Costs for New York state residents*
Per-semester
Tuition and fees $2,223
University housing 1,800
Meals (standard dining plan) 1,086
TOTAL $5,109
Matriculated students are charged a full semester's tuition for a schedule
of 12 credit hours or more.
Per semester:
New York residents $1,700
Out-of-state residents $4,150
New York residents $2,550
Out-of-state residents $4,208
Students taking fewer than 12 credit hours are considered part-time
students and are charged by the credit hour.
Per credit hour, each semester:
New York residents $137
Out-of-state residents $346
New York residents $213
Out-of-state residents $351
Non-matriculated students enrolled for 11 credit hours or less are charged
tuition by the credit hour in accordance with the level of the individual
course or courses.
Per credit hour:
New York residents $137
Out-of-state residents $346
New York residents $213
Out-of-state residents $351
Non-matriculated students enrolled for 12 or more credit hours are charged
minimum and maximum rates as follows.
Per semester:
New York residents, minimum $1,700
New York residents, maximum $1,700
Out-of-state residents, minimum $4,150
Out-of-state residents, maximum $4,208
New York residents, minimum$1,700
New York residents, maximum $2,550
Out-of-state residents, minimum$4,150
Out-of-state residents, maximum $4,208
For tuition billing purposes, mere presence in New York state does not in itself constitute legal residence in the state. Students who are defined as New York state residents are those who, prior to the beginning of the semester, have established a permanent domicile in New York state. Students in college cannot gain residential status unless they can establish that their previous domicile has been abandoned and a new one established in New York for purposes other than attending the University. Proof of domicile is based on intention to remain in New York state. Factors relevant in determining domicile are: residence of parents (in case of unemancipated students), site of driver’s license and motor vehicle registration, place of voter registration, financial independence, residence for personal income tax purposes, etc.
An unemancipated student’s domicile is that of the parent or legal guardian. Any student claiming emancipation to establish a domicile in New York must submit evidence of emancipation and of the establishment of domicile. Evidence of emancipation must include the establishment of financial independence. Factors relevant to financial independence include but are not limited to: employment on a full- or part-time basis, sources and extent of other income, place of residence during summer and school vacations, parental claim of the student as a dependent exemption on federal and state income tax return, independent filing by student of federal or state income tax return, etc.
Students on non-immigrant alien visa types A3, B1, B2, C1, C2, C3, D1, F1, F2, H1, H2, H3, H4, J1, J2, K1, K2, M1, M2, O1, O2, O3, P1, P2, P3, P4, Q or R are probably not eligible to be considered New York state residents regardless of their length of stay. Students who are holders of A1, A2, E1, E2 and all G, I and L visas are probably eligible to be considered as New York state residents if domiciled in New York state; however, the residency application must be filed by the student and reviewed by the Student Accounts Office.
The Office of Student Accounts processes all residency applications for tuition billing purposes. Students and prospective students are notified in writing of the residency decisions. For those students who wish to appeal their residency determination, an appeal may be filed with the assistant vice president for finance and management, whose decision is final.
Refunds are determined on the basis of the date courses are removed
from a student's record. Nonattendance in a course does not constitute
removal of a course. To drop courses, students must complete the necessary
forms in the Registrar's Office. After completing these forms, students
must complete the Request for Refund forms available in the Student Accounts
Office. Refunds are made only in accordance with the rate schedule set
forth below.
Students who cancel registration in whole or in part are entitled to refund
of tuition in accordance with the following schedule.
Refund during:
1st week 100%
2nd week 70%
3rd week 50%
4th week 30%
5th week 0%
Mandatory fees are nonrefundable after the first week of classes for
semester-length courses. The first day that classes are offered, as scheduled by
Binghamton University,
shall be considered the first day of the semester; the first week of classes,
for purposes of refunds, shall be deemed to have ended when seven calendar
days, including the first day of scheduled classes, have elapsed.
Students required to withdraw for disciplinary reasons are not entitled
to any refund of tuition.
Students who withdraw to enter military service (active duty) are granted
full tuition and University fee refunds for a semester in which academic
credit is not received.
Students who withdraw for medical reasons may request a full tuition refund.
Decisions are made on a case-by-case basis.
| State University of New York application |
$30.00 |
| Comprehensive Fee* |
$438.00 |
| Activity Fee, full-time student, per semester |
$74.75 |
| State University of New York application, per program | $50.00 |
| Full Time Activity Fee, 9 or more credits | $37.00 |
| ID Card Fee | $5.00 |
| Comprehensive Fee* | $336.00 |
| Late Payment Charge | $30.00 |
| Reinstatement Fee (to reinstate courses after cancellation) | $50.00 |
| Returned Check Fee | $20.00 |
| Late Add/Drop Fee, per transaction | $15.00 |
| Microfilming Dissertation | $50.00 |
| Binding Fee for thesis/dissertation: Original and two copies | $20.00 |
| Personal copies (per copy) | $10.00 |
| Copyright Fee | $35.00 |
| Parking Fee, per semester | $65.00 |
| Two semesters | $100.00 |
| Orientation Fee, undergraduate | $125.00 |
| Replacement ID Card Fee | $5.00 |
Accident and sickness insurance, per year $341.00
| Advance Deposit (credited to tuition; see Freshman Admission listed elsewhere in this Bulletin), all new undergraduates | $50.00 |
| Room Deposit (credited to housing payment) | $125.00 |
| Damage Deposit, all students living in University housing | $75.00 |
Undergraduates who live in one of the residence halls (other than Hillside or
Susquehanna communities) are required to participate in the University dining
plan. Graduates and undergraduates living in Susquehanna or Hillside communities
may elect one of the resident dining plans. Plan levels vary according to the
number of meals covered per week.
| Ultra plan | $1,163 per semester |
| Standard plan | $ 1,086 per semester |
| Basic plan | $ 846 per semester |
Refunds of dining plan payments are permitted only under one of the following circumstances:
1. A student withdraws from the University.
2. A student obtains a medical exemption from the dining plan from the University physician.
Students who register but do not attend the University will receive a full
refund of their entire dining plan payment.
