Enrollment Management
Office of Student Financial Aid
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Eligibility Requirements

The federal government is a primary source of financial aid for college students. Students must meet the following requirements to be eligible for federal aid:

  • Have financial need and demonstrate it through their financial aid application (Some loans and scholarships are available to students without need.)
  • Be accepted for enrollment or enrolled at least half-time and working toward a degree or combined degree/certificate. Students enrolled in a certificate-only program are not eligible for federal aid, including loans. Students may apply for aid before being accepted or enrolled.
  • Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-U.S. citizen with a valid Social Security Number. Federal regulations and university policy limit financial assistance available to non-U.S. citizens.
  • Make Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) toward a degree program. Learn more about SAP.
  • Use aid only for educational purposes.
  • Not owe a refund on a federal grant or be in default on any federal education loan.
  • Enroll for coursework that is accepted for credit by your degree-granting program.
  • Attend all classes for which you enroll. If you fail a class and did not attend or participate, your financial aid could be adjusted. (Note that instructors report non-participation if a student receives a failing grade.)

Restrictions on Eligibility

Second Bachelor’s Degree

Students are eligible for federal aid if they are pursuing double majors or dual-degree programs as long as they meet Satisfactory Academic Progress requirements and are taking coursework equal to at least half-time in their primary program of study. If a student has earned an undergraduate degree and has re-entered college to pursue another bachelor’s degree, financial aid is limited to loans.

Non-Degree Students

Students taking coursework that does not lead to a degree are not eligible for federal or institutional aid. They may be eligible for private education loans.