Wahlstrom Library, Garden Level
126 Park Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06604
Telephone: (203) 576-4568
Fax: (203) 576-4570
Financial Aid
The Office of Student Financial Services helps provide access to the educational opportunities available at the University of Bridgeport. Since students are admitted solely on the basis of their academic and personal qualities, without regard to their financial circumstances, the University offers a variety of financial aid and scholarship programs to provide financial assistance to qualified students.
The University of Bridgeport subscribes to the policy that eligibility for scholarship aid should depend on the student’s achievement and promise, but that the amount of aid should depend on the relative financial need of the student and his or her family.
The financial need of most students at the University can be met in the form of scholarships, grants, loans, and student employment. Funds are available to the student through the University of Bridgeport from federal and state governments, private foundations, and University resources.
The University of Bridgeport awards merit scholarships recognizing outstanding academic achievement and student leadership. In addition, there are a number of other payment assistance programs that include non-University tuition plans.
Students enrolled in tuition discounted programs and online programs are not eligible to receive institutional scholarships or grants.
The Office of Student Financial Services determines the amount and combinations of aid for which the student is eligible. Financial aid decisions are made after a student has been admitted and requests for financial assistance will not influence a candidate’s consideration for admission. Financial aid is awarded on an annual basis and continuing students must apply each year for aid.
Application Procedures
New domestic students are encouraged to begin to apply for financial aid at the same time they are seeking admission. Applicants for financial aid need to:
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by going to www.studentaid.gov. Be sure to include the University’s school code, 001416, on the FAFSA.
- Submit copies of the student’s and parents’ federal tax transcript or signed federal tax returns and other verification documents upon request from the Office of Student Financial Services.
- Upon request from the Office of Student Financial Services, if you are a non-U.S. citizen applying for need-based financial aid, submit immigration documentation certifying permanent resident status.
Continuing students must reapply for financial aid each year no later than March 1 to be given full consideration for aid for the following academic year. Students must:
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by going to www.studentaid.gov. Be sure to include the University’s school code, 001416, on the FAFSA.
- Submit copies of student’s and parents’ federal tax transcript or signed tax returns and other verification documents upon request from The Office of Student Financial Services
Students and parents are encouraged to call or visit the Office of Student Financial Services if they have any questions or would like assistance with the application process. For further information call or write:
The Office of Student Financial Services
126 Park Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06604, SFS@Bridgeport.edu, (203) 576-4568 or toll free 1-800-243-9496, FAX (203) 576-4570.
Satisfactory Academic Progress
In order to maintain eligibility for financial aid, a student must maintain satisfactory academic progress. Financial aid recipients are expected to make reasonable progress as a condition of receiving and continuing to receive aid. Students’ academic progress is assessed according to qualitative and pace measures as they apply. The qualitative measure (i.e., grades) is similar to the academic standards applied to all UB students. The pace measure (i.e., number of credit hours completed successfully/maximum time-frame) is used to monitor progress toward degree completion. For a student to be making satisfactory academic progress, the student must meet the following qualitative GPA standards and have completed, with a passing grade, at least 67% of the cumulative attempted credits.
Undergraduate
| CREDITS ATTEMPTED (including transfer credit) |
MINIMUM C.G.P.A. |
| 1 - 24 |
1.5 |
| 25 - 48 |
1.7 |
| 49 - 59 |
1.9 |
| 60 or more |
2.0 |
Graduate
Graduate students must maintain a C.G.P.A. of 3.0 and complete 68% of the cumulative attempted credits.
Financial Aid Provisional Status
Students not meeting satisfactory academic standards for a given academic term, as outlined above, are notified in writing and will be placed on financial aid probation/warning for one semester for which they may receive their aid. At the end of the probationary/warning semester, satisfactory academic progress will be reviewed. If the student meets the minimum standards as outlined, the probationary status will be lifted. If minimum standards are not met, the student will be ineligible for future financial aid and will be notified in writing.
Students who are reinstated after academic dismissal but have not met the federal satisfactory academic progress requirements remain ineligible for financial aid. Reinstatement to attend the University does not automatically include reinstatement of aid.
Students who have not maintained eligibility to receive financial aid due to unsatisfactory academic progress may appeal for one additional semester of probationary eligibility. The student must also sign an Academic Plan agreement with Student Financial Services outlining what is needed to meet SAP. Appeals must be submitted to the Office of Student Financial Services within 10 calendar days of receipt of notice of action taken for committee review. The decision on the appeal is final. Late or incomplete appeals will not be accepted or reviewed.
Reinstatement of Aid
If a student is re-admitted, the University will consider the student’s application for financial aid. Reinstatement of aid is not automatic and the student must submit a letter to the Office of Student Financial Services requesting a reinstatement. In order to remain eligible for aid, students must meet the minimum academic progress standards as outlined or lose eligibility for the following semester.
