Students' Rights and Responsibilities
As a recipient of financial aid, students have specific rights and responsibilities designed to promote transparency, accountability, and informed decision-making. Understanding these rights and responsibilities is essential for maximizing the benefits of financial aid while ensuring compliance with institutional and federal regulations.
Students’ Rights:
Right to Information: Students have the right to receive clear and comprehensive information about the financial aid process, including the types of aid available, eligibility criteria, application procedures, and deadlines.
Right to Fair and Equitable Treatment: Students have the right to fair treatment without discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age in all aspects of the financial aid process.
Right to Access Financial Aid Records: Students have the right to access their financial aid records, including information on disbursements, awards, and any changes to their aid status.
Right to Confidentiality: Students have the right to confidentiality regarding their financial aid information. Institutions must protect personal data in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
Right to Appeal: Students have the right to appeal any financial aid decisions that they believe are unfair or incorrect. The appeal process should be clearly outlined by the institution.
Right to Accept or Decline Aid: Students have the right to accept or decline any financial aid award. It is essential to understand the implications of accepting or declining aid, including potential impacts on tuition and fees.
Students’ Responsibilities:
Complete Applications Accurately: Students are responsible for completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and any other required forms accurately and on time. Providing false information can result in penalties, including loss of financial aid.
Maintain Eligibility Requirements: Students must maintain eligibility for financial aid by meeting all academic and enrollment requirements. This includes maintaining satisfactory academic progress (SAP) as defined by the institution.
Report Changes in Circumstances: Students are responsible for promptly reporting any changes in their financial circumstances, such as income changes or changes in household size, which may affect their financial aid eligibility.
Read and Understand Financial Aid Offers: Students should carefully read and understand their financial aid award letters, including the terms and conditions associated with each type of aid, such as loans and grants.
Stay Informed: Students are responsible for staying informed about financial aid policies, deadlines, and any changes that may impact their aid status. Regularly checking institutional communications is vital.
Use Financial Aid Responsibly: Students must use financial aid funds solely for educational expenses, including tuition, fees, books, supplies, and living expenses. Misuse of funds can result in penalties and loss of future aid.
Participate in Financial Literacy Programs: Students are encouraged to participate in financial literacy programs offered by the institution to better understand budgeting, saving, and managing debt.