The dining plan refund is computed on a prorated basis of the meal charge
for the semester (see below). Students will receive the appropriate refund,
providing that the amount of funding in their account is equal to or greater
than the anticipated refund.
For the purpose of prorating refunds, weekly increments are used and students
eating for part of the week are charged for the full week. Refunds are
prorated according to the following schedule:
| Week 1 | 85% | Week 6 | 35% | |
| Week 2 | 75% | Week 7 | 25% | |
| Week 3 | 65% | Week 8 | 15% | |
| Week 4 | 55% | Week 9 | 5% | |
| Week 5 | 45% |
Students who owe money to the University, payments on a University loan,
or a Title IV financial aid repayment are denied registration privileges.
Transcripts and diplomas are withheld until all debts are satisfied.
In addition, any debts owed to the University not paid on a timely basis
will be forwarded to a collection agency and/or the New York State Attorney
General's Office for collection. Accounts forwarded to collection agencies
or the Attorney General's Office will be assessed additional collection
costs and interest charges.
The University offers housing in six residential communities. College-in-the-Woods, Dickinson Community, Hinman College and Newing College, designed for undergraduate students, have two-person rooms, triples, quads and suites. All residents in College-in-the-Woods, Dickinson, Hinman and Newing must purchase one of the various on-campus meal programs offered by dining services. Hillside Community is an on-campus apartment complex with apartments for four, six or eight undergraduates. Susquehanna Community, designed for graduate students, families, transfers and undergraduate students, has three-person and four-person apartments.
The rates listed below include on-campus telephone, cable television service and access to the Internet. If students desire off-campus telephone service, they must subscribe with the University’s Telecommunications Office.
The rates listed are semester rates for 2000-01.
College-in-the-Woods, Dickinson, Hinman and Newing
Double $1,800
Over-Occupied Double $1,315
Designed Triple $1,605
Designed Triple in a Suite $1,800
Designed Quad $1,440
Hillside and Susquehanna
Single $2,405
Double $2,090
Family Apartment $3,660
For additional information on University housing, see the Student Life section in this Bulletin.
Once students have registered and occupied a room, no refund is available for the balance of the academic year. Occupancy is defined as acceptance of the room key and/or moving personal possessions into the room, suite or apartment. The $125 room deposit, which is credited to the room charge, is not refundable if the student fails to occupy a room.
The balance in students' damage deposit accounts is refunded when they graduate, withdraw from the University, or move off campus.
Because the health fee does not pay for medical expenses incurred off campus, all students are encouraged to have adequate accident and sickness insurance. The University has made arrangements with an independent carrier to provide an optional student insurance plan. Only registered students and their spouses and dependents are eligible to participate in the insurance plan. Such insurance provides a much-needed supplement to the service provided by the University Health Service.
A brochure detailing the cost and the provisions of this accident and sickness insurance is available through the Student Accounts Office or the University Health Service.
Costs and benefits are subject to change from year to year. Call 607-777-2221 for current information.
International students in non-immigrant status (F-1, J-1, etc.) and students
participating in overseas study programs are required by the State University of
New York to purchase a special SUNY health and accident insurance policy
designed specifically for them. Dependents of J-1 students and scholars are
required by the United States State Department, Bureau of Educational and
Cultural Affairs, to purchase insurance as well. Payment is made on a semester
basis, with fall coverage in effect
Aug. 15-Jan. 15 and spring coverage in effect Jan. 15-Aug. 15. Since
fall-semester coverage is for a five-month period and spring coverage is for
seven months, the insurance fee is higher in the spring. Overseas study
participants may select shorter coverage periods matched to the length of their
program. Insurance rates are reviewed each year and are subject to change. The
annual fee for 1999-2000 was $504. The policy is quite comprehensive and
provides benefits not found in standard insurance policies, including medical
evacuation and repatriation. Optional coverage for dependents is also available.
The policy is administered by the Office of International Student and Scholar
Services (Nelson A. Rockefeller Center G-1, 607-777-2510, isss@binghamton.edu),
and detailed information on the policy, as well as claims assistance, may be
obtained there.
All students must return a completed billing form and make payment by
registration day. Payment of all outstanding charges, tuition, and fees
is a part of the registration process, and a student's registration is
not complete until full payment is made. Payment or arrangement for payment
must be made with the Student Accounts Office prior to the first day of
classes or, in the case of late enrollment, at the time of enrollment.
Failure to conclude appropriate financial arrangements by the end of the
second week of classes will result in the cancellation of the student's
enrollment in classes. Graduate students who are the recipients of tuition
scholarships must make payment of the mandatory fees by registration day.
Tuition scholarships cover the cost of tuition only.
In cases of extreme financial hardship, the director of student accounts,
if consulted prior to registration, may be able to permit deferral of payment.
In addition, should a student feel that a particular situation warrants
special consideration, an appeal can be made to the assistant vice president
for finance and management-controller, and ultimately to the vice president
for administration, both in the Couper Administration Building.
For the convenience of students and parents, Binghamton University offers an optional time-payment plan tailored to the semester billing process. The plan is offered at a cost of $32.25 per semester of enrollment. Participants pay 50 percent of their semester payment (after financial aid deductions) by the semester payment deadline and the remaining 50 percent in two later installments. Below is a timetable of due dates for this payment option.
| Fall 2000 | Spring 2001 | |
| Semester bills mailed to students | Mid-July | Mid-December |
| Down payment (50% of semester bill due) | 08/11/00 | 01/05/01 |
| Installment 1 (25% of semester bill due) | 10/02/00 | 03/02/01 |
| Installment 2 (25% of semester bill due) | 11/02/00 | 04/02/01 |
The University's financial aid program helps students who might not
otherwise be able to afford college. Financial aid consists of grants,
loans, and part-time employment, generally offered to students in some
combination.
