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2012-2013 Undergraduate & Graduate Catalog

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Costs and Financial Aid

Tuition is based on the classification of the student and the course: undergraduate or graduate, lower or upper division, resident or nonresident of Michigan.

Tuition rates and fees are set by the Board of Trustees. The rates listed here are for the 2012-2013 academic year. Additional tuition may be added for students taking classes that require special equipment, consumable supplies, or extraordinary overhead. For more information about special course charges go to www.gvsu.edu/tuitionExt.htm.

Tuition for lower division (0-54 credits) undergraduate students who are Michigan residents taking anywhere from 12 to 15 credit hours is the same, a total of $5,039 per semester. Tuition is $420 per credit hour for fewer than 12 credits and for each credit over 15. Tuition for upper division (55 or more credits) undergraduate students who are Michigan residents taking anywhere from 12 to 15 credit hours is the same, a total of $5,291 per semester. Tuition is $441 per credit hour for fewer than 12 credits and for each credit over 15. Tuition for masters resident students ranges from $522-$557 per credit hour depending on program, see) gvsu.edu/financialaid/cost-of-attendance-68.htm. Tuition for doctoral students is $627 per credit hour.

For lower division (0-54 credits) nonresident undergraduate students, tuition is $7,284 total per semester for anywhere from 12 to 15 credits and $607 per credit for fewer than 12 credits and for each credit over 15. For upper division (55 or more credits) nonresident undergraduate students, tuition is $7,548 total per semester for anywhere from 12 to 15 credits and $629 per credit for fewer than 12 credits and for each credit over 15. Nonresident masters tuition ranges from $705-$740 per credit hour depending on program, see)gvsu.edu/financialaid/cost-of-attendance-68.htm. Nonresident tuition for doctoral students is $840 per credit hour.

The above tuition rates apply to all students registering for credit courses, including guests, visitors, and all categories of students who are not pursuing a degree at Grand Valley State University. Rates for noncredit courses in special programs apart from the regular university curriculum are published with the announcements of such programs.

Rates of tuition and fees are those in effect at the time of publication of the Grand Valley State University Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog. They are subject to change at any time by Grand Valley's Board of Trustees.

Parking

Students wishing to park on either the Allendale or Robert C. Pew Grand Rapids Campus must purchase a parking permit. Permits can be ordered electronically starting June 1, 2012 at www.gvsu.edu/publicsafety/. The permit costs $170/semester for full-time students and $88/semester for part-time students. A student is considered part-time if they are taking 6 or less credits each semester. The permit costs will be charged to their student account and billed on their regular tuition bill.

Residency

Because students normally come to Grand Valley State University for the primary or sole purpose of attending the university rather than to establish a home in Michigan, nonresident students will continue to be classified as such throughout their attendance unless they demonstrate that they have permanently abandoned their previous home and permanently established Michigan residency. See Michigan Residence Requirements for Grand Valley's policy for determining residency.

Fees

Late registration (allowed only in the first five days of the semester) requires a $50 late fee. Fees for resident and nonresident are the same.

Additional fees in particular courses may be required to cover the cost of field trips or the use of off-campus facilities. Fees may also be charged for administering standardized tests.

Tuition and Fees Refund Policy

Students who reduce their number of credit hours or withdraw from Grand Valley may be eligible, upon application to the Office of the Registrar, to receive a refund of tuition. The amount of refund will be based on the following schedule:

1. Students withdrawing before the start of the semester and during the first week of classes are eligible for a full (100 percent) refund of the applicable credit hours assessed. All financial aid awarded to the student will be reduced based on the required Federal Return to Title IV (R2T4) calculation. Students should expect to have a portion of their financial aid returned. (See Financial Aid and Complete Withdraw section).

2. Students withdrawing during the second week of classes in a shortened session (spring or summer) and in the second, third, and fourth weeks of classes in a full session are eligible for a 75 percent tuition refund of the applicable credit hours assessed.

3. Students withdrawing after the second week of classes in a shortened session (spring or summer) and the fourth week of classes in a full session are not eligible for a tuition refund.

4. Students who withdraw completely and are eligible for a 100 percent refund of tuition will be eligible for a full refund of their assessed credit hours and other mandatory fees. Students withdrawing completely during the 75 percent refund period will be eligible for a 75 percent refund of their assessed credit hours and other mandatory fees. There will be no refund of these fees after the last date for a 75 percent refund as stated in the Annual Class Schedule online.

Students who have financial aid should talk to the Financial Aid Office before dropping/withdrawing from classes to understand how their aid will be affected.

A specific schedule of refunds, with qualifying dates, is published each semester in Grand Valley's official Annual Class Schedule.

The refund is based on the date of receipt of the completed class drop or withdrawal form in the Office of the Registrar. If a course does not begin during the first week of the start of the semester, refunds will be based on the date of the first class meeting.

When Grand Valley State University cancels a course or when it is determined that a student has registered for a course he or she was not eligible to take, a full refund will be made regardless of the date.

In cases in which financial aid was used to pay for all or part of tuition, the refund will be used to repay the sponsor first and then the student, when appropriate. Refer to the Repayment of Unearned Federal Student Aid section of this catalog for details of this procedure.

Tuition Refund Appeals: The vice provost and the associate vice president of Academic Affairs will review student applications for appeal of tuition refunds. This serves as the review process for students seeking exception to the university tuition and registration late fee policy. A final appeal can be made to either the associate vice president of Academic Affairs or the vice provost of Academic Services. Students who are granted a tuition refund appeal approval will have their loans, and possibly institutional grants, reduced by the amount of the credit balance resulting from the tuition refund.

Financial Aid and Complete Enrollment Withdraw from University/Repayment of Unearned Federal Student Aid

Federal regulations require that the recipients of federal grants and loans who completely withdraw from an institution during an enrollment period must repay any unearned portion of the loan or grant funds that were or could have been disbursed for that enrollment period. The statute makes clear that federal funds are awarded to a student under the assumption that the student will attend for the entire period for which the assistance is awarded. When a student ceases academic attendance before the end of that period, the student has not earned all of the federal financial aid and therefore may not be eligible for the full amount of the federal funds awarded. The amount of federal funds earned by the student is determined by multiplying the percentage of the enrollment period completed by the total amount of federal loans and grants disbursed. If a student completely withdraws before 60 percent of the semester is completed, the student may be required to repay a portion of the federal financial aid. If the percentage of the enrollment period completed is more than 60 percent, the student has earned 100 percent of the aid. Students who completely withdraw will be billed for any institutional charges that remain as well as the amount of the unearned federal student aid that has been given to them.

Students who withdraw during the 100 percent refund period will be required to repay funds previously advanced to them. These students will be billed. Failure to provide repayment will result in a hold being placed on both the student's transcript and registration and ineligibility for further financial aid funding until such funds are repaid. Students who drop out but do not officially go through withdrawal procedures are considered an unofficial withdrawal. In cases of unofficial withdrawals the last recorded day of known academic activity will be used as the date of withdrawal.

Receiving Financial Aid for Repeated Courses

The Financial Aid Office is required to monitor and adjust a student's enrollment level for Title IV aid if, or when, they repeat coursework for credit that they have already earned. Students can retake courses and receive federal aid if they had previously failed a course, but can only receive financial aid twice for a course that has been previously passed. A passing grade is defined as D- or better. Please note that the repeat course policy for financial aid is separate from institutional academic polices regarding repeat courses.

The policy allows a student to receive financial aid under the following situations:

  • To repeat any failed course until a passing grade is received.
  • To repeat one time any course in which you previously received a passing grade.

Please note: Regardless of the outcome, courses are not eligible to be covered by financial aid after a second attempt has been made for a course that has at any time previously earned a passing grade.

Financial Aid for Undergraduate Students

At Grand Valley State University in 2011-2012, 95 percent of dependent full-time students received some type of
financial aid. Financial aid includes grants, scholarships, loans, and work study. The average award is approximately
$12,739.

