Types of Financial Aid For Undergraduate Students

Barry University participates in many federal and state financial aid programs. In addition, Barry provides institutional funding to supplement federal and state funding. There are two types of financial aid. They are gift aid and self-help aid.

Gift Aid does not have to be repaid. There are two types of gift aid: scholarships and grants. Scholarships are awarded to students based on academic promise, and grants are usually awarded on the basis of financial need.

Self-Help Aid is aid that students earn either through work or is required to pay back. Loans and work-study are both forms of self-help aid.

  • Federal Work-Study allows students to work on campus to help defray the cost of education, while at the same time gaining valuable work experience.
  • Loans, unlike scholarships and grants, is money that must be repaid. Repayment of student loans usually begins six months after the student leaves school or ceases to be enrolled at least half-time.

Federal Programs

Federal Pell Grant

The Federal Pell Grant serves as the foundation to which other sources of aid are added. The awards range, depending on the need of the student, from an estimated $672 to $6,495 per academic year. This grant is offered to eligible full-time and part-time undergraduate students pursuing their first undergraduate degree.

Federal Pell Grant Lifetime Eligibility

Student may receive the Federal Pell Grant for no more than 12 full-time semesters (or its equivalent). This means that students who take longer than six years to earn their first bachelor’s degree may lose Pell Grant eligibility. This provision applies to all Federal Pell Grant eligible students.

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)

Students with exceptional financial need may qualify for this federally subsidized grant. Barry generally awards FSEOG in amounts from $200 to $800 per academic year. Funding is limited for this program.

Federal Direct Loan Program (DL)

Low-interest loans for students and parents are provided by the U.S. Department of Education. There are two types of Direct Loans: Direct Loans for students (subsidized and unsubsidized direct loans) and Direct Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students (PLUS). The Direct Subsidized Loan is based on financial need. The government pays the interest for the student while he or she is enrolled in school at least half time. Repayment begins six months after graduation or when enrollment drops below half time. The Direct Unsubsidized Loan is not based on need and is available to students regardless of family income. However, because the loan is not subsidized by the government, the student is responsible for all interest that accrues during in-school and deferment periods.

For dependent students, the annual loan limits for combined subsidized and unsubsidized loans are $5,500 for freshmen, $6,500 for sophomores and $7,500 for juniors and seniors. For independent undergraduate students, those amounts may be exceeded by an additional $4,000 for freshmen and sophomores, and $5,000 for juniors and seniors. There is a fee of approximately 1 percent (subject to change) that the government deducts proportionately from each loan disbursement.

Under the Direct Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students (PLUS), parents of dependent students may borrow up to the difference between the costs of education minus other financial aid. This loan is not based on financial need, but a credit check is required. There is an origination fee of approximately 4 percent (subject to change) that the government deducts proportionately from each loan disbursement.

Repayment begins immediately following full disbursement. Parents have up to ten years to repay.

Federal Work-Study Program

This federally funded, need-based program enables students to work part time to help defray educational expenses. A minimum of 7 percent of Federal Work-Study funds will be used in community service jobs, giving students an opportunity to work on behalf of individuals in our community needing assistance. Federal Work-Study gives the student a unique opportunity to earn money for college while at the same time gaining valuable work experience. Funding and available positions are limited. Not every student awarded Federal Work-Study will be placed in jobs.

State of Florida Programs

To be eligible for any type of Florida scholarship or grant, the state of Florida requires that students document their parent’s residency in Florida (or theirs if they are independent) by completing the Florida Residency Affidavit and providing copies of the required documentation.

Effective Access to Student Education Grant (EASE)

This program provides tuition assistance to full-time undergraduate students from Florida attending private, independent colleges and universities located in the state. Students who have been residents of Florida for other than educational purposes for at least twelve consecutive months may be eligible for the grant. The amount of the award is subject to state budget appropriations. The Florida Residency Affidavit is required to receive this grant.

Florida Student Assistance Grant (FSAG)

This need-based grant provides up to $1,700 per academic year to full-time undergraduate students from Florida, subject to state budget appropriations. Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to apply. The Florida Residency Affidavit is required to receive this grant.

Renewal Requirements for EASE and FSAG

Students awarded EASE and/or FSAG during the previous academic year must complete 24 credits (from the previous Summer, Fall, and Spring semesters) with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.00 in order to be considered for renewal. FSAG recipients must also continue to demonstrate financial need and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program

Florida students who have earned a Florida Bright Futures Scholarship can utilize these funds at Barry University. The Bright Futures program is comprised of the following three awards: Florida Academic Scholars Award, Florida Medallion Scholars Award, and the Florida Gold Seal Vocational Scholars award. The amount is equal to a percentage of the state of Florida tuition rate. Students should contact their high school guidance counselor or the Office of Financial Aid at Barry University for additional information.

