Financial Aid
Southern University at New Orleans is committed to the philosophy that no student should be denied a college education solely because of limited funds. The primary purpose of the Financial Aid Program is to provide financial assistance to students who, without such assistance, would find it impossible to receive a college education.
The mission of the Office of Student Financial Aid is to assist students in applying for and securing the financial resources available to pursue their educational goals. We strive to provide the best financial aid package, consisting of assistance from Federal, State, and Institutional programs, tailored to meet each student’s need. Counseling and assistance are also provided to students in the areas of Default Prevention and Student Loan Debt Management.
Students interested in applying for federal and state financial aid should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as early as possible, after January 1st of each year. Financial assistance is available to students who complete the necessary application and are determined eligible. The Student Financial Aid staff will evaluate each student’s need and make awards based upon the information obtained from the Student Aid Report (SAR) or Institutional Student Information Report (ISIR) and in accordance with Federal, State, and University policies and guidelines.
Because the amount of financial assistance awarded usually reflects the financial situation of the student’s family, the University does not make a public announcement of the amount of financial aid awarded to individual students. The University will clearly state the total yearly cost of attendance and will outline for each student seeking assistance a proposed annual budget.
Priority Filing Date - April 15th
(Completion of the FAFSA is required each year)
Priority consideration will be given to those applications received on or before April 15th (provided the student meets all eligibility requirements and, if selected for verification, has submitted the required documentation to the Financial Aid Office). Applications received after this priority deadline will be processed in the order received and may not be processed in time for Fall registration. Applications are available at local high schools or SUNO’s Financial Aid Office. You may also use FAFSA on the web to complete the FAFSA and submit it directly to the FAFSA processing system. The web address is www.fafsa.ed.gov. Priority deadline for most State aid is May 1st. The Federal School Code for SUNO is 002026. APPLY EARLY!
Steps for Applying for Financial Assistance
- Apply for admission to Southern University at New Orleans. Financial aid is contingent upon being accepted for admission as a regular student seeking a degree or certificate. Federal and State financial assistance will be considered when an applicant has completed all admission requirements and SUNO has received a valid ISIR (results from the FAFSA) within the established deadlines.
- Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to the U. S. Department of Education for processing. Upon receipt of the completed form, the agency makes a thorough evaluation of the family’s financial strength and, using a federally mandated formula, provides an estimate of the amount the family can contribute toward educational expenses. The agency then sends a three-part document called the Student Aid Report (SAR) to the student within 4-6 weeks after receiving the application. The SAR contains the information provided on the application. If you indicate on your FAFSA that SUNO is to receive the results of this application, the information will be forwarded to the Financial Aid Office electronically (under certain circumstances, we may require you to bring your SAR into our office). Remember to use our School Code (002026) when completing the FAFSA.
- If interested in a Federal Direct Loan, you must complete the Student Loan Data Form and forward it to the SUNO Financial Aid Office. This form is available in the Financial Aid Office or online at www.suno.edu/financialaid.
- Promptly provide all additional requested documentation to the SUNO Financial Aid Office. Failure to provide the requested information will prevent further processing of your application.
- Once the ISIR or SAR, the Loan Data Form (if applicable), and all requested documentation have been received, eligibility will be determined and an official award letter will be made available via the student web.
- Student Loans must be accepted or declined via student web within days of processing. Student Loans will not be disbursed until accepted by student.
Deadlines: Priority consideration for financial aid will be given to students who complete the FAFSA and submit all required information to our office by April 15th for the upcoming academic year.
For more information contact the Financial Aid Office at (504) 286-5263.
Award Contingencies
Financial Aid Awards are made contingent upon your fulfillment of the following terms and conditions. When applying for, accepting your award offer and/or by obtaining the financial aid funds, you accept the responsibility to comply with these terms and conditions.
NOTE: If the student’s class(es) is purged due to non-payment, then the instructor will have to re-verify the student’s attendance if the student re-register for the same class during the same semester or payment period.
- Cost of Attendance
The cost of attendance (COA) is the estimated components of tuition, room/board, transportation, books/supplies, etc. used to create a student’s budget according to housing plan you indicated on your FAFSA e.g. living with parent, off-campus, on-campus, etc. This is required in order for the Financial Aid Office to create award packages for students.
- The expected family contribution (EFC) is the Federal calculated contribution the U.S. Department of Education calculated based upon all of the data you indicated on the FAFSA. This figure is used to determine a student’s Pell Grant eligibility.
- The financial need is used to assist the Financial Aid Office in awarding a student and it tells them this is the maximum remaining eligibility a student has to receive funds.
However, if you have any questions about your cost of attendance, please visit the Office of Student Financial Aid (Administration Building Room 164).
Should assistance be made available to you from other sources, such as scholarships, stipends, tuition waivers and/or outside agencies. Those awards, when combined with all other aid received, must not exceed your financial need and/or cost of attendance, depending on the type of aid received.
The following calculation is used to determine your financial need:
Cost of Attendance (COA) - Expected Family Contribution (EFC) = Financial Need
- Others:
The University reserves the right to review, adjust, or cancel an award due to changes in the following: Enrollment status, financial status, eligibility, and others.
- Default or owing a repayment of Title IV aid and failure to comply with University regulations will also constitute a reason for changing the awards.