Basic responsibility for financing higher education rests with students
and their families; assistance through the University is offered to supplement
the family's maximum financial effort. With few exceptions, financial aid
is offered only to students who demonstrate need; the amount of need-based
aid in no instance exceeds the amount of need.
Students applying for financial assistance must submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA is the standard application for federal and institutional aid. New York State residents who want to apply for state-funded assistance must also file the TAP Application. New students can obtain these forms from their high school guidance office or they can be requested to be sent to them from the Office of Student Financial Aid and Employment. Returning students may pick up the necessary forms in Binghamton's Office of Student Financial Aid and Employment. Students apply for most forms of financial assistance listed in this Bulletin by filing these forms and any other documentation that is required.
Applicants for admission, both freshman and transfer, and current students who wish to be considered for financial aid administered by the University must complete and submit the appropriate application(s) by March 1 for the fall semester and by Nov. 15 for the spring semester. Most financial aid is available on a first-come, first-served basis, with funding priority for limited funds given to students with the most financial need. Applications filed after the deadlines are reviewed for funds that remain available, and these applicants may experience delays in receiving any remaining funds. If income information is not available until after the deadline, students are instructed to use estimated figures.
In some cases, a financial aid eligibility determination cannot be made
without receipt of documentation requested from the student. In most cases,
an offer of assistance will be made without all of the required documentation
being received. Once all of the documentation has been received, a financial
aid counselor may review the student's application to verify the accuracy
of the information provided. Students will be notified if a change is made
in eligibility based on the documents submitted or if further information
is needed.
A delay should be expected in the processing of a financial aid application
if:
1) the requested documents are not received in a timely manner;
2) the requested documents are incomplete;
3) the requested documents are received during the summer months; and/or
4) an original application was not filed by our deadline.
If a student fails to submit the required documentation, any financial aid offered will be rescinded.
To receive federally funded financial aid, students must meet general eligibility criteria established by the federal government and coordinated through the Financial Aid Office. Applicants must be matriculated students and U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizens; demonstrate need; not be in default on any student loans or owe a refund to Federal Pell or Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants; be registered with Selective Service or not be required to be registered; and be making satisfactory academic progress. In some cases, as noted, part-time students may receive federal or state-funded financial aid; and non-matriculated students may be eligible for some types of federally funded loans. Some aid programs, as noted, are restricted to undergraduate students.
All financial aid recipients are expected to complete the application process annually by the prescribed deadlines and submit required documentation in a timely manner. Students must meet requirements for good academic standing and maintain normal academic progress toward a degree. Students are obligated to report to the Financial Aid Office any changes of name and address, and receipt of any additional scholarships or grants, or loans. The University reserves the right to make adjustments in financial aid awards because of changes in enrollment or residency, income discrepancy, lack of required documentation from the student, or changed financial circumstances. The University further reserves the right to make proportionate adjustments in campus-administered financial aid if federal or state funding to the University changes and/or if more students than anticipated accept their aid packages. Students who do not meet the requirements determined by the University will be required to repay any financial aid funds they have received. Students who withdraw from the University before the end of an academic term may be required to repay a portion of their financial aid.
1. Federal, state or institutionally funded financial aid is an offer based on the enrollment specified on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and analysis of the information provided on the FAFSA and/or reports of financial assistance received on behalf of the student from another agency or group. Since the aid is an offer, it may be adjusted at a later date due to the following:
a. change in funding
b. corrections made to information on your financial aid application
c. financial aid received from outside sources exceeding level of need
d. substantial change in family’s financial situation
e. change in enrollment status (e.g., full time to part time)
f. withdrawal during the refund period (refund schedule and "Title IV Refund" policies are available in the Student Accounts Office)
g. results from verification differ from original application
h. addition of graduate tuition scholarships not previously considered
i. enrollment in courses that exceed or do not fulfill graduation requirements
j. change in student’s grade level
k. change in residency (state residency or commuter status)
l. subsequent knowledge of loan default status
m. failure to make satisfactory academic progress
n. incomplete application
o. failure to meet eligibility requirements
p. applicable NCAA guidelines
If the student was given a deferment based on aid that is reduced, the student is billed for the amount owed.
2. An offer is withdrawn if the student does not complete, sign and return the financial aid offer letter to the Office of Student Financial Aid and Employment within 15 days. Once an offer is canceled, it may not be reinstated at full value.
3. Most components of a financial aid offer, except earnings from Federal Work Study employment, are credited by semester to a student’s account. (For undergraduates, however, the Federal Perkins Loan component is withdrawn and the offer canceled if the student does not sign a promissory note in the Office of Student Accounts as each semester begins.) If financial aid, excluding Federal Work Study earnings, exceeds the University’s charges, a refund check is issued.
4. An offer of estimated TAP Grant is an approximation of eligibility for a New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) Grant. Students may be required to file a separate Express TAP Application with the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation in Albany before the actual eligibility for TAP is determined. An actual TAP grant may differ, depending upon documented information provided by an applicant and upon available governmental funds.
5. Students new to the University are provided detailed information concerning the Federal Work Study (FWS) Program prior to the beginning of the first semester. Once employed, a student receives a biweekly paycheck based on the number of hours worked in a given pay period, or, for graduate assistants, based on the contract agreement with the Graduate School. This offer may be withdrawn after the first two weeks of the term depending upon availability of positions. An offer of FWS does not guarantee a job. A graduate student who is offered a Graduate Federal Work Study (GFWS) Assistantship receives his or her assignment from the Graduate School. Any student whose financial aid application is incomplete will not be placed.
