Brown University, renowned for its dedication to academic excellence and transformative experiences, recognizes that financial constraints should not deter deserving students from pursuing their educational aspirations. To this end, Brown provides a comprehensive financial aid program that ensures access and affordability for all admitted students.
Unwavering Commitment to Access and Affordability
Brown’s financial aid program operates on the fundamental belief that every student admitted to the university has the potential to thrive and succeed in a Brown education, regardless of their financial circumstances. The university is committed to meeting the full demonstrated financial need of all admitted students, ensuring that cost does not become a barrier to accessing the transformative power of a Brown education.
Comprehensive Aid Packages Tailored to Individual Needs
Each financial aid package is meticulously tailored to a student’s specific financial situation, taking into account family income, assets, and other factors. The university awards a combination of grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study programs to meet the full demonstrated financial need of all admitted students.
Generous Grant Support: A Foundation for Success
Grants, which do not need to be repaid, form the cornerstone of Brown’s financial aid program. In the 2021-2022 academic year, Brown awarded over $162 million in grants to undergraduate students, with an average grant of $51,400. This generous support provides a solid foundation for students to pursue their academic goals without the burden of excessive debt.
Flexible Loan Options: Bridging Funding Gaps
In addition to grants, Brown offers low-interest loans to help students cover any remaining financial gaps. The university participates in both the federal and institutional loan programs, providing a range of options to meet individual needs. In the 2021-2022 academic year, Brown awarded over $120 million in loans to undergraduate students, with an average loan of $27,600.
Work-Study Programs: Empowerment through Earnings
The university’s work-study program provides students with the opportunity to earn money while pursuing their studies. Brown offers a wide range of work-study positions, both on and off campus, enabling students to gain valuable experience and contribute to their education costs. In the 2021-2022 academic year, Brown awarded over $12 million in work-study funds to undergraduate students, with an average award of $2,900.
Creative Applications: Redefining Financial Aid
Brown is constantly innovating and exploring new ways to enhance its financial aid program and meet the evolving needs of students.
- The Brown Promise: This transformative initiative provides free tuition and fees for families with incomes up to $60,000 and significant financial assistance for families with incomes up to $150,000. Launched in 2018, the Brown Promise has made a Brown education more accessible than ever before.
- The Brown Venture Prize: This competition awards up to $250,000 in seed funding to student-led ventures that address social and environmental challenges. The prize encourages students to apply their entrepreneurial skills and support innovative solutions to real-world problems.
- Need-Blind International Admissions: Brown’s need-blind international admissions policy ensures that international students are considered for admission without regard to their financial situation. This policy opens doors for exceptional students from all over the world to experience the transformative power of a Brown education.
Step-by-Step Approach to Applying for Financial Aid
- File the FAFSA: Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by the priority deadline of March 1st. This form provides the university with the necessary financial information to determine your eligibility for financial aid.
- Submit the CSS Profile: International students and non-U.S. citizens must also submit the College Scholarship Service (CSS) Profile. The CSS Profile provides additional financial information that is not collected on the FAFSA.
- Check Your Brown Financial Aid Portal: Once you have submitted your financial aid forms, you can access your Brown Financial Aid Portal to check the status of your application and view your financial aid award letter.
- Accept Your Award: If you accept your financial aid award, you will receive detailed instructions on how to access and use your funds.
Effective Strategies for Maximizing Financial Aid
- Apply early: Submit your financial aid forms as early as possible to ensure priority consideration.
- Be thorough: Provide complete and accurate information on your financial aid forms.
- Contact the Financial Aid Office: If you have any questions or concerns about your financial aid award, don’t hesitate to contact the Brown Financial Aid Office. They are here to help you navigate the process and find the best possible financial aid package for your needs.
Conclusion
Brown University’s unwavering commitment to access and affordability makes it possible for all deserving students to experience the transformative power of a Brown education. With a comprehensive financial aid program that meets the full demonstrated financial need of all admitted students, Brown empowers students from all backgrounds to pursue their dreams and reach their full potential.