Admissions and Finances (Undergraduate - SJNY Brooklyn)

Application Procedure for Secondary School Students

Application forms for Fall and Spring semesters may be obtained from the Office of Admissions and are also available on-line at www.sjny.edu. St. Joseph’s University also participates in The Common Application. Students in secondary school should send an application preferably in their seventh semester. Each application is reviewed individually. In addition to the completed application, freshman applicants are requested to submit the following:

• Secondary school transcript
• Standardized test scores (SAT or ACT) Please note that SJNY is currently test optional. Those students who are home schooled are strongly recommended to submit test scores.
• Two letters of recommendation
• Essay or personal statement of 200-350 words
• $25 application fee
• Although a personal interview is not required as part of the admissions process, candidates are encouraged to arrange for a campus visit and informational appointment with a member of the admissions staff

Admission Requirements

Admission to St. Joseph’s University is competitive. Each applicant is carefully reviewed for indicators of academic achievement and potential. Recognizing that each applicant offers a unique combination of achievement and promise, the Office of Admissions carefully considers all of the components of the application including: academic transcript; co-curricular activities resume; essay or personal statement; letters of recommendation; and standardized test scores. Please note that SJNY is currently test optional. Those students who are home schooled are strongly recommended to submit test scores

Applicants for Scholarships and Awards 

For High School Seniors the priority date for scholarship consideration is March 15 for the Fall semester and January 1 for the Spring semester. Completed admissions applications should be received by these dates.

Secondary School Record

Successful applicants will typically have followed a four-year University preparatory curriculum at an accredited secondary school as listed below: 

                                                                                                                                                                           Prescribed Units

Mathematics and Science Requirement   

 While three years of University preparatory mathematics are recommended for admission, four years of University preparatory mathematics are suggested for those who plan to major in mathematics, mathematics/computer science, biology, business administration, accounting and for nursing and premedical students. Four years of lab sciences are suggested for students who plan to major in Biology, Chemistry and Nursing as well as for students planning on pre-medical studies.                                                                     

Exemption From Secondary School Admission Requirements 

The Admissions Committee at St. Joseph’s University is willing to consider the applications of candidates whose University preparation may vary from the prescribed pattern but who give evidence of their ability to do University work. The Admissions Committee will also consider applications from students who submit evidence of a High School Equivalency Diploma based on the successful completion of the General Educational Development Tests (GED) or TASC.   

Mathematics Requirement

While three years of college preparatory mathematics are required for admission, four years of college preparatory mathematics are suggested for those who plan to major in mathematics, computer information systems, chemistry, biology, business administration, and for premedical students..

Admissions Decisions

Students will receive an admissions decision approximately one month of receipt of all credentials.

Early Admission Plan

This plan is designed for students of high academic standing with a social maturity beyond their grade level. The Admissions Committee will consider high school students for entrance into the University at the conclusion of their junior year in high school. Basic requisites are high academic achievement, parental approval and very strong recommendations from high school guidance personnel. This program may be considered only in high schools which offer very strong academic preparation.

Standardized Tests

Candidates for admission to the freshman class must take the SAT Reasoning Test administered by the College Entrance Examination Board or the ACT administered by the American College Testing Service.  

The scores on the SAT will be forwarded to the colleges listed on the candidate’s application. St. Joseph’s requires official scores. Our codes are as follows:

SAT - 2802
ACT - 2890

PLEASE CONSULT THE COLLEGE OFFICE AT YOUR HIGH SCHOOL FOR SAT OR ACT TEST DATES, OR CALL THE ADMISSIONS OFFICE AT (718) 940-5800.

NOTE: Students applying for academic scholarships and awards should arrange to take the SAT or ACT in the second half of Junior Year or in the first half of Senior Year.

When taking either exam, indicate St. Joseph’s University as a recipient of your test scores and the scores will be forwarded to the University. Requests to have scores sent may also be made on line at www.collegeboard.org (SAT) or www.actstudent.org (ACT).

International Students

International students seeking admission should file their applications several months in advance of the anticipated matriculation date. Application deadline for Fall admission is March 1; for Spring admission, September 1. A fee of U.S. $25.00 must accompany the application form. Students must submit official school records and scores on either the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT). Applicants must have a minimum TOEFL score of 550 (paper-based), 79-80 (Internet-based), or 213 (computer-based) to be considered for admission. Those taking the IELTS (International English Testing System) must have a minimum score of 6.5. Information may be found at www.ielts.org  The TOEFL and SAT information bulletins and registration forms are available in areas outside of the United States or on line at www.ets.org/toefl.

A notarized affidavit of financial responsibility must be submitted at the time of acceptance. Admission to St. Joseph’s University is contingent upon the acquisition of a valid student visa (F-1) from the United States Department of Immigration and Naturalization Service.

Conditional Program Acceptance/College Enrichment Program

Students who exhibit college potential but do not meet general admissions standards, are accepted on a “conditional” basis, as part of the College Enrichment Program. The College Enrichment Program is designed to provide these students with the added benefit of a mentorship program, which includes regular one-on-one meetings and workshops with an experienced adviser, who is focused on the student’s success. These mentoring sessions offer individualized guidance and support, and will be tailored to the unique opportunities and challenges that the student may encounter as they transition to college.

Candidates’ Reply Date

Students who have been accepted for admission should reply by December 1 (for the Spring term) or May 1 (for the Fall term) to confirm their choice of St. Joseph’s. Late applicants will be expected to confirm their acceptance within one week of notification. For acceptance deposit, see Statement of Costs.

