Frequently Asked Questions

Are there income cutoffs for financial assistance?

No. Every application is individually reviewed so that factors such as assets, family size, and number in college are considered, in addition to the family income.

What is my family contribution?

The Financial Aid Office uses an institutional methodology to calculate an expected family contribution (EFC) based on the information provided on the CSS Profile, FAFSA, and tax returns. This calculation is often higher than the EFC determined on the FAFSA through the federal formula because our calculation looks at a greater number of factors.

When will I learn about my financial aid?

Students who complete all application materials on time and are admitted to the University will receive a financial aid award letter shortly after their notification of admission. Every effort is made to ensure that all students receive their financial aid award letter prior to the May 1st deposit deadline. However, late applicants may need to make a deposit decision prior to receiving an award.

What if I don’t get a financial aid award letter shortly after my letter of admission?

Students who do not receive financial aid awards typically have not filed all of the materials requested by the Financial Aid Office. Check to make sure you have completed the CSS Profile and the FAFSA and that you included the University on the list of schools to receive the information. If you have any concerns about your financial aid application, call the Financial Aid Office.

What if I am an Early Decision candidate?

Early Decision candidates receive the same consideration for and notification of merit- and need-based financial aid. However, the priority filing deadlines is Nov 15th for the CSS Profile.

What if I am a Transfer student?

Application requirements and notification procedure differ based on the term for which you are seeking admission. For the most up-to-date information, please contact our office. Transfer students are also considered for different merit scholarships, such as the $5,000 Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship for transfer candidates who are members of this national honor society, have achieved academic excellence, and bring unique attributes to the institution. Transfer students are also subject to different general guidelines, such as loan levels and the number of semesters they may receive institutional funding, which are based on the number of semesters required to graduate determined at the time of admission.

If my parents are separated or divorced, how do I apply for financial aid?

Students whose parents are separated or divorced will have an extra step to the financial aid application process. The CSS Profile and the FAFSA should be completed using parent information for your custodial parent (the parent with whom you have lived most in the past 12 months). Your non-custodial parent will need to complete the CSS Non-Custodial Parent’s Statement. Information on completing this form will be provided when you complete the CSS Profile.

Is financial assistance available for international students?

Need-based aid is limited for international students, but international students will be considered for several substantial merit scholarships. If awarded, these merit scholarships may be included on the required International Financial Support Form.

What does it cost to attend the University of Rochester?

Typical charges for the 2004-2005 academic year provide a general outline for expenses you are likely to incur. The estimated budget for an incoming freshman for 04-05 was $40,283. Individual expenses are listed below and tend to increase at a rate of 4-6% each year.

Item	Estimated cost
Tuition and Fees	$28,968
Room	$5,460
Board	$4,105
Books, Supplies, & Misc.	$1,750

Do I have to apply for aid every year?

Yes. If you receive need-based financial aid, you will need to file the FAFSA every year. Additional application materials are also required, and you will be notified in December each year so that you may complete the application process by April 15. Because a family’s financial situation changes every year, a new application is required so that we may determine your demonstrated financial need. While aid is not guaranteed, in general, if the family’s financial situation is similar from year to year and all application guidelines are met, the financial aid package should be similar from year to year. Merit-based aid does not require a new application each year.

How does an outside award affect my scholarship?

Federal regulations require that outside aid be used to meet a student’s financial need. In order to provide students with the greatest benefit, up to $1,000 in outside scholarships will be used to replace any difference between the calculated federal and institutional family contributions. If additional adjustments are required, then the remaining outside scholarship will be used to reduce the student’s self-help (loans or work), Rochester National grant or other need-based grant funds.

Are special circumstances considered?

If your family has concerns about contributing the portion of the cost not covered by financial aid, we encourage you to contact the Financial Aid Office so that we may discuss the situation with you. Every situation is unique, so we will work with you to determine what financing options are available to assist your family. In all cases, a written appeal detailing your special circumstances and providing appropriate documentation will be required in order for a further review of your file to take place.

Still have a question? Contact us!

Financial Aid Office

Third Floor Meliora Hall, P.O. Box 270261

University of Rochester

Rochester, NY 14627-0261

(585) 275-3226 or (800) 881-8234   Fax (585) 756-7664

E-Mail: help@finaid.rochester.edu