to pay toward a college education. The financial contribution that is to be made by a student or his/her family is determined by applying conventional estimating formulas that take into account their financial situation according to their FAFSA data and whether a student is independent or dependent. Definitions of these terms used for federal financial aid programs follow directly below. New York State financial aid programs use their own somewhat different and more detailed definitions. Daemen College’s Financial Aid Office can clarify these definitions and eligibility requirements.

Independent Students

An independent student is an individual who meets one of the following criteria:

  1. An individual at least 24 years old by December 31 of the award year.
  2. Both parents are deceased, or individual is a ward/dependent of the court.
  3. An individual who is currently serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces for purposes other than training.
  4. A veteran of the Armed Forces of the United States.
  5. An individual with legal dependents other than a spouse.
  6. A graduate or professional student.
  7. A married person.
  8. You have children who will receive more than half of their support from you.
  9. Your high school or school district homeless liaison determined that you were an unaccompanied youth who was homeless.

Dependent Students

A dependent student is an individual who does not meet the definition of an independent student.

Satisfactory Academic Progress

For continuation or renewal beyond the initial term of eligibility, most financial aid programs demand satisfactory academic progress. Academic progress is defined by credit hours earned toward a degree, as well as GPA. Colleges establish standards for measuring academic progress. The tables and information that follow illustrate Daemen College’s standards of satisfactory academic progress for determining eligibility for student aid. The Financial Aid Office and the Registrar monitor student academic progress for financial aid purposes. Refer to the Financial Aid Office for a more detailed explanation and interpretation of the following charts. Please note that minimum standards of satisfactory academic progress for continuing financial aid eligibility are not necessarily identical to minimum requirements for good academic standing – which typically require a minimum cumulative GPA  of 2.0. (See Academic Regulations and Standards section for further information on academic probation, suspension, and dismissal.)

Right To Appeal

In the event a student is denied financial aid due to failure to maintain satisfactory academic progress, the student has the right to appeal by providing a personal statement together with any relevant documentation supporting the student’s appeal. The Financial Aid Office will provide full information and counseling to students wishing to appeal to request reinstatement of aid.

SATISFACTORY ACADEMIC PROGRESS (SAP)

STANDARDS OF SATISFACTORY ACADEMIC PROGRESS FOR

1) DETERMINING ELIGIBILITY FOR New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) STUDENT AID

A. Chart applies to non-remedial students first receiving aid in 2010-11 and thereafter.

Calendar: Semester Degree Program: Baccalaureate
Before being certified for this payment:
1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th 10th
A student must have accrued this many credits:
0 6 15 27 39 51 66 81 96 111
With at least this grade point average:
0 1.5 1.8 1.8 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0
Completing at least this many credits for this semester:
6 6 9 9 12 12 12 12 12 12

 

B. Chart applies to students first receiving aid in 2007-08 through and including 2009-10 and remedial students first receiving aid in 2007-08 and thereafter.

Calendar: Semester Degree Program: Baccalaureate
Before being certified for this payment:
1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th 10th
A student must have accrued this many credits:
0 3 9 21 33 45 60 75 90 105
With at least this grade point average:
0 1.1 1.2 1.3 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0
Completing at least this many credits for this semester:
6 6 9 9 12 12 12 12 12 12

“Remedial student” is defined as a student: (a) whose scores on a recognized college placement exam or nationally recognized standardized exam indicated the need for remediation for at least two semesters, as certified by the college and approved by the New York State Education Department (SED); or (b) who was enrolled in at least six semester hours of non-credit remedial courses, as approved by SED, in the first term they received a TAP award; or (c) who is or was enrolled in an opportunity program.

STANDARDS OF SATISFACTORY ACADEMIC PROGRESS FOR

2) DETERMINING ELIGIBILITY FOR Undergraduate & Graduate Federal Student Aid

A student must make satisfactory academic progress at the end of each term to be eligible for federal financial aid. Undergraduate students must have a cumulative 2.0 grade point average by the end of their second academic year. Graduate students must have a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 after three terms of study. Students must also successfully complete at least two-thirds of the credits attempted at Daemen College each semester (known as completion rate). The following designations are considered to be attempted but are not considered to be successfully completed: I, W, UW, F.

Students must also complete their degrees within 150 percent of the published program length as measured in credit hours or they forfeit federal aid eligibility. For example, if the published length of a program is 120 credit hours, the maximum period must not exceed 180 (120 x 1.5) attempted credit hours. There is no waiver of the maximum time frame allowed for any reason.

Description of Financial Aid Programs

A. INSTITUTIONAL AID (FINANCIAL AID AWARDED BY THE DAEMEN COLLEGE FINANCIAL AID OFFICE)

FEDERAL PROGRAMS

FEDERAL SUPPLEMENTAL EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY GRANT (FSEOG)

Application Procedures:

The applicant must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Selection of Recipients and Allocation of Awards:

The recipient must:

  1. be a matriculated student and a U.S. citizen or permanent resident;
  2. show exceptional financial need;
  3. be making satisfactory academic progress. Awards are made on a first-come, first- served basis;
  4. not be in default on a previous loan or owe a refund on a previous grant.

