Cost & Financial Aid

Undergraduate Students

In order for students to receive financial aid they must meet certain eligibility requirements listed below:

• Have financial need as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
• Be a high school graduate.
• Be enrolled at least half-time at the College of Saint Elizabeth in a degree granting program.
• Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen.
• Be making satisfactory academic progress toward a degree (see explanation below).
• Not be in default of a federal loan or owe repayment of a federal grant.
• Certify that information reported on the Student Aid Report (SAR) is accurate.

For information on Financial Aid at CSE call (973) 290-4445, fax us at (973) 290-4421 or review the Financial Aid Handbook.
 

Requirements to Maintain Eligibility for Federal Aid

In addition to the requirements above, colleges and universities are required to define and enforce standards of academic progress. Students receiving federal financial aid must conform to these requirements in order to be eligible for this assistance. Satisfactory academic progress requirements at the College of Saint Elizabeth provide a maximum time frame for completion of a degree, a graduated credit accumulation over time, as well as a quality standard. The following section outlines the policy regarding satisfactory academic progress. The policy is subject to periodic revision due to federal legislative and regulatory requirements, as well as federal review.

Academic Progress Requirements for Financial Aid Eligibility

The following represents the College’s minimal qualitative and quantitative academic requirements for financial aid eligibility.  Failure to meet minimal qualitative and quantitative academic standards for academic progress will result in loss of eligibility for financial aid.  Note these requirements are minimal standards for financial aid but do not represent the normal progression within the four-to-five year time period.

Undergraduate Full-Time Students

I. Minimum Qualitative Standards

Students must maintain a minimum grade point average of the following:

• 1.8 Cumulative Grade Point Average for the first year,  first two semesters, for first-time college students (does not apply to transfer students).
• 2.0  Cumulative Grade Point Average for all remaining semesters.

II. Minimum Quantitative Standards

• Students must complete the following cumulative numbers of credits each academic year (credits = 128 required for the degree + 5 credits of Basic Skills).  All full-time students must attempt a minimum of 12 credits each semester and earn:
• Year I: 24 Credits
• Year II: 50 Credits
• Year III: 76 Credits
• Year IV: 102 Credits
• Year V: 128 Credits
• Year VI: 133 Credits
  (128 for degree plus 5 credits of Basic Skills)

• Satisfactory completion of courses is indicated by course work of A, B+, B, C+, C, D, DE or P. Course withdrawals, audit, and failure (F grades) will adversely affect the student’s cumulative grade point average and/or accumulated credits. Grades of NC will adversely affect the student’s accumulated credits.
• Incomplete grades will not be counted into the student’s grade point average or cumulative numbers of credits until a grade is received or resolved as an FI (Failure due to an incomplete).
• Repeated courses will only count once into the cumulative earned credits and calculated into the cumulative grade point average according to College policy.
• In the process of earning a degree, a maximum of three courses with institutional credits will be included in establishing eligibility for financial aid. This number may be increased if approval for additional remedial courses is obtained in writing from Dean of the Women’s College and Undergraduate Studies. This approval must be submitted to the Director of Financial Aid.  Basic Skills and the writing competency must be successfully completed during the first four semesters at the College.
   

III. Degree Completion

• It is expected that full-time students in continuous attendance will complete their degree in four or five academic years. If necessary, students may appeal for an extension of time that will take the students into a sixth year. Scholarships and Financial awards are only for four years of study. If extenuating circumstances occur preventing the student from completing the program within the time permitted, she/he should contact the Financial Aid Office to obtain and complete the Scholarship Appeal Form.  Once submitted, the appeal will be presented to the Scholarship Appeal Committee.
• Transfer students must adhere to the above quantitative and qualitative standards, based on the credits successfully  transferred and class standing at the time of admission to the College.
• Students completing double majors, changing majors, taking a leave of absence or withdrawing from courses in a semester because of an emergency situation, or any other extenuating  situation will be reviewed on an individual basis by the Dean of the Women’s College and Undergraduate Studies and a recommendation made to the Committee on Financial Aid and Scholarships regarding the need for a waiver of academic progress criteria.

Undergraduate Part-time Students  

• Half-time students are expected to complete 12 credits toward graduation each academic year (fall, winter, and spring). Note these requirements are minimal standards for financial aid.
• The number of years a half-time student has to complete the degree is determined by dividing the total number of credits needed by 12. For example a transfer student needing 60 credits would be allowed 5 years (60/12= 5 years) and a student needing 128 credits would be allowed 11 years (128/12= 10.6 or 11 years).
• A full-time student moving to half-time status would be treated as a transfer student and the time allowed to complete the degree would be based on a minimum number of 12 credits per academic year. This change in status may adversely affect financial aid. Change of status will be reported to the Office of Financial Aid by the Dean of the Women’s College and Undergraduate Studies.  

Graduate Students

Both part-time and full-time students are eligible to apply for financial aid, but federal sources of financial aid are not available to international students.  In order for graduate students to receive financial aid they must meet the eligibility requirements:

• Have financial need as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA);
• Be enrolled at least half-time at the College of Saint Elizabeth in a degree granting program or in a certification program;
• Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen;
• Be making satisfactory academic progress toward a degree;
• Not be in default of a federal loan or owe a repayment of a federal grant;
• Comply with the terms of the Anti-Drug Abuse Act;
• Certify registration with selective service if required; and
• Certify that information reported on the Student Aid Report (SAR) is accurate.

