Ashford University is committed to helping students understand and manage the financial aspects of obtaining their education. For questions regarding tuition, fees, and payment options for On-Campus Traditional programs, students should contact the Campus Business Office. For cost of attendance information for on-campus programs, please visit http://ashford.edu/admissions/campus_financial_services.htm. For questions regarding tuition, fees, and payment options for online programs, students should contact their personal Student Advisor. For cost of attendance information for online programs, please visit http://ashford.edu/admissions/online_financial_services.htm.

Tuition rates and fees may change at any time without prior notice; however, students will not be charged retroactively for tuition and fee increases for coursework already completed or for coursework the student was in the process of completing.

(2012-2013 Academic Year)

Tuition and Fees:

Room and Board Fees:

Other Fees:

¹ Housing contracts are based on a two semester term which equals one academic year

Indirect costs which are not billed directly by the University may be found at http://www.ashford.edu/admissions/campus_tuition_fees.htm.

Early Termination Fee for New/Incoming Residents

A contract cancelation fee of 50% of remaining room and board costs will be assessed for terminating a housing contract once the student has taken occupancy. A $100.00 housing prepayment/room reservation is refundable until June 1 for fall semester and November 1 for spring semester unless forfeited due to early cancelation of the housing contract.

Early Termination Fee for Returning Residents

Loss of the $100 prepayment and a contract cancelation fee of 25% of the remaining room and board costs will be assessed for canceling a housing contract before June 1 and 50% of remaining room and board costs will be assessed for canceling a housing contract after June 1 for the upcoming term(s) still on contract.

The following is a list of tuition and fees applicable to Associate’s and Bachelor’s degree programs and/or courses offered through the Online modality, effective April 1, 2013. Tuition rates and fees may change at any time; however, students will not be charged retroactively for tuition and fee increases for coursework already completed or for coursework the student was in the process of completing.

Tuition per credit:

Fees:

*The Technology Fee covers access to University systems such as the online classroom, the Student Portal, and other academic resources. The Technology Fee is fully refundable if a student does not attend beyond Week 1 of a course (Week 3 if covered under the Ashford Promise Refund Schedule). After this time, the fee becomes non-refundable. Students are charged the Technology Fee for repeated coursework.
**The Course Digital Materials (CDM) fee is $85.00 and is fully refundable if a student does not attend beyond Week 1 of a course (Week 3 if covered under the Ashford Promise Refund Schedule). After this time, the fee becomes non-refundable. Students are not charged the CDM fee for repeated coursework if previously charged.
***Payment for evaluation does not guarantee that credit will be awarded.

Indirect costs which are not billed directly by the University may be found at http://www.ashford.edu/admissions/online_tuition_fees.htm.

The following is a list of tuition and fees applicable to Master's degree programs and/or courses offered through the Online modality, effective April 1, 2013. Tuition rates and fees may change at any time without prior notice; however, students will not be charged retroactively for tuition and fee increases for coursework already completed or for coursework the student was in the process of completing.

Tuition per credit: 

Fees:

 *The Technology Fee covers access to University systems such as the online classroom, the Student Portal, and other academic resources. The Technology Fee is fully refundable if a student does not attend beyond Week 1 of a course (Week 3 if covered under the Ashford Promise Refund Schedule). After this time, the fee becomes non-refundable. Students are charged the Technology Fee for repeated coursework.
**The Course Digital Materials (CDM) fee is $85.00 and is fully refundable if a student does not attend beyond Week 1 of a course (Week 3 if covered under the Ashford Promise Refund Schedule). After this time, the fee becomes non-refundable. Students are not charged the CDM fee for repeated coursework if previously charged.

Indirect costs which are not billed directly by the University may be found at http://www.ashford.edu/admissions/online_tuition_fees.htm.

Ashford University is required to charge sales tax for tuition and/or fees in certain jurisdictions based on state reporting obligations and the taxability of services and digital goods in accordance with local laws on the date of charge. For sales tax purposes, electronically-delivered services and digital goods are considered to be received at the student’s physical address. For specific sales tax charges, students should consult with their Student Advisor (online) or Financial Aid Office (campus).

TN Residents Only

Applicants to an online program who reside in the state of Tennessee (as evidenced by the address on file at Ashford University) will qualify for the Tennessee Tuition and Fee Guarantee under the conditions set forth in this section. The Tennessee Tuition and Fee Guarantee is a commitment that the net cost of tuition and fees will not increase for a 12 month period, beginning on the date the student begins credit-bearing coursework. This benefit is applicable only to students who maintain a physical residence in the state of Tennessee. Upon expiration of the 12 month period, tuition and fee amounts for any such students are subject to adjustment to reflect the rates in effect at that time, and will also be subject to any future adjustments.

Students who relocate to another state are no longer eligible for the Tennessee Tuition and Fee Guarantee, and tuition and fees will be adjusted to reflect the rates in effect at that time, and will also be subject to any future adjustments, starting on the date their address is changed in University records. No retroactive tuition and fee adjustments for past classes are applied at the time of any address update. No retroactive tuition and fee adjustments for current classes are applied at the time of any address update, unless the address change is updated in University records within the first week of a student’s current course.

Students who apply to a new degree program are eligible for the Tennessee Tuition and Fee Guarantee for a new 12 month period beginning on the date the student begins credit-bearing coursework. Students who re-enter the University after being out of attendance for 180 or more days are also eligible for the Tennessee Tuition and Fee Guarantee for a new 12 month period beginning on the date the student begins credit-bearing coursework.

Students who change their program of study are eligible for the Tennessee Tuition and Fee Guarantee for a new 12 month period beginning on the date the student begins credit-bearing coursework only if completed courses from the current payment period do not apply to the new program of study. Students who change programs and do not meet the above condition do not qualify for a new or renewed Tennessee Tuition and Fee Guarantee period.

CA Residents Only

The State of California created the Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF) to relieve or mitigate economic losses suffered by students in educational programs who are California residents, or are enrolled in a residency program attending certain schools regulated by the Bureau for Private Postsecondary and Vocational Education.

You may be eligible for STRF if you are a California resident or are enrolled in a residency program, prepaid tuition, paid the STRF assessment, and suffered an economic loss as a result of any of the following:

1. The school closed before the course of instruction was completed.
2. The school’s failure to pay refunds or charges on behalf of a student to a third party for license fees or any other purpose, or to provide equipment or materials for which a charge was collected within 180 days before the closure of the school.
3. The school’s failure to pay or reimburse loan proceeds under a federally guaranteed student loan program as required by law or to pay or reimburse proceeds received by the school prior to closure in excess of tuition and other costs.
4. There was a material failure to comply with the Act or this Division within 30 days before the school closed or, if the material failure began earlier than 30 days prior to closure, the period determined by the Bureau.
5. An inability after diligent efforts to prosecute, prove, and collect on a judgment against the institution for a violation of the Act.

However, no claim can be paid to any student without a social security number or a taxpayer identification number.

You must pay the state-imposed assessment for the Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF) if all of the following applies to you:

• You are a student in an educational program, who is a California resident, or are enrolled in a residency program, and prepay all or part of your tuition either by cash, guaranteed student loans, or personal loans, and
• Your total charges are not paid by any third-party payer such as an employer, government program or other payer unless you have a separate agreement to repay the third party.