Award Schedule:

The award ranges from $100 – $4000 per year.

Rights and Responsibilities of Recipients:

The student must continue to make satisfactory academic progress.

Method and Frequency of Disbursements:

Federal SEOG Grants (FSEOG) are credited directly to a student’s bill after enrollment and financial aid data has been verified by the Financial Aid Office each semester.

FEDERAL WORK-STUDY PROGRAM (FWS)

Application Procedures:

The applicant must complete the Free Application For Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Selection of Recipients and Allocation of Awards:

The applicant must:

  1. be a matriculated student and a U.S. citizen or permanent resident;
  2. show financial need;
  3. be making satisfactory academic progress. Students are awarded FWS on a first-come, first-served basis.
  4. not be in default on a previous loan or owe a refund on a previous grant.

Award Schedule:

Daemen College provides job opportunities on campus where students may work up to 10 hours per week. Students who are eligible for FWS will have an opportunity to apply for jobs posted on the Daemen College Human Resources Student Employment website. Students are paid the minimum hourly wage. An award of FWS does not guarantee job placement.

Rights and Responsibilities of Recipients:

Satisfactory academic progress must be maintained. For further information, please see the college work-study list of regulations and procedures available from the Daemen College Financial Aid Office.

Method and Frequency of Disbursements:

Federal Work Study Program (FWS) wages are paid to students with bi-weekly payroll checks issued in the Human Resources Office.

TEACH GRANT PROGRAM

Through the College Cost Reduction and Access Act of 2007, Congress created the Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant Program that provides grants of up to $4,000 per year to students who intend to teach in a public or private elementary or secondary school that serves students from low-income families.

Additional information regarding the TEACH grant can be found at www.teachgrant.ed.gov.

Undergraduate study: maximum of $4,000 per year for the first baccalaureate to a maximum of $16,000.

Graduate study: maximum of $4,000 per year for a master’s degree to a maximum of $8,000.

Conditions

In exchange for receiving a TEACH Grant, you must agree to serve as a full-time teacher in a high-need field in a public or private elementary or secondary school that serves low-income students (see below for more information on high-need fields and schools serving low-income students). As a recipient of a TEACH Grant, you must teach for at least four academic years within eight calendar years of completing the program of study for which you received a TEACH Grant. IMPORTANT: If you fail to complete this service obligation, all amounts of TEACH Grants that you received will be converted to a Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loan. You must then repay this loan to the U.S. Department of Education. You will be charged interest from the date the grant(s) was disbursed. Note: TEACH Grant recipients will be given a 6-month grace period prior to entering repayment if a TEACH Grant is converted to a Direct Unsubsidized Loan.

Student Eligibility Requirements

To receive a TEACH Grant you must meet the following criteria:

  • Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), although you do not have to demonstrate financial  need.
  • Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen.
  • Be enrolled as an undergraduate, post-baccalaureate, or graduate student in a postsecondary educational institution that has chosen to participate in the TEACH Grant Program.
  • Be enrolled in course work that is necessary to begin a career in teaching or plan to complete such course work. Such course work may include subject area courses (e.g., math courses for a student who intends to be a math teacher).
  • Meet certain academic achievement requirements (generally, scoring above the 75th percentile on a college admissions test or maintaining a cumulative GPA of at least 3.25).
  • Sign a TEACH Grant Agreement to Serve (ATS) and complete TEACH Grant Initial and Subsequent counseling at the following link: https://studentloans.gov/myDirectLoan/launchTeach.action

High-Need Field

High-need fields are the specific areas identified below:

  • Bilingual Education and English Language Acquisition
  • Foreign Language
  • Mathematics
  • Reading Specialist
  • Science
  • Special Education

Other identified teacher shortage areas as of the time you begin teaching in that field. These are teacher subject shortage areas (not geographic areas) that are listed in the Department of Education’s Annual Teacher Shortage Area Nationwide Listing. To access the listing, please go to http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ope/pol/tsa.doc.

As of July 1, 2010, a recipient of an initial TEACH Grant who has received an academic degree, or expertise, in a field that was, at the time the recipient signed the TEACH Grant Agreement to Serve, designated as high-need, but no longer has that designation, can fulfill the service obligation associated with the TEACH Grant by teaching in that high-need field.

Schools Serving Low-Income Students

Schools serving low-income students include any elementary or secondary school that is listed in the Department of Education’s Annual Directory of Designated Low-Income Schools for Teacher Cancellation Benefits. To access the Directory, please go to https://www.tcli.ed.gov/CBSWebApp/tcli/TCLIPubSchoolSearch.jsp.