6. All financial aid resources must be used for educational expenses only.
7. If there is an extraordinary circumstance that is not outlined on the original application, the student may request a review of eligibility for assistance. Details of situations that warrant a redetermination of eligibility are available in the Office of Student Financial Aid and Employment.
8. A financial aid offer reflects the amount of funds available for this academic year. To be considered for financial aid, students must file a new application for each academic year. Aid offers may differ each year, dependent upon available funds and grade level of the eligible student.
9. Graduate students may apply for graduate assistantships or fellowships through their respective academic departments. In most cases, the assistantship also includes a tuition scholarship. If the student should receive a tuition scholarship, it means that the tuition is paid by the department for a specific number of credit hours.
Since the tuition scholarship is a financial resource, it is included in the financial aid package and may affect the amount of the Federal Direct Loan for which the student is eligible.
The Financial Aid Office is notified of students receiving tuition scholarships by the Graduate School and/or academic departments. If the Financial Aid Office is notified after a financial aid package is completed, the package must be adjusted so that the student is not over-awarded.
10. Students are required to notify the Financial Aid Office of any scholarship received for 2000-01 (even if the scholarship is given directly to the student).
The University is required to perform a Title IV refund and repayment calculation for any student who withdraws from the University and is a recipient of federal financial aid for the semester of withdrawal. The calculation determines how much financial aid must be returned to the federal government. The federal formula takes into consideration, when a student withdraws, what type and how much aid has been awarded. Sample calculations are available in the Student Accounts Office.
When aid must be returned, the order of return is as follows: Federal Unsubsidized Loans, Federal Subsidized Loans, Federal Perkins Loans, Federal Direct Parent Loans, Pell Grant, SEOG and Other.
These federal grants are available to help full-time or part-time, matriculated undergraduate students pay for their educational expenses. Usually students with only the highest levels of need are eligible for these grants. In 2000-01, Pell Grants are expected to range from $400 to $3,300.
These federal grants provide assistance to matriculated undergraduates with "exceptional need." The University's Financial Aid Office is responsible for selecting eligible full-time students and determining the amount of the award based on need and funds available. In 2000-01, the maximum SEOG award is expected to be $500.
These state grants are awarded to students enrolled in the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) and are based on financial need. These grants are expected to range from $800 to $1,500 in 2000-01. For details about EOP, see the section under Undergraduate Admissions.
Application forms may be obtained from the U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Indian Affairs Office, Federal Building, 100 S. Salina St., Syracuse, NY 13202. An application is necessary for each year of study. Students must file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid to determine need. First-time applicants must obtain tribal enrollment certification from the Bureau or representative tribe.
Application forms are available at all VA Offices, active duty stations, and American Embassies. Completed forms are submitted to the TRIO/Veterans' Office on campus. Educational and vocational counseling is provided by the VA on request. Applications can be submitted up to one academic year after the year for which the student requests aid. Questions may be directed to the TRIO/Veterans' Office on campus.
TAP provides grants to full-time, matriculated undergraduates, ranging from $250 to $3,085 in 1999-2000. Maximum awards for graduate students are $250. Limits for minimum and maximum awards for 2000-01 are determined by pending action of the New York State Legislature. Applicants must be New York state residents and U.S. citizens or permanent residents, aliens or refugees; be matriculated and enrolled full time in a degree program; meet income criteria; and be making satisfactory academic progress. Students may receive aid for up to eight semesters of study as an undergraduate and another eight semesters as a graduate student.
A special application must be filed with the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation in Albany. Documentary evidence to establish eligibility is required with the application. The amount of the award is $450 per year for up to five years, depending on the normal length of the program of study.
This program is designed to develop, improve, and restore a person's ability to work. The New York State Office serves the emotionally, mentally, and physically challenged. Assistance toward tuition ranges from actual tuition to a maximum award of $2,000 which includes costs for books and supplies. Recipients are reviewed annually on an individual basis by their VESID counselor. Individuals should contact their local VESID Office regarding application procedures and amounts available.
AP-TS is an undergraduate grant program financed by New York State in conjunction with the University. The program provides aid up to full tuition to help part-time students meet their educational expenses. To be considered for an award, students must be working toward an undergraduate degree as part-time, matriculated students enrolled for at least three credit hours per semester; retain good academic standing; be residents of New York State; be either U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or refugees; meet the income limits; not have used up Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) or other New York State student financial aid eligibility for full-time study; apply for a Federal Pell Grant; and have a tuition charge of at least $100 per year. Applications are available at the Financial Aid Office after the New York State budget is passed for 1998-99.
This program assists Vietnam veterans enrolled in degree programs on either a full- or part-time basis. Application information is available by writing to Vietnam Veterans Tuition Awards, HESC, 1 Commerce Plaza, Albany, NY 12255.
Full-time matriculated undergraduates are competitively awarded $500 or $1,500 annually for up to five years. The awards are made to high school seniors. These awards may be held concurrently with other New York state awards.
The University participates in the SUNY Minority Honors Scholarship Program, which provides assistance to undergraduates who are residents of New York state and have demonstrated high academic achievement and who are members of underrepresented minority groups. Awards for 2000-01 are expected to be $1,500.
Loans are financial aid awards that must be repaid. They are usually funded through federal or state sources. See the chart below for Standard Repayment Schedule for Federal Direct Loans and Federal Direct PLUS Loans.
This low-interest (5 percent) loan is made to undergraduate students with "exceptional need." Binghamton students may borrow up to $1,500 (based on grade level) for the 2000-01 academic year. Repayment begins nine months after graduation, withdrawal or change in enrollment status to less than half time. The length of repayment varies up to 10 years, depending on the amount borrowed.
To be considered for a Nursing Loan, undergraduate or graduate students must be accepted for admission or enrolled at least half-time in the Decker School of Nursing. The amount of this loan is based on financial need and is limited to $2,500 per academic year. No interest is charged while the student is enrolled at least half time in an approved post-secondary institution. Repayments of the principal plus 5 percent interest begin nine months after the student leaves school, with a maximum of 10 years to repay.