Registration, Programming, and Placement

Students are notified in advance of the registration conference dates for the Fall and Spring semesters. During the registration period for September (Fall) entrants, which is usually scheduled in May or June, the Chairpersons of Departments are available for group and individual consultation. Students who are undecided as well as those who have selected a major are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to discuss interests and educational goals with the faculty members. Under their advisement, the students then make their course selections for the fall term. Students are required to submit documentation regarding MMR immunization and meningoccal meningitis vaccination prior to the first day of class.

Students who apply or are accepted after the official registration period, are advised by the Admissions Office of alternate registration dates. 

Advanced Placement

Students who have taken advanced placement courses in secondary school may apply for college credit. St. Joseph’s grants advanced placement and credit on the basis of the candidate’s score on the Advanced Placement Examination administered by the College Entrance Examination Board and subject to approval of the Departmental Chairpersons in whose field the advanced study has been done.

At registration, it is the student’s responsibility to inform advisors of any A.P. credit in order to avoid duplication of course work.

Freshmen may also enroll with advanced standing upon presentation and review of an official transcript for college-level work completed.

International Baccalaureate

St. Joseph’s recognizes the advanced level of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Program. The University awards credit for International Baccalaureate courses taken at the Higher Level in which the student earns a score of 5 or better. Equivalence of courses is determined by the Department Chairperson. The student is responsible to submit an official IB transcript to the University.

University Proficiency Examinations

Matriculated students may apply for credit or placement for the equivalent of St. Joseph’s University courses on the basis of their successful completion of examination sponsored by:

1. CLEP-The College Board’s College-Level Examination Program (Box 2815, Princeton, New Jersey 08541)
2. RCE-The New York State Education Department’s Regents College Examinations (State Education Department, Cultural Education Center, Albany, New York 12230)3.
3. USAFI-United States Armed Forces Institute (Commission on Accreditation of Service Experiences of the American Council on Education, One Dupont Circle, Washington, D.C. 20036

Students who wish credit or placement on the basis of any of these exams should have a copy of their scores forwarded from the sponsoring agency to the Registrar of St. Joseph’s University. When a decision has been reached, the student will receive written confirmation of the credit or placement granted.

Re-admission

A student who has withdrawn from the University and who wishes to return must complete the appropriate re-admission process as outlined below.

1. Students who attended another post-secondary institution after withdrawing from St Joseph’s University must re-apply for admission through the Office of Admissions. Official transcripts from all colleges attended must be submitted and will be reviewed for admission and transfer credit purposes.
2. Students who, after withdrawing from St. Joseph’s University, did not attend any other post-secondary institution, may obtain an application for re-admission from the Registrar or the Dean.
3. Students who wish to return to the University within one year after an approved leave of absence, and have not attended any other institution, must meet with an academic advisor prior to registering for classes.
4. Students who wish to return after being dismissed for academic reasons must file an application for re-instatement with the Academic Dean.

Transfer Students: Policies and Procedures

Transfer students are welcome at both SJNY Brooklyn and SJNY Long Island. The University believes that transfer students add a new dimension by bringing fresh ideas and varied experiences.

Whenever possible, students who wish to transfer to St. Joseph’s should file their applications at least three months in advance of the expected date of matriculation. Transfer students should request that official transcripts from all former colleges, marked catalogs of former colleges and a listing of courses in progress be sent to the Admissions Office, St. Joseph’s University.  Applicants with fewer than 24 college level credits must also submit a final official high school transcript.

St. Joseph’s University provides for a block transfer of courses, up to 64 credits, for students who have earned an Associate in Arts, or an Associate in Science (with science emphasis) degree in certain transfer programs at an accredited Community or Junior college. A maximum of 90 credits may be transferred from regionally accredited four year institutions, including on-line courses. In order to transfer credits for any course, a grade of C- or higher is required.

Transfer credit for an Associate in Applied Science degree varies. In general, the two year programs leading to the A.A.S. degree have been designed for immediate career preparation. St. Joseph’s cannot guarantee, therefore, that it will transfer all or most of the courses and credits earned as part of the A.A.S. degree. The determination rests upon the program followed, the choice of elective courses, and articulation with the major to be followed at St. Joseph’s.

Prospective transfer students are encouraged to forward their transcripts to the Office of Admissions requesting an individual evaluation.

Each student will be given an official Review of Transfer Record, which will indicate courses and credits transferred, and any courses still needed to satisfy the St. Joseph’s University Core Curriculum, as outlined in the current catalog.

To complete requirements for the Baccalaureate degree, the student is responsible for any core requirements still outstanding; a major of 30 or more credits; any other requirements of the major; and a total of 120- 128 credits, of which a minimum of 90 must be in the liberal arts for a B.A. degree.

The minimum residence requirements for a St. Joseph’s degree is two semesters, or 30-32 credits. Students who transfer to SJNY as juniors are usually expected to complete their course and credit requirements at St. Joseph’s University.

Applicants for Scholarships and Awards

High School Seniors: For scholarship consideration, the University requires that all forms (SJNY application, high school transcript, and SAT results) be received by the Admissions Office before March 15 for the Fall semester and January 1 for the Spring semester.

Scholarships and Grants

St Joseph’s University has an extensive Scholarship and Grant Program. Criteria for scholarship eligibility are determined by the college’s scholarship committee and are reviewed each year. A list of scholarships may be found on pages 29-30.