The Application Process

All students are encouraged to begin the financial aid application process as soon as possible, and prospective students are advised to request financial aid information at the time of application for admission. Those students who file late applications and do not meet the deadlines may be ineligible for aid or have their awards affected.

All students who receive state, federal or institutional financial aid must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You may submit the FAFSA to the Federal Government via the following methods:

• through the Internet by using FAFSA on the Web (www.fafsa.ed.gov) U.S. Department recommended process.
• by mailing a paper FAFSA which you can download from the FAFSA website, complete and mail-in.

The FAFSA can be submitted to the federal processor after January 2. Any application submitted prior to that date will be returned unprocessed. The College of Saint Elizabeth college code is 002600. The college will receive a copy of your Student Aid Report electronically as long as the college code is listed on the FAFSA.

The Financial Aid Office may require the following documentation from each student receiving aid:

• Copy of your federal tax returns.
• Copy of your social security card without restrictions.
• Family verification worksheet.

The student will be notified by the Financial Aid Office if any further documentation is required.

An entrance interview is required of all first time borrowers prior to receiving their first loan disbursement.

Requirements to Maintain Eligibility for Federal Aid

The financial aid application process must be repeated for each financial aid year.  Each student must submit a financial aid application (FAFSA) or FAFSA renewal annually. In order to continue to receive financial aid, recipients must adhere to the following requirements:

• Maintain satisfactory academic progress as defined in the online catalog;
• Provide the required documentation annually and by the deadline specified by the College for receipt of federal or state funds;
• Report any changes in:
• the amount of aid received from non-college sources; 
• enrollment status, e.g., a change in the number of credits being carried in a given semester; and 
• financial, residential, or marital status. 

Any funds received from other sources, such as civic organizations, foundations, employment or other benefits, must be reported to the Financial Aid Office.  Federal regulations require that these awards be treated as educational resources for determining the applicant’s eligibility.  If a student receives no-need based financial assistance, then the combination of all merit and outside resources may not exceed the cost of attendance.

Academic and Financial Matters Impacting Eligibility for Financial Aid

A student may become ineligible for financial aid for failure to maintain good academic standing or satisfactory academic progress. Satisfactory academic progress requirements at the College of Saint Elizabeth provide a maximum time frame for completion of a degree, a graduated credit accumulation over time, as well as a quality standard. These minimum standards ensure that a student is actively pursuing a degree.  The academic section of the Online Catalog outlines the policy regarding satisfactory academic progress.  This policy is subject to periodic legislative and regulatory requirements, as well as federal review. Satisfactory completion of courses is indicated by course work of A, A-, B+, B, B-, C+, C, or P.  Course withdrawals and audits adversely affect the cumulative grade point average and/or accumulated credits.

Incomplete grades will not be counted into the student’s grade point average or cumulative number of credits until a grade is received or resolved as an FI (Failure due to an incomplete).

Change in a student’s enrollment status will affect his financial aid package. At the beginning of an academic term if a student is not permitted to return to the College of Saint Elizabeth because of any academic or disciplinary action(s) taken by the College, or because the student has an outstanding debt to the College, the student’s financial aid award will become void until such time that the student is granted permission by the College to return.

Notification of Loss/Reduction of Financial Aid

Immediately following each semester, the director of each graduate program will inform any student in that program of his/her failure to meet the College’s standards for satisfactory academic progress and of any action taken as a result.  This notification will be followed by a letter from the Director of Financial Aid informing the student that his/her financial aid eligibility has been terminated or that his/her financial aid may be in jeopardy.  The status of students on probation will be reviewed on a semester-by-semester basis to determine their eligibility for financial aid. Students academically dismissed from the College will automatically have their financial aid terminated.

The Appeal Process

Students whose aid has been terminated can appeal this decision by submitting a written appeal to the Director of Financial Aid.  The Financial Aid Director will review the appeal and may consult with other appropriate college administrators, such as the director of the graduate program in which the student is enrolled. The Director of Financial Aid will send written notification of the result of the appeal to the student.

A student whose appeal is granted will have financial aid reinstated for one semester.  Additional semesters of eligibility will be based on satisfactorily completing the stated conditions or meeting the minimum standards of this policy.  Failure to meet either requirement will result in termination of aid without the prospect of appeal.

Appeal Conditions For Reinstatement of Aid

One or more of the following conditions are considered reasons for reinstating financial aid:

• An error on the academic record;
• Late grade change or course correction(s);
• Exceptional medical, employment, or personal reason(s);
• Substantial changes in curriculum, including elimination of a program or change to another degree program;
• Successful completion of conditions leading to the warning or loss of aid;
• Other extenuating circumstances.

Undergraduate Students

Academic Review Process and Notification of Students

Immediately following the Committee on Admissions and Student Academic Standing review of students’ progress at the end of the fall and spring semesters, the Dean of the Women’s College and Undergraduate Studies for students in that division will inform students who have failed to meet the College’s standards for satisfactory academic progress. This notification will be followed by a letter from the Director of Financial Aid informing students that their financial aid eligibility has been terminated or that they have been placed on probation.

Probation/Dismissal: Financial Aid Implications

Students who are placed on probation will only be eligible for one additional semester of funding. Students academically dismissed from the College will automatically have their financial aid terminated by the College of Saint Elizabeth. Students cannot appeal the decision unless the Committee on Admissions and Student Academic Standing (CASAS) has reinstated them into the College.