Even though Grand Valley believes that the responsibility for financing a college education rests with students and their families, large amounts of aid are available. All forms of financial aid are viewed as supplemental to the total family effort. A student who receives a scholarship or grant should be willing to borrow and work for additional money needed. In fact, because no one program can cover all college expenses, aid programs are usually combined in "packages" suited to the student's needs. This means that students receive aid in a variety of forms. Rarely would a student receive all one type of aid for example, a grant but may receive a mixture of grant, scholarship, student employment, and loan.

To be considered for aid, a student must be admitted as a degree-seeking student. The financial aid a student receives is based on his or her enrollment status each semester. Refer to the Enrollment Requirements for Aid section. Exceptions are made for part-time students.

The graduation rate, as defined in the federal IPEDS Graduation Rate Survey, for students entering Grand Valley State University as new full-time, degree-seeking freshmen during the fall of 2005 was 63 percent. The cohort includes students who may have stopped, dropped out, reduced loads to become part-time students, or transferred to other institutions. The students in this cohort who remained at Grand Valley as full-time students for the first four complete academic years had a graduation rate of 92 percent.

To maintain and renew aid, students must make satisfactory academic progress. For most federal and state aid, need must be demonstrated by submitting a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Students are encouraged to visit www.fafsa.gov to file the FAFSA online. Contact the Financial Aid Office if you need assistance in obtaining or completing this form.

Application Procedure

All financial aid is awarded for the academic year beginning with the fall semester. Students must reapply for financial aid every year.

We encourage students to file the FAFSA for the following academic year by the Grand Valley State University priority deadline of March 1. Limited funds are available to students who file after March 1 (see application dates in the next section). An individual must be a degree-seeking student to be eligible to receive financial assistance. Most aid is awarded to students attending at least half-time (six or more credit hours for undergraduate students), although students attending less than half-time may be considered for the Federal Pell Grant Program. Continuing education students (part-time, nondegree-seeking students) are not eligible for federal financial aid; however, they may apply for and receive some types of alternative loan programs. These students, and all others, can also utilize the Grand Valley State University tuition payment plan offered by the Student Accounts office. For additional information on alternative loan programs, contact the Financial Aid Office. Financial aid for international students is limited based on federal guidelines.

Additional aid may be awarded for the spring/summer session depending on the availability of funds. You must enroll at least half-time (six credits) to receive financial aid for the spring/summer session. If you are seeking a spring/summer award, you must also file the spring/summer application which is available on our website each March, www.gvsu.edu/financialaid/.

If you wish to be considered for financial aid, please refer to the deadline dates listed below and follow the four basic steps outlined here.

1. If you are a new student, you must submit application forms for admission to Grand Valley. It is recommended that you apply for admission by December 31 for the fall semester.

2. A Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form must be completed by you and/or your parents and/or your spouse. Applying online at www.fafsa.gov is the fastest and most accurate means of filing. You should list Grand Valley State University among your choice of schools. Our federal school code is 002268. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the only application for aid Grand Valley requires.

3. In some cases you or your parent may be required to submit additional information to the Financial Aid Office to
verify the accuracy of your financial aid application. The Financial Aid Office may request additional information if,
upon reviewing data you have presented, we believe further clarification of your financial situation is needed. Such
additional information may include information about your household size, assets, or income.

4. Award notifications for new students will be mailed to your permanent address beginning mid-March. Returning students will receive their award notification in June through myBanner.

The Financial Aid Office may request additional information if, upon reviewing data you have presented, we believe further clarification of your financial situation is needed. Such additional information may include information about your household size, assets, or income.

Application Dates to Remember

If a student plans to enroll for fall semester, the following dates are important:

December 31: Freshman and community college transfer applicants must submit a completed admission application by this date to be considered for the major scholarship programs offered by Grand Valley.

January 1 to March 1: All students who want to receive financial aid must submit the Free Application for Federal
Student Aid (FAFSA) and list Grand Valley as a college choice. Our federal school code is 002268.

January 1 to March 1: Renewal aid applicants and returning upperclass and graduate students: submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

April 1: Entering freshman and transfer students receive notification of their financial aid award.

April 1: Spring/summer session students receive notification of their financial aid award.

June 1: Renewal aid applicants and returning upperclass and graduate students receive notification of their financial aid award.

If a student plans to enroll beginning with winter semester, the following dates are important:

October 1: Entering freshman, graduate, transfer, renewal aid applicants, and upperclass students: submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). List Grand Valley as a college choice. Our federal school code is 002268.

November 1: Students receive notification of their financial aid award.
If a student plans to enroll beginning with the spring/summer session, the following dates are important:

Mid-March: All students interested in receiving aid for the spring/summer must also file the Spring/Summer Supplemental Financial Aid form. This form is available online at www.gvsu.edu/financialaid/.

April 1: Students receive notification of their financial aid award.

Cost of Attendance and Student Budgets

Before applying for financial aid, students and parents should assess all of the costs included in attending Grand
Valley. The following tables estimate the typical nine-month (two-semester) academic year expenses for single
residents (living anywhere on or off campus except with parents or relatives) and commuting students (living with
parents or relatives). Some of the expenses below are discretionary (personal and miscellaneous, transportation,
books, and supplies) therefore an average is used to determine the costs associated for such expenses.

Residential Students(

Tuition and fees* (Michigan resident)(

$ 10,486

Books and supplies(

$ 1,000(

Personal and miscellaneous(

$ 1,230

Room and board*(

$ 8,300

Transportation(

$ 1,100(

Total

$22,116

Commuting Students (

Tuition and fees* (

$10,486

Books and supplies(

$ 1,000(

Living expenses

$ 2,550(

Transportation/Personal(

$ 2,330(

Total(

$16,366

Out-of-State Students

Tuition and fees* (Non-Michigan resident)(

$15,036

Books and supplies(

$ 1,000(

Personal and miscellaneous(

$ 1,230(

Room and board*(

$ 8,300(

Transportation(

$ 1,100(

Total

$26,666

*Estimated tuition and fees and room and board charges. Actual charges are determined by the Grand Valley State University Board of Trustees. The rates listed here may change for the 2012-2013 academic year.

Are you a Dependent or Independent Student?

Students may consider themselves independent because they don't receive support from their parents and/or don't live in their parents' home. Students may even qualify as independent for income tax purposes, but the U.S. Department of Education has stricter standards for financial aid purposes.

In order to file your financial aid application as an independent student, the student must be one of the following: (1)
age 24 by January 1 of the aid year, (2) a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces, (3) currently serving on active duty in
the U.S. Armed Forces for purposes other than training, (4) a graduate, graduate/professional, or doctoral student, (5)
married, (6) an orphan, ward of the court, or in foster care age 13 or older, (7) have legal dependents other than a
spouse, (8) an emancipated minor as determined by a court, (9) a legal guardianship as determined by a court, or
(10) at any time on or after July 1, 2011 an unaccompanied youth who was homeless as determined by a high school
guidance counselor, the director of an emergency shelter, or the director of a runaway or homeless youth basic
center.

For more information on independent status, please refer to the FAFSA instructions. If the student does not meet one
of the above conditions, they must file as a dependent student and include their parents' information.

Filing incorrectly as independent when the student is really a dependent student can seriously delay the processing of
their financial aid. The only exception to the dependency rules is in very rare instances where it can be proven that
there is a total breakdown in the relationship between student and parent(s). Grand Valley calls this a Dependency Status Appeal. If a student is unsure if their situation would qualify for consideration please contact the Financial Aid
Office.

Financial Aid for Graduate Students

Graduate students should follow normal financial aid application procedures. Two types of financial aid are available
to degree-seeking graduate students enrolled at least half-time (4.5 or more credit hours) at Grand Valley:

1. Student Loans: Federal Direct Student Loans of up to $10,250 per semester are available (see following program
description). In addition, graduate students are able to borrow through the Federal Graduate PLUS loan. This loan
program does require a credit check. For additional information see our website at www.gvsu.edu/financialaid/. Private, alternative education loan program information is also available on our site.

2. Assistantships: Additional information regarding assistantships can be found at www.gvsu.edu/gs, which is the Graduate Studies website.