Financial Aid Return Policy
Students withdrawing from all courses should see financial aid as it is important to discuss withdrawal and refund as it pertains to the individual student, as well as implications for balances owed to the University, federal student loan repayment, and future eligibility for financial assistance.
Return of Institutional Aid
Students withdrawing within the University’s Tuition Refund Schedule (see Tuition, Fees and Other Expenses) will have the same schedule applied to their University of Bridgeport aid.
Return of Federal Aid
If you have been awarded federal (Title IV) aid and you withdraw before completing 60% of the semester, your financial aid award will be recalculated according to the percentage of the semester you have completed. The formula for calculating this percentage is:
(Days Enrolled - Official Breaks of Five Days or Longer) divided by (Total Number of Days in the Semester).
Students who plan to withdraw from classes are advised to speak with a Financial Aid Advisor prior to doing so to ensure they are aware of the ramifications to their financial aid.
Financial Assistance Programs
The University of Bridgeport believes that a student’s achievements should be recognized and rewarded. Our scholarships and grants enable students who have potential and want to benefit from a high quality academic program. Students who qualify must enroll as and maintain full time traditional status. Undergraduate awards are renewable for up to four years based on satisfactory academic progress and good standing at the University. Students who are enrolled in accelerated/professional courses are not eligible for these awards.
Graduate Assistantships
Graduate Assistantships are available.
University of Bridgeport Merit Award
Financial need is not required for merit based scholarships which are awarded at time of admission based on criteria set forth by the Office of Admissions.
University of Bridgeport Grant
Awarded to undergraduates with financial need. University of Bridgeport’s Merit and Need based awards, combined with federal and state grants, are limited to tuition and fee charges. Resident Assistants and Athletes may receive designated funds to go toward housing charges.
Federal Title IV Programs
Federal Pell Grant
Pell Grants are awarded to undergraduate students who have not earned a bachelor’s or professional degree. Pell Grant awards are based upon the student’s Estimated Family Contribution (EFC), enrollment status, cost of attendance, and the number of credit hours in which the student is enrolled. The maximum grant a student can receive for the year is determined by the government.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
The FSEOG is a grant that does not have to be repaid. Priority is given to the neediest students with the lowest EFC’s who are Pell Grant eligible. Students who have submitted their financial aid applications by the University’s deadline will be given first priority. All other students will be given consideration for FSEOG funds on a first come first serve basis pending the availability of funds. FSEOG awards vary based on need and U.S. Department of Education allocation to the University.
Federal Work Study (FWS)
The Federal Work Study (FWS) Program provides jobs for undergraduate students who demonstrate financial need. The amount of the FWS award is based on both the student’s need and the availability of funds at the University. While there are several FWS jobs available on campus, students are also encouraged to work in community service related jobs. Federal Work Study does not get deducted from student’s direct costs.
Federal Direct Loans (Subsidized and Unsubsidized)
All student loans will now be originated in the Direct Loan Program, in which the Federal government makes loans directly to students. Both Direct Loan programs require the borrowers to complete Entrance Counseling and the Master Promissory Note. To obtain more information about the Federal Direct Loan programs, you can visit the website at: www.studentaid.gov.
The Direct Subsidized Loan is awarded to undergraduate students who demonstrate financial need. The federal government pays all interest costs for Direct Subsidized borrowers while the borrowers are attending school at least half-time and during deferment periods.
The Direct Unsubsidized Loan is awarded to students who do not meet financial need, need to supplement their Direct Subsidized Loans, or are Graduate students. Borrowers may defer payment of interest during school, grace, and deferment periods, but remain responsible for all interest that accrues. Any interest accrued and not paid by time repayment period begins will be capitalized. A small origination fee will be charged by Direct Lending for each loan. The amount is determined each year by the government.
Undergraduate Dependent students may borrow up to $5,500 as freshman (including up to $3,500 Subsidized) per year, sophomores up to $6,500 (including $4,500 Subsidized) per year, and $7,500 as juniors and seniors (including up to $5,500 Subsidized) per year.
Undergraduate Independent students may borrow up to $9,500 as freshman (including up to $3,500 Subsidized), sophomores up to $10,500 (including up to $4,500 Subsidized), and juniors and seniors may borrow up to $12,500 (including up to $5,500 Subsidized).
Students start repayment of the loan(s) (plus interest) six months after completion of the degree program, withdrawal, or change to less than half-time enrollment status. The government offers different repayment plans and the most frequent is the standard repayment which spreads out over the course of 10 years (principal and interest amounts). Important to Know: Dependent students whose parents get DENIED a Federal Direct PLUS Loan can receive an additional $4,000 for the freshman and sophomore years and $5,000 for juniors and seniors years.
