In order to be qualified for financial aid, you must meet all the following criteria:
- Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen;
- Be enrolled in, or accepted for enrollment in a degree granting program;
- Be making Satisfactory Academic Progress in your program of study;
- Not be in default on a Federal student loan;
- Not owe a refund on any Federal financial aid grant to any institution;
- Register for selective service, if required to do so;
- Have a high school diploma or G.E.D.;
- Have all financial aid documents on file in the Financial Aid Office
Westfield State College follows the U.S. Department of Education guidelines in administering its financial aid programs. Simply stated, the formula used to determine eligibility is:
Cost of Attendance
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Family Contribution
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Financial Aid Eligibility
Your cost of attendance is determined by the Financial Aid Office. Standard average expense budgets are used for each student based on where he or she will be living during the academic year.
The Expected Family Contribution (EFC) is determined by information supplied on your FAFSA and calculated according to guidelines of the national “need-analysis” process established by the U.S. Department of Education. The following factors are considered during need-analysis:
- Family income;
- Number of family members;
- Number of family members attending college on at least a half-time basis;
- Family assets, excluding the primary residence;
- Unusual family expenses; and
- Essential family living costs.
Financial aid eligibility is based on your resources and those of your parents, if you are a dependent student. If you are independent, your eligibility is based on your (and your spouse’s, if applicable) resources alone. You are considered an independent student only if you meet any of the following criteria:
- Are over 24 years old by January 1 of the application year;
- Are a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces;
- Will be a graduate or professional student for the coming academic year;
- Are married;
- Are an orphan or ward of the court;
- Legally are responsible for dependents other than a spouse.
The Appeal Process
If your family situation changes after you receive your financial aid package, you may formally appeal the decision. Appeals are reviewed beginning in late September and continuing throughout the academic year. All appeals are considered on an individual basis and with regard to funds availability.
Circumstances warranting an appeal may include, but are not limited to the following:
- Loss of job or other income;
- Death in the family;
- Family divorce or separation;
- Unusually high medical bills.
Intstitutional Philosophy on Athletics and Financial Aid
Seventeen Westfield State College varsity teams for men and women compete in Division III of the NCAA, which emphasizes the educational impact that athletics programs have upon their participants, rather than satisfying the entertainment needs of the public. Since the determination of varsity status for any Division III team is independent of gate receipts or other revenue, no team is relegated to the category of a “minor sport”. And, in compliance with NCAA Division III regulations, a student’s athletic ability is not a factor is determining the financial aid award package.
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