Financial Aid for Study Abroad

Financial aid is available to assist in financing the cost of approved study abroad programs. Students may receive assistance for Grand Valley summer programs, as well as full year and one-semester programs through exchanges and other individualized programs.

Students participating in study abroad programs receive financial aid in the amount they normally would receive if remaining on campus; however, students are generally able to borrow loan funds to cover the additional costs. Limited scholarships and grants are available for some study abroad programs. Meeting with a financial aid counselor is highly encouraged. This helps facilitate discussions to ensure your study abroad is fully covered.

Students interested in a study abroad experience must contact the Barbara H. Padnos International Center regarding available program options and are encouraged to apply early for financial aid.

Financial Aid Programs

At Grand Valley, financial aid includes scholarships, grants, loans, and student employment. This aid is usually combined in a "package" to offer the student flexibility in meeting their educational costs. This includes a combination of the various types of aid - loans, jobs, scholarships, and grants - put together for an award rather than just one of these sources. If you wish to apply for or renew financial assistance, you should review the following information on the types of available financial aid.

1. Programs not based on need. Each program requires different application procedures. Eligibility is determined jointly by the Financial Aid Office and the agency or department funding the program.

2. Programs based on need. These require students to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Eligibility is determined by the Financial Aid Office.

3. Special programs. These require students to apply directly to the agency or department responsible for determining eligibility and funding.

Programs Not Based on Need

Grand Finish

The less time you spend in college, the less money you'll spend on your degree. Grand Valley's Focus on the Finish grant will help you achieve that goal.

Every new, full-time student can take advantage of the Focus on the Finish grant. Complete 90 credit hours within three years of enrollment and we'll pay you $1,000 over the next two semesters of study. If you transfer to Grand Valley, you're eligible for a $500 grant once you've earned 90 credit hours, with an average of 30 credit hours per year at Grand Valley in the year(s) following your transfer.

Dual enrollment and advanced placement credits earned prior to your first semester at Grand Valley count toward the 90-hour requirement, speeding your time to graduation.

Scholarships

Scholarship eligibility criteria indicated below are for students entering in the 2012-2013 academic year and may
change. Grand Valley offers an outstanding merit-based scholarship program. We determine initial eligibility for these
scholarships at the time of admission, although final award decisions and the amount of some scholarships are made
by the scholarship committee after the student has completed all required application materials. To be considered for
a scholarship, students must minimally have a complete application for admission submitted to the Admissions Office
by December 31 for the following fall semester. Complete applications consist of an application for admission, official
transcripts, results of the ACT or SAT test, and a $30 application fee. All relevant information including ACT and SAT
scores must be received by the December 31 deadline to receive scholarship consideration. The three levels of merit-based
scholarships are described below.

1. Awards of Distinction. This group of scholarships includes Grand Valley's highest merit-based scholarships, ones that many students aspire to receive. They generally require high academic achievement and top scores on the ACT or SAT. Additional amounts of up to $2,000 are awarded to students who are National Merit Finalists.

a. Presidential Scholarships. To be considered for a Presidential Scholarship you must have a 3.80 high
school grade point average, a minimum 32 composite ACT for Michigan residents or SAT of 1420 for
nonresidents based on the critical reading and math combined scores, and attend a scholarship
competition. Awards range from $3,000 to $7,000. Awards are made up to $8,500 in combination with the
Award for Excellence. Grand Valley must be the first institution you attend after graduation from high school.
This award is renewable for three consecutive additional years (eight total semesters) provided you continue
to maintain a 3.5 or better grade point average and meet the Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress
Standards.

b. Faculty Scholarships. To be considered for a Faculty Scholarship you must have a 3.6 high school grade
point average, a minimum 29 composite ACT for Michigan residents or SAT of 1300 for nonresidents based
on the critical reading and math combined scores, and attend a scholarship competition. Awards are made up
to $4,500 in combination with the Award for Excellence. Grand Valley must be the first institution you attend
after graduating from high school. This award is renewable for three consecutive additional years (eight total
semesters) provided you maintain a 3.5 or better grade point average and meet the Financial Aid Satisfactory
Academic Progress Standards.

2. Awards for Excellence. The following group of scholarships requires students to submit their complete application for admission by December 31 for the following fall semester.

a. Awards for Excellence Scholarship. This scholarship provides awards of $1,500. You must be a
graduate of a high school in Michigan and Grand Valley must be the first college you attend after graduation.
All admitted freshman students will be considered for this scholarship. Students who receive this award have
a grade point average of 3.5 or better and a minimum ACT composite score of 26. This scholarship is renewable for three consecutive additional years (eight semesters total) provided you maintain a 3.25 or better grade point average and meet the Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards.

b. Out-of-State Awards for Excellence. This scholarship provides awards up to an amount equal to the differential between non-Michigan and Michigan resident tuition plus $1,500. Grand Valley must be the first college you attend after high school graduation. This amount is currently approximately $5,800. All admitted freshman students will be considered for this scholarship. Students who receive this award have a grade point average of 3.5 or better and minimum ACT composite scores of 26 or SAT scores of 1190, based on the critical reading and math combined scores.

This scholarship is renewable for three additional consecutive years (eight semesters total) provided you maintain a 3.25 or better grade point average and meet the Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards.

c. Awards for Excellence Transfer Scholarship. This scholarship provides awards of $1,500. You must have only attended an accredited community college in Michigan and completed 45 credit hours at the time of application for admission. All admitted transfer students with a completed admission application by December 31 will be considered for this scholarship. Students who receive this scholarship have at least a cumulative collegiate 3.5 grade point average.

This scholarship is renewable for one additional consecutive year (four semesters total) provided you maintain a 3.25 or better grade point average and meet the Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards.

3. Laker Scholarship. This scholarship provides awards of $1,000. Students who receive this award have a grade
point average of 3.5 or better and ACT scores of 23, 24, or 25 for Michigan residents or SAT scores between 1070
and 1150, based on the critical reading and math combined scores. The scholarship is renewable for three additional consecutive years (eight semesters total) provided you maintain a 2.85 grade point average and meet the Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards.

4. Early Awareness Scholarship. Recipients of this $3,000 scholarship will have participated in one of the following
programs: The Detroit Compact, Wade H. McCree, Jr. Incentive Scholarship, Introspect Youth Services, Inc., Ada S.
McKinley Community Services, Inc., TRiO Upward Bound, TRiO Talent Search, TRiO Upward Bound Math-Science,
or GEAR UP while in high school. Additionally, students must have a 3.30 cumulative high school grade point
average and a 21 ACT composite score. Nonresidents of Michigan may also qualify with a 990 on the SAT on the
critical math and combined science score. Students must have a completed admission application submitted by
December 31 for the following fall semester. This scholarship cannot be combined with the Urban Schools
Scholarship or a Native American Grant. This scholarship is renewable for three consecutive years (eight consecutive
semesters) provided the student maintains full-time attendance and a 2.50 cumulative grade point average and meets
the Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards.

Transfer students who have participated in one of the programs listed above can also receive this scholarship if they
have a 3.0 cumulative community college grade point average and 45 college credits earned. They must have a
completed admission application by December 31 and transfer directly from the community college. Transfers can
renew for one additional consecutive year (up to a total of two years) provided they maintain a 2.50 or better grade
point average and meet the Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards.