You are not eligible for protection from the STRF and you are not required to pay the STRF assessment, if either of the following applies:

• You are not a California resident, or are not enrolled in a residency program, or
• Your total charges are paid by a third party, such as an employer, government program or other payer, and you have no separate agreement to repay the third party.

Tuition and fees are billed on a financial aid payment period basis, regardless of payment option. For online undergraduate programs, a payment period is a minimum of 20 weeks of instructional time and 12 earned credits. This is typically four courses at a time. For online graduate programs, a payment period is a minimum of 18 weeks of instructional time and 9 earned credits. This is typically three courses at a time. On-campus payment periods align with enrollment terms. Tuition and fees that are associated with future courses are subject to change.

Tuition is due according to the terms and conditions of a student’s selected Payment Option. See the section on Payment Options for more information.

The University reserves the right to cancel the registration of any student whose account is delinquent. Diplomas or certificates will be withheld, graduation participation will be delayed, and transcript of credits will not be forwarded to another institution or potential employer until all accounts with the University are paid in full.

On-campus students in traditional programs who are in need of a more flexible payment schedule may use the subsequent option (Level-Pay Plan). Arrangements to participate in this plan must be made with the Campus Business Office at the beginning of each term.

Payment must be paid in accordance with a student’s selected finance option for a summer online course. Campus students should work with their assigned Finance Planner to determine viable payment options for courses being completed in a non-term format over the summer.

Online undergraduate students who need 0.01-1.00 or 1.01-2.00 credits (1 or 2 credits) in order to meet the total number of credits required to graduate may be issued an excess credit account adjustment. An excess credit account adjustment may be issued to the paying party in the amount of tuition paid in excess of what is required after satisfying the total credit requirement. Partial credit account adjustments will not be issued.

Any student who has filed for bankruptcy protection within the past seven (7) years may be determined to be ineligible for federal financial aid by the US Department of Education. A student interested in using financial aid as a payment option upon re-entry or upon reapplication to the University may be required to do so as a secondary payment option and deferment of tuition and fee payment will not apply. The student may be required to pay any tuition and/or fee balance in full on an as-incurred basis.

Ashford University offers a variety of options for covering the costs of a student’s education. During the online application process, students select their primary payment option and any secondary payment option(s), if required. Funds are applied in the order received by the University, regardless of designation of primary or secondary. For specific billing and payment method requirements, please visit the Terms of Billing and Payment section in this Catalog.

For online students who have selected the Cash Plan as a primary payment option, 100% of tuition and any applicable fees are to be paid on or before each course start date. Students may choose to have their tuition and/or fees automatically charged to their credit card (debit cards are not accepted) when Cash is a payment option. Automatic credit card payments are charged after the start date of each course; otherwise, full payment must be received on or before the start date of each course.

When selected as a secondary payment option, any amount not covered by the primary payment option can be applied in any acceptable form of payment.

For on-campus students, the Cash Plan requires that 100% of tuition, room, board and any applicable fees be paid upon receipt of the bill for the term after scholarships and loans have been applied. Students may choose to have all charges paid by credit or debit card by calling or coming to the Campus Business Office.

Students are advised that credit cards are accepted as a convenient method of payment. Credit cards bearing high interest rates should not be used as a long-term financing method for educational costs. Ashford University encourages all students to utilize the free financial aid information that is available in the Financial Aid Office.

Any delay in payment results in administrative withdrawal of the student from his or her current course during Week One. The student will then be scheduled for a future course and is not permitted to re-enroll in the course from which he or she was removed due to non-payment.

The Level-Pay Plan offers students an opportunity to spread the cost of tuition, fees, books, room, and board (whichever are applicable) over the term. Additional details about this program can be obtained from the Campus Business Office. 

The Tuition Reimbursement Plan is available as a primary payment option if students qualify for their employer’s tuition reimbursement program and if their employer reimburses at least 50% of their annual tuition.

Under this plan, tuition payment, excluding fees, is deferred a maximum of 90 days from the course/term start date, regardless of when the student receives disbursement from the employer. Applicable fees are due on or before the start date of each course/term. To qualify, prior to the start of the course/term, students must submit a signed Tuition Reimbursement Certification and Authorization form that includes a valid credit card number (debit cards are not accepted) with authorization to charge the card if the tuition is not paid within the 90-day time frame.

The conditions of this plan are not dependent upon the receipt of a course grade or completion of the course. Tuition must be paid in full 90 days after the start date of a course/term; otherwise, the student’s credit card will be automatically charged. If fees are not paid in full on or before the start date of a course/term, the student’s credit card will be automatically charged. A declined card will automatically result in a late fee and an insufficient funds fee. Students who have two declined credit card payments will be required to comply with the terms of the Cash Plan and will no longer qualify for the Tuition Reimbursement Plan.

Documentation required for the Tuition Reimbursement Plan includes the following:

• Student Finance Agreement; and
• Tuition Reimbursement Certification and Authorization.

Ashford University offers Third-Party Direct Billing as a primary payment option to students sponsored by a Third Party Agency with a Direct Bill Memorandum of Understanding on file. Third-Party Direct Billing is not available as a secondary payment option. The Third Party Agency must offer a tuition benefit of at least $2,500 annually for a student’s tuition to be eligible for this option. The Third Party Agency is expected to remit payment to Ashford University within 90 days of the course start date. Any amounts not paid by the Third Party Agency are the responsibility of the student. Vouchers, purchase orders, and other approved authorized mediums should be sent to directbill@ashford.edu at least five days prior to the start of each course or payment period. Failure to supply voucher or payment timely may result in loss of Third-Party Direct Billing benefits.

Documentation required for Direct Bill Plan:

• Executed Direct Bill Memorandum of Understanding
• Student Finance Agreement indicating Direct Bill;
• Direct Bill Certification and Authorization; and
• Voucher, purchase order, or other authorized medium approved by Ashford University.

Ashford University offers the Leader Development Grant (LDG) to students selected and sponsored by a participating Third Party Agency. The LDG program is funded by both the Third Party Agency and Ashford University. This grant is intended to help students avoid educational loan debt by funding a recipient’s direct education-related costs. Direct education-related costs include tuition for all eligible courses (limited to two repeated courses), Technology Fee (per course), books, course digital materials, instructional materials, graduation fee, sponsored professional training, and prior learning assessments. As such, the Leader Development Grant is only available as a primary payment option.

Students who choose to participate in the LDG program are not able to receive funding from the federal student financial aid programs (such as, Pell Grant and Direct Loans): this is a condition of participation in the LDG program. The choice to participate in the LDG program is optional and any eligible federal student financial aid is always available to students who choose that payment option in lieu of participation in the LDG program. Students will become ineligible for the LDG program if they choose to receive funds from any federal student financial aid program for the same enrollment period.

Students will become ineligible for the LDG if they receive more than two (2) unsuccessful grades (defined as an “F,” “WF,” or for General Education Competency courses, below a “C-”) during their program of study or if they violate University policies as outlined in the Ashford University Academic Catalog. Students may appeal the loss of their LDG eligibility to the Leader Development Grant Review Committee, which consists of at least an Ashford representative and a representative from the Third Party Agency.

Concurrent enrollment, defined as the enrollment in more than one class in every five (undergraduate) or six (graduate) week module, is prohibited for LDG recipients, unless pre-approved by the Leader Development Grant Review Committee.