TEACH Grant Agreement to Serve

Each year you receive a TEACH Grant, you must sign a TEACH Grant Agreement to Serve that is available electronically at www.teach-ats.ed.gov. The TEACH Grant Agreement to Serve specifies the conditions under which the grant will be awarded, the teaching service requirements, and includes an acknowledgment by you that you understand that if you do not meet the teaching service requirements you must repay the grant as a Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan, with interest accrued from the date the grant funds were disbursed. Specifically, the TEACH Grant Agreement to Serve will require the following:

  • For each TEACH Grant-eligible program for which you received TEACH Grant funds, you must serve as a full-time teacher for a total of at least four academic years within eight calendar years after you completed or withdrew from the academic program for which you received the TEACH Grant.
  • You must perform the teaching service as a highly-qualified teacher at a low-income school. The term highly-qualified teacher is defined in section 9101(23) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 or in section 602(10) of the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act.
  • Your teaching service must be in a high-need field.
  • You must comply with any other requirements that the Department of Education determines to be necessary.
  • If you do not complete the required teaching service obligation, TEACH Grant funds you received will be converted to a Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loan that you must repay, with interest charged from the date of each TEACH Grant disbursement.

FEDERAL PERKINS LOAN

Application Procedures:

The applicant must complete the Free Application For Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Selection of Recipients and Allocation of Awards:

The applicant must:

  1. be a citizen or permanent resident;
  2. show financial need;
  3. not be in default on a previous loan or owe a refund on a previous grant. Loans are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Awards Schedule:

Annual amounts which may be awarded are: $5,500 to students who have not successfully completed an undergraduate program; $8,000 for a graduate or professional student. Aggregate loan limits are: $27,500 for undergraduate students; $60,000 for graduate or professional students (including any previous Perkins program loans).

Rights and Responsibilities of Recipients:

The current interest rate payable during the repayment period is 5 percent on the unpaid principal on all loans. Repayment begins nine months after the student ceases to carry one-half the normal full-time academic work load, and ends ten years and nine months after such date. Specialized information on loan cancellation provisions and deferment is available from the Office of Student Accounts.

Method and Frequency of Disbursements:

Federal Perkins Loans are credited directly to a student’s bill after enrollment and financial aid data have been verified by the Financial Aid Office and the student completes the Federal Perkins Loan Promissory Note through the internet atwww.signmyloan.com.

DIRECT FEDERAL STAFFORD LOAN – SUBSIDIZED

Application Procedures:

All loans signed after October 17, 1986 are based on need after family contribution is established; therefore, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at fafsa.gov and receive a financial aid award letter in order to be eligible for Stafford Loans. To apply for a Subsidized Stafford loan students must also complete Direct Loan Entrance Counseling and a Direct Loan Master Promissory Note (MPN) at studentloans.gov.  The Financial Aid office will originate the Stafford Loan for the amount indicated on the award notice, unless the student declines or modifies the loan amount.

A Master Promissory Note is completed once by the student and is used to borrow additional loans for subsequent periods of enrollment.

The MPN is good up to ten years from the date of the student’s signature. Each academic year the student will be notified of his/her loan eligibility on the financial aid award notice. The student’s loan will be originated for the amount listed on the award notice, unless the student indicates otherwise by signing and returning the award letter.

Selection of Recipients and Allocation of Awards:

To be eligible for a Subsidized Federal Stafford Loan a student must:

  1. be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident alien;
  2. be enrolled in or accepted for enrollment in a degree or certificate program; and
  3. have demonstrated need according to a Need Analysis System.
  4. Study at least half-time.

Loan Schedule:

A student who is enrolled on at least a half-time basis at a participating school is eligible for the following loan amounts:

  1. $3,500 – students who have not completed their first year of an undergraduate program.
  2. $4,500 – students who have completed their first year of an undergraduate program.
  3. $5,500 – students who have completed their first and second years of an undergraduate program.
  4. $23,000 – aggregate maximum amount for undergraduate study.

Effective for loans disbursed on or after July 1, 2018 and prior to July 1, 2019, the interest rate is fixed at 5.05%. Loans disbursed on or after October 1, 2018 and before October 1, 2019 will be charged a 1.062% origination fee. This fee will be deducted from the student loan upon disbursement.

Rights and Responsibilities of Recipients:

Repayment of the principal begins six months after the borrower ceases to be at least a half-time student. Repayment in whole or in part may be made at any time without penalty. All borrowers must complete loan exit counseling at studentloans.gov   upon graduation or withdrawal from the college. Contact the Financial Aid office about this requirement.

Methods and Frequency of Disbursements:

First-time borrowers must complete loan entrance counseling before loan funds can be disbursed.

Direct Stafford Loan proceeds are credited to a student’s bill after the disbursement has been received by the Office of Student Accounts.

DIRECT FEDERAL STAFFORD LOAN – UNSUBSIDIZED

Application Procedures:

This loan program is available to eligible students, regardless of family income, for periods of enrollment beginning on or after October 10, 1992. The term unsubsidized means that interest is not paid for the student during periods of enrollment. To apply, students must complete the FAFSA, receive a financial aid award notice, and have a Master Promissory Note and Direct Loan Entrance Counseling on file. See application procedure for Federal Stafford loan – Subsidized.

Selection of Recipients and Allocation of Awards:

To be eligible for an Unsubsidized Federal Stafford Loan a student must:

  1. be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident alien;
  2. be enrolled in or accepted for enrollment in a degree or certificate program; and
  3. study at least half-time.

Loan Schedule:

  1. $5,500 – students who have not completed their first year of an undergraduate program.
  2. $6,500 – students who have completed their first year of an undergraduate program.
  3. $7,500 – students who have completed their first and second years of an undergraduate program.
  4. $31,000 – aggregate maximum amount for undergraduate study.
  5. $20,500 – graduate year maximum eligibility.