Eligibility for a scholarship or grant is based on a combination of factors including GPA, SAT scores, high school achievements, rank in class, letters of recommendation and personal statements.

Transfer Students are also eligible for Academic Achievement Scholarships. A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required for consideration.

Transfer Applicants for Scholarships and Awards

The University requires that all forms (SJNY application and transcript(s)) be received before August 1 for the Fall semester and January 1 for the Spring semester.

Statement of Costs 2023-2024

                                            Annual Tuition and Fees

Tuition Policy

In addition to a non-refundable $25 application fee, all new full-time students accepted for admission must make a tuition deposit of $250 and part-time students $80 at the time of registration. These amounts include a $5.00 ID card fee. The deposit is not refundable, but it will be credited toward the first term’s tuition. This deposit is only good for two years from the time the deposit is made.

A student’s bill for tuition and fees is based on the number of credits for which a student intends to register, less applicable financial aid or scholarships for that semester. Scholarships or student aid may only be subtracted if all related applications and other information have been submitted on a timely basis. Payment of the remaining balance constitutes “Clearance” by the Bursar’s Office.

Bills for the semester must be cleared by the Bursar’s Office before students may attend class. Students who do not receive financial clearance from the Bursar’s Office will not be officially registered at the University for that semester. Students may not enroll for a successive semester until their accounts have been completely satisfied.

St. Joseph’s University, New York offers a tuition financing option through a tuition deferment program. The monthly budgeting program the University offers is through an outside agency called, Nelnet Campus Commerce. Basically, the program is designed to afford students the opportunity to pay their educational expenses in monthly installments. Students may elect to contract with the service for a nominal initial participation fee prior to or at the beginning of each new academic year. Students interested in the plan may obtain brochures and applications in the Bursar’s Office. Additional information may be obtained by calling Nelnet at 1 (800) 609-8056.

The accounts of students who are unable to pay what is owed by the first day of class (other than those who are enrolled with Nelnet), will automatically default to St. Joseph’s University, New York Tuition Extension Agreement. Unlike the deferment program, under St. Joseph’s University ,New York Tuition Agreement, a finance charge will be assessed.

Questions regarding the University’s tuition policy, should be addressed to the Bursar at SJNY Long Island (631) 687-4566.

STUDENTS WHO FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THESE REGULATIONS WILL BE SUBJECT TO SUSPENSION UNTIL THE REQUIREMENTS ARE MET.

FLAT-RATE. The flat rate for tuition covers 33 credits per academic year. In this way, the University’s requirement of 120- 128 credits can be achieved in eight terms. Full-time students-those taking at least 12 credits-are charged the flat rate of $33,825 per academic year. Inter-session and Summer Session courses are not included within the flat-rate tuition. Full-time students who take more than 33 credits per academic year will be charged $1,095 for each additional credit. Up to 18 of the 33 credits may be taken in one semester without an additional charge.

PER CREDIT. Part-time students - those taking fewer than 12 credits - are charged $1,095 per credit.

 A diploma will not be issued until all financial obligations are settled. The University reserves the right to alter tuition charges and fees when such changes become necessary.

Withdrawal From a Course or From the University: Tuition Refunds

Withdrawal from a course or from the University may entitle a student to a refund of tuition, but not of fees. A students last day of attendance or for Online courses, the last day of participation is utilized to determine tuition liability and when calculating refunds. Last day of participation is defined as the last date a graded academic assignment is submitted.  Full-time campus-based undergraduate students who receive permission to withdraw from a single course are not entitled to a refund, unless the withdrawal involves extra credits. In such cases, the student may ask for a refund of the extra tuition within the first four weeks of the term.  Part-time students who withdraw from a course may be entitled to a refund. Once the classes have begun, flat-rate undergraduate students who change their programs to less than 12 credits will continue to be responsible for the flat-rate tuition charge (as opposed to the per-credit rate). The percentage of refund for undergraduate and graduate students will be determined according to the following schedules (based on the courses start/end dates): 
 
For 12-14 week classes (including GMS courses):

Withdrawal Effective % of Refund Prior to Second Week 100% During Second Week 80% Third Week 60% Fourth Week 40% Fifth Week 20% After Fifth Week No Refund 
 
For 6-8 week classes:

Withdrawal Effective % of Refund Prior to Second Week 100% During Second Week 60% Third Week 20% After Third Week No Refund 
 
For 4 week classes: 

Withdrawal Effective % of Refund Prior to Third Class 100% After Third Class 60% After Fourth Class 20% After Fifth Class No Refund 

For classes meeting for 2 weeks or less:

Withdrawal Effective % of Refund Prior to Second Class 100% After Second Class No Refund 
 
This schedule does not apply to the tuition deposit required of first time students. This deposit is non-refundable. Federal Title IV recipients should see the Return of Title IV Funds section of this catalog. In the absence of an instructor’s attendance verification, the date of withdrawal is determined by the Dean. Withdrawal from online courses is based on the last date of participation in the course and is determined by the SJNY Online administrative team. A student who believes his/her individual circumstances warrant an exception to the University’s refund policy may submit a written appeal for special consideration to the Bursar. That decision is subject to appeal to the Chief Financial Officer. Refunds of financial aid awards, student loans, etc., are not refundable until the actual funds have been received by the University and the student’s eligibility for the funds has been determined. A refund will not be granted to a student who is dismissed or who withdraws while under disciplinary action. Once the Bursar’s Office has determined that a student is eligible to receive a refund, it will automatically be processed by the office. Students’ accounts are reviewed regularly to validate the credit and when appropriate, a refund check is scheduled and then issued. All checks are mailed to the permanent address on file for the student. If the refund is generated by a Parent PLUS loan, the refund may be sent to your parent.  For students/parents who wish to carry a credit to a future semester, a carry credit request form (which can be obtained on the SJNY portal, under Bursar Forms), with the semester indicated, needs to be submitted to the Bursar’s Office.  Please note credits can only be carried within the same academic year.  All spring credits will be refunded and cannot be carried to future semesters. 