An approved Leader Development Grant Agency Pledge form must be sent to: LeaderDevelopmentGrant@ashford.edu for verification at least seven (7) days prior to the start of classes for each participating student. The LDG must be renewed every twelve (12) months, in order for the student to continue to receive an LDG. The University provides a matching grant in conjunction with the funding provided by the Third Party Agency. The Third Party Agency must supply a qualified tuition benefit for their students to be eligible for the University LDG match. Failure of the Third Party Agency to supply the Leader Development Grant Agency Pledge form or required payment may result in loss of LDG benefits for the grant recipient.

Documentation required for the Leader Development Grant:

• Leader Development Grant Agreement (executed between the University and Third Party Agency);
• Student Leader Development Grant Enrollment Request or Current Student Entry Request;
• Student Finance Agreement indicating Leader Development Grant;
• Leader Development Grant Agency Pledge (approved by Third Party Agency and the University);
• Authorization to Release Student Records; and
• Leader Development Grant Disclosure and Waiver

Ashford University is approved by the Department of Veterans Affairs. The Military VA Plan requires that all tuition be paid on or before each course start date, with the exception of the first 60 days in the student’s first academic year. Under this plan, tuition payment is deferred for the first 60 days of continuous enrollment in a degree program, regardless of when the student receives disbursement from the Department of Veterans Affairs. Applicable fees are due on or before the start date of each course/term. To qualify, prior to the start of the course/term, students must submit a signed Student Finance Agreement.

Students may choose to place a credit card on file for automatic recurring payment processing. Non-Degree Seeking students will be required to place a credit card on file (debit cards are not accepted) when selecting this option with authorization to charge the card if tuition is not paid within a sixty (60) day timeframe Questions should be directed to the Veterans Affairs Coordinator at MilitaryVA@Ashford.edu.

Documentation required for the Military VA Plan:

• Student Finance Agreement; or
• Military VA Certification & Authorization.

VA Classification of Ashford University Online Students: Students enrolled in an online undergraduate program are classified as three-quarter time. The only way to get the full-time payment rate is to double up on courses after successful completion of two courses with Ashford University. Students enrolled in an online graduate program are classified as full time.

GI Bill Application Procedure: The student must obtain the appropriate form(s) from www.gibill.va.gov under Apply for Benefits. Forms can be submitted online directly to VA. The signature page from the appropriate form(s) will need to be mailed directly to VA at

VA Regional Office
PO Box 33860
St. Louis, MO 63166-6830

Students must double check that their name and Social Security Number appear on the bottom of the signature page. Ashford University requires a signed copy of the appropriate completed form(s), as follows, for the student’s file:

• 22-1990 (Application for VA Education Benefits) for veteran students who are using their GI Bill for the first time.
• 22-1995 (Change of Program/Training) for veteran students who have used their GI Bill benefits before.
• Chapter 35 Dependent/Spouse benefit forms are available for each branch on the website subsequently listed.
• DD-214 (Release from Duty). Ashford University requires a copy of this form for the student’s file if available. This form does not hold up certification.

The School’s certifying official will certify the student for a year of courses on the VA-ONCE website.

Procedures While Enrolled:

• After the student receives an award letter from the VA, he or she is required to begin monthly self-verification of enrollment by the 30th of each month. This is accomplished by using the Web Automated Verification of Enrollment (WAVE) or by Interactive Voice Response (IVR).
             WAVE = www.gibill.va.gov/resources/verify_attendance
             IVR = (877) 823-2378
• Students should allow 10 to 12 weeks after completion of all paperwork to receive the first payment, which will be based on certification beginning with the student’s first date of eligible attendance in an Ashford University degree program. Subsequent payments should be received monthly, as per the VA Office’s processes.
• Payment of VA benefits may be mailed directly to the student. Students are responsible for paying Ashford University tuition and fees at the start of each course, unless there is alternative, approved financial aid. Payment by Direct Deposit/Electronic Funds Transfer is strongly encouraged. Payments are sent directly to student savings or checking account. To establish or change direct deposit information, students should click on the ‘Direct Deposit Enrollment Form’ link after they have logged into WAVE. Changes and enrollments are usually processed the next business day.
• The University’s VA Certifying Official will report course drops and withdrawals to the VA on a weekly basis. Course drops may affect eligibility for VA benefits.

Ashford University is approved for active duty Military Tuition Assistance. Students are expected to submit Tuition Assistance (TA) vouchers to the Tuition Assistance Administrator prior to the start of each course. Any tuition and applicable fees not covered by the TA program must be paid prior to the start date of each course. TA forms, vouchers, and questions should be directed to MilitaryTA@Ashford.edu.

Documentation required for the Military TA Plan:

• Military Tuition Assistance forms (branch specific); and
• Student Finance Agreement.

Online Military Tuition Assistance Procedure:

• Military students must first complete the TA Application form;
• The TA Application form must be received before the fee waiver or course cost adjustments will be applied. TA vouchers must be received prior to the start of each course.
• Once the TA Application form has been received by the Ashford University Military Tuition Assistance Office, an invoice will be sent to the military. A copy of this invoice may be mailed or faxed to the student upon request.
• After command approval has been received, the student digitally signs the TA Application form and then sends it by fax or email to

Ashford University
Military Tuition Assistance
MilitaryTA@Ashford.edu
Fax: (858) 408-3511

On-campus Traditional Military Tuition Assistance Procedure:

• Military students must first complete the TA Authorization form;
• The TA Authorization form must be received before the fee waiver or course cost adjustments will be applied. TA vouchers must be received prior to the first class date of each term.
• Once the TA Authorization form has been received by the Ashford University Campus Financial Aid Office, an invoice will be sent to the military. A copy of this invoice may be mailed or faxed to the student upon request.
• After command approval has been received, the student digitally signs the TA Authorization form. The form should be faxed to (563) 242-8684 or delivered to the Campus Financial Aid Office.

Online Undergraduate Students: Students enrolled in an online undergraduate program may be eligible for the Ashford University Military Grant. Eligible students include Active Duty, National Guard, Reservists, spouses of Active Duty, National Guard, and Reservists, students using VA Education Benefits, Department of Defense employees, Veterans Affairs employees, and Civilian employees of the United States Coast Guard. Veterans of the US Armed Forces must be certified for VA benefits through the US Department of Veterans Affairs and by Ashford University. Grants are only applied to an eligible student’s account upon receipt of an approved VA certification. All other eligible students must provide the University with an approved TA Authorization form or appropriate verification of military service.

Grants are applicable to courses for which tuition is in excess of $250 per credit hour. For courses with tuition of $413 per credit hour, the grant is $163 per credit hour. In addition, this grant also covers the Technology Fees and course materials, including standard shipping costs where applicable, required for an eligible student’s program of study and purchased through Ashford University’s bookstore or textbook partner. The cost of required electronic materials is also covered by the grant. When course materials are available in both electronic format and hard copy, students may opt to purchase a hard copy textbook and are charged the difference in cost plus shipping. Military students who reside in a forward location may opt for a hard copy textbook at no additional charge.

Students who exceed 14 days of consecutive non-attendance and are not on an approved break will be asked to recertify eligibility for the Ashford University Military Grant upon return by providing appropriate verification of military service.

 Online Graduate Students: Students enrolled in an online graduate program may be eligible for the Ashford University Military Grant. Eligible students include Active Duty, National Guard, Reservists, spouses of Active Duty, National Guard, and Reservists, students using VA Education Benefits, Department of Defense employees, Veterans Affairs employees, and Civilian employees of the United States Coast Guard. Veterans of the US Armed Forces must be certified for VA benefits through the US Department of Veterans Affairs and by Ashford University. All other eligible students must provide the University with an approved TA Authorization form or appropriate verification of military service.