5. Urban Schools Scholarship. This $3,000 scholarship is specifically for students graduating from the following high schools: Michigan high schools: Grand Rapids Public Schools, Detroit Public Schools, Arthur Hill, Detroit High School of Fine and Performing Arts, Detroit University Prep Academy, John Pershing, JW Sexton, Northwestern, Pontiac Central, Pontiac Northern, Southfield Lathrup, Southfield Senior High, and Western International. Non-Michigan high schools include: Chicago High School Agricultural, Curie, Gwendolyn Brooks, Hillcrest, Hyde Park Academy, John Hope College Preparatory, Jones College Prep, Kenwood Academy, Lane Tech, Morgan Park, Percy Julian, Proviso East, Proviso West, Thornridge, Thornwood, and Whitney Young. In addition to graduating from one of the above high schools, students must also meet minimum grade point average and standardized test scores. Michigan residents must have a 3.30 cumulative grade point average and a 21 ACT composite score. Non-Michigan residents must also have a 3.30 cumulative grade point average and score a 990 on the SAT based on the critical math and science combined scores or have a 21 ACT composite score. Students must have a complete admission application submitted by December 31 for the following fall semester. This scholarship cannot be combined with the Early Awareness Scholarship or a Native American Tuition Grant. Students must be enrolled full time, achieve a minimum 2.50 cumulative grade point average, and meet the Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards. This scholarship is renewable for three successive years (eight semesters). This scholarship can only be used in the traditional academic year. A completed admission application serves as your application for this scholarship. Transfer students who graduated from one of the high schools listed above can also receive this scholarship if they have a 3.00 cumulative community college grade point average and 45 college credits earned. They must have a completed admission application by December 31 and transfer directly from the community college. Transfers can renew for one additional consecutive year (up to a total of two years) provided they maintain a 2.50 or better grade point average and meet the Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards.

6. Community College Distinguished Graduate Scholarships. Grand Valley provides two $2,000 Community College Distinguished Graduate Scholarships to Grand Rapids Community College and Muskegon Community College and one $2,000 scholarship to each of the following community colleges: Northwestern Michigan College, West Shore Community College, Lansing Community College, Lake Michigan Community College, Kalamazoo Valley Community College, Kellogg Community College, North Central Michigan Community College, and Montcalm Community College. The respective community colleges select the recipients. Students must have a 3.50 cumulative grade point average, be completing the associate's degree, matriculate directly to Grand Valley, and apply for admission by December 31. To be renewed for one additional consecutive year, students must have a 3.50 cumulative grade point average and meet the Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards. The scholarship will take the place of any other merit scholarships awarded by Grand Valley.

7. Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Scholarships. New entering transfer students who are members of the PTK Honor Society at Michigan community colleges are eligible to apply for this scholarship. Applicants must possess a 3.50 cumulative grade point average, be a member of the PTK Fraternity, be admitted to Grand Valley, and enroll as a full-time student. Applicants must apply for admission by March 15. Applications are mailed to admitted students who qualify and are available at participating community colleges. Applicants must submit a letter of application indicating their educational and career goals, send a letter of recommendation from their PTK chapter advisor, and arrange an interview with the PTK scholarship committee if requested. The scholarship is renewable for one additional consecutive year provided the student maintains a 3.50 cumulative grade point average and meets the Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards.

The above scholarships are only for use in the fall and winter semesters. The Financial Aid Office will review each scholarship recipient at the end of the winter semester for renewal for the next academic year. If a student fails to meet the renewal requirements the scholarship will be canceled for the following academic year. A student can petition for reinstatement once they again meet the minimum. The appeal for reinstatement must be done online at the Financial Aid Office website (www.gvsu.edu/financialaid).

8. Robert C. Trotter Tri-County Scholarships. Each high school in the counties of Kent, Muskegon, and Ottawa are allotted two $500 scholarships to Grand Valley to award to students of their own choosing. Students must have a 3.2 cumulative grade point average, a minimum ACT composite score of 22, and not be the recipient of other academic scholarships offered by Grand Valley. Entering freshmen wishing to be considered should contact the counseling office in their high school.

9. Upperclass Honor Scholarships. A limited number of scholarships up to $1,000 are awarded annually to upperclass students not receiving scholarships from other sources. Students must be full-time undergraduates, have a 3.50 cumulative grade point average, and have completed at least 40 semester hours at Grand Valley, or if a transfer student, must have completed at least 15 hours at Grand Valley. Students are supported by academic departments and are requested to submit applications and personal essays. Selection of upperclass honor award recipients are made by the Grand Valley Scholarship Committee. These scholarships may be renewed for one consecutive year for students who enroll full-time, maintain a 3.25 grade point average, and meet the Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards. Students must apply by the March 1 deadline.

10. Athletic Scholarships. Scholarships are given to students participating in varsity sports. Awards are determined by the coaches. Athletic scholarships are awarded in all men's and women's varsity sports men: baseball, basketball, cross-country, football, golf, swimming and diving, track, and tennis; women: basketball, cross-country, golf, lacrosse, softball, soccer, swimming and diving, tennis, track, and volleyball. If you think you would be eligible for athletic aid assistance, you should contact the appropriate Grand Valley coach for more information.

11. Music and Dance Scholarships. Talent awards are available to outstanding instrumentalists, pianists, singers, and dancers attending Grand Valley State University and participating in various performance groups, regardless of financial need or academic major. Contact the chair of the music department for more information.

12. Fine Arts Scholarships. These scholarships are for students majoring in the fine arts program at Grand Valley. Information and application forms for these scholarships are available from the departmental offices. Selection of scholarship winners is made by a committee of fine arts faculty members.

13. Other Grand Valley State University Scholarship Programs. Grand Valley State University offers an ever-increasing number of endowed, departmental, and annually funded scholarships. Please refer to our Scholarship Database at www.gvsu.edu/scholarships for a complete listing. The database allows for a search based on a number of common qualifying criteria such as major, grade point average, and class level. Below is a list of these scholarship programs currently awarded to students attending Grand Valley:

Accounting Alumni Scholarship
School of Accounting Faculty Endowed Scholarship
J Allegrina Nontraditional Student Scholarship
Alumni Heritage Scholarship
American Production and Inventory Control Society Scholarship
Eric A. Andres Live, Laugh, Love, Learn Scholarship
David G. and Mary L. Annis Education
David G. and Mary L. Annis Graduate Teacher Certificate
Anonymous GVSU UG Endowed Scholarship
Joseph E. Appelt P.E. Engineering Scholarship
Carl and Delores Arendsen Golf Scholarship
Art and Design Scholarship
Association of Information Technology Professionals Scholarship
Carl & Claudia Bajema Endowed Scholarship
Baldwin Foundation Scholarship Endowment
Laker Marching Band Scholarship
John Batchelder Political Science Scholarship
Newton D. Becker Scholarship Award
Owen Bieber Scholarship
David A. Bergsma Scholarship
Berkowitz Scholarship for Handicapped Students
Better Business Bureau of Western Michigan Integrity Scholarship
Rev. Black Doctor of Physical Therapy Scholarship in memory of Robert Klein
Edith Blodgett Piano Scholarship
Joan Boand Athletic Endowment Scholarship
Boma Scholarship
Robert Bosch Fuel Systems Engineering Scholarship
Ira Brad Scholarship
Branstrom Fine Arts Scholarship
Breen Scholarship Fund
George & Georgia Breur Memorial Scholarship
Brooks Family Minority Scholarship
Donna K. Brooks Presidential Scholarship
Building Owners and Managers Association Scholarship
Johnny C. Burton Scholarship
Business Study Abroad Scholarship
Butterworth Nursing Scholarship
Alexander Calder Honor Scholarship
Campus View Apartments Upperclass Scholarship
Capital Region Community Foundation Scholarship
Career Services Internship Award
Carlton Radiologic and Imaging Sciences Undergraduate Scholarship
Barry Castro Business Ethics
Bernard J. and Camille Cebelak Foundation Scholarship
Robert L. Chamberlain Memorial Scholarship
Ruth Chamberlain Global Issues Scholarship
Hong Chen Memorial Scholarship
Children's Enrichment Center Scholarship Fund
Douglas K. and Ellen Chung Asian Social Work Graduate Scholarship
Knights and Ladies of Peter Claver and Ladies Auxiliary Scholarship
Helen Claytor minority Scholarship
Clerical Office Technical (COT) Association Scholarship
College of Education Future Teacher Scholarship
Collegiate Entrepreneurs' Organization Scholarship
Commercial Real Estate Women Scholarship
School of Communications Scholarship
Grand Rapids Community Foundation Local College Scholarship
Computer Science and Information Systems Scholarship
Cook Leadership Fellows of Hauenstein Center for Presidential Studies
The Coopersville Scholarship
Crawley Japanese Studies Scholarship Fund
Ann M. Cusack Upperclass Scholarship
Dance Scholarship
David Daniels Memorial Scholarship
Gilbert and Patricia Davis Scholarship for Full- or Part-time English Majors
Greta and Arthur DeLong Education Scholarship
Greta and Arthur DeLong Psychology Scholarship
Aaron M. DesRocher Memorial Chemistry Scholarship
Detroit Compact Scholarship
Dick and Betsy DeVos Leadership Fellow Endowment
Helen DeVos Presidential Scholarship
Richard M. DeVos Presidential and Faculty Scholarship
The Pamela and Daniel G. DeVos Musical Theatre Scholarship
Dewitt Barrels Inc. Env. Science
Mary Jane Dockeray Science Scholarship
Henry and Juanita Dungey School of Public and Nonprofit Administration Excellence Award
DV Alpha Scholarship
Scott M. Dykstra Oliver Products Company Engineering Scholarship
L.V. Eberhard Business Scholarship
Economics Department Faculty Endowed Scholarship
Valerie Eggert Distinguished Scholarship in Philanthropy
School of Engineering/SAE Engineering Scholarship
Faculty Scholarship for New English Majors Scholarship
Jean Enright Women and Gender Studies Scholarship
Leslie Eitzen Voice Scholarship Fund
Excel Business Scholarship Fund
Finance Advisory Board Scholarship
Finance Department Faculty Endowed Scholarship
First Generation Urban Schools Scholarship
First Robotics Engineering Scholarship
Scott Flahive Police Academy Scholarship
Richard E. Flanders/University Club Scholarship
Janice Flentje Memorial Nursing Scholarship
Robert W. Fletcher Memorial Scholarship
Folds of Honor Scholarship
Fremont Area Community Foundation Scholarship
Federated Garden Club of Michigan Scholarship
General Dynamics Land Systems Engineering Scholarship
Gentex Engineering Scholarship
Geology Field Study Scholarship
Geology Scholarship
The Norman and Helen Gibson Geology Field Study Scholarship
Charlotte Gierst and Salome Egeler Music Scholarship
Richard Giles Scholarship
Eric Jon Gillette Memorial Scholarship
Global Forex Trading Scholarship
Joseph and Elizabeth Godwin Scholarship
John and Barbara Gracki Football Degree Completion Scholarship
Scholarship
Grand Forum Scholarship for Continuing Education
Grand Valley Lanthorn Merit Scholarship
Grand Valley UAW Region 1-D
Grubbs & Ellis/Paramount Commerce Scholarship
GVSU Community Leadership Scholarship
Thomas J. and Marcia Haas Laker Marching Band Scholarship
Gail and Scott Haebich Nursing
Earl Harper Management Scholarship
Joyce Hecht Distinguished Scholarship
William Hegarty Scholarship
Price Heneveld Engineering Scholarship
Paul Henry Foundation Congressional Internship Scholarship
Hispanic Scholarship Fund
Dr. James D. Hoffman Scholarship
Hilda C. Holder Scholarship for Women in Business
Holliday-Willey Psychology Scholarship for the Study of Pervasive Developmental Disorders
Crowe Horwath Scholarship
Hospitality and Tourism Management Club Scholarship
Huizenga Biology/Education Scholarship
J.C. Huizenga Business Scholarship
Hyatt Place Grand Rapids - South Hospitality and Tourism Scholarship
International Merit Scholarship
International Relations Scholarship
International Student Scholarship
Charles H. and Florence Irwin Scholarship Endowment
Todd Jager Memorial Athletic Training Scholarship
Michael and Susan Jandernoa Scholarship Endowment
Johnson Leadership Scholarship Endowment
Jurries Family Scholarship
The Justice Society Endowed Scholarship
Fred M. and Bernadine Keller Diversity Scholarship
Fred M. Keller Engineering
Daniel Kemp Alumni Leadership Scholarship
Kemp Faculty Scholarship
Marlene Kenneway Love of Dance Scholarship
Kurt Kimball Scholarship
Russel H. Kirkhof Engineering Scholarship
Don Klein Graduate Scholarship in Accounting
Professor Charles Knop Chemistry Scholarship
Walton B. Koch Scholarship
A. Scott and Ruth Koeze Graduate Business Scholarship
Albert S. and Ella D. Koeze Art Scholarship
MaryBeth Koeze Art Scholarship
MaryBeth Koeze Endowed Scholarship in memory of Dr. Thomas Henry Koeze
Koning - Dirk Koning Film and Video
Jack J. Korff Seidman College of Business Finance Scholarship
Lynn Kraemer Memorial Scholarship
Lacks Enterprises Scholarship
Laker Baseball Alumni Leadership Award
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Scholarship
Arend D. and Nancy Lubbers University Honors College Scholarship
Dr. Faite R-P Mack/Thomas Jackson Urban Teacher Education Scholarship
Dr. Nancy K. Mack Scholarship Fund
Macomb County Student of the Week Scholarship
Eric Maino Community Technology Award
Jean Martin Doctor of Nursing Practice Scholarship
Mathematics Scholarship
MathCounts Scholarship
Theresa McKee Occupational Therapy
Reverend Dennis and E. Jean (Lackey) McMurray Academic Achievement Scholarship
Frederik Meijer First Generation Honors College Scholarship
Corky Meinecke Scholarship
Metro Detroit Alumni Scholarship
Benjamin Mutnick Mettle Award for HTM
Michigan Society of Professional Engineers Scholarship
Paul C. Miller Scholarship
Milhilesh and Jitendra Mishra Foreign Student and Faculty Scholarship
Jacob Mol Athletic Scholarship
School of Engineering/MSPE Engineering Scholarship
Rodney Mulder Social Work
Mullendore Legal Studies and Criminal Justice
Mark and Elizabeth Murray International Travel Scholarship
Arthur C. Hills Music Scholarship
Nichols Sustainability Scholarship
Glenn A. and Betty Niemeyer History Scholarship
Amos Nordman Foundation Scholarship
Dr. Roy & Pat Olsson Jr. Health Professions Scholarship
Nedra Smith Otis Art and Design Scholarships
Ott-Stiner Fellowship in Chemistry and Natural Sciences
Candace Otte Scholarship for Nursing
Barbara H. Padnos Scholarship for Study Abroad
Esther Padnos Nursing Scholarship
Louis Padnos Iron & Metal Co. Employees Scholarship
Seymour and Esther Padnos Engineering
PAETEC Enterprise Resource Planning Scholarship
PAETEC Technology Scholarship
Palau and Micronesian Student Scholarship
Joan Panopoulos Scholarship
Lt. James W. Parmlee Memorial Scholarship
Pathways to Recover Scholarship
Don and Diane Paton Family Entrepreneur Scholarship
Eugene and Lillian Pawl Scholarship
Peace and Justice Award
Ross W. Perry Bachelor of Science/Core Sciences Major Scholarship
Ruth M. Perry Doctor of Physical Therapy Scholarship
Pew Faculty Teaching & Learning Center Minority Scholarship
Pew Faculty Teaching & Learning Center Women's Scholarship
Tony Pfenning Baseball Commitment Award
Phi Beta Kappa Scholarship
American Photo Marketing Entrepreneurship Scholarship
McFadden Picciuca International Child Welfare Scholarship
Plant Services Personnel Scholarship
Plante Moran Accounting Scholarship
PNC Early Childhood Education Scholarship
Polish Heritage Scholarship
Positive Black Women Scholarship/Endowment
Paul and Margaret Potter Scholarship
Judith S. Pratt Nontraditional Nursing Scholarship
Berthold Price Memorial Endowment Scholarship
Margaret Proctor School of Communication Scholarship
Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship
Dr. George I. and Helen Z. Quimby Scholarship
Joe E. Reid Memorial Scholarship
Reister Family Memorial Scholarship
Renaissance Church of God in Christ African American Academic Achievement Scholarship
Peter P. and Patricia R. Renucci Clinical Lab Sciences Scholarship
Peter P. Renucci Family Clinical Lab Sciences Scholarship
Warren Reynolds Scholarship
The Right Place Inc. Manufacturers Scholarship
Doris Rucks Scholarship
Laura Sakoski Memorial
Salski Biology Scholarship
Hugo Salazar Memorial Scholarship Fund
J. Patrick Sandro Education Scholarship
School of Social Work Scholarship Endowment
Ilene I. Schooley Biomedical Science Scholarship
Scholarship for Disadvantaged Students
Lois Searles Hospitality and Tourism Award
Mary and Wilhelm Seeger Scholarship Fund
BDO Seidman International Accounting Scholarship
Seidman College of Business Commercial Real Estate Scholarship
Seidman College of Business Study Abroad Scholarship
Thomas Seykora Alumni Leadership Scholarship
Shakespeare Scholarship
John J. and Marjorie E. Shepard Communications Scholarship
Elizabeth K. Sherwood Memorial Scholarship
Marilyn and Budge Sherwood Scholarship
John Shontz Native Plants Biology Scholarship
Ryan Short Memorial Scholarship
Ram Singh Social Work Scholarship
Drs. Esther and Enrico Sobong Nursing Scholarship
Social Work Minority Scholarship
Society for Automotive Engineers Scholarship
Society of Manufacturing Engineers Scholarship
Spectrum Health Diversity Scholarship
Paul Springer Crew Scholarship
Joseph Spruit Engineering Scholarship
SPX Corporation Engineering Scholarship
Statistics Scholarship
Steelcase Foundation Scholarship
Steelcase Inc. Seidman College of Business Diversity Scholarship
Howard and Rose Stein Endowed Biology
Esther Rehm Stotz Nursing Scholarship
Tim Strickler Premedical Scholarship
Student Legacy Scholarship
Student Support Fund
Subar Family-Model Coverall Service Scholarship
Sullivan Scholarship Trust Fund
Duke Tanaka Jr. Anatomy Scholarship
Steele A. and Mary D. Taylor Pathway to Education Scholarship
TEI Accounting/Tax Scholarship
Telephone Pioneers Scholarship
The Thompson Working Family Scholars Program
Thompson Foundation UPA Award
Traverse City Convention & Visitors Bureau Education Foundation Scholarship
Arlene Treanor Native Plants Internship
Edward L. Tremba Geology Scholarship
UFCW Local 951 Foundation Scholarship
David and Carol Van Andel Leadership Fellow Endowment for the Hauenstein Center for Presidential Studies
Donald and Barbara VanderJagt Mathematics and Athletics Scholarship
Donald and Wilma VanderZwaag Business Scholarship
Veazey Graduate Academic Scholarship in Accounting Scholarship
Ada Council for Arts Rebecca Vogelsang Memorial Scholarship
Kathleen B. Vogelsang Seidman College of Business Scholarship for Women
Volkhardt Family Nursing Scholarship
Volkhardt Family Physical Therapy Scholarship
Barbara Waddell Native Plants Research Scholarship
Caprice R. Wagner Memorial Scholarship Fund
Dr. Ronald Ward Scholarship
Florence Cowan Ward Scholarship for Nursing
Margaret F. Ward Art and Design Scholarship
Margaret F. Ward Music Scholarship
John D. Wardrop Leadership Fellow Endowment for the Hauenstein Center for Presidential Studies
GVSU Web Team Scholarship
West Shore Aware Scholarship
Westerman Nursing Scholarship
WGVU-TV Scholarship
Shawn D. Wiersma Criminal Justice Memorial Scholarship
Don Williams Sr. Dean Emeritus Multicultural Business Education (MBEC) Scholarship
H. James and Carole Lynn Campbell Williams Business Scholarship
Bill and Diana Wipperfurth Annis Water Resources Institute Student Research Scholarship
Wisner Doctor of Physical Therapy Scholarship
Wisner First Generation Engineering Scholarship
Wisner Nontraditional Student Engineering Scholarship
Women's Center Scholarship for Nontraditional Students
Robert and Barbara Wood Entrepreneur
Doug and Linda Woods Excellence in Athletic Training Scholarship
Writing Department Scholarship
Whitney Young Village Outreach Engineering Scholarship
Jennifer Youssef Journalism Scholarship
Lt. William Zimmerman Memorial Scholarship
Felix V. and Gladys A. Zukaitis Athletic Scholarship
Felix V. and Gladys A. Zukaitis Scholarship Trust