The Federal Direct Subsidized Loan is a need-based program that allows eligible freshmen to borrow federal funds up to $2,625 per academic year through the University. Sophomores may borrow up to $3,500, juniors and seniors up to $5,500 and graduate students up to $8,500. The federal government pays the interest while the student is in school. Loans are generally repaid over a five- to 10-year period, but other repayment options are available. The interest rate is variable annually and is capped at 8.25 percent. Origination fees of 3 percent are automatically deducted from the loan before it is disbursed.
The Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan has the same repayment terms as the Federal Direct Subsidized Loan, except that the borrower is responsible for the interest that accrued while in school and during the six-month grace period. The Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan is available to students who may not qualify for a Federal Direct Subsidized Loan, or who may qualify for only a partial Direct Subsidized Loan. The combined loan total (both subsidized and unsubsidized) cannot exceed the federally set annual limits: freshmen, $2,625; sophomores, $3,500; juniors and seniors, $5,500; and graduate students, $8,500. Interest rates are the same as for the Federal Direct Subsidized Loan. Additional funding is available through this program for independent students, graduate students and dependent students whose parents’ PLUS Loan has been denied.
Parents may borrow up to the cost of attendance, minus other aid, per academic year for each matriculated dependent enrolled in college at least half time. These loans are part of the Direct Loan process in which federal funds are borrowed from the federal government through the University. The interest rate is variable annually and is capped at 9 percent. Federal PLUS borrowers begin repayment 60 days after disbursement.
Emergency short-term loans are available to students enrolled at the University. Supported by the Binghamton University Foundation and the University Women through the Wanda Bartle Student Loan Fund, emergency loan funds are administered by the Foundation for students in good financial standing with the University. Students may obtain interest-free loans of up to $200 with a four-week payback period. Students may also be eligible for collateralized interest-free loans of up to $500 through the Student Accounts Office, with the collateral based on refunds due from designated federal financial aid programs. Processing fees and late payment fees are applicable.
This need-based program provides employment on campus to eligible part-time and full-time students as an opportunity to earn money to help defray college expenses. FWS is offered to those students new to the University who are eligible and request FWS on their FAFSA. FWS is offered only to those current students who are eligible and held an FWS job in the previous academic year. An offer of FWS does not guarantee placement in an FWS job. The Office of Student Financial Aid and Employment is responsible for selecting eligible students and determining the amount of the FWS award. Most graduate FWS awards are in the form of assistantships and must be applied for through the University’s Graduate School. Students employed through FWS work an average of eight to 10 hours per week.
Students who may not receive FWS-funded jobs but need and/or want part-time employment should check the Job Board located in the Student Wing of the Lecture Hall, or the Student Employment website at the following address:
http://bingfa.binghamton.edu/employment.htm.
Many students find jobs in the offices and departments on campus.
Regardless of financial need, students may find information on part-time off-campus employment in the Student Financial Aid and Employment Office. Summer job placement in business or professional areas is also offered. Jobs are posted on the Job Board in the Student Wing of the Lecture Hall, as well as on the Student Employment website listed above.
Note: Where any question of eligibility exists, students or prospective students should contact the Office of Student Financial Aid and Employment.
Federal regulations require that students meet specific standards of satisfactory progress for purposes of the receipt of Title IV student financial assistance (Federal Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, Federal Work Study, Federal Perkins Loan, Federal Nursing Loan, Federal Direct Loan [subsidized and unsubsidized], Federal Direct Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students). Students must meet these standards whether or not they were receiving Title IV funding during the period of prior enrollment. Students who fall below the minimum standards stated in the Undergraduate Academic Progress Chart for Federal Financial Aid displayed in this section of the Bulletin are ineligible for Title IV financial aid in the following term or terms or until the minimum standards are reached.
Continuing students’ academic records are reviewed according to the Academic Progress Chart at the end of each spring semester to determine eligibility for the following academic year. In addition, eligibility based solely on maximum time frame (see Undergraduate Academic Progress Chart for Federal Financial Aid) is checked at the end of each semester. The academic progress of students readmitted to the University is reviewed at the time of readmission. Students who have lost federal aid eligibility and believe that a correction of an error, a grade change or the recording of summer courses and grades will re-establish eligibility for federal aid must have the necessary changes reflected on their academic record (transcript) by the end of the fourth week of classes in each semester in order to be considered eligible for aid for that semester. Any changes processed subsequent to the end of the fourth week of classes will not entitle the students to retroactive reinstatement of federal aid for that semester unless exceptional circumstances have been approved by the appropriate school official.
Appeals: Students who fail to meet the minimum standards stated in the chart in this section of the Bulletin may appeal the loss of aid if there are extraordinary or unusual circumstances beyond their control that resulted in their failure to meet the standards. Documentation of these circumstances is required as part of the appeal review process. An assessment of the student’s academic situation, ability to regain satisfactory academic progress by the end of the appeal period and special needs, if any, are part of this process. Students who go beyond the maximum time frame are not granted an appeal. Federal Student Financial Assistance Appeal forms are available in the University’s Office of Student Financial Aid and Employment.
Individually Approved Schedule: In special circumstances, individually approved schedules for academic progress are established by faculty advisers and placed on file with the vice provost for research and graduate studies and the director of student financial aid and employment. The faculty adviser notifies the vice provost for re-search and graduate studies if the student is not maintaining progress according to schedule.