The grant covers the Technology Fees and course materials, including standard shipping costs where applicable, required for an eligible student’s program of study and purchased through Ashford University’s bookstore or textbook partner. The cost of required electronic materials is also covered by the grant. When course materials are available in both electronic format and hard copy, students may opt to purchase a hard copy textbook and are charged the difference in cost plus shipping. Military students who reside in a forward location may opt for a hard copy textbook at no additional charge. Grants are only applied to an eligible student’s account upon receipt of an approved VA certification. All other eligible students must provide the University with an approved TA Authorization form or appropriate verification of military service.

Students who exceed 14 days of consecutive non-attendance and are not on an approved break will be asked to recertify eligibility for the Ashford University Military Grant upon return by providing appropriate verification of military service.

On-Campus Traditional Students: Students enrolled in an on-campus traditional undergraduate program may be eligible for the Ashford University Military Grant. Eligible students include Active Duty, National Guard, Reservists, spouses of Active Duty, National Guard, and Reservists, students using VA Education Benefits, Department of Defense employees, Veterans Affairs employees, and Civilian employees of the United States Coast Guard. Veterans of the US Armed Forces must be certified for VA benefits through the US Department of Veterans Affairs and by Ashford University. All other eligible students must provide the University with an approved TA Authorization form or appropriate verification of military service. Students should contact the Campus Financial Aid office for additional information.

Students who previously received the Ashford University Military Grant, and who subsequently enroll in another degree program after graduating, are permitted to continue to receive the grant without recertifying eligibility, unless they have been out of attendance greater than 30 days.

Students who graduate from an Ashford University or University of the Rockies degree program and enroll in an online Ashford University or University of the Rockies degree program are eligible for an Alumni Tuition Grant.

Students who qualify for the Alumni Tuition Grant must successfully complete four attempted courses after matriculation into an undergraduate degree program or three attempted courses after matriculation into a graduate degree program. The tuition grant will then be applied to the student’s account in the amount of tuition charged for the fifth or fourth attempted course, depending on the student’s degree program.

Alumni who paid a one-time Technology Services Fee (of either $990 or $1,290) will also have each course’s Technology Fee waived.

Students are encouraged to search for outside funding for their education. Any student who receives additional funds from any source, such as an outside scholarship, before or after receiving financial aid from the University, must report the source and the value of the award to the Financial Aid Office. Additional funds frequently require an adjustment to the existing financial aid award to avoid an “overaward” as defined by federal and state regulations. Scholarship searches are available at:

• www.finaid.org/scholarships
• www.scholarshipamerica.org

However, the University is in no way affiliated or endorses any of these listed sites. Please beware of sites that ask for payment for scholarship information and/or applications.

Before considering a private education loan, students should first apply for and consider available federal student aid. However, if a student wishes to apply for a private education loan, Ashford University will work with any lender participating in a private student loan program from which a student wishes to borrow. Please contact the Financial Aid Office for additional information about all available education funding options.

The University will provide assistance to all students and families who are eligible for financial aid. The University provides a convenient online application process. This process includes access to required financial aid forms, options for electronically signing the application, and links to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), Entrance Loan Counseling, and Master Promissory Note, if applicable. All students seeking federal, state, or institutional financial aid benefits must be admitted to a financial-aid eligible degree program to determine financial aid eligibility. To apply for the Financial Aid Plan, students must meet the following conditions:

• Complete an Institutional Application;
• Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA);
• Complete a Master Promissory Note (MPN), if applicable;
• Complete Entrance Loan Counseling, if applicable; and,
• Complete all related paperwork and documentation further requested by the University.

Eligibility for federal student aid is based on financial need and on several other factors. To be eligible for most types of financial aid, a student must:

• Demonstrate financial need (except for certain loans);
• Have a high school diploma or a General Education Development (GED) certificate;
• Be a US citizen or eligible noncitizen;
• Have a valid Social Security Number;
• Register with the Selective Service (if required);
• Maintain satisfactory academic progress once in school;
• Certify that no federal student loan is in a default status and no money is owed on a federal student grant; and
• Certify that use of federal student aid is only for educational purposes.

As a financial aid applicant or recipient, a student has the following rights:

• To be advised of what financial aid programs are available and how to apply for them;
• To be advised of the requirements in cases of withdrawal, such as refunds or repayments of financial aid;
• To be advised of the requirements for maintaining financial aid standards of satisfactory academic progress and good academic standing; and,
• To have all application information treated with the highest confidentiality.

As a financial aid applicant or recipient, a student has the following responsibilities:

• To apply for financial aid early if he or she wishes to be considered for financial assistance;
• To submit all required forms accurately and completely;
• To provide documentation, verification of income, corrections and/or any information to complete his or her financial aid file;
• To accept responsibility for all forms and agreements he or she signs; and,
• To use financial aid only for his or her actual educational expense.

Complete an application for admission to the University. A student must be accepted by the University before a financial aid award can be determined. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), and list the University (Code: 001881) as a college to receive information. The University recommends students enrolled in On-Campus Traditional Programs are encouraged to apply each year by March 1, for the upcoming academic year. Students enrolled in online programs must apply 90 days prior to the start of each academic year.

This form is available online at www.fafsa.gov. The completed form should be signed electronically with the applicant’s PIN so that the student’s financial need can be evaluated.

Verification is the confirmation through documentation of the information provided on a student’s Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The federal government routinely requires colleges and universities to verify, or confirm, the data reported by students and their parent(s) on the FAFSA. The verification process ensures that eligible students receive all the financial aid to which they are entitled and prevents ineligible students from receiving financial aid to which they are not entitled.

Financial aid applications are selected by the US Department of Education, and Ashford University verifies all applicants the US Department of Education selects for verification.

If the student is selected for verification there will be an asterisk next to the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) on the Student Aid Report (SAR). The student will also be informed of having been selected for verification in the SAR Acknowledgement letter, which is included with the SAR documents. Student Aid Reports may be viewed online at www.fafsa.gov/ under Step 3, “View and Print Your Student Aid Report.” If the student is selected for verification, the Ashford University Financial Aid Office will send a letter or email informing them of this selection and the additional documentation that is required.

The student (and if designated as a dependent student, the student’s parent or parents), will be required to provide appropriate and legible supporting documents to the Ashford University Financial Aid Office. In most cases, this documentation includes the following information:

1. Use of the IRS Data Retrieval Process of IRA Tax Transcript;
2. Documentation of untaxed income received during the calendar year, if applicable; and
3. The Verification Worksheet.

Please note that additional documents may be requested at the Ashford University Financial Aid Office’s discretion.

Participation in the verification process is not optional. If a student who is selected for verification does not submit the required documentation within 30 days, financial aid processing will be delayed, and the student may not be eligible to receive federal financial aid as an Ashford University student. If any clarification of answers on the Verification Worksheet is required, or changes to the student’s FAFSA or application information are needed, an advisor from the Financial Aid Office will contact the student. In this case, the student or parent may be required to submit additional documentation and to resubmit his or her application for financial aid to the US Department of Education. If a student’s financial aid award in any way changes as a result of verification, a new award letter will be generated and emailed to the student with award amounts, as applicable.