Programs Based On Need

Grants

The programs listed below are considered "gift" assistance and do not require repayment.

1. Grand Valley Need-based Grant Programs. These grants are available to full-time undergraduate students based on financial need and availability of funds. To apply, you must complete the FAFSA.

a. Grand Valley Grant. This is a $3,000 award for new students who have an estimated family contribution
of $2,000 or less as determined by filing the FAFSA. Priority given to students who file their FAFSA by
March 1 each year. This award is renewable provided the student files the FAFSA by March 1 each year, the
expected family contribution is $2,000 or less and meets satisfactory academic progress. Additional grant
amounts of up to $2,000 are available to all undergraduates who have exceptional unmet need after all other
financial aid is awarded.

b. Grand Valley Freshman Grant. This need-based grant award amount is up to $2,000 for new first-time
freshman students who have exceptional unmet need after all other financial aid is awarded. Priority given to
students who file their FAFSA by March 1. May be renewable as an upperclass grant for students who earn a
minimum of 30 credits per year, maintain a 2.0 or better grade point average, and have exceptional unmet
need.

2. Federal Pell Grant. This program is the main source of need-based federal financial aid grant funds. To apply for a Pell Grant, you must submit the FAFSA and indicate on this form that you wish Grand Valley State University to receive your application. You will then receive a notification form called the Student Aid Report (SAR). The Financial Aid Office in turn will notify you of the exact amount of the grant, which is determined from a payment schedule published by the U.S. Department of Education. No specific GPA is required for renewal; however, students must be making satisfactory academic progress to remain eligible.

3. Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (SEOG). These federal grants are awarded to undergraduate students with exceptional financial need who, without the grant, would be unable to continue their education. No specific GPA is required for renewal; however, students must be making satisfactory academic progress to remain eligible. Priority is given to students who qualify for the Federal Pell Grant Program.

4. Michigan Competitive Scholarship. The Michigan Higher Education Assistance Authority (MHEAA) offers scholarships on an annual, renewable basis. You must (1) fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by March 1, (2) demonstrate financial need as determined by the FAFSA, (3) qualify as a result of your performance on the American College Test (ACT), (4) be a continuous resident of Michigan for 12 months preceding the examination date, (5) be a high school graduate with no previous college training, and (6) comply with all other provisions of Public Act 208 and regulations adopted by the MHEAA. As a scholarship winner, you are eligible to have your scholarship renewed if you are making satisfactory academic progress, have a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher, and continue to demonstrate financial need. You must reapply for the scholarship each year by filing the FAFSA before March 1. You must also satisfy other regulations adopted by the state authority. Awards from this program are subject to state funding.

5. Federal TEACH Grant. The Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) grant
program provides grants of up to $4,000 per year to students who intend to teach in specified content areas
in a public or private elementary or secondary school that serves students from low-income families. Contact the
Financial Aid Office for more information.

6. Native American Tuition Benefit. Students who are certified by the Michigan Intertribal Council to be a member
of a federally recognized tribe and a Michigan resident are eligible for a tuition benefit equal to their tuition costs.
Students who believe they are eligible Native Americans can contact the Michigan Intertribal Council at (800) 562-
4957 for an application and additional information. Student must be degree-seeking and must meet financial aid SAP
standards to receive this benefit.

1. Federal Perkins Loans. This federal loan program is for students who can establish financial need, are U.S. citizens, meet the satisfactory academic progress requirements of Grand Valley, and are not in default on previous Federal loan programs. No interest accrues and no repayment is required while you carry at least a half-time load in most institutions of higher education. Repayment at a minimum of $40 per month is required within a 10-year period following the termination of your student status. Because of limited funds, loans are made for up to a maximum of $2,000 per year at Grand Valley. Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Eligible students will be notified by the Grand Valley Financial Aid Office.