The combination of subsidized and unsubsidized Federal Stafford Loans for a borrower may not exceed the annual and aggregate limits.

Effective for loans disbursed on or after July 1, 2018 and prior to July 1, 2019, the interest rate is fixed at 5.05% for undergraduate students and 6.6% for graduate students. Loans disbursed on or after October 1, 2018 and before October 1, 2019 will be charged a 1.062% origination fee. This fee will be deducted from the student loan upon disbursement.

Rights and Responsibilities of Recipients:

Principal payments are automatically deferred while the student is enrolled at least half-time. Interest accrues and must be paid quarterly. If a student does not wish to make these interest payments while enrolled, he/she may request to add the interest to the principal amount. Repayment of both interest and principal begins six months after the borrower ceases to be enrolled on at least a half-time basis. All borrowers must complete loan exit counseling upon graduation or withdrawal from the college. Contact the Financial Aid office about this requirement.

Method and Frequency of Disbursements:

First-time borrowers must complete loan entrance counseling before loan funds can be disbursed. Direct Stafford Loan proceeds are credited to a student’s bill after the disbursement has been received by the Office of Student Accounts.

DIRECT UNSUBSIDIZED FEDERAL STAFFORD LOAN FOR INDEPENDENT STUDENTS

Application Procedures:

Students must file a FAFSA, receive a financial aid award notice, and have a Master Promissory Note and Direct Loan Entrance Counseling on file. See application procedure for Federal Stafford Loan – Subsidized.

Selection of Recipients and Allocation of Awards:

To be eligible a student must:

  1. be a graduate or independent undergraduate;
  2. be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident alien;
  3. be accepted or enrolled in a degree or certificate program; and
  4. study at least half-time.

Loan Schedule:

  1. $4,000 – during the first or second year of study.
  2. $5,000 – after completion of second year of undergraduate program.
  3. $20,500 – for graduate and professional students.
  4. $57,500 – aggregate amount for undergraduate study.
  5. $138,500 – aggregate amount for graduate study.

Effective for loans disbursed on or after July 1, 2018 and prior to July 1, 2019, the interest rate is fixed at 5.05% for undergraduate students and 6.6% for graduate students. Loans disbursed on or after October 1, 2018 and before October 1, 2019 will be charged a 1.062% origination fee. This fee will be deducted from the student loan upon disbursement.

Rights and Responsibilities of Borrowers:

Repayment begins on the day of the last disbursement unless the student requests an in-school deferment on the loan application. Interest payments can be made quarterly, or they may be capitalized (added to the principal). All borrowers must complete direct loan exit counseling upon graduation or withdrawal from the college. Contact the Financial Aid Office about this requirement.

Method and Frequency of Disbursements:

First-time borrowers must complete direct loan entrance counseling before loan funds can be disbursed. Direct Stafford Loan proceeds are credited to a student’s bill after the loan disbursement has been received by the Office of Student Accounts.

DIRECT PARENT LOANS FOR UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS (PLUS)

Application Procedures:

Parents are able to apply for PLUS loans at studentloans.gov. Upon credit approval of the PLUS loan application the Daemen Financial Aid Office will originate the loan. Borrowers must complete a Master Promissory Note at studentloans.gov.

Loan Schedule:

Parents, stepparents or legal guardians who do not have an adverse credit history may borrow up to the cost of attendance minus any estimated financial assistance the student has been or will be awarded during the period of enrollment. Effective for loans disbursed on or after July 1, 2018 and prior to July 1, 2019 the interest rate for the Direct PLUS loan is currently fixed at 7.6%. Loans disbursed on or after October 1, 2018 and before October 1, 2019 will be charged a 4.248% origination fee. This fee will be deducted from the PLUS loan upon disbursement.

Rights and Responsibilities of Recipients:

The re-payment period begins on the day the loan is disbursed and interest starts to accrue on that date. The first payment is due within 60 days from the date of disbursement. The maximum repayment period will be 10 years from the date of the promissory note. The minimum repayment period is normally five years, but shorter repayment periods can be arranged.

Method and Frequency of Disbursements:

Parent Loans for Undergraduate Students (PLUS) are credited to a student’s bill after the loan disbursement has been received by the Office of Student Accounts.

DIRECT GRADUATE (PLUS) LOAN

Application Procedures:

Graduate students are able to apply for Graduate PLUS loans at studentloans.gov. Upon credit approval of the Graduate PLUS loan application, the Daemen Financial Aid Office originates the loan. Borrowers must complete their Master Promissory Note and Loan Entrance Counseling at studentloans.gov.

Loan Schedule:

Graduate students who do not have adverse credit history may borrow up to the cost of attendance minus any estimated financial assistance the student has been or will be awarded during the period of enrollment. Effective for loans disbursed on or after July 1, 2018 and prior to July 1, 2019 the interest rate for the Direct Graduate PLUS loan is currently fixed at 7.6%. Loans disbursed on or after October 1, 2018 and before October 1, 2019 will be charged a 4.248% origination fee. This fee will be deducted from the Graduate PLUS loan upon disbursement.