CALENDAR: Semester
MAXIMUM TIMEFRAME: 12 Semesters
| Semester of full-time enrollment:* | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | +12.00 |
| As of the end of this semester, students must have accrued at least this many credits:** |
3 | 9 | 18 | 30 | 42 | 54 | 66 | 78 | 90 | 102 | 115 | Degree | No Aid |
Grade-point average: To maintain satisfactory academic progress, students are required to earn a minimum grade-point average of 2.0 in all courses taken for credit. Students who fail to achieve the minimum GPA of 2.0 in all courses are placed on academic probation and are expected to raise their average to a 2.0 level or better within a reasonable amount of time. Failure to achieve an overall 2.0 in a reasonable time will result in suspension. Academic probation does not preclude students from receiving financial aid.
*Transfer and exam credits are equated to semesters of full-time enrollment by dividing the total number of transfer and exam credits by 15. Students enrolled 3/4 time (nine credits per semester) must accrue 75 percent of the credits required of full-time students. Half-time students (six credits) must accrue 50 percent of the credits required of full-time students. Students who enroll for a semester (s) on a less than full-time basis have the maximum time frame equate to a less than whole number, e.g., "10.86 semesters of full-time enrollment."
**Only courses which count toward a student's degree are included in a student's total accrued credits. Courses previously passed and repeated for a better grade, courses taken an audit basis, physical education course credits in excess of the maximum number allowed, and courses for which a grade of I has been assigned are not included in a student's total accrued credits.
CALENDAR: Semester
MAXIMUM TIMEFRAME: See note below for different degree objectives.
| Semester of full-time enrollment:* | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | +12.00 |
| As of the end of this semester, students must have accrued at least this many credits:** |
4 | 12 | 21 | 32 | 44 | 54 | 63 | 72 | 81 | 90 | 100 | Degree | No Aid |
Grade-point average: To maintain satisfactory academic progress, students are required to earn a minimum grade-point average of 3.0 in all courses counting toward a degree. Graduate students may be dropped from the Graduate School by action of the vice provost for graduate studies and teaching, on recommendation of the departmental or school graduate committee, if it appears that the student is not making satisfactory progress toward the degree, and it is unlikely that requirements for the degree will be satisfactorily completed.
*Transfer credits are equated to semesters of full-time enrollment by dividing the total number of transfer credits by 15. Students enrolled 3/4 time (nine credits per semester) must accrue 75 percent of the credits required for full-time students. Half-time students (six credits) must accrue 50 percent of the credits required of full-time students. Students approved by the Graduate Office to be considered as full-time status taking one credit hour must successfully complete the one credit to be considered to be making satisfactory academic progress. Students who enroll for a semester (s) on a less than full-time basis have the maximum time frame equate to a less than whole number, e.g., "10.86 semesters of full-time enrollment."
**Only courses that count towards a degree are included in a student's total accrued credits.
Master's programs with degree requirements of 30-49 credits, 7 semesters
Master's programs with degree requirements of 49-75 credits, 9 semesters
Master's/PhD degree, 12 semesters
PhD degree, 10 semesters
CALENDAR: Semester
| Semester of full-time enrollment: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 |
| Before being certified for this payment, students must have accrued at least this many credits:* |
0 | 3 | 9 | 18 | TD>3045 | 60 | 75 | 90 | 105 | |
| With at least this grade-point average: | 0.00 | 0.50 | 0.75 | 1.20 | 2.0 | 2.0 | 2.0 | 2.0 | 2.0 | 2.0 |
*Only courses that count toward a student's degree are included in a student's total accrued credits. Courses previously passed and repeated for a better grade, courses taken on an audit basis, physical education course credits in excess of the maximum number allowed, and courses for which a grade of I has been assigned are not included in a student's total accrued credits.
CALENDAR: Semester
| Before being certified for this payment: | First | Second | Third | Fourth | Fifth | Sixth | Seventh | Eighth |
| Students must have accrued at least this many credits*: | 0 | 6 | 12 | 21 | 30 | 45 | 60 | 75 |
| With at least this grade-point average: | 0 | 2.0 | 2.5 | 2.75 | 3.0 | 3.0 | 3.0 | 3.0 |
*This includes successful completion of credit-equivalent work as set forth in 145-2.1 of the Commissioner's Regulations.
| VARIABLE RATE FEDERAL DIRECT LOANS (During Repayment Period) |
||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| STANDARD REPAYMENT SCHEDULE | ||||
| AMOUNT BORROWED | NUMBER OF PAYMENTS | PAYMENT AT TIME OF REPAYMENT | TOTAL INTEREST | TOTAL FINANCED |
| 1,000 | 21 | 51 | 65 | 1,085 |
| 2,000 | 45 | 51 | 277 | 2,277 |
| 2,625 | 60 | 52 | 489 | 3,114 |
| 5,000 | 120 | 58 | 1,948 | 6,948 |
| 10,000 | 120 | 116 | 3,896 | 13,896 |
| 15,000 | 120 | 174 | 5,844 | 20,844 |
| 20,000 | 120 | 232 | 7,792 | 27,792 |
| 25,000 | 120 | 289 | 9,740 | 34,740 |
| 30,000 | 120 | 347 | 11,888 | 41,688 |
| 35,000 | 120 | 405 | 13,636 | 48,636 |
| 40,000 | 120 | 463 | 15,584 | 55,584 |
| 50,000 | 120 | 579 | 19,480 | 69,480 |
| 60,000 | 120 | 695 | 23,376 | 83,376 |
| 70,000 | 120 | 811 | 27,272 | 97,272 |
| 80,000 | 120 | 926 | 31,168 | 111,168 |
| 90,000 | 120 | 1,042 | 35,063 | 125,083 |
| 100,000 | 120 | 1,158 | 38,959 | 138,959 |
| VARIABLE RATE FEDERAL PLUS LOANS |
|||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| STANDARD REPAYMENT SCHEDULE | |||||
| AMOUNT BORROWED | NUMBER OF PAYMENTS | PAYMENT AT TIME OF REPAYMENT | TOTAL INTEREST | TOTAL FINANCED | |
| 1,000 | 21 | 51 | 69 | 1,089 | |
| 2,000 | 45 | 51 | 295 | 2,295 | |
| 2,625 | 60 | 52 | 521 | 3,146 | |
| 5,000 | 120 | 59 | 2,078 | 7,078 | |
| 10,000 | 120 | 118 | 4,157 | 14,157 | |
| 15,000 | 120 | 177 | 6,235 | 21,235 | |
| 20,000 | 120 | 238 | 8,313 | 28,313 | |
| 25,000 | 120 | 295 | 10,392 | 35,392 | |
| 30,000 | 120 | 354 | 12.470 | 42,470 | |
| 35,000 | 120 | 413 | 14,548 | 49,548 | |
| 40,000 | 120 | 472 | 16,627 | 56,627 | |
| 50,000 | 120 | 590 | 20,783 | 70,783 | |
| 60,000 | 120 | 708 | 24,940 | 84,940 | |
| 70,000 | 120 | 826 | 29,097 | 99,097 | |
| 80,000 | 120 | 944 | 33,253 | 113,253 | |
| 90,000 | 120 | 1,062 | 37,410 | 127,410 | |
| 100,000 | 120 | 1,180 | 41,587 | 141,567 | |
Applicants to the Graduate School who wish to be considered for fellowships
or assistantships may apply by completing the appropriate section of the
regular application to the Graduate School. No separate application form
is required. To insure consideration for fall semester assistantship and
fellowship awards, all admissions credentials should be received by February
15 (February 1 for applicants to the clinical psychology program).
