Navigating the financial aid process can be daunting, especially for those attending the University of New Hampshire (UNH). To help you make the most of your financial aid, this comprehensive guide will provide essential information on UNH’s financial aid office, eligibility requirements, available aid programs, and helpful tips.
UNH Financial Aid Office: Your Resource for Support
The UNH Financial Aid Office is dedicated to assisting students with their financial needs. They offer a range of services, including personalized counseling, application assistance, and guidance on managing your financial aid. The office is located in James Hall, Room 129, and can be reached by phone at (603) 862-2282 or email at [email protected].
Eligibility for Financial Aid at UNH
To be eligible for financial aid from UNH, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
- Be admitted to a degree-seeking program
- Enroll at least half-time (6 credit hours for undergraduates, 3 for graduate students)
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress
- Not owe a refund on a federal grant or be in default on a federal student loan
Types of Financial Aid Available
UNH offers a wide range of financial aid programs to help cover the cost of tuition, fees, books, and living expenses. These programs include:
Grants: These are free gift funds that do not have to be repaid. Examples include the Pell Grant and the New Hampshire College Guarantee.
Scholarships: These are awarded based on academic merit, financial need, or other criteria. UNH offers a variety of scholarships, including the Distinguished Scholars Program and the College of Engineering Scholarship.
Loans: These funds must be repaid after graduation or when you stop attending UNH. UNH offers a variety of loans, including federal Stafford loans and private loans.
Work-Study: This program allows you to work on campus to earn money to help pay for your education. Jobs are available at various departments throughout the university.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure a smooth financial aid process, it’s important to avoid these common mistakes:
- Filing the FAFSA late: The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) deadline is May 15th. Filing after this date may delay or reduce your financial aid.
- Inaccurate information: Make sure to provide accurate information on your FAFSA and other financial aid forms. Mistakes can result in your aid being denied or delayed.
- Lack of communication: Keep in contact with the financial aid office throughout the process. If you have any questions or concerns, reach out to them for assistance.
Additional Resources
In addition to the financial aid office, there are other resources available to help you with your financial needs:
- UNH Student Financial Services: Offers financial counseling, debt management, and emergency assistance.
- New Hampshire Higher Education Assistance Foundation (NHHEAF): Provides scholarships, loans, and other financial aid programs for New Hampshire students.
- Sallie Mae: Offers private student loans and other financial services.
Conclusion
The financial aid office at UNH is committed to helping students access the financial resources they need to succeed in their studies. By understanding the eligibility requirements, available aid programs, and common mistakes to avoid, you can maximize your financial aid opportunities and make informed decisions about your education expenses. Remember to reach out to the financial aid office with any questions or concerns throughout the process.
Tables
Table 1: Estimated Cost of Attendance for 2023-2024
| Category | On-Campus | Off-Campus |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $30,190 | $30,190 |
| Room and Board | $16,380 | $13,180 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,200 | $1,200 |
| Transportation | $1,000 | $2,000 |
| Personal Expenses | $1,500 | $1,500 |
| Total | $49,270 | $48,070 |
Table 2: Types of Grants Available at UNH
| Grant | Description |
|---|---|
| Pell Grant | Federal grant for low-income students |
| New Hampshire College Guarantee | State grant for New Hampshire students |
| UNH Grant | Institutional grant for UNH students |
| Special Circumstances Grant | Grant for students with financial emergencies |
Table 3: Types of Scholarships Available at UNH
| Scholarship | Description |
|---|---|
| Distinguished Scholars Program | Award for incoming freshmen with exceptional academic credentials |
| College of Engineering Scholarship | Award for incoming engineering students with strong academic skills |
| Athletics Scholarship | Award for student-athletes who meet athletic eligibility requirements |
| Presidential Scholarship | Award for students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement and leadership |
Table 4: Types of Loans Available at UNH
| Loan | Description |
|---|---|
| Federal Stafford Loan | Federal loan for undergraduate and graduate students |
| Federal PLUS Loan | Federal loan for parents of dependent students |
| Private Loan | Loan from a private lender, typically with higher interest rates |
| UNH Alternative Loan | Loan from UNH for students who do not qualify for federal loans |