Appeal Process

Students whose aid has been terminated can appeal this decision via the following procedure:

1

The student must submit a written appeal to the Director of Financial Aid.  The Director will review the appeal and may consult with other appropriate college administrators.  The Director will send written notification of the result of the appeal to the student.

2

A student whose initial appeal is denied may send a second appeal, in writing, to the Committee on Scholarship and Financial Aid.  

A student whose appeal is granted will have financial aid reinstated for one semester.  Additional semesters of eligibility will be based on satisfactorily completing the stated conditions or meeting the minimum standards of this policy.  Failure to meet either requirement will result in termination of aid without the prospect of appeal. 

Transfer students will be reviewed each semester for progress and may lose their aid mid-year depending on their first date of attendance at the College.

One or more of the following conditions are considered reasons for reinstating institutional financial aid:

• An error on the academic record.
• Late grade change or course correction(s).
• Exceptional medical or personal reason(s).
• Substantial changes in curriculum, including elimination of a major or change of major.
• Successful completion of conditions leading to the warning or loss of aid.
• Successful completion of summer/intersession courses/credit by examination/Basic Skills courses.
• Students who are able to satisfy specific conditions (i.e., minimum G.P.A. and credit completion requirement) through summer or intersession courses must provide documentation (i.e., copy of a report card or transcript) to the Financial Aid Director prior to the beginning of the following semester.  Aid will be restored once the student reaches the minimum qualifications as stated in the policy. 
• Other extenuating circumstances.

A student who is granted an Official Leave of Absence from the College of Saint Elizabeth can retain an awarded institutional scholarship upon returning to the institution if the following conditions are met:

• The Official Leave of Absence is granted while the student is currently meeting the minimum requirements to retain the institutional scholarship.
• The student has not been on leave for more than two consecutive semesters (exclusive of summer sessions and intersessions).
• A student, while on an Official Leave of Absence from the College of Saint Elizabeth, cannot transfer credits to the College of Saint Elizabeth to become eligible for an institutional scholarship that has been withdrawn.

Application Procedures

To apply for all types of financial aid at the College of Saint Elizabeth, a student will need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Form to the Federal Processor.

Financial Aid Form

A student must complete the FAFSA on-line at www.fafsa.ed.gov . In addition, they can obtain a FAFSA worksheet from the College Financial Aid Office located in Santa Rita Hall. (Phone: 973-290-4445, Fax: 973-290-4421).This form can assist them with the completion of the FAFSA. The FAFSA should be completed and submitted as soon as possible after January 1.

The FAFSA form is to be submitted to the Federal Processor and must have the appropriate code number. The FAFSA code is 002600. It will take four-to-six weeks for the forms to be processed. 

The FAFSA for the 11-12 Academic Year must be received by the Financial Aid Office by June 30, 2012.

In completing the FAFSA, the student and family should provide information from federal income tax returns for the preceding calendar year. Data about family financial circumstances should be actual, not estimated.

Financial Aid History

A student who attended other colleges or universities before coming to the College of Saint Elizabeth must have a Financial Aid History check. This is done automatically thru the NSLDS system to be sure students are not overawarded.

Estimating Your Financial Aid

First-year students who want to receive an early estimate of their Financial Aid Award are encouraged to complete the College of Saint Elizabeth’s Early Estimator Form. This will allow our First-Year Student Financial Aid Counselor to provide you with a general idea of the amount of aid for which you will qualify.

Verification Process

Once eligibility for aid is established, verifying information such as household size, number or family members in college, and other financial information may be required if the application is selected for mandatory verification by the U.S. Dept. of Education.

Graduate Students

All students are encouraged to begin the financial aid application process as soon as possible, and prospective students are advised to request financial aid information at the time of application for admission. Those students who file late applications and do not meet the deadlines may be ineligible for aid or have their awards affected.

All students who receive state, federal or institutional financial aid must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You may submit the FAFSA to the Federal Government via the following methods:

• through the Internet by using FAFSA on the Web (www.fafsa.ed.gov) U.S. Department recommended process.
• by mailing a paper FAFSA which you can download from the FAFSA website, complete and mail-in.

The FAFSA can be submitted to the federal processor after January 2. Any application submitted prior to that date will be returned unprocessed. The College of Saint Elizabeth college code is 002600. The college will receive a copy of your Student Aid Report electronically as long as the college code is listed on the FAFSA.

The Financial Aid Office may require the following documentation from each student receiving aid:

• Copy of your federal tax returns.
• Copy of your social security card without restrictions.
• Family verification worksheet.

The student will be notified by the Financial Aid Office if any further documentation is required.

An entrance interview is required of all first time borrowers prior to receiving their first loan disbursement.

Undergraduate Students

Federal Programs

Various departments and agencies of the federal government offer programs of aid for undergraduate students. These include grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. Please note,  students who  are eligible for federal financial aid may apply these funds for approved study abroad programs. (See Study Abroad in the academic section of the catalog.)

Federal Pell Grant

Is a federal grant program available to students demonstrating exceptional need. The grant is available in an amount of up to $5550 per academic year, for undergraduates who are matriculated in a degree program with no prior bachelor’s or professional degree. A student’s eligibility for a Federal Pell Grant is based on a congressionally approved formula which considers financial circumstances.

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG)

A Federal grant program available to students with exceptional financial need who are enrolled at least half time as matriculated students. The student must be Pell eligible. (Limited funds available)

Federal Perkins Loans

A five percent interest loan for undergraduate students with exceptional financial need enrolled at least half time as matriculated students. Amount of loan is based on available funds and number of eligible applicants. Loan repayment begins nine months after withdrawal or graduation from college. Students are allowed up to 10 years to pay. (Limited funds available).