A copy of the Verification Worksheet can be obtained from the Financial Aid Office or in the Student Portal. Financial aid will not be processed or disbursed if an applicant fails to provide the appropriate and legible verification documentation. In addition, the University will return to the Direct Loan servicer any applicable loan proceeds otherwise payable to the applicant.

If Ashford University obtains any credible information indicating that an applicant for federal student financial assistance may have knowingly engaged in fraud or other criminal misconduct in connection with his or her application for federal student financial assistance, that individual will be referred to the Office of Inspector General of the US Department of Education. Examples of this type of information are:

        (i) False claims of independent student status;
        (ii) False claims of citizenship;
        (iii) Use of false identities;
        (iv) Forgery of signatures or certifications; and
        (v) False statements of income.

On this plan, it is the student’s responsibility to reapply for funding as necessary. Students enrolled in an online program must reapply 90 days prior to the start of each academic year. Tardiness in applying could result in disqualification and require compliance with the terms and conditions of the Cash Plan. Students enrolled in an on-campus traditional program are responsible for reapplying for funding each year by March 1, if they chose that method of payment.

In accordance with Title IV Regulations, any student not completing the financial aid process in advance of his or her last date of attendance of the current or recently completed academic year forfeits eligibility for financial assistance that might otherwise have been available during that period of enrollment, and becomes fully responsible for all remaining balances. This also applies to campus students with institutional scholarships or grants.

All first-time Federal Direct loan recipients who have received a Financial Aid Award offer and have accepted the Federal Direct Loan(s) are required to complete online Federal Direct Loan Entrance Counseling and to sign a Federal Direct Loan Master Promissory Note prior to the school receiving the funds. First-time borrowers of federal loans at Ashford University must complete entrance counseling as mandated by federal regulations. This requirement is met by completing an entrance counseling exercise online. Federal loans (Direct Loans and Grad PLUS) cannot be released to a student’s account until this federal requirement is satisfied.

In general, financial aid is provided in the form of grants and loans. Part-time work programs are available for students enrolled in On-Campus Traditional programs. While some students may qualify for one type of financial assistance, others may qualify for a combination of two or more programs. This “packaging” of financial aid allows Ashford University to assist a larger number of students and to award aid suited to the student’s individual needs. Each student may be expected to make a financial contribution toward educational costs based on family circumstances and ability to pay. The family’s share of the cost and eligibility for aid are determined through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The total cost of attending Ashford University includes direct and indirect expenses. Direct expenses for resident students include tuition, fees, room and board. Also included in the budget are allowances for books and supplies, as well as personal and travel expenses.

University Awards (for On-Campus Traditional Programs)

The University awards institutional aid based on a student’s demonstrated financial need and academic record. For more information, please see the Ashford website at www.ashford.edu or inquire in the Admissions or Financial Aid Offices.

State Aid Programs

Iowa Tuition Grants (ITG): Awarded by the State of Iowa to assist Iowa residents who plan to attend an independent college or university in Iowa that is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. A student must be a resident of Iowa and demonstrate financial need. The maximum grant amount varies annually and may be available for up to four years of full-time study. Students must file the FAFSA by July 1.

Iowa Grants (Available for On-Campus Traditional Programs Only): Awarded by the State of Iowa to students who are residents of Iowa attending eligible institutions, show high financial need, and are enrolled for at least three semester hours at an Iowa college. Awards range from $100-$1,000.

Grants may be available in other states for online students. Students are encouraged to inquire to the State Commissions where they reside and provide state grant information to the Financial Aid Office.

Please visit www.ashford.edu for more information regarding state grant information.

Federal Aid Programs

Federal Pell Grants: Federally funded grants for undergraduate students who have not earned a bachelor’s or professional degree. These grants are based on financial need and enrollment status at the University. Pell Grants provide a foundation of financial aid for many students to which other aid may be added. To determine eligibility for Federal Pell Grants, the US Department of Education uses a standard formula to evaluate the information supplied to them from the student. This formula produces an Expected Family Contribution (EFC) amount. The amount a student receives depends on a student’s EFC, cost of attendance, status as either a full-time student or part-time student, and whether the student will attend school for a full academic year. Pell Grants are limited each award year in amounts depending upon program funding and a maximum per-student amount. Grants are currently awarded up to a maximum of $5,550 per academic year.

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG): Federally funded grants for undergraduate students with exceptional financial need. The University determines who will receive an FSEOG based on factors such as need, Pell eligibility, and availability which may vary by session, as determined by the Institution. The award amount could be up to $1,000 per academic year.

Direct PLUS Loans (PLUS): Long-term, low-interest rate loans made available to eligible parents to help pay expenses at an approved postsecondary educational institution. An eligible parent may borrow up to the cost of attendance, minus all other financial aid and resources, directly from the Federal government. Repayment begins 60 days from the date the loan is fully disbursed. These loans are subject to credit approval and are available only to aid dependent students.

Direct Graduate PLUS Loans (Available for Graduate Programs Only): Long-term, low-interest unsubsidized loans for graduate students. The student may borrow up to the cost of attendance, minus all other financial aid received, and after all Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized loan eligibility has been exhausted. An eligible student may borrow directly from the Federal government Repayment begins 60 days from the date the loan is fully disbursed. These loans are subject to credit approval.

Federal Direct Loans: Direct Loans are low-interest loans for students and parents to help pay for the cost of a student’s education when attending post-secondary education after high school. The lender is the US Department of Education. Students may borrow directly from the federal government through the Direct loan servicer. To be eligible for a Direct loan, a student must be enrolled on at least a half-time basis. The Direct Loan Program offers a lower interest rate than most commercial loans. The federal government pays the interest on a Direct federal subsidized loan for undergraduate students while the student is in school based on a demonstrated financial need. An origination/guarantee fee may be deducted from the student’s loan. If a student does not demonstrate a financial need or is a graduate student, the Unsubsidized Direct Loan may be available and begins to accrue interest while the student is in school. Please refer to the Federal Direct Annual Loan Limits and Federal Direct Aggregate Loan Limits tables in this section of this Catalog. The standard repayment plan begins six months after the student graduates or is no longer enrolled at least half-time, and up to 10 years may be allowed to repay the loan(s). Students who meet eligibility requirements may request a deferment of their loan payment. The following are circumstances under which a student may qualify for a deferment: currently enrolled in school on at least a half-time basis; graduate fellowship; rehabilitation training; unemployment; economic hardship; military service; or post-active duty student. Please refer to www.studentaid.ed.gov for more information about current loan interest rates and how to apply for a Direct Loan.

TEACH Grant: Through the College Cost Reduction and Access Act of 2007, Congress created the Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant Program that provides grants of up to $4,000 per year to students who intend to teach in a public or private elementary or secondary school that serves students from low-income families. In exchange for receiving a TEACH Grant, students must agree to serve as a full-time teacher in a high-need field in a public or private elementary or secondary school that serves low-income students. As a recipient of a TEACH Grant, students must teach for at least four academic years within eight calendar years of completing the program of study for which a TEACH Grant was received.

Federal College Work-Study Program (FWS): (Available for On-Campus Traditional students only): Funded by the federal government and the University. To be eligible, a student must have a documented financial need and maintain satisfactory progress, as defined for financial assistance.

Alternative loans may be available in addition to aid programs listed. Students may request information through the Financial Aid Office or by speaking with their Student Advisor. Scholarships, grants, and loans are also made by private organizations. Students should check with their high school, area civic groups, businesses, and churches to determine availability.