- An over-award will be deducted from the student’s award; otherwise, the student must repay the amount over-awarded.
Basis for Denial of Financial Aid
Financial Aid may be denied for the following reasons:
- Defaulting on loans;
- Owing a repayment on any Title IV aid;
- Falsifying information which affects the determination of eligibility for aid;
- Failing to provide necessary verification/documentation; and
- Failing to meet the satisfactory academic progress minimum standards.
Any student who has been disqualified from participating in student financial aid programs because of academic reasons may re-apply for consideration of such aid as soon as that student meets the prescribed standards for eligibility or has successful appealed his/her determination.
Verification Policy
Verification is the process used to check the accuracy of the information that a student submits when applying for Federal Student Aid. Verification procedures are governed by the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended, and Subpart E of 34 CFR part 688 “Verification of Student Aid Application Information” regulations published in the Federal Register on March 14, 1986 and August 15, 1986.
Each school is required by the U. S. Department of Education to verify all applicants selected by the central processing system (CPS), up to a limit of (30) percent of its total Financial Aid Applicants for any type of Title IV student aid. Effective the 2014-2015 academic year, students selected for the verification process are assigned to 1 out of 6 Verification Tracking Groups.
The Pell Grant, Subsidized Direct Loan, Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG), and federal Work-Study are covered by verification.
The data items to be verified are:
- Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) for the base year;
- U. S. Income Tax paid for the base year;
- Household size;
- Number of family members attending post-secondary educational institutions as at least half-time students;
- Citizenship status
The verification procedure is as follows:
The verifier reviews documents such as, but not limited to, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Tax Transcript, the SAR or ISIR, the non-tax filer form, if applicable, to check the accuracy of information reported. Note: Forms 1040, 1040A, 1040EZ are no longer acceptable.
Please respond promptly, within 2 weeks (14 days), to requests for information. Your file will be placed on HOLD until you respond. You will not receive the scheduled federal financial aid awards nor will we certify your student loan until you have provided the requested information. Financial Aid deferments will not be granted for students who have not completed the verification process.
Summer Assistance
During the summer term, a student may receive financial assistance (Pell Grants and Federal Stafford Loans) only if the student has remaining eligibility for that academic period. The SAR on file for the previous fall and/or spring is valid for the summer. All students interested in receiving Financial Aid for the Summer must complete a Summer Request Form to apply for any summer Pell Grant and/or Student Loan. Summer Request Forms may be obtained from the Financial Aid Office beginning March 15th with a priority submission date of May 15th. Loan proceeds for the summer are disbursed in two equal disbursements. Students may also be awarded funds through the Federal/University Work-study and SEOG programs, provided funds remain available.
Summer only students are not eligible for financial assistance.
Statement of Student’s Rights and Responsibilities
Students applying for financial aid at SUNO have certain rights and responsibilities that they should be aware of throughout the application and awarding process.
Rights
The student has the right to know:
- The financial aid programs available at SUNO.
- The financial aid application procedure, including applicable deadlines.
- How their financial aid eligibility was determined and how their need was met.
- The University’s refund and repayment policies.
- The University’s standard for maintaining satisfactory academic progress and the consequences if such progress is not made.
All students have the right to make an appointment with their Financial Aid Counselor in the Financial Aid office during normal working hours in order to review their file. Appointments may be scheduled by calling (504) 286-5263.
Responsibilities
The student has the following responsibilities as a recipient of financial aid at SUNO:
- Complete and submit all required financial aid application materials accurately, by the established deadlines.
- Promptly respond to inquiries and documentation requests from the Financial Aid Office.
- Provide the Financial Aid Office with accurate information. (Deliberate misrepresentation of information is a violation of the law and could result in repayment of all aid received and indictment under the U.S. Criminal Code.)
- Notify the Financial Aid Office if there has been a change in the family’s circumstances, or if additional assistance is received from outside sources.
- Comply with agreements made in accepting aid from federal, state, and institutional programs.
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress for financial aid.
- Apply for financial aid every year by the published deadlines.
- Repay funds for which the student has been determined ineligible to receive.
Sources of Financial Assistance
Southern University at New Orleans participates in the following Federal and State financial assistance programs:
Federal Pell Grants
Pell Grants are awarded only to undergraduate students pursuing their first Bachelor’s degree. Generally, the Pell Grant does not have to be repaid.* Pell Grant awards are based on financial need. To apply, the student must complete the FAFSA each year. The amount of the award varies based upon the student’s expected family contribution (EFC), level of need, and the enrollment status. The annual Pell award ranges from $593 to $5,920 for the 2018-2019 academic year.
Federal PELL Grant Lifetime Eligibility Used (PELL LEU)
A student may receive a maximum of the equivalent of six (6) years of Pell Grant funding, measured by the percentage of scheduled award(s) disbursed (Lifetime Eligibility Used, “LEU” up to 600%).
*Notification to Pell Grant Recipients:
- If you receive a Pell Grant and officially withdraw before 60% of the semester, you will be required to repay 50% of your Pell Grant refund. (See Federal “Return of Title IV” policy).
- If you stop attending classes and/or fail to formally withdraw from your classes and receive grades of “F” or “FX”, then you will be required to repay 50% of your Pell Grant refund.