Students from Barry University also participate in the Jose Marti Scholarship Challenge Grant Fund, “Chappie” James Most Promising Teacher Scholarship Program, and the Critical Teacher Shortage Student Loan Forgiveness Program, as well as other state programs. Information on any of these programs may be obtained from high school guidance counselors or by contacting the Office of Student Financial Assistance, Florida Department of Education, Tallahassee, Florida, 32399‑0400. Telephone: (888) 827‑2004. Web: http://www.floridastudentfinancialaid.org/osfahomepg.htm

Florida Pre-Paid College Program

While this program was designed initially for use at Florida public colleges and universities, these funds can be applied toward expenses at Barry University. For further information please contact the Florida College Pre-Paid program at (800) 552‑4723 or at http://www.myfloridaprepaid.com/.

State Grant Programs Outside Florida

Incoming students from Alaska, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Vermont, Rhode Island, and Pennsylvania should know that their state grants are “portable.” Students from these states who qualify, based on financial need, can use these grants to attend a college or university outside their state. These grants can, therefore, be applied towards a student’s cost of education at Barry University. Students should contact their State Department of Education for further details, since there may be a deadline for application.

University Programs

Academic Scholarships Provided by the University

Barry University scholarships, grants, and awards are offered annually to talented incoming freshmen and transfer students based on scholastic achievement. The amount ranges from $2,000 to $19,000 annually. Scholarships are available to full-time students in the traditional non-discounted undergraduate programs. Students must maintain satisfactory academic progress to renew scholarships, and any change in housing status may also impact the amount of the scholarship. Scholarships for graduate, PACE, and students enrolled in off-campus programs are limited.

Barry Stamps Scholars Program

Barry University’s Stamps Scholars Program recognizes the best and brightest students and the most promising future leaders. Founded by South Florida philanthropists, Penny and E. Roe Stamps, this full merit scholarship demonstrates Barry’s commitment to attracting and cultivating outstanding students from around the world. Barry is one of over forty prestigious universities to offer this distinguished award.

The Barry Stamps Scholars Program, funded jointly by the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation and Barry University, provides full tuition and room and board over four years, plus funds for study abroad, undergraduate research, and other exceptional learning experiences.

Barry Honors Scholarship

The Barry Honors Scholarship is valued at $5,000 per academic year and is available to first-year undergraduate students with an SAT score of 1250 (1310 on the new SAT) and a high school GPA of 3.70 as well as to undergraduate transfer students with a 3.7 GPA from a regionally accredited university. Additional information can be found at https://www.barry.edu/honors-program/.

PTK Scholarship

Transfer students accepted to Barry University, and who can demonstrate membership in Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society, are eligible for a supplemental $2,000 scholarship. Applicants must be accepted into a degree-seeking program as a full-time student and provide documentation of their membership in order to receive the PTK scholarship at Barry University.

Dominican Leadership Award

Awarded to incoming freshman based on competitive academic achievement and outstanding leadership and service. Award amount is $4,000 per year.

Private Scholarship Funds

Barry University offers both endowed and annual scholarship. Endowed scholarships are established by individuals and/or foundations and trusts to assist students in perpetuity. A percentage of the growth in the endowed funds is awarded. Annual scholarships are established by individuals and/or foundations to assist students annually.

Available private scholarships can be found on the Barry University Scholarship Website, http://www.barry.edu/scholarships. If awarded a scholarship, the funds are distributed to the student’s account by the Office of Financial Aid. In some cases the addition of a large outside scholarship may impact your other financial aid.

Grants Provided by the University

Athletic Grants

Barry University offers athletic grants to students who show outstanding ability. These grants are available in most of the intercollegiate sports programs offered by the University. Interested students should contact the appropriate Head Coach or the Athletic Department.

Barry Access Grant

Funds are provided by the University to assist students who demonstrate financial need and academic progress. Award amounts vary. These awards are made on a first-come, first-served basis and funding is limited. The student automatically applies for this grant when completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Barry Housing Grant

The Barry Housing Grant is awarded to students demonstrating financial need as determined by the results of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), and who plan to reside in on-campus housing. Award amounts will vary. Funding is limited and is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

Tuition Exchange Program

Barry University participates in one reciprocal tuition exchange program: Tuition Exchange, Inc. at www.tuitionexchange.org. This program provides the opportunity for eligible family members of faculty and staff to receive undergraduate scholarships at one of the participating member institutions. Each member institution is to maintain a balanced student exchange program. That means keeping a reasonable match between students from Barry going to other schools (exports) and students coming to Barry from other schools (imports). A member institution generally may not export more than it imports. Because of that, Barry may have to limit the number of TE Scholarships awarded if we have more applicants from faculty and staff families (potential exports) than we have student imports. These scholarships are extremely limited and not everyone who applies will receive an award.

Incoming students interested in attending Barry University and utilizing this program should apply for the exchange program at their home institution, who will forward the application to the Financial Aid Office at Barry University.

Outside Sources of Scholarships and Assistance

Many organizations not affiliated with the University, such as local civic groups and fraternal organizations, offer grants and scholarships for which many students are eligible. Students are encouraged to inquire about these potential sources of assistance by contacting the Office of Financial Aid.