The interest rate is a simple annual 5 percent on the unpaid balance with repayment beginning nine months after the student is no longer enrolled at least half-time (six credits for undergraduate students).

2. Federal Direct Subsidized Loan. This federal loan program operates through the U.S. Department of Education
and provides loans to students to help meet their educational expenses. Interest rates are fixed at 6.8 percent for
2012-2013. The interest rate changes each year on July 1. The federal government deducts a 0.1 percent
origination fee from the total amount of the loan. If you are eligible for a subsidized loan, the federal government will
pay the entire interest charge while you are in college. Students must demonstrate financial need to qualify. A student
can borrow up to $3,500 for the freshman year of study; $4,500 for the sophomore year; and $5,500 for the junior and
senior years, although the total borrowing plus other available resources cannot exceed the calculated financial need
of the student to attend Grand Valley. Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Eligible students will be notified by the Grand Valley Office of Financial Aid.

3. Nursing Loans. These federal loans are for students who are accepted into the nursing program at Grand Valley. Nursing loan criteria closely follow those of the Federal Perkins Loan Program.

Educational Loans Not Based on Need

1. Federal Direct Unsubsidized Student Loan Program. The unsubsidized loan is not based on need. Eligibility is determined by taking the cost of education to attend Grand Valley and subtracting any financial aid the student has been awarded. The interest rate is fixed at 6.8 percent. Under the Unsubsidized Federal Direct Student Loan Program, however, the interest accrues on the loan while the student is enrolled in school, during the grace period, and during any periods of deferment or repayment. Students may pay on the interest while in school. Students not paying on their accruing interest should be aware that their loan principal will increase based on the amount of that unpaid interest. The federal government deducts a 0.1 percent origination fee from the total amount of the loan. Repayment of the loan principal begins six months after the student is no longer enrolled at least half-time. To be considered for the Unsubsidized Federal Direct Student Loan, students must first complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and list Grand Valley as a college choice.

2. Federal Direct Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students (PLUS). Parents of dependent students may borrow funds under the parent loan program. The program makes loans of up to the full cost of educational charges without regard to financial need. The interest rate is fixed at 7.9 percent. The federal government deducts a 2.4 percent origination fee from the total of the loan. Funds are made available through the Federal Direct Plus Loan Program. Grand Valley, not local banks, will originate these loans for parents.

3. Alternative Loan Programs. Alternative loans are nonfederal loans to supplement financial aid for credit-worthy students and their families. A student may borrow an amount up to the cost of education minus other financial aid already awarded. Both fixed and variable interest rates are available. Interest rates may vary depending on the student's decision to pay on the loan while in school versus deferring repayment until after graduation.

Contact the Financial Aid Office or visit our website www.gvsu.edu/financialaid for more information.

Career Center

The Career Center connects students and alumni to career-related resources including experiential learning programming and opportunities that enhance long-term career planning and preparation. These services include full-time job and internship search assistance, workshops and seminars, career fairs, on-campus recruitment, and simulated interviews.

Here are just some of the ways the Career Center helps students and alumni gain a competitive edge in the job market:

  • LakerJobs. The free online job search tool at www.gvsu.edu/lakerjobs provides students and alumni access to hundreds of internships and full-time jobs with Grand Valley employer partners.
  • Individual assistance. Meet one-on-one with a career advisor to discuss any aspect of your job search, including resume and cover letter writing, networking strategies, and much more.
  • Workshops, seminars, panels, and events. Career-themed outreach is available to students and alumni on all campuses. The Career Center also offers a job and internship search class.
  • Internships and cooperative education. The Career Center provides assistance in preparing for and obtaining internships and other meaningful work experiences.
  • On-campus recruitment. Employers come to campus throughout the year to interview candidates for internships, cooperative education, and full-time employment after graduation. Visit www.gvsu.edu/lakerjobs for a listing of specific employers, times, and locations.
  • Career fairs. On- and off-campus career fairs offer students the opportunity to meet and network with a wide variety of employers.

The Career Center has two primary locations: 206 Student Services building, (616) 331-3311; and 116B DeVos Center, (616) 331-6708 with office hours from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Services are also available at the L.V. Eberhard Center and Cook-DeVos Center for Health Sciences in Grand Rapids, at the Meijer Campus in Holland, Muskegon Campus at Muskegon Community College, and Traverse City/Petoskey locations by appointment. Visit our website at www.gvsu.edu/careers/.

Student Employment

The Student Employment Office has a website to assist students in finding jobs both on and off campus. Visit www.gvsu.edu/studentjobs to view job postings, a gallery of pictures showing students working at all types of jobs on campus, the on-campus wage schedule, the pay period calendar, hints for interviewing, student handbook, forms for employment, explanation of work study, and much more. The office is located at 105 Student Services building. For more information call (616) 331-3238.

1. Regular Student Employment. Any student wishing to work on campus can apply for job opportunities through the Student Employment office. It is important to follow the procedures outlined on the website to be informed of these employment opportunities.

2. Federal College Work-study Program. Many campus jobs are funded under this program. Preference is given to students who have the greatest financial need and who are enrolled full-time. Students usually work an average of 10 to 15 hours a week. Employment is not guaranteed.

Additional Payment and Student Options

1. Grand Valley Short-term Loans. For a small service fee, short-term loans of up to $500 are available for books and other emergencies. Repayment dates are determined by the Financial Aid Office at the time of application but do not exceed 60 days or the end of the semester (whichever comes first). Students need to be in good standing with the institution to apply for this loan. Applications and general policies regarding short-term loans are available at the Financial Aid Office.

2. Grand Valley Deferment Plan. The deferment plan allows students to pay their tuition in four installments for a
small processing fee each semester. Applications and general policies regarding the deferment plan are emailed with the initial tuition billing each semester and are also available online through the myBanner system. Contact the Student Accounts Office for more information at (616) 331-2209 or toll-free (800) 789-1923.

3. Company Loans. Employees from participating companies that have a tuition reimbursement program are eligible to apply for a deferred tuition loan. Under this program, students may defer payment of their tuition until they receive reimbursement from their employers. Applications for this loan are available online through the myBanner system. Contact the Student Accounts office for more information at (616) 331-2209 or toll free (800) 789-1923.

Special Programs

The Veterans Readjustment Benefits Act (G.I. Bill) provides educational benefits for servicemen and women who have served on active duty. You can obtain further information from the Veterans Administration office nearest your home or by calling them. They also have a website you can go to for more information, visit www.va.gov/.

Michigan Public Act 245 provides partial tuition payment to students from Michigan who are children of veterans who died in service or were totally disabled because of service causes. You can request an application and further information from the Michigan Veterans Trust Fund, Lansing, Michigan 48904.

Michigan Works! provides financial assistance designed to prepare individuals for entry into the labor force. Go to www.michiganworks.org to find out more about these funding options and the steps necessary to receive this financial assistance.

Veterans Administration Benefits may be available to children of deceased or totally disabled veterans if the cause is service-connected. You can obtain an application from the Veterans Administration, 477 Michigan Avenue, Detroit, Michigan 48226, or any Veterans Administration office.

Vocational Rehabilitation. The Michigan Department of Education, Bureau of Rehabilitation Services, provides services and financial assistance to students with certain disabilities. You can obtain information by calling your local Bureau of Rehabilitation office or writing to Michigan Rehabilitation Services, Box 30010, Lansing, Michigan 48909 or calling (517) 373-3390. For a listing of district offices call (800) 605-6722. To renew Vocational Rehabilitation assistance, you must submit the necessary financial aid forms each year and make arrangements for a review of your case with your vocational rehabilitation counselor.

Tribal Grants. Financial assistance may be available for Native American students who are affiliated with a tribe. For more information on requirements and application materials, contact your tribal higher education officer.

Private Scholarships. A limited number of scholarships are available from private sources. Contact organizations in your community that may provide scholarships, especially those in which you and/or your parents are active. Your local high school guidance office is also a source of this information. Scholarships may have deadlines beginning as early as October 1 for the following year, so it is important to begin your search as early as possible.