- Effective Fall 2003, changes in your enrollment status through the 14th day of class (final day to pay fees) will affect your Pell Grant eligibility:
-- An increase in your enrollment status may result in the payment of additional Pell grant funds, pending eligibility.
-- A decrease in your enrollment status will result in your having to repay a portion of your Pell grant award.
Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grants
This grant is available to Pell-eligible students whose parent or guardian died as a result of U.S. military service in Iraq or Afghanistan after September 11, 2001. Student must have been less than 24 years old when their parent or guardian died or was enrolled at an institution of higher education at the time of the parent or guardian’s death.
Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grants LEU
A student may receive a total of 6 scheduled awards, measured by percentage of Scheduled award(s) disbursed (Lifetime Eligibility Used, “LEU” up to 400%). This limitation is not limited to students who received their first grant on or after July 1, 2008, as was the previous limit of 9 Scheduled awards
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
FSEOG funds do not have to be repaid and are based upon financial need. Awarding priority will be given to those students who apply early, possess the lowest family contribution, and are Pell Grant eligible. Funds will be awarded to undergraduate students pursuing their first bachelor’s degree, based upon the date the completed financial aid application package is received. Funds are limited, so apply early. Annual awards range from $200 to $4,000 based upon enrollment status and availability of funds.
Louisiana GO Grant
Louisiana Go Grant funds do not have to be repaid and are based upon financial need. Awarding priority will be given to undergraduate students pursuing their first bachelor’s degree, who apply early, possess the lowest family contribution, and are Louisiana residents. Students must be meeting Satisfactory Academic Progress, earn a 2.0 or greater grade point average and be enrolled in a minimum of 6 hours per semester. The annual award may range from $300 to $1,500 based upon availability of funds. Funds are limited.
Awards are determined by calculating financial need {Cost of Attendance (COA) minus the student’s Estimated Family Contribution (EFC)}. The GO Grant award to the student, inclusive of Go Grant and all gift aid, cannot exceed 60% of the financial need.
As a reminder, the financial need is determined by
Cost of Attendance (COA) - Expected Family Contribution (EFC) = Financial Need
See examples below:
Award Calculation - Example #1:
Financial Need = COA -EFC
COA = $18,000 EFC = $0
60% of Need ($18,000) = $10,800
Total Federal/State Gift Aid = $9,850
Go Grant Eligibility = $950
(Annual Go Grant Award - $950) because ($10,800-$9,850=$950.00)
Award Calculation - Example #2:
Financial Need = COA - EFC
COA = $18,000 EFC = $4,273
Financial Need = $13,727
60% of Need ($13,727) = $8,236
Federal/State Gift Aid = $4,855
Go Grant Eligibility = $3,381 (Annual Go Grant Award limited to $3,000 maximum)
Award Calculation - Example #3:
Financial Need = COA -EFC
COA = $18,000 EFC = $5,273
Financial Need = $12,727
60% of Need ($12,727) = $7,636
Federal/State Gift Aid = $7,361
Go Grant Eligibility = $275 (No Go Grant award - eligibility less than $300 annual minimum)
Federal Teach Grant Program
The Federal TEACH Grant program provides funds to post-secondary students who are completing or planning to complete coursework that is needed to begin a career in teaching. Students must agree to serve for at least four years as a full-time student, highly qualified teach in a high-need field, in a school serving low-income students. Eligible students may receive up to $4,000 per year in Teach Grant funds, up to maximum of $16,000 for undergraduate and post-baccalaureate study, and $8,000 for graduate study ($4,000 per year).
In order to be eligible for a Teach Grant, students must:
- Complete a FAFSA. Financial need is not required.
- Be in an eligible program:
- An undergraduate program of student that will lead to becoming a “highly qualified teacher” in high-need field.
- SUNO’s post-baccalaureate teacher credential program in Education and Human Development.
Federal and Community Work-Study Programs
Southern University at New Orleans offers part-time employment opportunities through the Federal, Community Service, and University Work-Study programs. Through these programs, students are allowed to work on campus (off campus employment may be performed through the Community Service program) while enrolled to help pay their educational expenses. Students employed under the Federal and Community Service Work-Study programs must complete the FAFSA each year, be determined eligible, and have financial need. Students are paid on a monthly basis (15th of the month) for hours worked during the previous month. Funds are limited.
Federal Direct Loan Programs
The Federal Direct Loan program, formerly Guaranteed Student Loan (GSL), enables dependent and independent students to borrow funds from the Federal Government. Students who wish to borrow Federal Direct loans must complete the FAFSA and a Student Loan Data Form and return it to the Financial Aid Office in order to initiate the loan process. Student Loan Data Forms may be obtained from the Financial Aid Office or on-line at www.suno.edu/financialaid.
Students who file a FAFSA, complete the verification process (if applicable), submit a Student Loan Data Form, meet all eligibility requirements, and enroll at least half time may qualify for a Federal Direct Loan. These loans are low interest, long-term loans that must be repaid. Students who demonstrate need, according to the federal need analysis formula, may qualify for a Subsidized Direct loan. Students who do not qualify for a Subsidized Direct loan, in whole or part or independent students who wish to borrow from both programs, may apply for an Unsubsidized Direct loan. Eligibility for the subsidized loan must be determined prior to awarding unsubsidized funds. SUNO does participate in the Federal PLUS loan program.