Federal Work-Study

The Federal Work-Study (FWS) program provides jobs for undergraduate and graduate students with financial need. Students may work for the College or for an approved off-campus agency. The number of hours a student is allowed to work depends on the FWS award. Eligibility for participation in the program is determined by the Financial Aid Office. The FWS Program is administered by the Career Service Office.

Federal Direct Subsidized/Unsubsidized Loans

Issued to students by the U.S. Dept of Education, depending on income level, these loans may be interest-free until six months after you leave college. Students have 10 years to repay. Interest is fixed at 6.8%, capped at 8.25% . Loans range from $3,500 for first-year students to $5,500 for seniors. An additional Federal Direct UnSubsidized  Loan is available for $2,000 per academic year.

Federal Direct Parent Loan for Students (PLUS)

This program enables parents with good credit histories to borrow to pay the education expenses of each child who is a dependent undergraduate student, enrolled at least half time.  The amount the parents may borrow is equal to the cost of attendance minus all other financial aid for which a student is eligible.  The interest rate is fixed. Up to a three percent origination fee may be deducted by the Federal government and a one percent Federal default fee may be charged by individual loan guarantors.  Repayment of interest and principal begins while the student is in school.

Institutional Aid

College of Saint Elizabeth scholarships and grants are awarded to students who have financial need and/or above average academic records. The majority of scholarship funds are restricted to full-time undergraduate students. Students who apply for financial aid will be considered for all scholarships for which they are eligible.

Scholarships are awarded based on the student’s GPA upon entering the College and will not change if the student’s GPA increases.  Scholarships and financial awards are only for four years of study.  If extenuating circumstances occur preventing the student from completing the program within the time permitted, she/he should contact the Director of Financial Aid regarding the appropriate appeal process.  It is the policy of the College of Saint Elizabeth that all scholarship and grant recipients complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid every academic year.

Presidential Scholarships

Presidential Scholarships are the most prestigious scholarships offered by the College. A limited number of full tuition undergraduate scholarships are awarded to entering residential students who are designated as N.J. Bloustein Distinguished Scholars. Renewable for three additional years with continued academic achievement (minimum GPA of 3.25).

Elizabethan Scholarships

Scholarships of $13,000 to $16,000 are awarded to students who have outstanding academic performance in a challenging high school program and who have outstanding SAT scores. Renewable for three additional years with continued academic achievement (minimum GPA of 3.0).

Seton Scholarships

Scholarships of $8,000 to $12,000 are awarded to students who have done well in a strong academic high school program and who have competitive SAT scores. The awards are granted in recognition of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, Foundress of the Sisters of Charity, for her genuine and compassionate dedication to helping others. Renewable for three additional years with continued academic achievement (minimum GPA of 2.5).

Xavier Awards 

Awards of $4,000 to $7,000 are granted to students who have demonstrated the values of leadership in a spirit of service and social responsibility as exemplified by Mother Mary Xavier Mehegan. Renewable for three additional years with continued satisfactory academic progress and good academic standing as defined in this Catalog.

Morris Township Day Scholarship

The award is generated from a carnival held every May in Morris Township and is awarded in December for the Spring semester.  The scholarship is only for Continuing Studies students who are residents of Morris Township.  This scholarship is not renewable.

Criteria

• Full-time (12+) Continuing Studies students without tuition reimbursement: $1,000
• 3/4-time (11-9) Continuing Studies students without tuition reimbursement: $750
• Part-time (8-6) Continuing Studies students without tuition reimbursement: $500
• Full-time, 3/4-time and part-time Continuing Studies students with partial tuition reimbursement will be considered by the committee about what amount will be awarded.

The Mary McKeon Memorial Scholarship

Eligible Recipients

• Continuing Studies Students (female or male)
• Matriculated
• Earned a minimum of 15 credits at the College of Saint Elizabeth
• Minimum GPA of 2.5

Scholarship Guidelines

• The tuition for one course will be given to two students each semester.
• Students must submit a personal statement explaining their need for this scholarship.
• The scholarship is renewable once. The student must write a letter requesting renewal. Generally, the scholarship will be renewed the following semester (i.e. two students are given the scholarship one semester and are renewed for the following semester.  Two new students will be granted the scholarship the following year).
• The scholarships are given in the Fall and Spring semesters.
• Students must apply by October 15th for the Spring semester and by April 15th for the Fall.
• Students will apply through their advisor.

Alumnae/i Daughter and Granddaughter Scholarship

Half tuition award for resident students or commuter students. Daughters and granddaughters of CSE Alumnae/i who are applying as full-time first-year students are eligible for these scholarships. Awarded to the top 10 candidates among the applicants.

Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth Scholarship

$2,500 not based on financial need. Renewable with satisfactory academic achievement. May be awarded in combinations with other scholarships or need-based financial aid. Nieces or grand nieces of Sisters of Charity (living or deceased) who meet the ordinary admission criteria of the College are eligible for these scholarships.

Sisters of Charity High School Scholarship

Up to five half-tuition scholarships may be awarded to students in each of the Sisters of Charity High Schools.  Selection for the scholarship will be based upon the Principal’s recommendation addressing how the student lives out the mission of the Sisters of Charity and the student’s academic records.  Renewal criteria: minimum 2.5 GPA and standard academic progress.