To select the Financial Aid plan as the primary payment option for enrollment in an online program, at least 50% of a student’s annual tuition and applicable fees must be funded through federal financial aid benefits.

Under this plan when used as a primary payment option for enrollment in an online program, students are expected to submit all financial aid documents prior to their start date. If a student fails to supply all required documents by end of the first week by Monday, 11:59 pm in the Mountain Time Zone, the student will be withdrawn from his or her current course. Students who are otherwise qualified may restart their program at a later date when all required financial aid documentation is submitted. If a student is unable to qualify for financial aid, he or she must select another payment option and is held responsible for any outstanding balances incurred.

Continuous attendance with no attendance breaks greater than 14 days or approved breaks greater than 45 days is required to retain eligibility for disbursed federal financial aid funds. The University may schedule periods of non-enrollment during which no courses are scheduled. When this occurs, such as during the annual winter break, the non-enrollment period may extend the 14 day limit to include the break. The University may be required to return the federal funds of students with reduced financial aid eligibility due to attendance breaks, leaving the student responsible to the University for the remaining balance on the student’s account. Students who are awarded Title IV aid in an amount exceeding the tuition and fees due the University, and who withdraw before completion of the term or program, may be required to return unearned funds to the Department of Education and/or Ashford University. Students in this situation who received excess funds stipend checks may be required to return those funds to the institution. Students are strongly encouraged to contact their Student Advisor to understand the potential impact attendance changes may have on their financial aid as far in advance as possible.

Definitions

Week = 7 calendar days

Full Academic Year Definition = a minimum of 40 weeks of instructional time and 24 successfully earned credits that apply toward the student’s program of study.

A full Academic Year consists of two (2) increments that may be referenced as payment periods, financial aid payment periods or Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) increments.

• The first payment period in the Academic Year ends when half of the credits and weeks required for a completed Academic Year have been met.
• The second payment period in the Academic Year ends when the requirements for a completed Academic Year have been met.

Final Academic Year Exceptions:

• For any remaining portion of a program that is half of an Academic Year or less, the remaining portion is treated as a single payment period.
• For any remaining portion of a program that is more than half of an Academic Year but less than a full Academic Year, the remaining portion is divided into two payment periods and the first payment period is the period in which the student successfully completes half of the credits and half of the weeks of instructional time in the remaining portion.

Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) is evaluated at the end of each payment period.

Loan Disbursement Information

Loan periods for online undergraduate programs are 40 weeks in length. Online undergraduate students can expect two (2) disbursements (one per payment period) each academic year. An academic year for undergraduate students is comprised of eight (8) successfully completed courses. Each payment period is four (4) successfully completed courses. The beginning of the loan period for online programs will coincide with the beginning date of the first course in the student’s academic year. See Financial Aid Specific to Online Undergraduate Programs Definitions in this section of the Catalog for more information about loan periods

First Disbursement: To receive a disbursement, students must have successfully completed the financial aid application process, including verification, if applicable. The first disbursement will be delivered no earlier than the first week a student has posted attendance in the first course. For students who are conditionally admitted with the Ashford Promise, the first disbursement will be delivered no earlier than at the time of matriculation during the 4th week of attendance in the first course. The first disbursement is intended to be applied toward the first four (4) successfully completed courses and any applicable fees.

Second Disbursement: The second disbursement will be delivered once a student has successfully completed at least 12 undergraduate-level credits and is intended to be applied toward the remaining four (4) successfully completed courses and any applicable fees in the second payment period. A student must also be registered for and start the next class in the second payment period, and at least half of the loan period (20 weeks) must have passed. In order to be eligible for a Post Withdrawal Disbursement (PWD) or Late Disbursement for a second/subsequent disbursement, a student must have graduated or completed the payment period for which the loan was intended.

Note: Grades of “W,” “WF,” “I,” or “F” do not count toward successfully completed courses. Grades of “D+,” “D,” or “D-” that do not count toward successful completion of required competency courses and thus must be repeated, also do not count toward successfully completed courses. In addition, students who are required or choose to repeat courses will not have the repeated course counted toward successfully completed courses. Once a grade of “I” is successfully completed for a permanent grade as outlined previously, the course will count toward successful completion.

Renewed Loan Eligibility: A student enrolled in the online undergraduate program may renew his or her loan for the next academic year once these conditions have been met:

1. The student has completed the initial 40-weeks of instructional time and the loan period has ended;
2. 24 undergraduate-level credits have been successfully completed; and
3. The student is registered for another course.

Financial/Financial Aid Implications for Residents of Mississippi and Tennessee: Financial aid may be certified but will not be disbursed until proof of graduation from high school or equivalent has been received by Ashford University. To allow time for receipt of this proof, students choosing the “financial aid” payment option will have their first disbursement of financial aid delayed until the later of eleven (11) calendar weeks post start date or the conclusion of the first six (6) attempted credits. Students whose proof of graduation from high school or equivalent is not received within the time frame described previously will:

1. be placed on finance hold and unscheduled from future courses until proof of graduation from high school requirements are satisfied and financial aid is certified, or
2. pay cash to bring their account current and for all courses they take until proof of graduation from high school requirements have been received and financial aid has been disbursed.

Tuition Payment and Financial Aid

Each financial aid disbursement is intended to cover tuition costs for at least 12 undergraduate-level credits. However, students who do not meet the criteria listed previously for receipt of loan funds may be required to pay for more than the minimum number of courses before a subsequent disbursement is available.

Students who do not consistently register for sequential courses may not be eligible for financial aid disbursements.

Online undergraduate students may be eligible for a voucher to purchase required books and supplies through the University’s online bookstore. Vouchers are automatically generated and emailed to eligible students within the first seven days of the financial aid payment period.

This online bookstore voucher allows students to purchase required books and supplies with an automated charge posted to their student account against anticipated financial aid, and only when the anticipated financial aid is greater than the amount of tuition and fees for the payment period. These voucher purchases will be paid by the student’s financial aid funds once disbursements are posted to the student’s account. In all cases, the student is obligated to reimburse Ashford University in full for the amount of charges incurred when the bookstore voucher is used whether or not sufficient financial aid funds are available on the student’s account. Such a situation may occur, but is not limited to, when:

• the bookstore charges are not able to be charged against financial aid;
• the student does not receive the anticipated financial aid; or
• the student does not receive sufficient financial aid to cover the full amount of the bookstore charges.

Online bookstore vouchers will only be issued to students who:

• are eligible for a Federal Pell Grant; and
• are estimated to be eligible for federal aid disbursements in excess of tuition and fee charges; and
• complete their financial aid file 21 calendar days prior to the start of the financial aid payment period, or have their financial aid package completed 10 calendar days prior to the start of the payment period.

Online bookstore vouchers expire 21 days after the financial aid payment period begins and may only be used at the University’s online bookstore. These vouchers are not transferrable and cannot be redeemed for cash. Only one voucher per eligible student will be issued each financial aid payment period. Students are not obligated to use the voucher to purchase their books. Students may opt out by simply not using the book voucher and purchasing their books using personal funds.

Questions pertaining to the Online Bookstore Voucher should be directed to the student’s Student Advisor.

Definitions

Week = 7 calendar days

Full Academic Year Definition = a minimum of 36 weeks of instructional time and 18 successfully earned credits that apply toward the student’s program of study.