Federal Direct Subsidized Loan - available to eligible students on the basis of financial need. Interest is subsidized (not charged) by the federal government while in school at least half-time, during grace periods, and authorized deferment periods.
150% Direct Subsidized Loan Eligibility Usage
Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21)---150% Direct Subsidized Loan eligibility--made key changes to direct subsidized loan eligibility and loss of interest subsidy. First-time borrowers (meets the definition of first-time borrower on or after July 1, 2013) cannot receive subsidized loans for more than 150% of the published length of their educational program. Borrowers who become ineligible for subsidized loans because of the 150% limit are ineligible for interest subsidy benefits on all subsidized loans first disbursed to that borrower on or after July 1, 2013.
Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan - available to eligible students, regardless of need. Interest will be charged from the time that the loan is disbursed until the loan is paid in full. Interest payments may be paid on a monthly or quarterly basis while enrolled or capitalized (added to unpaid principal, thus increasing total debt and monthly payments).
Federal Direct Parent PLUS Loan
The Parent PLUS loan program is available to a student’s biological or adoptive mother or father, (regardless of whether he or she is the “custodial” parent or provided financial information on the FAFSA) to help in the assistance of the student’s cost of attendance. This loan program is based on the Parent(s) ability to obtain credit. More than one parent may get a PLUS Loan for the same dependent student as long as the total aid package does not exceed the student’s assigned cost of attendance. A student’s step-parent is eligible to borrow a PLUS Loan if he or she was required to supply financial information on the FAFSA or would have been required to do so if a FAFSA were filed. NOTE: For Federal Financial Aid purposes, Legal Guardians are not considered a parent.
Federal Student loans have a variable interest rate, which is adjusted annually on July 1. The interest rate while the student is in-school, in the grace period, or in deferment is based on the 91-day T-bill plus 0.18%. The interest rate while the student is in repayment is based on the 91-day T-bill plus 2.3%. At all times, the interest rate is guaranteed not to exceed 8.25%. Repayment of the principal for both subsidized and unsubsidized Federal Student Loans begins six months after the borrower ceases to be enrolled at least half-time.
Federal Direct GRAD PLUS Loan
The GRAD PLUS loan program is available to graduate students to help in the assistance of the student’s cost of attendance. This loan program is based on the student(s) ability to obtain credit and as long as the total aid package does not exceed the student’s assigned cost of attendance.
The following contingencies apply:
Default Prevention Management
The Higher Education Authority’s (HEA) (1965) implementing regulations at 34 CFR 668.217 require that a school’s Default Prevention Management Plan help to reduce defaults and prevent the loss of institutional eligibility.
The purpose of the Default Prevention Management is to assist the students about the importance of Credit, Financial Decisions (NOT Financial Aid), Basics of Financial Budgeting—checks and balances, TIPS for Student Loan Repayments and how their repayment obligations impact Southern University at New Orleans. These key elements of debt management will help students to have more knowledge about financial planning. Teaching students about their educational debt will allow students to plan.
As a borrower under the Federal Direct Program, it is up to the student to accept the responsibility of repaying your student loans. A student’s financial situation is strengthened when you avoid default. The best way to avoid default is to build a relationship with your lender or servicer, especially when you cannot make payments.
The key elements of debt management are knowledge and planning. Learning about educational debt will allow the student to plan for repayment. Students should be aware of their choices by reviewing the various repayment options available below:
- Standard—monthly payments for this plan are fixed and remain the same until the loan is repaid in full. The minimum monthly payment is $50 and may be higher in order to pay off the loan in 10 years.
- Graduated—payment plan starts with low payments that steadily increase over time and is a good alternative if you anticipate your income to steadily rise.
- Income-Sensitive—repayment plan is calculated from your actual earnings, starting with payments that increase or decrease as your income fluctuates.
- Extended—repayment plan is only available on or after October 7, 1998 to new borrowers who have accumulated Federal Family Education Loan Program (FFELP)/Federal Direct loans totaling more than $30,000.
Straying away from these guidelines could result in dire consequences. The same can be true if a student misses several payments. If it becomes 270 days past due, then the loan will be considered a default. Failure to repay a student’s loan may result in any or all of the following:
- Adverse credit when the default is reported to all national credit bureaus. This may affect the student’s ability to obtain financing for cars, houses, etc.
- Default reported to the Internal Revenue Service, causing federal and/or state tax refunds to be withheld and applied to the loan balance.
- Garnishment of wages.
- Collection of necessary costs involved with debt collection.
- The loan will be assigned to a collection agency.
- Loss of other federal or state payments.
- Loss of eligibility for further assistance from any Title IV Program.
- Loss of eligibility for repayment options, deferments, and interest benefits as described on the Master Promissory Note.
- Denial of professional licenses (in some states).
- Lawsuit and the liability of court-legal expenses.