International Student Scholarship

Each fall semester, the College awards two full scholarships covering tuition, room and board.  Those selected for these highly competitive scholarships must prove that they can cover all remaining costs including transportation, books, insurance, personal expenses, etc.  Only international students who are applying as full-time, first-year students in the Women’s College are eligible for the full scholarships.  All scholarships are renewable for a maximum of four years provided that the student maintains a minimum GPA of 3.0.

Vincentian Scholarship

Vincentian Scholarships are available to matriculated bachelor’s and master’s degree, ACT, and Dietetic Internship students.  Students applying must have a solid academic record; a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 is required for undergraduate, transfer, and graduate students for both initial application and renewal.  Applicants must also complete an application stating the reasons they are deserving of the scholarship, personal and professional goals, the direct relationship between their goals and those of the College, Continuing Studies, or Graduate Program Missions; financial constraints on their ability to achieve their academic goals. Applicants cannot be eligible to receive financial assistance in the form of tuition reimbursement by an employer or a College of Saint Elizabeth tuition discount.

Transfer Student Scholarships

The College offers two scholarship programs for eligible transfer students.

Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship

Minimum of five renewable scholarships ranging from $4,000 to half tuition/year, 3.0 minimum G.P.A., a minimum of 32 credits, and a letter of recommendation from a Phi Theta Kappa advisor are required.  Open to full-time students who are United States citizens or eligible non-citizens.  Students must enroll immediately following their full-time enrollment at another college.  Preference will be given to applications received by June 1 for fall semester and by December 1 for spring semester.

Transfer Scholarship

There are a varying number of renewable scholarships ranging from $4,000 to half tuition/year, 3.0 minimum G.P.A., and a minimum of 32 credits available.  Open to full-time students who are United States citizens.  Students with a previous bachelor’s degree are not eligible. Students must enroll immediately following their full-time enrollment at another college.  Preference will be given to applications received by June 1 for fall semester and by December 1 for spring semester.

Renewing Institutional Aid

All students receiving College of Saint Elizabeth Academic Scholarships will have their GPA reviewed at the conclusion of each semester in order to determine renewal eligibility of their scholarships. A letter from the Financial Aid Office will be sent to any student whose GPA falls below the required minimum for his/her relevant scholarship.  Students who receive such a letter must make an appointment with the Director of Financial Aid and the Associate Dean for the Women’s College to discuss the matter.  If the student’s GPA does not improve, financial aid will be withheld.

For the  Elizabethan, International, Alumnae/i Daughter and Granddaughter, and Sisters of Charity High School scholarships, the G.P.A. needed to maintain these scholarships is 3.0.

• Resultant G.P.A. is between 2.99 and 2.75 – your present scholarship award will be reduced by 25%.
• Resultant G.P.A. is between 2.74 and 2.50 – your present scholarship award will be reduced by 50%.
• Resultant G.P.A. is between 2.49 and below – your present scholarship award will be reduced by 100% and will be totally withdrawn.

For the Presidential Scholarship the G.P.A. to maintain this scholarship is 3.25.

• Resultant G.P.A. is between 3.24 and 3.00 – your present scholarship award will be reduced by 25%.
• Resultant G.P.A. is between 2.99 and 2.75 – your present scholarship award will be reduced by 50%.
• Resultant G.P.A. is between 2.74 and 2.50 – your present scholarship will be reduced by 100% and will be totally withdrawn.

Endowed and Annual Scholarships

Scholarships play an important role in providing deserving students with the opportunity to attend the College of Saint Elizabeth. Endowed Scholarships, established by large gifts from generous benefactors who may wish to honor loved ones or admired faculty, require that the principle be invested.  The interest from that investment is used as the scholarship award.

Annual Scholarships, funded by substantial annual contributions from individual alumnae/i and friends as well as from Alumnae/i Association Chapters, are not endowed, but are awarded as they are received. Annual Alumnae/i Chapter Scholarships (Morris County, Monmouth-Ocean County, North Jersey), established by each of the above Alumnae/i Association Chapters and awarded at the discretion of the College President.

For information on Scholarships at CSE call (973) 290-4445 or fax us at (973) 290-4421. To see a list of endowed scholarships, see Appendix B in this catalog.

State Programs

New Jersey Tuition Aid Grant (TAG)

Students who are or intend to be full-time undergraduates at the College are eligible.  Applicants must demonstrate need for college student aid and must have been legal residents of New Jersey for at least 12 consecutive months before receiving the grant.  Students who have received a baccalaureate degree are not eligible.

Distinguished Scholars Program

Students demonstrating the highest level of academic achievement, based on secondary school records and junior year Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) scores will be selected for consideration by their secondary schools.

Urban Scholars Program

Is awarded to students from the state’s urban and economically distressed areas. Both scholarship programs are based on class rank and grade point average.  Awards will be offered to secondary school seniors from these selections.  Students accepting awards must enroll at a New Jersey college or university as full-time undergraduate students.  Recipients must be residents of New Jersey for at least 12 consecutive months prior to receiving an award.  Financial need is not a factor in determining eligibility.Students selected as scholars may receive TAG and EOF grants if eligible.

Educational Opportunity Fund Grant (EOF)

For students from educationally disadvantaged backgrounds demonstrating exceptional financial need who are New Jersey residents and enrolled full-time as undergraduate at a New Jersey college or university.  To qualify for this program, recipients must be admitted into the EOF program at the college and complete the FAFSA.