Scholarships and Financial Aid Programs

All matriculating students, including transfer students, may apply for financial aid. Consideration for a scholarship or financial aid from St. Joseph’s University is dependent upon making application and receiving official notification of acceptance into the University.

Financial Aid

Application Procedures 

To be considered for federal, state and institutional sources of financial aid, students should follow these procedures each academic year.

1. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) designating St. Joseph’s University, Brooklyn NY as a recipient. The student will be asked to enter St. Joseph’s federal school code, which is 002825 for SJNY Brooklyn. The FAFSA may be completed online at www.fafsa.gov.
2. New York State Residents who plan to attend full-time should also complete the New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) application.  After completion of the FAFSA, a student may file the TAP application at http://www.hesc.ny.gov.  Undergraduate students should indicate code #0755.
3. If the student’s FAFSA is selected by the processor for verification, the student will be asked to provide additional documentation to the Office of Financial Aid. The documentation will be compared to the FAFSA, and corrections will be made as necessary. The Office of Financial Aid must be in receipt of the documentation, and all necessary corrections must be made before awards can be disbursed.  The Office of Financial Aid may request other types of documentation in order to determine eligibility for certain programs.
4. Priority for certain financial aid programs will be given to students who adhere to the following recommended filing dates:

Requirements and Responsibilities of Student Aid Recipients 

All students who receive financial aid are responsible for understanding the academic standards they must meet in order to maintain eligibility for specific programs. Federal financial aid recipients should consult the Federal Financial Aid Programs section of this catalog.  Recipients of St. Joseph’s college scholarships and grants should consult the St. Joseph’s University Financial Aid Programs section of this catalog.  New York State financial aid recipients should consult the New York State Financial Aid Programs section of this catalog.

Students must notify the Office of Financial Aid in writing of the amounts and sources of any outside aid that they may be receiving.  For example, students should inform the Office of Financial Aid about a scholarship that they may be receiving from a community organization.

Student Expense

In order to aid in financial planning, the Office of Financial Aid has provided the following table of estimated costs at St. Joseph’s University. All costs are subject to change.

St. Joseph’s University Full-time Undergraduate Program 2023-24 Student Expenses

Federal Financial Aid Programs 

To receive federal student aid, a student must: 1)  have a high school diploma or a General Educational Development (GED) certificate, or complete a high school education in a home school setting approved under state law; 2)  be enrolled or accepted as a regular student in an eligible degree or certificate program; 3) be a U.S. citizen, U.S. National, or eligible non-citizen; 4) have a valid Social Security Number (unless you are from the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, or the Republic of Palau);  5) maintain satisfactory academic progress in college; 6) sign certifying statements on the FAFSA stating that you are not in default on a federal student loan and do not owe a refund on a federal grant; and 7) certify that you will use federal student aid only for educational purposes.

Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy for Federal Financial Aid Recipients 

Satisfactory academic progress is defined as proceeding toward successful completion of degree requirements. The SJNY Office of Financial Aid is required by federal regulation to determine whether a student is meeting the requirements. The official record of the SJNY Registrar is reviewed to determine student compliance with this Policy. Satisfactory Academic Progress is reviewed and determined at the conclusion of each semester. 

This Policy pertains only to applicants for federal financial aid.  Federal financial aid includes Federal Pell grants, Federal SEOG, Federal Direct Stafford Loans, Federal Direct Parent PLUS Loans, Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loans and Federal Work Study. A recipient of an SJNY institutional scholarship, tuition remission, or an institutional grant must meet the eligibility requirements of the respective program. The New York Tuition Assistance Program (TAP), as well as any other state sponsored programs, has their own, specific progress policies. We encourage you to review the Office of Financial Aid website. If you have questions about the monitoring of satisfactory progress not addressed in this policy, please contact our office.

Satisfactory Academic Progress Requirements

1. GPA

• Undergraduate students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.0.
• Graduate students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0.

2. Pace

• All students must successfully complete at least 75% of the cumulative hours attempted.  This includes all courses attempted at SJNY as well as courses transferred into SJNY that are applicable to a student’s program.  For example, a student who has attempted a cumulative total of 55 hours must have successfully completed at least 41 credit hours to meet the requirement (55 x .75 = 41.25; round decimals down to whole numbers).

3. Maximum Time Frame

• Students must not exceed a maximum number of hours to complete the degree program. Undergraduate students are no longer eligible to receive federal financial aid once they have attempted 150% of the credits required to complete the degree. Graduate students must complete the degree within five calendar years. For example:
  • 120 credit undergraduate degree programs must not exceed 180 credits.
  • Certificate programs must not exceed 150% of published length of program.  For example, a 24 credit program must not exceed 36 credits (24 x 1.5 = 36).
  • Graduate programs must be completed within five calendar years of the start term.