The following charts outline the annual and aggregate amounts students may borrow from the Federal Direct Loan Program (Subsidized and Unsubsidized combined):
Undergraduate and Post Baccalaureate Students:
|
Subsidized |
Unsubsidized |
Total
(Subsidized and Unsubsidized Combined) |
Dependent Undergraduates:*
|
| Freshman |
$3,500 |
$2,000 |
$5,500 |
| Sophomore |
$4,500 |
$2,000 |
$6,500 |
| Junior and Senior |
$5,500 |
$2,000 |
$7,500 |
Independent Undergraduates:
|
| Freshman |
$3,500 |
$6,000 |
$9,500 |
| Sophomore |
$4,500 |
$6,000 |
$10,500 |
| Junior and Senior |
$5,500 |
$7,000 |
$12,500 |
| Post Baccalaureate |
$5,500 |
$7,000 |
$12,500 |
| Total Aggregated limit for Undergraduate and Post Baccalaureate Students (combined) |
$23,000 |
$34,500 |
$57,500** |
*Total Aggregate limit for Dependent Undergraduates is $31,000.
**Only $23,000 of this amount may be borrowed in subsidized loans.
*Total Aggregate limit for DEPENDENT Undergraduates is $31,000.00 and Independent Undergraduates is $57,500.
**Only $23,000 of this amount may be borrowed in subsidized loans.
Graduate Students:
|
Subsidized |
Unsubsidized |
Total
(Subsidized and Unsubsidized Combined) |
Program
|
| Graduate Degree Programs |
$0 |
$20,500 |
$20 , 500 |
| Lifetime Maximum (Aggregates), including loans borrowed as Undergraduate and Post-Baccalaureate Students |
$65,500 |
$73,000 |
$138,500**** |
***Effective July 2012, Graduate students are only eligible for Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans
****Only $65,500 of this amount may be borrowed in Subsidized loans.
A Note of Caution on Borrowing
Many students find that they must apply for loans to finance their education. Before you borrow, remember that your loan(s) must be repaid. If you must borrow, only borrow what you need and are willing to repay. The minimum monthly payment is $50. However, your payments may be higher depending on the total amount borrowed. Reminder: Apply for deferments when needed and DO NOT DEFAULT. See the Federal Student Guide for Borrowers Rights and Responsibilities. Copies of the guide are available in the Financial Aid Office.
Tuition Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS)
TOPS is a comprehensive program of State scholarships awarded to high school seniors who meet the established eligibility criteria. All TOPS candidates must complete the FAFSA. Priority deadline is April 15th of each year. Additional information is available online at http://www.osfa.state.la.us.
Academic Scholarships
Southern University at New Orleans offers a limited number of scholarships to full-time students who qualify. Recipients are awarded based on the prescribed criteria for each award and the availability of funds. Scholarships are provided through the University’s budget, endowments, the Southern University at New Orleans Foundation, private organizations, companies and individuals. Interested students, who meet the following criteria, should apply each year (prior to the established deadlines). Applications are available in the Office of Community Outreach/University Advancement, Admissions, Financial Aid and online at www.suno.edu.
The Scholarship Committee receives and reviews all applications. Recommendations are made to the Chancellor for final approval.
University Fellow Scholarship Programs:
The University Fellow Scholarship is offered to incoming freshman students who must meet the following requirements:
- Submit a complete application not later than March 15th
- Minimum ACT Composite score of 19
- Have a 3.0 cumulative high school grade point average
- Official high school transcript
- Submit a one-page essay
- Submit three (3) letters of recommendation
Students must earn at least a 3.0 grade point average in the Fall semester and a 3.5 cumulative grade point average each semester thereafter, and must maintain full-time status.
SCHOLARSHIPS ARE AWARDED ONLY AFTER A STUDENT HAS BEEN ADMITTED TO THE UNIVERSITY.
SUNO “First” Scholarship:
The SUNO FIRST scholarship is an award made to first-time freshmen who have exhibited academic excellence in high school. The scholarship ranges from $500.00 to full tuition and depend on a combination of a student’s grade point average and ACT score. Awards are made in the Fall semester only, and are renewable for up to four years of continuous enrollment, provided the student remains full-time and earns the requisite GPA and hours. All freshmen students who complete the admissions process are automatically considered for this award.
Chancellor’s Fellows Scholarship:
- Submit a completed scholarship application annually not later than March 15th.
- Above Freshman level.
- Enrolled full-time at the University for two consecutive semesters.
- Have a 3.5 or above cumulative and semester grade point average for the two consecutive semesters.
- Provide Community Service hours as Orientation Leader at registration and Peer-to-Peer Tutor.
Academic Scholarship:
An Academic Scholarship is available to students above the freshman level who:
- Submit a complete application by May 15th.
- Have at least a 3.00 cumulative grade point average and a minimum 3.00 semester average.
- Have been on full-time status for two (2) consecutive semesters and must maintain full-time status.
Endowment:
This award is available for students above the freshman level who:
- Submit a complete application by May 15th.
- Have at least a 2.5 cumulative grade point average and a minimum 2.5 semester average.
- Have been on full-time status for two (2) consecutive semesters and must maintain full-time status.
Foundation:
The Southern University at New Orleans Foundation provides (5) five awards each semester to students who meet the following requirements:
- Submit a complete application by May 15th.
- Have at least a 2.5 cumulative grade point average and a minimum 2.5 semester average.
- Have been on full-time status for two (2) consecutive semesters and must maintain full-time status.