Rights and Responsibilities of Recipients:

The maximum repayment period will be 10 years from the date of the promissory note. The minimum repayment period is normally five years, but shorter repayment periods can be arranged. In addition, applicants are required to complete FAFSA and they must have applied for their annual loan maximum eligibility under the Direct Stafford Loan program before applying for a Direct Graduate PLUS loan. This program takes effect for loans certified on or after July 1, 2006.

STUDY ABROAD

Students may be eligible to receive federal student aid for enrollment in Study Abroad Programs approved for credit by Daemen College. You will need to fill out FAFSA before you can receive federal student aid to study abroad. You should contact the Financial Aid Office to determine which types of aid you will be eligible to use for your study abroad program.

RETURN OF TITLE IV FUNDS DUE TO WITHDRAWAL FROM SCHOOL

In accordance with the Higher Education Opportunity Act – 2008 (HEOA), the amount of Title IV Program Funds earned is based on the amount of time spent in academic attendance for each enrollment period. Up through the 60% point in each enrollment period, a prorate schedule is used to determine the amount of Title IV funds the student has earned at the time of withdrawal. After the 60% point in the period of enrollment, a student has earned 100% of Title IV funds. Earned Title IV funds are distributed in the following order: TEACH Grant, FSEOG, Pell Grant, PLUS Loan, Subsidized Stafford Loan, Unsubsidized Stafford Loan.

Official notification from the student via telephone, email, or in person and the completion of a Withdrawal Form will be used to determine the date of withdrawal. For students who do not officially withdraw, it is assumed that the student attended 50% of the enrollment period, unless otherwise documented by the instructor.

B. NON-INSTITUTIONAL AID (FINANCIAL AID AWARDED THROUGH OUTSIDE AGENCIES)

FEDERAL PROGRAMS

PELL GRANT

Application Procedures:

Students may apply by filing a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The applicant must be an undergraduate student and must need financial assistance to continue his/her education.

Selection of Recipients and Allocation of Awards:

The Pell Grant is an entitlement program. The student eligibility index for financial aid is calculated by a formula developed by the U.S. Department of Education and reviewed annually by Congress. A calculated student aid report will be sent to the applicant. Based on this, the amount of the applicant’s award is determined by the Financial Aid Office.

Award Schedule:

Awards range from $650 to $6,095 but not more than one-half the total cost of attendance. The amount of the award will be affected by costs and full or part-time enrollment status. Awards may be used for tuition, fees, books, and living expenses. The Pell award does not duplicate state awards.

Rights and Responsibilities of Recipients:

The student must continue to make satisfactory academic progress in the program in which he/she is enrolled. The student must not owe any refunds on a Pell Grant or other awards paid, or be in default on repayment of any student loan. Before receiving payment, the student must sign an affidavit of educational purpose, and an affidavit of selective service compliance.

Method and Frequency of Disbursements:

Federal Pell Grants are credited directly to a student’s bill after enrollment and financial aid data have been verified by the Financial Aid Office each semester.

RESERVE OFFICERS’ TRAINING CORPS (ROTC)

ROTC courses may be taken at Canisius College as part of the cross-registration agreement Daemen College has with the Western New York Consortium of Colleges. For further information, see the “Military Science” section of the catalog.

Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) scholarships pay all tuition, college fees, and a flat rate for books and academic supplies, plus a subsistence allowance. Three and two-year scholarships are available to qualified college students. No previous military or ROTC experience is necessary. An alternative to the scholarship program permits students to earn full pay and allowances for weekend service with the U.S. Army Reserve or the New York National Guard while enrolled as Army ROTC college students. For more information contact Daemen’s Financial Aid Office at 839-8254.

VETERANS ADMINISTRATION (VA) EDUCATIONAL BENEFITS

Once applied and accepted at Daemen, veterans and other persons eligible to study using GI Bill® educational benefits will receive a personalized financial aid award letter from Daemen’s Financial Aid Office providing estimated  program costs, student aid eligibility, and other federal financial aid options. If you have already received notification of your GI Bill® award and have made your decision to attend Daemen, you must present the award letter or Certificate of Eligibility (COE) to the Daemen College Certification Officer. Generally, a brief meeting is required prior to certification.

If you are eligible but have not yet applied to use your benefits, you may do so by visiting  www.vets.gov and completing a application for the chapter of the GI Bill® in which you have eligibility.  It is recommended that this application be submitted online to the Veterans Administration (VA) well in advance of registration in the event of VA backlog or processing issues which may arise.

Once enrolled and certified as a Daemen student, should you have to suspend your study due to service requirements, you may withdraw from courses with no financial liability.  Depending upon the duration of service required, other options may be available to students who feel they have significant investment in the semester and who do not wish to withdraw from a semester entirely. In each case, you must notify the Daemen College Certification Officer of your impending service requirement, and to discuss financial options available to you. Regardless of the financial option chosen as a result of the service requirement, all service members may return to their academic program upon completion of service requirements.

BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS AID TO NATIVE AMERICANS HIGHER EDUCATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

Application Procedures:

Application forms may be obtained from the Bureau of Indian Affairs Office or www.bia.gov . An application and an official needs analysis from the college are required each year of study. Each first-time applicant must obtain tribal enrollment certification from the Bureau agency or tribal office which records enrollment for the tribe.

Selection of Recipients and Allocation of Awards:

The applicant must:

  1. be at least one-fourth American Indian, Eskimo or Aleut;
  2. be an enrolled member of a tribe, band, or group recognized by the Bureau of Indian Affairs;
  3. be enrolled in or accepted for enrollment in an approved college or university, pursuing at least a four-year degree; and
  4. have financial need. Depending on availability of funds, grants may also be made to graduate students and summer session students. Eligible married students may also receive living expenses for dependents.

Rights and Responsibilities of Recipients:

For grants to be awarded in successive years, the student must make satisfactory progress toward a degree, and show financial need.

New York State Programs

Note: New York State financial aid programs are subject to change each state budget year. Please refer to www.hesc.ny.gov for a full list of grants, scholarships, and awards through the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation.

ARTHUR O. EVE HIGHER EDUCATION OPPORTUNITY PROGRAM (HEOP)

Application Procedure:

Students must complete the Free Application For Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Selection of Recipients and Allocation of Awards:

Applicants must be:

  1. New York State residents;
  2. matriculated undergraduate students at an independent college or university in New York State; and
  3. academically and economically disadvantaged according to guidelines approved by the Board of Regents and the Director of the Budget. Selection of eligible applicants for participation in HEOP is made by the HEOP Director at Daemen in conjunction with the Financial Aid Office.

Award Schedule:

The amount of financial assistance and other support provided to HEOP participants is dependent on need as determined by the institution and the program, within the state guidelines. Awards are disbursed each semester and credited to the student’s account.

TUITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (TAP)

Application Procedures:

New York State residents may apply for TAP by completing the FAFSA, releasing the information to New York State and indicating at least one New York State school on the form. NYSHESC receives the FAFSA data and sends a preprinted Express Tuition Assistance Program Application (ETA) to the student’s address. The student must review, add and change the information only as needed. All students (spouse/parents) must sign and return the Express Tuition Assistance Program Application (ETA) in the envelope provided. Students are also able to apply online at www.tapweb.org.

Selection of Recipients and Allocation of Awards:

TAP is an entitlement program, with neither a qualifying examination nor a limited number of awards. The applicant must:

  1. be a New York State resident and a U.S. citizen or permanent resident alien;
  2. be enrolled full-time and matriculated at an approved New York State postsecondary institution. (To be considered matriculated, students are required to declare a major by the beginning of their junior year if enrolled in a baccalaureate program);
  3. have, if dependent, a family net taxable income of $80,000 or less, or if independent and single with no tax dependents, a net taxable income of $10,000 or less. Independent and dependent are defined differently for New York State TAP awards than they are for other forms of financial aid. See the Financial Aid Office for details. The Higher Education Services Corporation determines the applicant’s eligibility and mails an award certificate directly to the applicant, indicating the amount of the grant. The applicant presents the institutional copy of the certificate when paying tuition.

Award Schedule:

The amount of the TAP award is scaled according to level of study, tuition charge, and net taxable income. Maximum award is $5,165 per year. Undergraduate students may generally receive TAP awards for four years of study. Students enrolled in a state-sponsored opportunity program may receive undergraduate awards for five years.

Rights and Responsibilities of Recipients:

Students who receive TAP funding must maintain satisfactory academic progress in order to be certified as TAP eligible for subsequent semesters (see Standards of Satisfactory Academic Progress chart). Students who have reapplied and been readmitted to Daemen College after attending another institution will have those transferred grades calculated into the GPA for financial aid eligibility purposes only. (Transfer students will be assumed to have a 2.0 GPA for their first semester at Daemen College).

Students may not combine undergraduate and graduate credit for TAP course load or course completion requirements. An undergraduate student eligible to take a graduate course must do so in addition to a minimum of 12 undergraduate credits for TAP purposes.

Repeating a course may affect TAP eligibility. Please note that TAP will not pay for courses for which a passing grade was received unless the student is registered for at least 12 credit hours of TAP eligible course work in ADDITION to the repeated course. Students should consult with the Offices of Financial Aid and Registrar for further information.

In determining full-time (12 credit hours) status, credit-bearing courses must be applicable to the student’s program of study as a general education requirement, a major requirement, or specified or free elective. Credit-bearing courses not integral to the student’s program of study cannot be included as part of the minimum full-time (12 credit hours) requirement. A student will be deemed to meet the full-time or part-time study requirement in their last semester of eligibility if the student takes at least one course needed to meet their graduation requirements and the student enrolls in and completes at least 12 semester hours.

Students who do not maintain the minimum standards of academic progress may be eligible for a one-time waiver which would allow the student to receive financial aid for the next semester.This waiver is not automatic, will be granted only in exceptional cases, and must not provide for an additional term of eligibility.

Students lacking a C average who have already received a one-time waiver may be eligible for a C average waiver. A C average waiver is separate from the one-time waiver and may be granted more than once if circumstances warrant.

Application for a waiver may be initiated through the Financial Aid Office. The final decision to approve or not approve the waiver rests with the Committee on Academic Standards.