A full Academic Year consists of two (2) increments that may be referenced as payment periods, financial aid payment periods or Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) increments.

• The first payment period in the Academic Year ends when half of the credits and weeks required for a completed Academic Year have been met.
• The second payment period in the Academic Year ends when the requirements for a completed Academic Year have been met.

Final Academic Year Exceptions:

• For any remaining portion of a program that is half of an Academic Year or less, the remaining portion is treated as a single payment period.
• For any remaining portion of a program that is more than half of an Academic Year but less than a full Academic Year, the remaining portion is divided into two payment periods and the first payment period is the period in which the student successfully completes half of the credits and half of the weeks of instructional time in the remaining portion.

Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) is evaluated at the end of each increment.

Loan Disbursement Information

First Disbursement: To receive a disbursement, students must have successfully completed the financial aid application process, including verification, if applicable. The first disbursement will be delivered no earlier than the first week a student has posted attendance in the first course. For students who are conditionally admitted with the Ashford Promise, the first disbursement will be delivered no earlier than at the time of matriculation during the 4th week of attendance in the first course. The first disbursement is intended to be applied toward the first three (3) successfully completed courses and any applicable fees.

Second Disbursement: The second disbursement will be delivered once a student has successfully completed at least 9 graduate-level credits and is intended to be applied toward the remaining three (3) successfully completed courses and any applicable fees in the second payment period. A student must also be registered for and start the next class in the second payment period, and at least half of the loan period (18 weeks) must have passed.

Note: Grades of “W,” “WF,” “I,” or “F” do not count toward successfully completed courses. In addition, students who are required or choose to repeat courses will not have the repeated course counted toward successfully completed courses. In addition, students who are required or choose to repeat courses in which they earned a grade of “C,” will not have the repeated course counted toward successfully completed courses. Once a grade of “I” is successfully completed for a permanent grade as outlined previously, the course will count toward successful completion.

Renewed Loan Eligibility: A student enrolled in the online graduate program may renew his or her loan for the next academic year once these conditions have been met:

1. The student has completed the initial 36-weeks of instructional time and the loan period has ended;
2. 18 undergraduate-level credits have been successfully completed; and
3. The student is registered for another course.

Tuition Payment and Financial Aid

Each financial aid disbursement is intended to cover tuition costs for at least 9 graduate-level credits. However, students who do not meet the criteria listed previously for receipt of loan funds may be required to pay for more than the minimum number of courses before a subsequent disbursement is available. Students who do not consistently register for sequential courses may not be eligible for financial aid disbursements.

Types of Aid Available for Graduate Students:

• Federal Direct Loan
• Federal Graduate PLUS Loans

Graduate Direct Loan Limits:

• Unsubsidized $25,500.00
• Maximum Lifetime Loan Limit $138,500.00 (including undergraduate loans, if applicable)
• Maximum Lifetime Aggregate Subsidized Loan Limit $65,500
• Maximum Lifetime Aggregate Unsubsidized Loan Limit $73,000
• A borrower who has reached his or her aggregate borrowing limit may not receive additional loans until he or she has reduced his or her aggregate loan amount.

Under the Financial Aid plan for enrollment in on-campus traditional programs, if a student fails to supply all required documents by the end of the second week, by Friday at 4 pm in the Central Time Zone (CST), the student will be immediately withdrawn from all courses in that semester. Students who are otherwise qualified may be rescheduled to restart their program at a later date when all required financial aid documentation is submitted or when a different method of payment is selected. If a student is unable to qualify for financial aid, he or she must select another method of payment and is held responsible for any outstanding balances incurred.

Loan Disbursement Information

Loan periods for all campus based programs generally comprise two terms (fall and spring). The beginning date of the loan period for on campus programs will coincide with the start date of the first term in the loan period.

Disbursement Eligibility: The first disbursement will be delivered after the census date in the term. The campus based programs use a schedule academic year in determining the frequency of annual loan limits. The summer term is considered a trailer to the fall/spring academic year. Therefore, except for transfer students, a student enrolled in the campus based traditional undergraduate programs gains eligibility for up to the Stafford annual loan limit for a scheduled academic year that begins with the fall term. If a student exhausts his/her annual loan limit during the fall/spring terms, he/she is ineligible for additional loan funds for attendance during the summer term. If the student has remaining annual loan limit eligibility after attending the fall and/or spring terms, he/she may receive the remainder of his/her annual loan limit for summer attendance during a loan period that includes only the summer term. The beginning date of the loan period for a summer loan will coincide with the start date of the summer term. The first disbursement of a summer-only loan will be delivered after the census date in the term.

Retaking coursework previously passed at Ashford University campus-based programs may impact a student’s enrollment status (e.g., full time, half time, etc.). Courses attempted a third time when the prior two attempts resulted in a passing grade will not be included in the enrollment status calculation for the term. This may affect the student’s eligibility for financial aid funds. Students are encouraged to contact the Financial Aid Office for more information.

All traditional campus students have the option to purchase books and required course supplies with a charge posted to their student account against anticipated financial aid, scholarships, or payments.

Students are obligated to pay Ashford University in full for the amount charged in the bookstore whether or not sufficient financial aid funds are available on the student’s account. Such a situation may occur, but is not limited to, when:

• the bookstore charges are not able to be charged against financial aid;
• the student does not receive financial aid or scholarships; or
• the student does not receive sufficient financial aid to cover the full amount of the bookstore charges.

Students are not obligated to charge their books to their student account. Students may opt out by purchasing their books using personal funds.

This on-campus option is only available during the first 10 class days of each semester. Questions pertaining to the Campus Bookstore purchases should be directed to the student’s Financial Planner.

Students are required to make satisfactory academic progress in order to maintain eligibility for Title IV federal financial aid. See the Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) policy in the On-Campus Traditional Programs, Online Undergraduate Programs or Online Graduate Programs section of this Catalog for further details related to SAP review and requirements, and information related to conditions of Academic and Financial Aid Warning, Academic and Financial Aid Probation and Probation-Academic Plan during which students maintain Title IV eligibility.

Students who leave the University or whose student status falls below half-time must complete exit counseling for federal loans (Direct and Grad PLUS) within 30 days of separation from the school as mandated by federal regulations. Students will be emailed instructions on how to complete their exit counseling online. Students may contact the Financial Aid Office to receive individual repayment or account information.

The Financial Aid Office will perform a Return of Title IV Funds calculation when a Title IV recipient withdraws from his/her program. This process ensures that the institution correctly calculates the amount of federal student financial aid earned by the student and returns any unearned funds back to the federal student financial aid programs. In some cases, the student will be required to return unearned Title IV funds. In addition, the Return of Title IV process may result in the student owing the school for unpaid tuition and fees. A student may withdraw from the University at any time either verbally or in writing, of their decision to withdraw, but it is highly recommended that the student speak with their Student Advisor prior to withdrawing.

For Return of Title IV calculation purposes, the payment period for students attending the campus in Clinton, Iowa is defined as the semester from which the student withdraws. For students participating in online classes, the first payment period in the Academic Year ends when half of the credits and weeks required for a completed Academic Year have been met. The second payment period in the Academic Year ends when the requirements for a completed Academic Year have been met. For undergraduate students, an Academic Year is a minimum of 40 weeks of instructional time and 24 successfully earned credits that apply toward the student’s program of study. For graduate students, an Academic Year is a minimum of 36 weeks of instructional time and 18 successfully earned credits that apply toward the student’s program of study. For official or unofficial withdrawals from online programs, a student’s last date of attendance date is the last day in which a student attended class. If a student successfully completes a course, the last date of attendance will be recorded as the end date of the course.