Courses/Grades Used in Determining Satisfactory Academic Progress:

All coursework attempted, including any dropped, repeated, reprieved or remedial courses or withdrawals recorded on the SJNY Transcript at the time of the progress check are considered when determining if the student has exceeded the maximum number of hours for degree completion and has completed 75% of the total cumulative hours attempted.

The following grades indicate successful completion of a course: “A,” “B,” “C,” “D,” or “P”.

The following grades indicate a course was not successfully completed: “F”,”I”, “AB”, “WD”, “WF”, “WU”, “FN”, “NC”, or a course for which a grade was not entered.

Audit courses are not counted in the total hours attempted for any semester or as successful completion of a course. Independent study, correspondence and extension courses may count toward successful completion of hours attempted if they are completed by the last day of the semester. For information about eligibility and payment of aid for these types of courses, please contact the Financial Aid Office.  

Transfer courseworkk must be reflected on the SJNY Transcript to be considered for purposes of financial aid eligibility 

Failure to Maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress:

A student who exceeds the maximum number of hours allowed for degree completion will be suspended from future financial aid until the reason for the excessive hours can be adequately documented.

A student who either fails to achieve the required cumulative Graduation/Retention GPA, or to complete at least 75% of the total hours attempted, will be placed on financial aid warning for the following semester of enrollment at SJNY. A student may receive financial aid while on warning.  At the end of the warning period, if a student is meeting the Satisfactory Academic Progress requirements, he/she will regain unconditional eligibility for federal financial aid programs. If a student has not met the requirements, he/she will have eligibility for federal financial aid suspended. Please see below.

Financial Aid Suspension:

A student denied assistance based on the Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy may submit a written appeal to the Financial Aid Appeals Committee. An appeal form is included in the suspension notification letter.  The appeal and supporting documentation must be received in the SJNY Financial Aid Office by the deadline reflected in the suspension notification letter. The appeal should speak in detail to mitigating or extenuating circumstances that affected the student’s academic performance, i.e., severe physical injury or mental trauma.

A student suspended for exceeding the maximum hours allowed for degree completion should also have the academic advisor complete the “Remaining Hours Required for Degree Completion” form if extenuating circumstances require the student to exceed the maximum hours limit. The form is included in the suspension notification letter.

Action taken on a financial aid appeal is final and is transmitted to the student in writing by the Financial Aid Appeals Committee. Depending upon the timeliness of the appeal, it is possible for a student to have an appeal denied and also not be entitled to a refund of charges if the student chooses to withdraw from classes. A student who enrolls and attends class whose appeal is subsequently denied will be eligible for a refund of charges based solely on the refund policy in the in the SJNY Catalog.

A student suspended for reasons other than exceeding the maximum number of hours for degree completion who does not appeal, or whose appeal is denied, may be reinstated on a probationary basis by meeting both of the following criteria:

1. Achieve the required cumulative Graduation/Retention GPA or the required Semester GPA (Undergraduate = 2.00; Graduate = 3.00); and,

2. Successfully complete 75% of the total cumulative hours attempted or 75% of the hours attempted for that semester.

A student may regain eligibility by attending SJNY for the academic year without the benefit of federal financial aid and meeting the SAP eligibility criteria. A student may also regain eligibility by transferring work into SJNY from an accredited institution. Transfer work must be reflected on the SJNY transcript to be considered for purposes of federal financial aid eligibility.

Withdrawal From the University Return of Title IV (R2T4) Funds - Federal Aid Recipients

All students should consult with a financial aid counselor in the Office of Financial Aid before changing enrollment status or withdrawing from the University. Any changes may affect financial aid eligibility.

Federal financial aid is awarded to a student under the assumption that the student will attend school for the entire semester for which the aid is awarded. When a student withdraws from the University (officially or unofficially), he or she may no longer be eligible for the full amount of federal aid originally awarded. If a federal financial aid recipient withdraws after beginning classes and before the 60 percent point in the term, the amount of federal grant and/or loan assistance earned by the student must be determined. If the amount disbursed to the student is greater than the amount the student earned, unearned funds must be returned to the federal government by the university. If the amount disbursed to the student is less than the amount the student earned, and for which the student is otherwise eligible, the student may be entitled to a post-withdrawal disbursement. It is important to note that the amount of federal aid earned by the student is determined by the percentage of term completion (number of days in the semester divided into the number of days the student attended), and is not related to the University tuition refund policy. Scheduled breaks of five or more consecutive days are excluded from the number of days in the payment period.  In the event that funds need to be returned, the student may find an outstanding balance on his/her account. The student is responsible for any outstanding balances owed to the University when funds are returned. Funds that the institution must return to the federal government will be returned no later than 45 days after the date of withdrawal determination. 

Courses that do not span the entire length of the regular semester are considered to be modules. A student who is enrolled in module courses is not considered to have withdrawn for R2T4 purposes if the student completes one module that includes 49% or more of the number of days in the payment period. A student is not considered to have withdrawn if he or she submits in writing the intent to enroll in a later module course within the same semester. If the student does not begin attendance in the later module, the student is then considered withdrawn and an R2T4 calculation will be performed. Scheduled breaks of five or more consecutive days and all days between modules are excluded from the number of days in the payment period. 