Veterans Affairs Educational Benefits

Students who have served in the U.S. armed forces may be eligible to receive veterans’ educational benefits to assist with educational expenses. Veteran’s benefits may also extend to a spouse and child dependents. Office of the Registrar, School Certifying Officials at Barry University act as liaisons between the students and the Veterans Administration by offering the following:

•Explanation of Barry University’s policies & procedures related to VA Educational Benefits

•Completion of Barry University VA Paperwork

•Automatic certification of attendance every semester

Additional assistance with GI BILL education benefits should visit the GI Bill website or call toll free 1- 888-GIBILL1 (1-888-442-4551) to speak with a Veteran’s Administration Benefits Counselor.

Note: The Department of Veterans Affairs will make determination of eligibility for benefits.

Merit Scholarships/Awards Tuition and Fees Disclosure

Barry University merit scholarships are offered annually to talented incoming freshmen and transfer students based on scholastic achievement. The amount ranges from $2,000 to $19,000 annually. Scholarships are available to full-time students in the traditional non-discounted undergraduate programs, and are applied to the student’s tuition/fees. Students must maintain satisfactory academic progress to renew scholarships, and any change in housing status may also impact the amount of the scholarship.

  • Presidential Scholarship
  • Trustee Award
  • Dean’s Award
  • Red, Black, and Silver
  • Achievement Award
  • Barry University Award

Degree Program Approved for Veteran Education & Training

  • A student must be fully accepted into a degree-seeking program or certificate program approved by the State Approving Agency for Veterans Training for payment of VA education benefits. Please verify your program of choice is approved for the academic year you wish to start your education training by emailing the Barry University School Certifying Official at veterans@barry.edu
  • A student cannot be certified beyond his or her sophomore year unless a major is declared and only general education courses can be certified prior to the declaration of a major.
    • Note: The student must declare a major within the first two semesters.  

Post 9/11 G.I. Bill® & Yellow Ribbon Program

Barry University participates in the United States Department of Veterans Affairs’ Yellow Ribbon GI Education Enhancement Program, making a Barry education possible for men and women who joined the military after September 11, 2001.

A provision of the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008, this program allows institutions of higher learning (degree granting institutions) in the United States to voluntarily enter into an agreement with the Veterans Affairs (VA) to fund tuition expenses that exceed the annual VA tuition. The institution can contribute up to 50 percent of those expenses and the VA will match the same amount as the institution. For detailed information regarding the Barry Yellow Ribbon Program, please visit http://www.barry.edu/veterans/post-911.html.

Standards of Progress Policy for Veterans

A Satisfactory Progress Average (SPA), a variation of the Quality Point Average (QPA), indicates satisfactory progress for a student receiving veteran’s educational benefits. An SPA of 2.00 or greater for an undergraduate student is satisfactory; less than 2.00 is not satisfactory. Any time a student’s SPA is not satisfactory; he/she will be certified, in a probationary status, for only one additional semester. If, at the end of this additional semester, the student’s SPA is still below the satisfactory level, the Veterans Administration (VA) will be notified of the unsatisfactory progress and the student’s veteran’s educational benefits will be terminated. A student whose educational benefits have been terminated by the VA for unsatisfactory progress may petition the Registrar of the University for readmission. A University official will discuss the problems relating to the unsatisfactory progress with the student. If the cause of the unsatisfactory progress has been removed, and the student is readmitted, he or she will be recertified for veteran’s educational benefits.

Credit for Previous Training

Students eligible to receive educational benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs with previous post-secondary training/experience must request official transcript(s) be sent to Barry University. If the transcript(s) is not received by the end of the first semester, the student’s educational benefits will be terminated until the transcript(s) is received. Should credits be accepted, the student’s training time and total tuition costs will be reduced proportionately. The VA and the student will receive a written notice of credits allowed.

Military Transcript Request Resources:

 

Joint Services Transcripts

Community College of the Air Force (Air University)

 

Note: VA does not cover any fees related to Portfolio review/assessment. For more information on fees related to prior learning credit not covered by VA, please visit Veteran Information - Tuition and Fees Reported to the VA.

VA PENDING PAYMENT COMPLIANCE

In accordance with Title 38 US Code 3679 subsection (e), Barry University adopts the following additional provisions for any students using U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Post 9/11 G.I. Bill® (Ch. 33) or Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment (Ch. 31) benefits, while payment to the institution is pending from the VA.

Barry University will not:

  • Prevent the student's enrollment on pending VA funds;
  • Assess a late penalty fee to the student on pending VA funds;
  • Require the student to secure alternative or additional funding;
  • Deny the student access to any resources (access to classes, libraries, or other institutional facilities) available to other students who have satisfied their tuition and fee bills to the institution.

To qualify for the provision, such students are required to:

  • Produce the VA Certificate of Eligibility (COE) at the time of registration. Final deadline by the first day of class;
  • Provide additional Information and/or documentation needed to properly certify the enrollment as described in other Institutional policies.

REMINDER: Students are responsible for any portion of their account balance not covered by VA educational benefits. Please follow the Barry University terms and conditions of your registration.