Institutional Procedure:

1. Students will be notified if they have been decertified, and they will be informed of the waiver option and procedures which follow:

a. Waiver application forms are issued from the Financial Aid Office.

b. Applications will be considered only for extraordinary cases such as personal or family medical problems or severe personal problems.

c. It is the student’s responsibility to submit the completed waiver application form to the Financial Aid Office by the due date.

A statement from the student explaining the reason for failure to make academic progress and outlining the plan of action to rectify the problem should be attached to the form. Written verification of the reason for the request (e.g., doctor’s letter) as well as a letter from a Daemen employee (such as a professor, academic advisor, head of an academic program) who can make a professional judgment attesting to the student’s capacity to complete future coursework successfully must also be attached to the form. Any other written documentation which would strengthen the student’s request should also be submitted by the student. All written documentation must be received no later than the due date cited on the waiver appeals form.

2. The Committee on Academic Standards will review all completed waiver application forms and notify the Financial Aid Office and Bursar’s Office of all waivers granted. The Committee’s decision on the waiver request is final.

3. Written records of the findings and determination of each case will be maintained by the Office of Academic Affairs.

PART-TIME TAP PROGRAM

Application Procedure:

Complete the FAFSA and TAP application.

Selection of Recipients and Allocation of Awards:

To be eligible for Part-Time TAP, a student must:

1. be a first-time freshman in the 2006-07 academic year or thereafter;

2. have earned 12 credits or more in each of the two consecutive semesters, for a minimum total of 24 credits earned;

3. maintain a minimum of a “C” average;

4. be a New York State resident and a U.S. citizen or permanent resident alien;

5. be matriculated in an approved program of study;

6. be taking 6 but fewer than 12 credits per semester;

7. not be in default on a student loan guaranteed by HESC;

8. meet income eligibility limitations (same as undergraduate TAP).

Award Schedule:

Students will receive a percentage of their full TAP award based on the number of credits taken and TAP points accrued.

AID FOR PART-TIME STUDY (APTS)

Application Procedure:

Part-time students seeking financial aid must complete the APTS application, which is available at the Financial Aid Office. Applications must be submitted to the Financial Aid Office within 30 days from the first day of class. A copy of the New York State tax return must accompany the application. Completed applications will be processed at the Daemen College Financial Aid Office.

Selection of Recipients and Allocation of Awards:

This form of financial aid is expressly intended for part-time students. Each participating college determines the eligibility and financial need of its own part-time students. To be eligible for APTS, a student must:

1. be enrolled for 3-11 credit hours;

2. be a New York State resident, and a U.S. citizen or permanent resident;

3. have a net taxable personal income not exceeding $34,250 (if independent), or a net taxable family income not exceeding $50,550 (if dependent); and

Award Schedule:

Awards provide up to $2,000 per year for part-time undergraduate study. APTS awards are based on financial need and the discretion of the college. Cumulative APTS funding may not exceed the student’s New York State TAP eligibility.

Rights and Responsibilities of Recipients:

Students must maintain satisfactory academic progress. Recipients must reapply for each academic term they want APTS assistance. Satisfactory academic progress and dependent or independent financial status are defined as they are for New York State TAP grants.

REGENTS AWARD FOR CHILDREN OF DECEASED OR DISABLED VETERANS

Application Procedures:

Applications are completed online at www.hesc.ny.gov .

Selection of Recipients and Allocation of Awards:

The applicant must be:

1. The child of a veteran who died, or who acquired a disability of 40 percent or more in U.S. military service during one of the following periods:

Conflict and Applicable Periods of Service:

Afghanistan: 09/18/01 – end of hostilities

Iraq: 10/16/02 – end of hostilities

Persian Gulf: 08/02/90 – end of hostilities

Vietnam/Indochina: 12/22/61 – 05/07/75

Korean Conflict: 06/27/50 – 01/31/55

World War II: 12/07/41 – 12/31/46

World War I: 04/06/17 -11/11/18

Students whose parent(s) was the recipient of the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Navy Expeditionary Medal, or the Marine Corps Expeditionary Medal for participation in Lebanon, Grenada, or Panama.

Conflict and Applicable Periods of Service:

Panama: 12/20/89 – 01/31/90

Grenada: 10/23/83 – 11/21/83

Lebanon: 06/01/83 – 12/01/87

2. A legal resident of New York State. Legal residence in New York State on the part of the parent at the time of entry into military service or (if the parent died as the result of military service) at the time of death is also required. Regents awards to children of deceased or disabled veterans are independent of family income or tuition charge, and are in addition to such other grants or awards to which the applicant may be entitled.

Award Schedule:

The amount of the award is $450 per year, for up to five years of full time study.

MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FOR FAMILIES OF DECEASED FIREFIGHTERS, VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTERS, POLICE OFFICERS, PEACE OFFICERS AND EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICE WORKERS

Who is Eligible:

Must be a child or spouse of a deceased firefighter, volunteer firefighter, or emergency medical service worker, police officer, peace officer, who died as a result of injuries sustained in the line of duty.

Application Procedures:

Applications are completed online at www.hesc.ny.gov .