The portion of Title IV funds a student is allowed to retain is calculated on a percentage basis by comparing the total number of days completed before the student withdrew from the program to the total number of days in the payment period.

For example, if the student withdrew on the 15th day of a payment period that has 63 days, the student has completed 24% of the payment period and has therefore earned 24% of the federal student financial aid that was disbursed or could have been disbursed. This means that 76% of the aid that was disbursed or could have been disbursed remains unearned and must be returned to the federal student financial aid program. The numerator and the denominator include weekend days but not scheduled breaks of five consecutive days or more. A student earns 100% of the aid once he or she has completed more than 60% of the payment period.

If the amount of aid disbursed to the student is greater than the amount of aid earned by the student, the unearned portion must be returned to the federal account. In returning unearned funds, the institution is responsible for returning the portion of the excess equal to the lesser of the institutional charges for the payment period multiplied by the unearned percentage of funds, or the entire amount of excess funds. If the student is required to return any of the excess funds, then the student must repay those funds. If the excess funds consist of Title IV loans, then the student repays the loan in accordance with the terms and conditions of the promissory note. If the excess funds consist of Title IV grant funds, the student is required to repay the portion which exceeds 50 percent of the amount of grant received.

If the amount of aid disbursed to the student is less than the amount of aid earned by the student, a post-withdrawal disbursement may be available to assist the payment of any outstanding tuition and fee charges on the student’s account. The post-withdrawal disbursement will be made from Title IV grant funds before available Title IV loan funds. If part of the post-withdrawal disbursement is a grant, the institution may apply the grant funds to tuition and fees or disburse the grant funds directly to the student. If a student is eligible to receive a post-withdrawal disbursement from Title IV loan funds, the student will be asked for his or her permission to either disburse the loan funds to the student’s account to reduce the balance owed to the institution, or disburse the excess loan funds directly to the student. The University has 30 days from the date of the institution’s determination the student withdrew to offer the post-withdrawal disbursement of a loan to the student or the parent in the case of a PLUS Loan. The student (or parent) has 14 days from the date the institution sends the notification to accept the post-withdrawal disbursement in writing. If the student accepts the post-withdrawal disbursement, the University will make payment within 180 days from the student’s withdrawal date. Once the University’s portion of the return of funds has been calculated, the Financial Aid Office will return the aid within 45 days to the appropriate federal student financial aid program(s) in the order subsequently specified.

If this creates a balance on the student’s account, the student will be responsible for full payment. A student will not be allowed to re-enter, register, or receive an official academic transcript until the outstanding balance has been paid in full. If loan funds need to be returned by the student, the student may pay these funds back under the original terms of the loan. The University will return the unearned Title IV funds in the following order:

1. Unsubsidized Direct Loan
2. Subsidized Direct Loan
3. Direct PLUS
4. Federal Pell Grant
5. FSEOG
6. TEACH Grant

For information regarding the determination of withdrawal date, please see the Withdrawal from the University policy in the General Academic Information and Policies section in this Catalog.

Students should call, write, or visit the Financial Aid Office for help in completing forms, answering questions, and explaining the award process. The Financial Aid Office telephone number for On-Campus Traditional Programs is (563) 242-4023, ext. 7727; the fax number for On-Campus Traditional Programs is (563) 242-8684. The Financial Services telephone number for online students is (866) 974-5700.

The following policies govern refunds to students in case of course drop, withdrawal, or dismissal from the University. Students who do not have federal financial aid will have their charges and financial credits assessed in accordance with the refund policy. Any nonfederal aid will be prorated and refunded using the same percentages in the refund policy. No refund will be made if the student’s withdrawal date occurs after 60% of the enrollment period has passed. For exceptions to this policy; please see specific state refund policies detailed subsequently.

Special Circumstances

Students called to active duty in the Armed Forces of the United States or leaving the University because of illness or other causes beyond their control may receive special consideration. Each case will be considered individually based upon the special circumstances involved. Tuition, room, and board refunds may be authorized on a pro rata basis or such other adjustments as considered necessary in those circumstances. Decisions are solely at the discretion of the University and are final.

Dismissal/Expulsion

Students dismissed or expelled from the University are not authorized refunds of any kind other than those provided by the Institutional Tuition Refund Policy in this section of the Catalog.

Students who drop or are administratively dropped from a course (or the institution) may be eligible for a tuition refund. Tuition refunds are based upon course length. Return of Title IV is based on the length of the payment period.

Online students should refer to the Ashford University Tuition Refund Schedule or applicable state refund policy for specific information regarding tuition refunds. Students whose last date of attendance (LDA) is during the indicated week will receive the tuition credit indicated. If an online student drops on or before the start date of a course, a 100% refund of the total cost of the course will be provided. On-campus students should refer to the Iowa State Tuition Refund Policy table for specific information regarding tuition refunds. If an on-campus student drops prior to census date (Friday of the second week of each term), no charges will be due. If an on-campus student drops after census date, only tuition will be refunded in accordance with the Iowa Refund Policy. Charges for room and board are not refundable except for special circumstances described previously. Charges for any other fees are not refundable.

On-campus Traditional terms begin on Monday and end on Friday. Online course weeks begin on Tuesday and end on Monday.

The Ashford University First Course Refund Schedule (Ashford Promise) applies to degree-seeking online students who drop or are administratively dropped during their first course. The Ashford University First Course Refund Schedule (Ashford Promise) is applicable to the first course taken as a degree-seeking student at the undergraduate and graduate level.

The Ashford University Tuition Refund Schedule applies to online students who drop or are administratively dropped from a course or the institution and who are not otherwise covered under a state-specific tuition refund policy.

The Georgia State Refund Policy applies to residents of Georgia when students drop or are administratively dropped from a course or the institution.

The Indiana State Refund Policy applies to residents of Indiana when students drop or are administratively dropped from a course or the institution.

The Iowa State Tuition Refund Policy applies to residents of Iowa who are enrolled in online courses and all students enrolled in on-campus traditional programs and courses.

If a student enrolled in an online course drops, or is administratively dropped, from the course and their last date of attendance (LDA) in the course is on or before the drop deadline listed in the following table, a 100% refund of the total cost of the course will be provided. If a student enrolled in an on-campus traditional program or course withdraws from the University and their last date of attendance (LDA) at the University is on or before the drop deadline listed, a 100% refund of the total cost of the course will be provided.

If a student enrolled in an online course drops, or is administratively dropped, from the course and their last date of attendance (LDA) in the course is beyond the drop deadline, the tuition refund is calculated according to the subsequent formula. If a student enrolled in an on-campus traditional program or course withdraws from the University and their last date of attendance (LDA) at the University is beyond the drop deadline, the tuition refund is calculated according to the following formula:

The Maryland State Refund Policy applies to residents of Maryland when students drop or are administratively dropped from a course or the institution, and it is more favorable than the institution’s standard refund policy.

*Refund percentage applied based on last day of attendance (LDA)

The Missouri State Refund Policy applies to residents of Missouri when students drop or are administratively dropped from a course or the institution. Some fees charged might be non-refundable depending on the week of last date of attendance. Refunds will be issued to the original payor.