Decisions on the awarding of stipends are made by the department or school to
which the applicant is seeking admission. Applicants for fellowship and
assistantship support are notified by the department or school as soon as possible
after decisions have been made. Assistantship and fellowship awards to new and
continuing students are made on a competitive basis, normally for a period
of one academic year. The graduate committee of the program determines
the procedures and criteria for renewal of the award in subsequent academic
years.
Recipients of assistantships and fellowships must pursue a full-time
program of study. The recipient's obligation to provide service in exchange
for the stipend will be clearly described in the letter of appointment,
as will the stipend amount, and other important terms and conditions of
the appointment.
Scholarships covering part or all of the cost of tuition may be awarded
to enrolled graduate students who qualify on the basis of merit, pursuant
to guidelines established by the chancellor of the State University of
New York.
Tuition scholarship recipients who are eligible must apply for
New York State residency status before classes begin. The "Application
for New York State Residency Status for Tuition Billing Purposes"
is available from the Graduate School Office, and must be filed with the
Student Accounts Office. International students and students who remain
financially dependent on their parents are not eligible, and therefore
need not apply for residency.
Tuition scholarship awardees must apply for
New York State TAP benefits. After the TAP application has been filed,
students must inform the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation
of all changes that may affect the amount of the TAP award.
Tuition scholarship
funds may not be used to cover any courses that do not qualify for TAP
funding: 100-, 200-, or 300-level courses, courses taken on an audit basis,
400-level courses not individually approved for graduate credit, or physical
education courses.
Students who withdraw or reduce enrollment from full
time to part time prior to the last day of the semester will forfeit the
tuition scholarship award. Such students become liable for repayment of
any tuition covered by tuition scholarship funds.
Tuition scholarship awards
provide for remission of tuition only; fees cannot be waived. Students
receiving a tuition scholarship are expected to agree to and sign a "Terms
and Conditions Statement" as described below.
1. Tuition scholarship support covers tuition costs at resident rates only,
except in approved exceptional cases. If you are not a New York state resident, you
must establish residency within the first three weeks of classes. To establish
residency, you normally need to obtain a New York voter registration card, a New
York driver's license, and New York registration for your car (if you own one).
Exceptions to this requirement are made for students who are not eligible
to become residents of New York. These include international students on temporary
(F and J) visas. If you are being claimed as a dependent for tax purposes by
someone who is not a resident of New York, or for other compelling reasons cannot
establish residency, you may request approval from the Graduate School for a
maximum of one semester of tuition scholarship support at nonresident rates.
2. Graduate students with tuition scholarship support are required to maintain full-time registration as defined for their level. Registration and fee payments must be completed before the first day of classes each semester. Continuing students must advance register each semester.
3. Tuition scholarship awards do not cover fees, and they do not cover all courses. Undergraduate courses, audited courses, physical education courses, and some graduate courses will not be covered, nor will they count toward full-time status. At the beginning of each semester, you should make yourself aware of these limitations on tuition scholarships.
4. Students who resign assistantships or fellowships may become liable for repayment of tuition scholarship awards. Please consult the Graduate School in such circumstances.
5. You must complete the TAP Application Form for the entire academic year and return it to the Graduate Office no later than the first day of classes. The Graduate Office will forward the form to Albany. If you are not eligible for TAP you must complete a TAP Status Form, available at the Graduate Office, each semester.
6. All assistantships and fellowships are renewed on a competitive basis and are granted for a maximum of two semesters at a time. Eligibility for University funding is limited by department policy, within these general guidelines:
A. Master's candidates may be supported by University funds for a maximum of four semesters.
B. PhD candidates who enter with a master's in the same field may receive a maximum of eight semesters of support.
C. Other PhD candidates may receive a maximum of 12 semesters of support. Students may be supported by external funds, such as research grants, beyond these limits.
7. The Immigration Reform and Control Act requires that all graduate students who receive funding from Binghamton University or the Research Foundation provide proof of their identity and employment eligibility (I-9) before employment begins.
8. Recipients of assistantships are assigned duties in support of teaching or research. These responsibilities normally require between 15 and 20 hours per week. Specific information regarding your assignment will be provided by your department or school.
9. Assistantship and fellowship recipients may not simultaneously hold other appointments in the University, regardless of the source or amount of funding. Holders of assistantships or fellowships are committed on a full-time basis. In exceptional circumstances, a student may request to take on a minimal additional responsibility that will require no more than five hours of service weekly. Such requests should be made on the Extra Service Request form.