New Jersey CLASS Loan (College Loans to Assist Students)

Undergraduate and graduate students or parent(s), legal guardian, spouse or relative may borrow for each student per academic year.  New Jersey students must be enrolled at least half-time, at an approved school in New Jersey or outside of New Jersey. Students also must be making satisfactory academic progress toward a degree. 

Other Assistance

Veterans Administration Assistance

The College of Saint Elizabeth is a military-friendly institution that holds membership in the national veterans education network, Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges (SOC), its Concurrent Admissions Program ConAP, and the Yellow Ribbon GI Education Enhancement Program associated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.  To be eligible for the Yellow Ribbon Program a veteran must be eligible for 100% benefits as determined by the VA. On August 1, 2009, the Post-9/11 GI Bill went  into effect and covers individuals with at least 90 days of aggregate service on or after September 11, 2001, or individuals discharged with an honorable discharge or with a service-connected disability after 30 days.   Veterans must be in good academic standing, and be making satisfactory academic progress in order to receive specified  tuition, fees, books and housing allowances.  More information on the Veteran Benefits Program and the new Post-911 GI Bill can be obtained from the CSE Financial Aid Office or at the federal website http://www.gibill.va.gov/GI_Bill_Info/benefits.htm#CH33.

Department of Vocational Rehabilitation Assistance (DVR)

Federal assistance is available to students with physical or psychological disabilities. The award amounts vary. Interested persons should contact their local Vocational Rehabilitation office.

Payment Plans

Students can choose to make monthly installments using a credit card or e-check through Tuition Payment Plan, a Sallie Mae Company, by calling the company directly at 1-800-635-0120 or going to www.TuitionPay.com. Sallie Mae charges a convenience fee per credit card and e-check transaction.  Further information is available through the Bursar’s Office.

Private Sources

Some employers offer general scholarships to employees’ children (or employees themselves) as  one of their fringe benefits. Others sponsor scholarships for children of employees under the National Merit Program. If you are a member of a union, ask for the AFL-CIO Scholarship booklet. Civic  and cultural organizations, such as the Rotary  Club or the Knights of Columbus have active scholarship program, and not all of them are restricted to members. These groups are anxious to distribute the money they have and while some may be need based, others use academic achievement as the basis for selections.

Student Loans

Different types of federal and state student loans are available to assist in financing a student’s education. They are the Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans, Direct PLUS and Grad PLUS Loan Program and the New Jersey Class loan. In addition, lenders offer alternative educational loans to students and their parents. Students apply directly to the lender. Before incurring any loan, students should know the terms and conditions of the loan, as well as their rights and responsibilities as student borrowers.

A loan is money that is borrowed and paid back with interest. The specific sum of money borrowed is called the principal. Interest is a percentage of the principal which the student pays as a fee for borrowing. Students usually pay back the loan in monthly installments until the entire amount of the loan (principal and interest) is repaid. In some cases, a student may postpone or defer payment of the loan, but a deferment must be approved by US DOE or the lending institution. If a student fails to repay his or her loan or defaults, the government may penalize him or her, and may withhold money from paychecks and tax refunds. In addition, the student will be ineligible to receive any future federal aid and his or her credit rating will be negatively affected. The exact terms and conditions of a student loan may be obtained in detail from the lender.

While student loan programs differ in some ways, as student’s rights and responsibilities as a borrower are essentially the same for all programs. The rights and responsibilities are explained during two mandatory counseling sessions at the College of Saint Elizabeth. The first one takes place when a student starts school and is called an “entrance interview”.  The other session, the “exit interview” takes place when a student graduates or withdraws from the College of Saint Elizabeth.

Student Employment

There are certain requirements that students must meet and maintain to be considered for on-campus employment. To be eligible to participate in the Student Employment Program, a student must be enrolled in an academic program and working towards degree completion.  The student must be enrolled in courses during the semester in which the student intends to work.  Students are permitted to work during winter and summer recess as long as they are enrolled for courses in the subsequent term (Please note: on-campus employment opportunities are limited during school recesses).  Interested students are required to file an application for employment and complete hiring paperwork with the Career Services Office prior to their employment start date.

Additional information regarding the Student Employment Program is available in the Career Services Office.

Graduate Students

There are several types of financial aid available at the College of Saint Elizabeth.  Federal and State loans (to be repaid), tuition discounts and reimbursements (not to be repaid), and Graduate Assistantships are available. 

Educational loans play an important role in each student’s eligibility for loan programs.  All federally funded student loans are through the William D. Ford Direct Loan Program where students may borrow funds to cover their cost of education less any other financial aid received. 

Federal Programs

Federal Direct Subsidized Loans

The College of Saint Elizabeth participates in the William D. Ford Direct Loan program. The student borrows loans directly from the U.S. Dept of Education. To receive a Subsidized Loan, the student must demonstrate financial need as determined by the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).  Applicants must be citizens or eligible non-citizens of the United States.  They must also be enrolled at least half time (or six credits) in a degree or certificate program and making satisfactory academic progress.  There is no interest charged while the student is enrolled at least half time, interest is charged at the time of repayment.  The interest is deferred until six months after graduation or when enrollment is less than half time.

Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans

Direct Unsubsidized Loans are available to students who do not demonstrate financial need.  With an Unsubsidized Loan, the student is charged interest from the time the loan is disbursed until it is paid in full.  The student can choose to capitalize the interest, or allow the interest to accrue while enrolled and be added to the principal, or he/she can pay the interest as it comes due.  Repayment of the loan is deferred while the student is enrolled at least half time.  To maintain eligibility, a student must be enrolled at least half the time in a certificate or degree program and must make satisfactory academic progress.  Applicants must be citizens or eligible non-citizens of the United States.