Title IV funds that are subject to recalculation in the event of a withdrawal from the University are (returned in this order): Unsubsidized Federal Direct Stafford Loans, Subsidized Federal Direct Stafford Loans, Federal Direct PLUS Loans, Federal Pell Grants, Iraq & Afghanistan Service Grants, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG) and TEACH Grants (St. Joseph’s University does not currently participate in the TEACH Grant).

Federal Pell Grant

Pell grants are available to matriculated, undergraduate students who have not already earned a bachelor’s degree.  Eligibility is based on Expected Family Contribution (EFC) from the FAFSA application and the student’s enrollment status.  Award amounts for the 2023-24 academic year range from $761 to $7395 annually.  The amount of pell grant funds a student may receive over the course of his/her education is limited by a federal law to be the equivalent of six full time years of funding.

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)

FSEOG is available to eligible undergraduate students who demonstrate exceptional financial need.  At SJNY, a student must be pell eligible and have a 0-200 Expected Family Contribution (EFC) to be considered.  Annual award amounts at SJNY for the 2023-24 academic year range from $500 to $1,000 due to limited funding.  FSEOG is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

Federal Work-Study Program

The Federal Work-Study (FWS) Program is offered through the federal campus-based aid program and provides employment opportunities to eligible students.  Actual award amounts are based on the student’s financial need, pay-rate, amount of contracted hours and funding availability.  FWS funds at SJNY are received in the form of a monthly paycheck for hour worked.  FWS funds are limited and positions are filled on a first-come, first-served basis.  An offer of FWS on an award letter does not guarantee position availability.  Please contact the Office of Financial Aid for job availability and more information.

Federal Direct Subsidized Stafford Loans

Direct Subsidized Loans are available to eligible undergraduate students who are enrolled at least half time (6 credits per semester).  Students must have financial need to qualify.  No interest accrues on this loan while the student is enrolled for at least 6 credits per semester or during the six month grade period. Repayment begins 6 months after the student ceases to be enrolled half time.  Direct Subsidized Loans have annual limits based on grade level, and aggregate lifetime limits.  First time borrowers will be required to complete a Master Promissory Note (MPN) and entrance counseling session.
 

Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loans

Direct Unsubsidized Loans are available to eligible undergraduate students who are enrolled at least half time (6 credits per semester).  Financial need is not a requirement.  Interest begins accruing when the loan is disbursed.  Repayment begins 6 months after the student ceases to be enrolled at least half time.  Direct Unsubsidized Loans have annual limits, and aggregate lifetime limits.  First time borrowers will be required to complete a Master Promissory Note (MPN) and entrance counseling session.

Federal Direct Parent PLUS Loan

Direct PLUS Loans are a credit-based loan available to the parents of dependent, undergraduate students who are enrolled at least half time (6 credits per semester).   The annual loan limit is the student’s cost of attendance minus any other financial aid.  The parent who wishes to borrow will need to complete a credit check and a Master Promissory Note (MPN).

For more information on Federal financial aid programs, please visit:  https://studentaid.ed.gov

New York State Financial Aid Programs

For additional information on any New York State Programs, including questions of eligibility, please contact New York State Higher Education Services Corporation (NYSHESC) at (888) NYS-HESC or visit their website at http://www.hesc.ny.gov/

Tuition Assistance Program (TAP)

Students in an approved program of study who meet New York State residency requirements may be eligible for up to $5,165 per academic year.  Effective for the 2007-08 academic year and thereafter, TAP is available to students on a part-time basis. To be eligible for Part-Time TAP, a student must have been a first time freshman in the 2006-07 academic year or thereafter, and maintain a “C” average. 

To be eligible for TAP, students must:

• be a United States citizen or eligible non citizen;
• be a legal resident of New York State for at least one year prior to the start of the term;
• have graduated from high school in the United States, earned a high school equivalency diploma by passing a Test Assessing Secondary Completion (TASC) formally known as a GED, or passed a federally approved “Ability to Benefit” test as defined by the Commissioner of the State Education Department;
• study at an approved post secondary institution in New York State;
• be matriculated in an approved program of study and be in good academic standing with at least a “C” average as of the 4th semester payment;
• *be enrolled as a full-time student taking twelve or more credits applicable towards the degree program, per semester to receive TAP;
• be enrolled as a part-time student taking six to eleven credits applicable towards the degree program per semester; (at least four, but fewer than eight credits per trimester) to receive part-time TAP.
• be charged at least $200 tuition per year;
• not be in default on any state or federal student loans and not be in default on any repayment of State awards;
• be in compliance with the terms of any service condition imposed by a NYS award; and
• meet income requirement. 

* Credit-bearing courses in the student’s minimum full-time course load (12 semester hours or   the  equivalent) must consist of courses applicable to the student’s program of study as a general education requirement, major requirement, or elective.

Aid for Part-Time Study (APTS)

Part-time students in an approved program of study who meet New York State residency requirements may be eligible for up to $2,000 per academic year. Awards cannot exceed tuition.

To be considered for an APTS award, you must:

• Be a United States citizen or eligible non citizen
• Be a legal resident of New York State
• Have graduated from a high school in the United States, earned a high school equivalency diploma by passing a Test Assessing Secondary Completion (TASC) formally known as a GED, or passed a federally approved “Ability to Benefit” test as defined by the Commissioner of the State Education Department
• Be enrolled as a part-time student
• Be matriculated in an approved program of study in a participating New York State post secondary institution
• Be in good academic standing
• Be charged at least $100 tuition per year
• Not have exhausted Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) eligibility
• Not be in default on any Federal or State student loan or on any repayment of state awards
• be in compliance with the terms of any service condition imposed by a NYS award; and
• Meet income eligibility limitations

Eligibility for an APTS award is based on New York State net taxable income, Federal, State or local pension income and private pension and annuity income, if applicable, from the prior calendar year.