10. Once-a-semester evaluations will be submitted by faculty supervisors for each assistant's performance during the award period. Renewal of assistantships for subsequent semesters will be contingent on satisfactory performance of assistantship responsibilities and satisfactory academic progress. Students must maintain a grade point average of at least 3.0 to retain good standing in the Graduate School. A lower GPA will result in probation. Students on probation are not eligible to receive offers of new or renewed funding.
The Graduate School is required to ensure that students meet the above terms and conditions. By signing the form, you agree to meet them; your failure to meet them will result in a temporary hold on your paycheck.
A student holding a fellowship, assistantship, or traineeship appointment must maintain full-time enrollment throughout the period of the award. Since the award of an assistantship or fellowship carries the expectation that the recipient is a full-time student, students receiving these stipends may not concurrently be otherwise employed without special permission from the Graduate School. A student's total obligation may not exceed 20 hours per week. Students holding full-time jobs are not eligible for fellowships or assistantships.
A significant number of master's and doctoral students hold assistantships or traineeships awarded by the University to enable them to pursue study toward their degrees. As in the case of fellowships or scholarships, these assistantships and traineeships are awarded on a competitive basis, with academic merit being the primary determining criterion, but with financial need also taken into account in some cases.
Several categories of assistantships are awarded by the Graduate School. Research assistants help faculty members in their research work. Graduate assistants and trainees usually assist faculty in research efforts and may also assist in the teaching of undergraduate courses. Teaching assistants focus on helping faculty in the teaching of courses. Research Foundation appointments for full-time graduate students performing duties related to their educational requirements may carry the title of research project assistant. The assistants in all of these categories normally serve approximately 15-20 hours per week in research or teaching, while pursuing regular full-time study toward their degrees.
These research and teaching assignments are in accordance with the requirement stipulated in guidelines issued by the chancellor of the State University of New York on November 30, 1972, to the effect that all graduate degree candidates are required to demonstrate mastery both of research capability and of teaching competence. In every instance, the research or teaching service performed by assistants is conducted under the supervision and evaluation of a faculty mentor. This service is apprenticeship training in partial fulfillment of the requirements of their master's or doctoral degree programs, as stipulated by the chancellor of the State University of New York; these requirements must be fulfilled in an equivalent manner by all degree candidates. Assignments as assistants or trainees, therefore, are intrinsic to the teaching and research apprenticeships required for the completion of degree requirements. At the same time, the stipends support the most academically meritorious students in completing their degree requirements in the shortest possible time.
In addition to those fellowships made available through the Graduate School, the University also offers fellowships sponsored through the Foundation. Unlike scholarships, fellowships usually award full- or partial-tuition waivers as well as stipends, and allow graduate students to do research within the department. Fellowship stipends are paid regularly throughout the academic year. Application, selection, and notification of fellowships are made through sponsoring departments.
Budin Assistantship: Established by Professor Emeritus Morris and Clara Budin '72 to provide a teaching assistantship and a tuition waiver for a student studying urban geography and urban planning in the master's program. The assistantship is based on academic merit.
Edgar W.Couper Fellowships: Established in 1988 by family and friends in memory of Edgar W.Couper, a successful businessman and community leader who was committed to public education. The fellowships are awarded to full-time doctoral students in the EdD in educational theory and practice program for their high academic standing.
Doctoral Research Grant in History: Established in 1991 by Alumnus Barry Kramer '67, '72. The grant is awarded annually to a graduate student in history at the doctoral level, to support his or her research or writing activity. The recipient must have demonstrated potential for excellence as a scholar and teacher. The historical significance of the research is also taken into consideration.
The George L. Hinman Doctoral Fellowship in Public Policy: Established in honor of a former member of the State Board of Regents who was instrumental in the founding of Harpur College, awarded to a student in the political science doctoral program.
Stewart W. and Willma C. Hoyt Fellowship: Established through the Hoyt Foundation, awarded to a graduate student accepted into or enrolled in the MSW/MASS Program in the School of Education and Human Development. The fellowship is awarded based on academic merit and financial need, with first preference given to a Broome County resident.
K. Keith Innes Summer Research Grant: Awarded to a graduate student in good academic standing who is not fully funded for summer research using spectroscopy in physical chemistry, chemical physics, or other fields of chemistry, in this order of preference. Selection will be made by the chemistry chair in conjunction with the physics chair.
Ruthanne Koffman Master of Arts in Social Sciences Fellowship: Awarded to a full-time matriculated student in the Master of Arts in Social Science (MASS) program with demonstrated financial need. First preference is given to African American students, with second preference for other minority students.
Marion Clayton Link Fellowship in Creative Writing: Established in 1993 by family and friends in honor of Marion Clayton Link's lifetime interest in journalism to provide support for an exemplary graduate student in the creative writing program.
Lyceum Graduate Assistantship: Established in 1997 by the Lyceum board of directors. This assistantship is awarded to a full-time master's student in SEHD to assist the Lyceum older adult learner program and the Lyceum coordinator. Preference is given to a student with experience in working or volunteering in programs with older adults.
The Marilyn Gaddis Rose Assistantship/Fellowship in Translation Studies: Established by Distinguished Service Professor Marilyn Gaddis Rose. The assistantship/fellowship will be granted to a graduate student pursuing an advanced degree in comparative literature for the Translation Research and Instruction Program (TRIP).
The Stephen David Ross Assistantship/Fellowship in Philosophy: Established by Professor Stephen D. Ross. The assistantship/fellowship will be granted to a graduate student pursuing an advanced degree in philosophy for the Philosophy, Interpretation, and Culture Program (PIC).
The Craig Squier Memorial Fellowship: Established in 1993 in honor of a former outstanding faculty member of the Mathematical Sciences Department, awarded to a master's-or doctoral-level student in mathematical sciences.