Federal Graduate Plus Loan

As of July 1, 2006 eligibility for PLUS loans was extended to graduate and professional students.  The loan program may be a low-cost, fixed rate alternative to private and alternative loans which graduate students have used previously to finance their graduate education. Students must file the FAFSA and meet all other federal eligibility criteria including federal verification requirements and have exhausted all Direct Loan Subsidized and Unsubsidized eligibility. Students have the ability to borrow up to the cost of attendance less other financial aid and a fixed interest rate of 8.5 percent.

State Programs

New Jersey College Loan to Assist Students (NJCLASS Loan)

The NJCLASS is a loan program administered by the New Jersey Higher Education Assistance Authority (NJHEAA) who also serves as the lender.  NJCLASS is available to New Jersey residents attending an approved school in New Jersey or outside of New Jersey.  Out of state students who attend an approved New Jersey school are also eligible.  The NJCLASS program is an alternative to the Stafford loan.  The applicant must be a citizen or eligible non-citizen of the United States for at least six months prior to filing the loan application.  The student must be enrolled at least half time and making satisfactory academic progress.  Loan approval is determined by credit history, and a co-signer may be required.  Interest accrues while the student is in school.  The student may choose either an active repayment or deferred principal repayment option.  There is a 2% Origination Fee.  If he/she selects a deferred option, he must maintain half time enrollment status.  Loan applications for the NJCLASS loan are available in the Financial Aid Office, or through the State by calling 1-800-792-8670.

Tuition Installment Plans

Students can choose to make payment in regular monthly installments through The Tuition Pay Plan by calling the company directly at 1-800-635-0120 or by visiting www.tuitionpay.com.  Further information on this plan is available through the Business Office.

Graduate Assistantships

A limited number of graduate assistantships are offered each year.  These assistantships will ordinarily provide tuition waivers for a maximum of two courses per semester.  The assistant will be expected to work on campus in positions that are both professionally and personally relevant.  Contact the Office of Graduate Programs or the Office of Admissions for an application.

Vincentian Scholarship

Vincentian Scholarships are available to matriculated Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs.  Please contact the Office of Admissions for eligibility rules, application forms and procedures.

Tuition Discounts

Several tuition discounts are available to graduate students.  Please refer to the “Tuition and Fees” section of this catalog for a complete description of these discounts.

Veterans

The College of Saint Elizabeth is a military-friendly institution that holds membership in the national veterans education network, Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges (SOC), its Concurrent Admissions Program ConAP, and the Yellow Ribbon GI Education Enhancement Program associated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.  On August 1, 2009, the Post-9/11 GI Bill went into effect and covers individuals with at least 90 days of aggregate service on or after September 11, 2001, or individuals discharged with an honorable discharge or with a service-connected disability after 30 days.   Veterans must be in good academic standing, and be making satisfactory academic progress in order to receive specified  tuition, fees, books and housing allowances.  To qualify for the Yellow Ribbon Program, a veteran must be determined eligible by the VA to receive 100% benefits. More information on the Veteran Benefits Program and the new Post-911 GI Bill can be obtained from the CSE Financial Aid Office or at the federal website http://www.gibill.va.gov/GI_Bill_Info/benefits.htm#CH33.

Private Sources of Aid

There are possibilities of aid from a variety of private sources.  Some employers offer general scholarships to employees (or employees’ children) as one of their fringe benefits.  Others sponsor scholarships for children of employees under the National Merit Program.  Members of unions should obtain the AFL-CIO Scholarship booklet.  Civic and cultural organizations, such as the Rotary Club or the Knights of Columbus, have active scholarship programs, and not all of them are restricted to members.  These groups are anxious to distribute the money they have, and while some may be need-based, others use academic achievement as the basis for selection.

Summary of Federal and State Loans Available to Graduate Students

Who May Borrow? and How Much? Matriculated M.A. and M.S. students.

• Federal Direct Subsidized/Unsubsidized Loan Program
• up to a maximum $8,500 per year in subsidized loan funds.
• up to a maximum of $12,000 in unsubsidized loan funds.
• NJCLASS Loan – students may borrow up to the Cost of Attendance less any other financial aid. A co-signer may be required.

Non-degree students

• Not eligible for any financial aid.

Note:  Federal regulations regarding student eligibility are subject to change without notice.

Private Loan Programs

Please see the Financial Aid Office to receive a list of private lenders that may be of service for loans. Please know these loans are subject to a credit check and may need a co-signer depending upon the findings of the private lending institution.

Undergraduate Students

The Financial Aid office will inform continuing students of any changes in state and federal regulations that will impact their eligibility for financial aid programs. Continuing students will also be notified annually in November of the renewal application process. In order to continue to receive financial aid, recipients must adhere to the following requirements (where applicable):

1

Supply all documentation required for receipt of federal or state funds by the deadline specified (usually June 1 for continuing students). Keep informed of changes in financial aid regulations and procedures. EOF students are required to attend a five-week Summer Program prior to the first year.

2

Inform the Financial Aid Office of any changes affecting the student’s financial circumstances. Such changes may include but are not limited to enrollment, financial, resident, or marital status; changes in name, address, or social security number.

3

Maintain satisfactory academic progress as outlined in the Undergraduate Catalog or its update.