Dollars-For-Scholars
Orleans Parish:
The University provides eight (8) awards per academic year to incoming freshman students provided they:
- Graduated from an Orleans Parish public school
- Earn at least a 2.5 grade point average
- Remain a full-time student
Jefferson Parish:
The University provides eight (8) awards per academic year to incoming freshman students provided they:
- Graduated from a Jefferson Parish public school
- Earn at least a 2.5 grade point average
- Remain a full-time student
*Other Scholarships
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (Alpha Beta Omega Chapter)
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. (New Orleans Alumnae Chapter)
Greater New Orleans Foundation Class of Electric Ratepayers
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.
The Greater New Orleans Foundation
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.
The above is a sample of scholarships that are available.
*Scholarship criteria and/or recipients are determined by the sponsoring organization.
Departmental Awards
Departmental Scholarships and Stipends are awarded through the various academic departments on campus. Eligibility requirements and the selection of recipients are determined at the department level and are based upon the established criteria for each award.
Southern University at New Orleans
Federal “Return of Title IV Funds” Policy
All students who resign from the University must submit written notice of resignation to the SUNO Registrar’s Office.
If a student, who is disbursed Title IV financial Assistance, withdraws or stops attending class on or before completing 60% of the semester in which the Title IV aid was disbursed, the following Return of Title IV Funds policy will be applied. No adjustment will be made to tuition, fees, or Title IV aid for a student who withdraws after the 60% point of the semester.
Southern University at New Orleans implemented the Federal Return of Title IV Funds policy beginning with the Fall 2000 semester per the Higher Education Act of 1998. This policy applies to any student who receives Title IV aid: Federal Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), Federal Direct Loans (Subsidized and Unsubsidized) and who officially withdraws, drops out, is expelled, takes an unapproved leave of absence (unofficial withdrawal), or fails to return from an approved leave of absence (unofficial withdrawal). Refer to the “Withdrawal/Resignation” section of the SUNO catalog for requirements for officially withdrawing from school.
The amount of Title IV Funds to be returned to the applicable federal programs will be determined, using the student’s withdrawal date, by calculating the percentage of the enrollment period for which the student did not complete. Scheduled breaks of five or more consecutive days are excluded. SUNO will return the lesser of the total of unearned aid or an amount equal to institutional charges multiplied by the percentage of unearned aid. The student will be responsible for repaying any remaining portion that was disbursed to them.
Failure to attend class or failure to resign properly could cause the student to receive a letter grade of “F” or “FX” in all courses. In this case, the student would still be subject to the return of funds policy once an official withdrawal date is established. Merely discontinuing class attendance is not considered to be a formal resignation from the university. Students who were awarded financial assistance and who discontinue class attendance may be held responsible for repayment of Title IV aid, tuition and fees. Please refer to the “Class Attendance Regulations” section of the SUNO catalog for requirements on class attendance.
If the student’s portion of unearned Title IV funds is a student loan, no action by the school is necessary. Regular loan terms and conditions apply. If the student’s portion of unearned Title IV funds is a Federal grant, the student will be required to return no more that 50% of the amount received for the enrollment period.
In the event of resignation, the SUNO institutional refund policy will be applied. After performing the Return to Title IV calculation, the student may be liable for any Title IV funds disbursed to their accounts in excess of the amount allowed by federal regulations. The school will determine which portion of any assistance the student owes. If no payment is made, holds will be placed on the student’s account and the student will lose eligibility for Title IV aid unless the overpayment is paid in full or satisfactory repayment arrangements are made.
Unearned funds are allocated to the Title IV programs from which the student received assistance, in the following order:
- Unsubsidized Federal Direct Loans
- Subsidized Federal Direct Loans
- Federal Pell Grant
- Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG) Program
Note: Refer to the “Refund of Fees” section of the SUNO catalog for more information.
Withdrawal/Resignation from the University
When a student finds it necessary to discontinue enrollment prior to the end of the semester or summer term, the student must complete a withdrawal card, obtainable from the Center for Student Retention and Success. The student must provide a valid reason for resigning and must clear all University accounts. The withdrawal card, completed and properly signed, must be submitted to the Office of records, whereby making the transaction official.
When a student ceases enrollment or stops attending the University at any time during a semester or summer session without completing a withdrawal card, the student will receive an “FX” grade in all courses, which denotes a failure to attend.
When a student officially withdraws or stops attending classes, the University is required to perform a recalculation of tuition and fees. This may result in indebtedness to the University or to the Title IV program.
Return of funds by the University
The government regulations also specify the order in which monies will be refunded to the aid programs and the student. The University must distribute the refund in the following order:
- Federal Direct Student Loan Programs
--(Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan)
--(Federal Direct Subsidized Loan)
- Federal Direct Plus Loans – (Parent PLUS and/or GRAD PLUS)
- TEACH Grant
- Federal PELL Grants
- Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG)
- Other Title IV Programs (GO Grant)
- Other Federal, State, Private, or University Aid Programs
Examples of the refund policy and calculations are readily available to students upon request in the Comptroller’s Office located on the 1st floor of the Administration Building HPE Building.
Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) Policy for Financial Aid Eligibility
Southern University at New Orleans (SUNO) has adopted the following policy for the purpose of monitoring the academic progress of students receiving federal financial assistance. Those students receiving assistance through University or outside scholarship, stipend, and tuition waiver/exemption programs must meet the criteria established by the awarding entity. Satisfactory academic progress is measured quantitatively and qualitatively and is defined as passing a required number of hours pursued with a required grade point average. Satisfactory academic progress is required of all financial aid recipients at SUNO, including those students who have not participated in federal aid programs in the past.