• For students who were eligible to be claimed as tax dependents by their parents, family New York State NET taxable income may not exceed $50,550. Family income includes student AND parent income.
• For students who were not eligible to be claimed by their parents as tax dependents, their New York State NET taxable income (including spouse’s income) may not exceed $34,250. The spouse’s income must be included if they were married on or before December 31 of the previous calendar year.
• For students who were not eligible to be claimed by their parents but were eligible to claim tax dependents other than self and/or spouse, their New York State NET taxable income (including spouse’s income) may not exceed $50,550. The spouse’s income must be included if they were married on or before December 31 of the previous calendar year. 

For this program, part-time study means being enrolled for at least:

• 3 but fewer than 12 semester hours per semester.
• 4 but fewer than 8 credit hours per trimester. 

The New York State Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC) distributes APTS funds to participating colleges in New York State. St. Joseph’s University financial aid administrators select potential recipients from eligible students and decide who will receive APTS awards based on the funds they have available and students’ needs. To apply, students should obtain an APTS application from the Office of Financial Aid. Since funds are limited, the student should complete the application and return it as early as possible for processing.

Additional Programs

In addition to TAP and APTS, NYSHESC administers a variety of additional programs. Some examples of other programs are:

• Flight 3407 Memorial Scholarship
• Flight 587 Memorial Scholarship
• NYS Scholarships for Academic Excellence
• Military Service Recognition Scholarship
• World Trade Center Memorial Scholarship

For information on any of the programs administered by NYSHESC, please call (888) NYS-HESC or visit https://www.hesc.ny.gov

Satisfactory Academic Progress Requirements for New York State Aid Recipients

In order to receive TAP payments a student must be meeting the standards of academic progress set by the New York State Education Department, which consist of two components:

1.    Satisfactory Academic Progress: A requirement that a student accumulates a specified number of credits and achieves a specified cumulative grade point average each term.  Please refer to the chart below.

2.    Pursuit of Program: A requirement that a student completes a certain percentage of credits attempted each term.  The percentage, as specified in regulations, begins at 50% of the minimum full-time course load in each term of the first year an award is received, to 75% in each term of the second year an award is received, to 100% in each term of the third year an award is received and thereafter. 

In accordance with section 145-2.2 of the Regulations of the Commissioner of Education, each institution participating in State student financial aid programs must determine whether a student is in good academic standing based on a standard of satisfactory academic progress comprising a minimum number of credits to be accrued (earned) with a minimum cumulative grade point average in each term an award payment is received. The progress standard is most clearly presented in chart format (see below).

Initially, the regulation provided that each institution establish and submit for the Commissioner’s approval its proposed standard of progress. However, for the 1995-96 academic year and thereafter, new legislation mandated a minimum cumulative C average after a student has received four full-time semester award payments or the equivalent (24 payment points).

Effective for the 2010-11 academic year and thereafter, New York State Education Law requires a non-remedial student, whose first award year is in 2010-11 and thereafter, must meet new standards of satisfactory academic progress (SAP). Non-remedial students whose first year is 2007-08 through 2009-10 must meet the SAP requirements enacted in 2006. Those meeting the definition of “remedial student” are not subject to the new SAP standards, but will use the requirements established in 2006. The law enacted in 2006 mandated minimum standards of satisfactory academic progress for students receiving their first State award in academic year 2006-07.

Effective 2010-11 for non-remedial students receiving first NYS award payment in 2010-11 and thereafter. Remedial students and students enrolled in an approved certificate program will use the 2006 SAP charts.

Undergraduate Level Semester Programs
Calendar: Semester 2010-11 and thereafter (non-remedial students)

Note: The 2010-11 enacted NYS budget mandates the following standards of progress, enacted in 2006-07, shall be used for non-remedial students who first receive State aid in 2007-08 through 2009-10 and for students who meet the definition of “remedial student” in 2010-11 and thereafter. The enacted budget defines remedial for purposes of SAP.

Undergraduate Level Semester Programs
Calendar: Semester Calendar 2006-07, 2007-08 through 2009-10 and 2010-11 and thereafter remedial students (if student’s first award was in 2010-11 and thereafter, and he/she does not meet the definition of a remedial student, see charts for non-remedial students)

Students must meet both the program pursuit requirements and the satisfactory academic progress requirements in each term of payment in order to continue to be eligible. In extraordinary circumstances, a student may be granted a waiver of the minimum requirements. Students are eligible for a waiver only once during their undergraduate career and once during their graduate career. For information about the process of filing a waiver, please contact the Office of the Registrar.

Individuals with Disabilities

Students who are medically diagnosed with a physical, developmental or emotional disability may be eligible for a grant that would help cover tuition, fees and the cost of books.   Please contact the Office of Adult Career and Continuing Education Services - Vocational Rehabilitation (ACCES-VR) for more information, or visit their website at www.acces.nysed.gov/vr/

St. Joseph’s University Undergraduate Studies Financial Aid Programs

For scholarship consideration, the University recommends that all required admissions materials (admissions application, high school transcript(s), letters(s) of recommendation and personal essay) be received by the Office of Admissions on or before March 15 for fall entering students and Jan. 1 for spring entering students. It is also highly recommended that you submit any of the relevant optional items (optional writing sample, resume/activities and SAT/ACT test results) that you wish to be considered as part of your application review. These items should be submitted before these same deadlines.