Enrollment Requirements for Disbursement of Aid

Your financial aid award is based on full-time enrollment, regardless of the plans you indicated on the FAFSA. Specific funds, however, have enrollment requirements and will apply toward your bill and be backed off your bill as your enrollment changes (i.e. as you drop and add credits).

The following funds will pay on your bill as long as you are enrolled for at least one credit:

  • Some private (nonfederal) loans
  • Some private scholarships

The following funds will pay on your bill as long as you are enrolled at least half-time (6 or more credits as an undergraduate; 4.5 or more as a graduate):

  • Federal Direct Subsidized Loans
  • Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans
  • Federal Direct PLUS Loans
  • Some private loans

The following funds will be prorated based on your enrollment:

  • State Competitive Scholarship

Prorated for three-quarter time enrollment of 9-11 credits
Prorated for half-time of 6-8 enrollment credits

  • Federal Pell Grant
  • Federal TEACH Grant

Prorated for three-quarter time enrollment of 9-11 credits
Prorated for half-time enrollment of 6-8 credits
Prorated for less than half-time enrollment of 1-5 credits

The remaining funds require full-time enrollment of 12 or more credits to pay on your bill:

  • Federal Perkins Loan
  • Federal Nursing Loan
  • Federal Supplemental Opportunity Grant
  • Grand Valley Grants
  • Grand Valley scholarships
  • Some private scholarships

Satisfactory Academic Progress

Federal regulations governing federal funds require institutions to monitor the academic progress of financial aid recipients. Grand Valley State University's policy is to provide financial aid only to students capable of remaining in good academic standing and who make adequate progress toward a degree. Adequate academic progress required to remain eligible for financial aid is defined below.

  • SAP will be determined at the end of each semester for all enrolled students regardless of whether financial aid was received.
  • Students repeating courses may be eligible for financial aid; however, repeat classes increase the total attempted hours, but do not increase the total number of credits completed.
  • Transfer credits (counted as "earned" credits) will be included in calculating the 2/3 completion rate and the 150 percent required credit limit for undergraduate, graduate and doctoral students.
  • The complete GVSU academic record is considered regardless of whether financial aid was received each semester.
  • Credit hours earned by testing or other non-standard means are counted in the satisfactory academic progress calculations.
  • All credit hours attempted through international programs and through concurrent enrollment agreements count in the SAP calculation.

Undergraduate Students

  • Achieve a minimum 1.5 cumulative GVSU grade point average after 24 credits
  • Achieve a minimum 1.8 cumulative GVSU grade point average after 54 credits
  • Achieve a minimum 2.0 cumulative GVSU grade point average after 55 credits
  • Complete and pass a minimum of two-thirds of all undergraduate collegiate credit hours attempted
  • Complete all degree requirements within 150 percent of the minimum number of credits hours required to graduate (based on 120 credits for undergraduate students)

Second Undergraduate Students

  • Maintain a minimum 2.0 cumulative GVSU grade point average
  • Complete and pass a minimum of two-thirds of all collegiate undergraduate attempted hours
  • Complete all additional requirements within 150 percent of the minimum number of credit hours required to complete an additional program. An additional 60 credits will be allowed for subsequent undergraduate work (based on 120 + 60 credits for second undergraduates).

Graduate Students

  • Maintain a minimum 3.0 cumulative GVSU grade point average
  • Complete and pass a minimum of two-thirds of all collegiate graduate credit hours attempted
  • Complete all degree requirements within 150 percent of the minimum number of credit hours required to graduate (based on 60 credits for graduate students)

Doctoral Students

  • Maintain a minimum 3.0 cumulative GVSU grade point average
  • Complete and pass a minimum of two-thirds of all GVSU and transfer graduate collegiate credit hours attempted
  • Complete all degree requirements within 150 percent of the minimum number of credit hours required to graduate (based on 120 credits for doctoral students)

General Provisions and Information

  • Transfer credits (both attempted and earned) will be included in calculating the two-thirds completion rate and the 150 percent of required credits limit for both undergraduate and graduate students.
  • Satisfactory academic progress will be determined at the end of each semester for all enrolled students regardless of whether financial aid was received that semester.
  • Students in good financial aid academic standing who fail to meet the requirements in the subsequent semester will be placed on financial aid probation. During the semester the student is on probation, the student must:
    • Earn a 2.5 semester GPA or a 2.0 cumulative GPA.
    • Complete all credits the student is still registered for at the end of the drop/add period.

Students meeting financial aid probationary requirements will be continued on FA probation until they again meet standard academic progress requirements. Failure to meet the financial aid probationary GPA and/or credit completion requirement while on financial aid probation will result in the loss of eligibility for continued financial aid.

  • Students may regain financial aid eligibility by achieving a minimum accumulative GPA of 2.0 and/or successfully completing a minimum of 67 percent of cumulative attempted credit hours at their own expense.
  • Repeat classes increase the total attempted hours, but do not increase the total number of credits completed.
  • Grades of W, NC, F, or I do not count in the GPA or credit completion requirement.
  • Credits hours earned by testing or other non-standard means are counted in the satisfactory academic progress calculations as both hours attempted and hours earned.
  • All credit hours attempted through international programs and through concurrent enrollment agreements count in both attempted and earned calculations.
  • Students who fail to meet the above academic progress standards may appeal the loss of financial aid eligibility only if special circumstances exist, such as the death of a close relative or an injury or illness of the student. Appeals must be submitted to the Office of Financial Aid with appropriate documentation of the special circumstances. The deadline for submission of an appeal for any semester in which aid is denied under this policy is the last day of the fourth week of classes.

NOTE: Refer to the Academic Policies and Regulations for the Academic Review Policy. These are separate from and different from the financial aid satisfactory academic progress requirements discussed above.

Conditions Governing Acceptance of Award

Grand Valley State University's Financial Aid Office makes every effort to provide timely and accurate information in your award notification. The university also reserves the right to change without notice any award due to federal, state or university changes in policies, procedures or regulations.

In accepting your financial aid award offer, you are stating that you have met and will continue to meet all the following conditions of acceptance set by federal regulations and Grand Valley policies:

  • The information submitted on your aid application is correct and complete.
  • You will notify Grand Valley's Financial Aid Office (FAO) if you receive assistance not originally on your award notification (i.e. an outside scholarship). A reduction of other aid may be necessary even if funds have already been disbursed.
  • You will use the financial aid awarded to you only for payment of tuition, books, housing costs, transportation, and other related educational expenses.
  • You agree that financial aid awarded to you may be used as a credit toward payment of all tuition, fees, room, board, and all other charges that may be due or past due on your student account.
  • You will maintain sufficient academic progress toward your degree according to the policy of the Grand Valley Financial Aid Office.
  • You will maintain the minimum credit hour(s) that you have registered for after 100% refund each semester. Your award will be based on full time attendance and will be adjusted after the 100% tuition refund period each semester. If you drop below the number of credit hours upon which your award was based or withdraw completely from your courses, you may be expected to repay all or part of your award.
  • You will notify the Financial Aid Office if you do not plan to enroll in a semester for which you have been awarded aid.
  • You are not in default on educational loans and do not owe a refund for any federal funds received at Grand Valley or elsewhere.
  • You must meet all the requirements regarding registering for selective service, citizenship status, and drug conviction status.
  • You will respond promptly to any requests for additional information. Failure to do so may result in you being billed for a portion or all of the aid disbursed to you or will delay additional disbursements.
  • You will immediately notify the Grand Valley Registrar's Office if you withdraw from the university. You may be billed for part or all of your financial aid. The bill will depend on the date of your withdrawal and the percentage and amount of institutional refund to be received.
  • You agree to repay to Grand Valley any financial aid funds disbursed to you in error. If a mistake was made, whether by you, Grand Valley, or another, agency federal regulations require that the mistake be corrected and funds be billed back as necessary.


If you are in need of assistance please submit any questions or comments.