Maximum Pursued Hours and Pace Completion Requirement
Pursued hours are all hours appearing on the transcript which may include “W,” “P,” “S,” “U,” “NC,” FX, and “I” grades. Remedial, repeated, transfer, suspended, and scholastic amnesty hours are also counted as pursued hours. Transfer credits earned at other institutions which are not applicable to an academic program at SUNO will not be included in the assessment of SAP.
Evaluation Period
Satisfactory academic progress (SAP) is evaluated at the end of each spring semester for all students. At the end of each fall semester, SAP will be evaluated only for students who are on financial aid probation and/or have exceeded the maximum number of attempted hours allowed. At the end of each summer session, SAP will be assessed for students enrolled in summer school who have exceeded the maximum number of attempted hours allowed. Students failing to meet the required earned hours and cumulative grade point average at the time SAP is assessed will lose their financial aid eligibility for the subsequent academic year that they are enrolled at the University.
Undergraduate Students
Students who are enrolled in an eligible 4-year undergraduate curriculum must earn the required hours pursued/earned ratio and GPA. An undergraduate student may receive Federal Financial for a maximum of 150% of the total hours required by his/her degree program Students may receive financial aid for a maximum of 180 pursued hours, which include hours pursued for double majors. Students who are enrolled in an eligible associate degree curriculum must earn the required pursued/earned hour’s ratio and 2.0 GPA. These students may receive financial aid for a maximum of 90 pursued hours.
Re-Admit Students
Re-admitted students are evaluated at the point of entry/re-entry and again at the end of the spring semester and summer session. Students failing to meet the required earned hours and cumulative grade point average at the time SAP is assessed will have the opportunity to submit a financial aid appeal.
Transfer Students
Transfer students are evaluated at the point of entry and students who do not meet SUNO’s satisfactory academic progress requirements must file a financial aid appeal in order to be considered for financial aid. All transcripts from colleges/universities previously attended must be received and evaluated by the Office of Admissions or the Office Records to determine satisfactory academic progress before financial aid is awarded.
Post-baccalaureate Students
Students holding a 4-year or graduate degree who are enrolled in the Associate of Arts Degree in Substance Abuse Certificate of Completion Program will be evaluated for satisfactory academic progress without regard to their undergraduate record. Students enrolled in the Program must earn 67% of the total hours pursued and maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.5. These students may receive financial aid for a maximum of 27 pursued hours.
Students holding a 4-year or graduate degree who are enrolled in the Post-Baccalaureate Program for Teacher Certification will be evaluated for satisfactory academic progress using the hours pursued/earned ratio and grade point average for post-baccalaureate hours only, without regard for their undergraduate record. Students must earn 67% of the hours attempted and maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.5. Students may receive Federal Direct Loans and Work Study for a maximum of 36 pursued hours.
Students holding a 4-year college degree and who are pursuing a second undergraduate degree must earn 67% of the total hours pursued and maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.5. These students may receive Federal Direct Loans and Work Study or a maximum of 60 pursued hours, which may also include hours from the degree already earned.
Students holding a 4-year college degree who are enrolled in prerequisite courses toward a graduate program at SUNO must earn 67% of the total pursued hours and maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.5. These students may receive Federal Direct Loans for a maximum of 12 consecutive months.
Graduate Students
A graduate student enrolled in an eligible curriculum is required to maintain a cumulative grade point average 3.0 and earn a minimum of seventy-five percent (75%) of the semester hours pursued. A graduate student may receive Federal Direct Loans and Work Study for a maximum of 150% of the total hours required by his/her degree program.
2nd Masters—A graduate student working on his/her 2nd Master degree will be allowed federal financial up to 58 additional graduate level classes. This does not indicate the student will have an increased Federal loan limit if he/she have borrowed the maximum loans.
Financial Aid Appeal Procedures
Students who are denied financial aid based on unsatisfactory academic progress may appeal in the case of death or serious illness of an immediate family member, serious illness or injury to the student or to a dependent child, other traumatic life-altering events, or other special circumstances that the student would like the committee to consider, i.e., change of degree program, change of grades, academic amnesty, etc.
To file an appeal, students must complete and submit the Financial Aid Appeal Petition Form which can be obtained in the Office of Administration and Finance. Students must also include a letter to the Financial Aid Appeals Committee stating the reason(s) that they did not achieve satisfactory academic progress, a copy of an updated transcript, and supporting documentation. The Financial Aid Appeals Committee, which is appointed by the Chancellor, will review and consider all appeals. Effort will be made to notify students of the Committee’s decision within two weeks after submission. However, students should be prepared to pay tuition and fees by the payment deadline, and be reimbursed if the appeal is approved and if they meet all eligibility requirements.
The Financial Aid Appeals should be submitted to:
Financial Aid Appeals Committee
Southern University at New Orleans
Office of Administration and Finance
6400 Press Drive
New Orleans, LA 70126
(504) 286-5148
Students are allowed the following number of appeals according to the grade levels indicated below:
Undergraduate Students may be allowed up to a maximum of four (4) reinstatements during their undergraduate matriculation.