GRADUATE/PROFESSIONAL students can borrow up to $20,500 per award year. Chiropractic and Naturopathic students have increased eligibility in Direct Unsubsidized loans.
Interest rates on Federal Direct Loan programs get established every year, starting on/ after July 1st of the current year and carries out to the following calendar year ending June 30th.
Federal Direct Plus Loans
The Federal Direct PLUS Loan programs are available to parents of dependent students and graduate and professional degree students. The amount that could be borrowed is up to the cost of attendance, minus financial aid from other sources. Interest Rates are determined each year. An origination fee will be charged by Direct Lending. The amount is determined each year by the government.
Federal Direct Parent Plus Loan
Parents of dependent students may apply for a parent PLUS loan to help their child’s educational expenses. The parent must be the student’s biological or adoptive parent. The parent must not have an adverse credit history (must be credit worthy). The parent must complete the plus loan application and sign the Master Promissory Note (MPN).
Federal Direct Graduate Plus Loan
The Graduate/Professional seeking degree students can borrow a Direct PLUS Loan to help them cover their educational expenses. The amount of loan they can borrow is up to their cost of attendance minus the Federal Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans for the award year. The student must complete the Direct PLUS Loan application and sign the Master Promissory Note every academic year.
State Programs
Financial assistance programs are available to qualified students from the state of Connecticut, including the Connecticut Independent College Student Grant. Many other states also have scholarship programs for residents of their state. For more information, contact your State’s agency for higher education.
Roberta B Willis Need-Based Grant Program
As an independent University, the University of Bridgeport participates in the Governor’s Scholarship Grant Program. Connecticut undergraduate students who enroll on a full-time basis at the University and who meet the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) requirements are considered for this grant. Funding is limited. Students who file their financial aid applications by the priority deadline will be considered first.
Roberta B Willis Need-Merit Scholarship Program
Connecticut residents who are undergraduate students can apply to the Connecticut Board of Higher Education for consideration. High school seniors who ranked in the top 20th percentile of their high school junior year class or college undergraduates who ranked in the top 20th percentile of their high school senior year class and/ or have a combined score on the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) of 1200 or higher or an ACT score of 25 or higher. Financial need is also a criterion. Applications are available at high schools or at www.ctdhe.org and must be submitted by February 15. Students who are recipients of CSP awards must follow the state renewal process each academic year.
Awards And Prizes
Harvey Herer Memorial Fund
Awarded to a Women’s Basketball Team junior with the highest GPA at the Spring Sports Banquet.
Dr. George B. Blake, Jr. Memorial Fund
George Blake was an extraordinary individual who served his students at the University of Bridgeport as an Associate Professor of English as well as the Director of the School of General Studies until his untimely death in 2001. The subsequent outpouring of grief by students, faculty, and administration led to the establishment of the Memorial Fund, used to date to establish a gathering place in his name outside of the west entrance to Charles Dana Hall. The remaining proceeds will fund the stipend associated with the Dr. George B. Blake, Jr. Humanities Award.
William E. Laur Achievement Award
The will of William E. Laur specifies that the award to be known as the William E. Laur Achievement Award for a student in the graduating class of the Elementary Education Section of the Graduate School of Education, who ranks at or near the bottom of his graduating class and receives his/her M.S. in Elementary Education and who is a deserving student.
Charles E. Reed Science Award
Established by the Board of Trustees of the University of Bridgeport to honor Dr. Charles E. Reed for his distinguished leadership as Chairman of the Board from 1978 through 1983, and in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the field of science. The award will be presented annually to an undergraduate student who has achieved the highest level of excellence in scientific and/or engineering studies at the University of Bridgeport.
Graduate Scholarships
Applications are available in January of each year for the following year’s graduate scholarships.
School of Business & School of Engineering
Kiran Kumar R. Gopu Memorial Scholarship
Established by the family & friends of Kiran Kumar R. Gopu, who was lost in the terrorist attack on the New York World Trade Center on 09/11/01, while he was on a Co-operative Education assignment at Marsh & McLennan, Inc, and working for an M.S. degree in Computer Science. This scholarship is for full-time international students in the School of Engineering majoring in Computer Science with at least a 3.50 GPA.
School of Education
Lauren Rousseau Elementary Education Memorial Scholarship
The Lauren Rousseau Elementary Education Memorial Scholarship, established to honor the memory of Lauren Ga-brielle Rousseau, a 30-year old teacher, who was one of the 26 individuals who lost their lives in the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School on December 14, 2012, will be awarded to an applicant seeking certification in elementary education who is a highly motivated, passionate, strong individual with a desire to make a meaningful contribution to the lives of young children through their teaching.
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