In most cases, the combination of grants and scholarships from all sources cannot exceed tuition.  Institutional grant and/or scholarship dollars may be reduced in cases where the combination would exceed tuition.

Top Tier Scholarships

Entering first year students with exemplary grades and an academically challenging curriculum throughout their secondary school record will be considered. The portfolio review will be influenced by the required and optional items that are submitted including rigor of curriculum, letter(s) of recommendation, personal essay, resume/activities, optional writing sample, demonstrated interest in St. Joseph’s University and SAT/ACT results (if applicable.) Top-tier scholarships begin at $19,000 per year and are limited.

Scholastic Achievement Award

Entering first year students will be considered for scholastic achievement scholarships and grants. The portfolio review will be influenced by the same criteria as listed above. Scholastic Achievement awards range from $12,000-$17,000 per year.

Academic Achievement Scholarship

Entering transfer students with a minimum 2.8 cumulative GPA (4-point scale) with at least 24 credits from a regionally accredited college or university will be considered.  Academic Achievement Scholarships range from $9,000 - $14,000.

Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship

Entering transfer students who hold membership in Phi Theta Kappa at their two-year University will be considered. A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.5 and at least 24 transferable University credits are required to be considered for this $1,000 per year award. Proof of membership must be submitted to the Office of Admissions.

Alumni Grant

Undergraduate students who are children, grandchildren or siblings of alumni, are considered for this award.  The grant amount is $1,000 and are awarded on a yearly basis to full time students. Alumni grants are awarded to entering students based upon information submitted on the admissions application that has been verified.  A separate application, available at www.sjny.edu/alumni/grant is available for continuing students who wish to be considered.

Two in Family Grant

If two or more dependent siblings of a family are enrolled as full-time undergraduate students at SJNY, a $500 per year grant will be awarded to the eldest student. If dependent twins or spouses are enrolled as full-time undergraduate students, they will each be awarded $250 per year. If a parent and a dependent child are enrolled as full-time undergraduate students, the parent will be awarded the $500 grant.

ACES Grants

The ACES Program for English Language and Culture awards a $14,000 per year grant to eligible students who have immigrated to the U.S. within the last eight years, completed their high school coursework, and have acquired a foundation in reading, writing and English.

Catholic High School Grant

This $4,000 grant may be awarded to students who enroll full time at St. Joseph’s University after graduating from a Catholic high school. It is awarded annually for up to four years of undergraduate study to students who are not eligible for other institutional merit-based awards.

SJNY Need Based Grant

Full time students enrolling in the Arts & Sciences program may be considered for this grant.  In order to be considered, students must complete the FAFSA and NY State TAP application if applicable. Award amounts vary based on financial need, academic promise and funding availability. Students who receive this grant must maintain full time enrollment in order to be considered to continue to receive the grant in subsequent years.

Corporate and Organization Partnership Discounts

St. Joseph’s University offers various discounts to personnel and staff members of certain entities. Examples of current partnership discounts are: NY City Police Department, Fire Department of NY City, NY City Department of Correction, NY City Court Officers, Department of Defense, Catholic Charities, Suffolk County Association of Municipal Employees, Long Island Railroad, National Grid, Suffolk County Water Authority, Visiting Nurse Service of New York, Brookhaven Hospital, Catholic Health Services, Estee Lauder, Northwell Health and Teachers Federal Credit Union. Discount programs vary and are subject to change. Discount programs may not be combined with any other institutional grants or scholarships, or discounted tuition (i.e. required undergraduate prerequisites for a graduate program) and is not available to students enrolled in online degree programs. To be considered students must complete an annual verification form which can be obtained from the Office of Financial Aid. Please consult with an Admissions or Financial Aid Counselor for more information.

Other SJNY Grants

Students who demonstrate financial need, special interest or academic promise may be considered.  Award amounts vary according to financial need and availability of funds.

St. Joseph’s University Graduate Financial Aid Programs

Alumni Graduate Academic Excellence Award

St. Joseph’s University graduates who completed their bachelor’s degree with a final cumulative GPA of 3.4 or higher, and who are admitted to a Graduate degree program at St. Joseph’s University may be eligible for the one-credit SJNY Alumni Graduate Academic Excellence Award. Eligible students are entitled to a one-credit tuition grant in the first semester of matriculation as a graduate student.  Consult the Office of Admissions for applicable conditions and procedures.

Graduate Alumni Tuition Grant

Students who earned their bachelor’s degree from St. Joseph’s University and who are enrolled in a Graduate degree program at St. Joseph’s University may be eligible to receive a three or six credit tuition grant. Students eligible for a six-credit grant are entitled to a three-credit grant in two semesters toward the end of the program.  If students are eligible for a three-credit grant, the grant will be awarded in the last semester, or toward the end of the program. Consult the Office of Admissions for applicable conditions and procedures. Not applicable to Creative Writing MFA or Online Graduate programs.

Veterans Information

Veterans and Children of Deceased Veterans

St. Joseph’s University is fully approved by the New York State Education Department as well as other agencies for college level education programs for veterans under federal and state laws. For more information on these programs, please visit the Department of Veterans Affairs website at www.va.gov