Graduate and Post-Baccalaureate students maybe allowed a maximum of two (2) reinstatements during their matriculation.
Financial aid eligibility is not reinstated by simply filing a financial aid appeal. All appeals are reviewed by the Financial Aid Appeals Committee which approves or denies reinstatement.
**GENERALLY, FINANCIAL AID APPEALS COMMITTEE DECISIONS ARE FINAL FOR THE AWARD PERIOD**
Financial Aid Probation
Students who are approved for financial aid reinstatement for the fall semester will be approved on a probationary basis, through the end of the fall semester. To continue on financial aid probation for the following spring semester, students must:
- Successfully complete a minimum of 70% of the total hours pursued for the probation semester, and
- Achieve the required cumulative grade point average for the total hours pursued.
Students on financial aid probation for the fall semester who fail to meet the above minimum standards will be ineligible to receive financial aid for the following spring semester. These students may appeal for reinstatement, provided a new mitigating circumstance occurred during that fall semester. Students on financial aid probation for the fall semester who meet the above criteria will be allowed to continue to receive financial aid on an extended probationary period for the following spring semester. Students who are approved for financial aid reinstatement for only the spring semester will be evaluated for overall satisfactory academic progress at the end of the spring semester.
Financial Aid Academic Plans
Students who are approved a Financial Aid Appeal but requires longer than one semester to meet university SAP standards, will be placed on an academic plan (which will be include a list of conditions the student must follow). A student’s academic plan will be created basis upon the student matriculation requirement needed to graduate. Students will meet with their academic advisor to create a successful plan and it will be evaluated every semester. Students will be closely monitored to make sure he/she are matriculating to graduate according to their assigned Academic program. In the event, the student fails to meet his/her academic plan, then the student will have to meet with his/her Academic Advisor to discuss their case and further options including the possibility of submitting another Financial Aid appeal.
Financial Aid Appeal Deadlines
Generally, deadlines for filing financial aid appeals will be five working days prior to the first day of class. However, while awaiting appeal decisions, students should be prepared to pay tuition and fees by the payment deadline, and be reimbursed if the appeal is approved and if they meet all eligibility requirements. There will be no summer appeals. However, students not eligible for financial aid may attend the summer session at their own expense. Financial aid appeals are approved for subsequent semesters only and may not be applied to any semesters retroactively.
Reinstatement of Eligibility
Financial aid eligibility will be reinstated after any semester or summer session in which the student meets the university’s overall satisfactory academic progress standards. The student will be notified of his/her eligibility reinstatement by the Financial Aid Office and will not have to file an appeal. However, the student must have filed a current Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to be considered for federal aid. Students who have questions about their situation may contact the Office of Student Financial Aid at (504) 286-5263.
Financial Aid Appeal Denials
If a student’s appeal is denied, he/she may appeal for future aid. Staying out of school for one semester will not reinstate a student’s financial aid eligibility. He/she must appeal upon his/her return to the University. However, financial aid reinstatement may be considered for students who provide sufficient documentation to support a previously denied appeal, or demonstrate significant academic progress.
SATISFACTORY ACADEMIC PROGRESS (SAP) Policy
(Effective Fall 2017)
|
UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS (4-YEAR)
|
| Total Cumulative Hours Pursued |
Min. Cum. % Earned |
Min. Cumulative GPA |
| 1 – 29 |
50% |
2.00 |
| 30 – 59 |
60% |
2.00 |
| 60 – 119 |
67% |
2.00 |
| 120 – 180 |
70% |
2.00 |
| 181+ Ineligible for Financial Aid |
|
|
*UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS (ASSOCIATE—2-YEAR)
|
| 1 – 29 |
50% |
2.00 |
| 30 – 59 |
60% |
2.00 |
| 60 – 90 |
67% |
2.00 |
| 91+ Ineligible for Financial Aid |
|
|
POST-BACCALAUREATE STUDENTS
|
| 1 – 27 |
67% |
2.50 (Certificate of Completion) |
| 28+ Ineligible for Financial Aid |
|
|
| 1 – 36 |
67% |
2.50 (Teacher Certification) |
| 37+ Ineligible for Financial Aid |
|
|
| 1 – 60 |
67% |
2.50 (Second Degree) |
| 61+ Ineligible for Financial Aid |
|
|
GRADUATE STUDENTS
|
| 1 – 54 |
75% |
3.00 (Education, CIS, Criminal Justice, and Museum Studies) |
| 55+ Ineligible for Financial Aid |
|
|
| 1 – 93 |
75% |
3.00 (Social Work) |
| 94+ Ineligible for Financial Aid |
|
|
2nd MASTER GRADUATE Students
|
| 1 – 58 |
75% |
3.00 |
To calculate your ratio, please use the following calculation
SAP Ratio (%) = Total Earned Hours ÷ Total Pursued Hours × 100
For example, a student’s Total Pursued Hours (ALL classes ever registered) = 24 and
Total earned Hours (all classes completed with a letter grade h) = 12
(12 ÷ 24) × 100= 50%
In order for this student to be eligible for Financial Aid, he or she must also have a cumulative GPA of a 2.00 or higher. For further information, contact Financial Aid Office.