Federal Programs
To be considered for all the following federal programs, which were established by Congress and are governed by federal rules and regulations, students must complete and file the FAFSA discussed at the beginning of this section. Students will receive a Student Aid Report as a result which will indicate an EFC (Estimated Family Contribution). This number is used in determining financial need for federal programs. Students must maintain satisfactory academic progress and complete the appropriate forms each year for awards to be renewed.
Federal Pell Grant
A Federal grant awarded to students with significant financial need, as measured by a congressionally established needs-analysis formula that measures a family's ability to pay for educational expenses. In 2013-2014: Congress passed legislation which places limits on the number of semesters a student can receive Federal Pell Awards. This limit is 12 semesters. If a student is close to or at their lifetime Pell limit, our office will notify the student via email. Students will also be notified by the U.S. Department of Education when they file their FAFSA that they are at or close to their lifetime limit.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (SEOG)
SEOG is a Federal grant which is awarded by the institution to students with exceptional financial need, with Federal Pell Grant recipients given first priority. Students who complete the FAFSA and have exceptional financial need are automatically considered for this grant. The number of awards are based on funding.
Federal Work Study Program (FWS)
This program provides employment opportunities on and off campus to students who demonstrate financial need. In the event that more students are eligible for FWS than there are funds available, preference is given to students who have exceptional financial need. The Financial Aid Office is responsible for selecting recipients and determining award amounts. Jobs are not guaranteed. Students are responsible for obtaining their own jobs by convincing supervisors that they possess the skills required to complete the work. Renewal depends upon continued financial need as well as a positive evaluation of the student's performance on the job.
Federal Direct Student Loans
The Federal Direct Student loan programs are legislatively established and the subsidized loan program is a need-based loan. Subsidized and unsubsidized loans are available to students enrolled at least half-time in a degree program.
Federal Direct Parent Loans for Undergraduate Students (PLUS)
A borrower must be the parent of a financially dependent undergraduate. Parents may apply for the cost of attendance at the College less any financial aid for which the student may be eligible.
Bureau of Indian Affairs Aid to Native Americans
The U.S. Department of the Interior administers the Higher Education Assistance Program and the Adult Vocational Training Program available to various tribes for post-secondary education and training. Application forms may be obtained from and submitted to the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Federal Building, Room 523, 100 South Clinton Street, Syracuse, NY 13260. An application is necessary for each year of study. Deadlines for the fall and spring semesters are July 1 and October 15 respectively. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and must file a FAFSA indicating Mount Saint Mary College as a recipient. Depending upon availability of funds, grants may also be made to graduate students and summer session students.
Reserve Officer Training Programs (ROTC)
The U.S. Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) Programs include the Army ROTC Program, the Navy/Marine Corps (NROTC) Programs, and the Air Force (AFROTC) Programs. These programs are offered at host colleges throughout the nation, including many colleges located in New York State. Each of the three programs has separate application procedures, eligibility requirements, award schedules and service obligations. All the programs offer financial assistance to undergraduates, with some assistance for study beyond the baccalaureate degree. Additional information about the individual programs and a list of the colleges hosting them can be obtained from each service's recruiting station.