Award Schedule:

The amount of the award will equal the applicant’s actual tuition cost or the State University of New York undergraduate tuition, whichever is less.

NEW YORK STATE WORLD TRADE CENTER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIPS

Who is Eligible:

Children, spouses and financial dependents of deceased or severely and permanently disabled victims of Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the United States or the subsequent rescue and recovery operations. This includes victims at the World Trade Center, Pentagon, or Flights 11, 77, 93, or 175.

Application Procedures:

Applications are completed online at www.hesc.ny.gov .

Award Schedule:

At a private institution an amount equal to SUNY four-year college tuition and average mandatory educational fees including allowances for room and board, books, supplies, and transportation.

STATE AID TO NATIVE AMERICANS

Application Procedures:

Application forms may be obtained from the Native American Education Unit, New York State Education Department, Albany, NY 12234. The completed application form should be forwarded by the applicant to the Native American Education Unit along with the following materials:

1. official transcript of high school record or photostat of general equivalency diploma;

2. letters of recommendation from one or more community leaders attesting to personality and character;

3. a personal letter, setting forth clearly and in detail educational plans and desires;

4. signatures of the parents of minor applicants, approving education plans; and

5. an official tribal certification form.

Selection of Recipients and Allocation of Awards:

The applicant must be:

1. a member of one of the Native American tribes located on reservations within New York State;

2. have graduated from an approved high school, have earned a general equivalency diploma, or be enrolled in a program in an approved postsecondary institution; and

3. planning to attend an approved post-secondary institution in New York State.

State Aid to Native Americans is an entitlement program. There is neither a qualifying examination nor a limited number of awards.

Award Schedule:

The award is granted up to $2000 per year for a maximum of four years of full-time study, at a minimum of 12 credit hours per semester.

Rights and Responsibilities of Recipients:

Students are responsible for notifying the Native American Education Unit in writing of any change in student status or program.

Daemen College Programs

Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for all Daemen College financial aid programs.

PRESIDENT’S, FOUNDER’S, DEAN’S, DISTINGUISHED FACULTY AND TRUSTEE SCHOLARSHIPS

Daemen College offers scholarships to eligible first year students and transfer students based on academic merit. These scholarships are renewable for each year of full-time undergraduate enrollment as long as a 3.00 Daemen College grade point average is maintained.

ALUMNI GRANTS

The College offers grants to first year students and transfer students based upon their academic credentials. These grants are renewable for each year of full-time undergraduate enrollment as long as a 2.00 Daemen College grade point average is maintained.

INTERNATIONAL SCHOLARSHIPS

International students who complete the entire application process will have an opportunity to receive scholarships based on academic merit. These scholarships are renewable for each year of full-time enrollment as long as a 3.00 Daemen College grade point average is maintained.

ATHLETIC SCHOLARSHIPS

A limited number of  basketball, volleyball, soccer, cross country, track & field, tennis, golf, bowling, and triathlon scholarships are awarded to students who must be fully matriculated, meet all player-eligibility criteria set forth by Daemen College, the East Coast Conference (ECC), and the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), and be recommended by Daemen College’s coaching staff and Athletic Director.

DAEMEN COLLEGE GRANTS

This grant is awarded to students based upon demonstrated financial need. The dollar amount will vary. A Daemen College grant may be renewed or continued only if a student maintains satisfactory academic progress and demonstrates financial need.

DAEMEN COLLEGE WORK PROGRAM

Funded by Daemen College, this award is designed to help students meet their college costs. The hours worked per week will vary. Students are paid minimum wage.

VISUAL ARTS SCHOLAR AWARDS

$5,000 renewable scholarship. Eligibility is based on high school academic average and evaluation of art portfolio.

REFUND ATTRIBUTION POLICY

When a student withdraws from the College prior to the end of a semester, the College’s refund policy will be used to determine the amount a student will be charged for tuition and other semester charges. Once this amount has been calculated, the Refund Attribution Policy determines the order in which refunds or overpayments of financial aid are distributed back to the applicable programs for up to the full amount received. Funds are returned first to the Title IV Programs and then to Non-Title IV programs in the following order:

TITLE IV PROGRAMS NON-TITLE IV PROGRAMS
Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loans NYS TAP
Direct Subsidized Stafford Loans Daemen College Scholarships/Grants
Private Scholarships/Grants
PLUS Loan Private Loans
Federal PELL Grants
FSEOG
Other Title IV Student Aid

CONSOLIDATION LOAN PROGRAM

Student borrowers who are in repayment or in their grace period are eligible for loan consolidation. A consolidation loan is designed to help student borrowers consolidate several types of federal student loans with various repayment schedules into one loan. With a consolidation loan, only one payment a month is made. Any consolidation loan made will be counted against a borrower’s limitations for aggregate indebtedness under the Student Loan Program. Additional information regarding loan consolidation can be found at studentloans.gov.

C. OTHER FINANCIAL AID SOURCES

Many other governmental agencies, private foundations, professional associations, and commercial firms offer scholarships, loans, and other forms of financial aid to qualified and deserving students. Daemen College’s Financial Aid Office can help you locate and apply for these additional sources of financial aid.