4

Complete Entrance and Exit Interviews prior to disbursement of initial loans and prior to graduation or termination of enrollment.

Graduate Students

Student Loans

Before incurring any loan, students should know the terms and conditions of the loan, as well as their rights and responsibilities as student borrowers.

A loan is money that is borrowed and paid back with interest. Students usually pay back the loan in monthly installments until the entire amount of the loan (principal and interest) is repaid.  In some cases, a student may postpone or defer payment of the loan, but a deferment must be approved by the lending institution. 

If a student fails to repay his or her loan (or defaults), the government may penalize him or her, and may withhold money from paychecks and tax refunds.  In addition, the student will be ineligible to receive any future federal aid and his or her credit rating will be negatively affected. 

The exact terms and conditions of a student loan may be obtained in detail from the lender. While student loan programs differ in some ways, a student’s rights and responsibilities as a borrower are basically the same for all programs. These rights and responsibilities are explained during two mandatory counseling sessions at the College of Saint Elizabeth. The first one takes place when a student starts at the College and is known as the “entrance interview.” The other session, the “exit interview”, takes place when a student graduates or withdraws from the College of Saint Elizabeth. The next two sections summarize the student’s rights and responsibilities.

Rights

As borrowers, students have the right to be provided with clear and concise information about the terms and conditions of student loans.  The following list describes students’ rights regarding financial aid:

• Students must receive a copy of the promissory note which legally binds them to repay the loan.
• Students have the right to a “grace period” in certain cases before the repayment period begins.
• Students must be given a list of deferment conditions.
• Students must be informed of the full amount of the loan, the interest rate and when repayment begins.
• Students must be informed of the effect borrowing will have on eligibility for other aid.
• Students must be aware of any charges to them by the lender.
• Students must know the maximum yearly and total loan amounts as well as the maximum and minimum repayment periods.
• Students must be informed of their expected total debt and what their monthly repayments will be.
• Students must be aware of what constitutes default and its consequences.
• Students must be informed of refinancing and consolidation options.
• Students must be notified if their lender sells or transfers a loan to a different holder.

Responsibilities

• Students must notify their lenders if they: graduate, withdraw from the College or transfer to another college; change their status (i.e., drop below full-time or drop below part-time); change their name, marital status, address, or social security number.
• Students must repay their loans in accordance with the repayment schedule given to them, even if a student does not receive a bill, or does not complete his/her education.
• Students must notify their lenders of anything that affects the ability to repay the loan or changes the student’s eligibility for deferment or cancellation.
• Student borrowers must attend both an entrance and an exit interview.

College of Saint Elizabeth Student Loan Code of Conduct

It is the policy of the College of Saint Elizabeth to administer its student loan program in a manner which provides the maximum benefit to its student borrowers. In conformance with this policy and in order to avoid even the appearance of impropriety, neither the College nor any employee of the College, will solicit or accept any benefit from a student lending institution as consideration for any advantage provided to the lending institution in relation to its educational loan activities. The following principles and prohibitions apply to the student loan program at the College of Saint Elizabeth:

• The College shall not engage in any revenue sharing arrangement with any student lending institution.
• No employee of the College shall accept on his or her behalf, anything of value from a student lending institution.
• No employee of the College shall serve as a member or participant of a board of a student lending institution, unless the participation is unrelated in any manner to educational loans or the employee has no direct involvement with, or benefits from, the functions of the College financial aid office.
• No employee, representative or agent of a student lending institution shall be authorized by the College to be identified to the public as an employee, representative or agent of the College.
• No employee, representative or agent of a student lending institution shall provide staffing services to the College financial aid office.
• The College shall not provide or otherwise disseminate or make available a preferred lender list that:
• is used to deny or otherwise impede a borrower’s choice of lender;
• contains the names of fewer than three student lending institutions;
• includes student lending institutions that have offered a benefit to the College or its student borrowers in exchange for inclusion on the list, except for terms or conditions of an educational loan which are favorable to the borrower.
• No preferred lender list shall be provided or otherwise disseminated unless it contains the following:
• a disclosure in plain language of the process by which the College selects student lending institutions for the preferred lender list including the method and criteria utilized and the relative importance of each criteria;
• a clear statement that the borrower has the right and ability to select the educational loan provider of the borrower’s choice, is not required to use any of the lenders on the list, and will suffer no penalty or unnecessary delay for choosing a lender not on the preferred lender list.
• Inclusion on the preferred lender list shall be determined solely by considering the best interests of the borrower. Any student lending institution placed on the list shall provide assurance to the College and to borrowers that the advertised benefits upon repayment will continue to insure to the benefit of the borrower regardless of whether the lending institution’s loans are sold. The list shall not include any student lending institution that to the College’s knowledge after reasonable inquiry, has an agreement to sell its loans to another lending institution unless the existence of the agreement is clearly disclosed. Favorable placement on the list shall not be provided to any student lending institution for a particular type of loan in exchange for benefits provided to the College or its students in connection with a different type of loan. The contents of any preferred lender list shall be reviewed and updated at least annually.
• The College shall inform student borrowers and prospective borrowers of all financing options available under Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 including information on terms and conditions of available loans under that Title IV or under State law that are more favorable to the borrower.
• The College shall not direct in any manner, potential borrowers to electronic promissory notes or other loan agreements that do not provide a reasonable and convenient alternative for the borrower to complete such documents with any federal approved student lending institution offering the relevant loan in this State.