Merit vs. Need

Like many colleges and universities, we distinguish between two types of financial assistance: support based on merit and support based on need. Merit-based assistance usually takes the form of scholarships, while need-based aid typically appears as grants, loans, work study, etc.

The College of Arts, Sciences and Engineering awards all merit-based scholarships. Questions about merit-based scholarships should be addressed to the Admissions Office. The Financial Aid Office evaluates eligibility for need-based assistance and sends award notices. A financial aid offer from the University often includes both types of aid.

merit and need make up a financial aid package

When it comes to continuing students, there is another difference between need- and merit-based aid. Merit-based aid is automatically re-applied to your financial package each year. However, since a family's financial situation will likely change from year to year, students must reapply for need-based aid.

You Should Also Know...

  • There is no upper bound on financial assistance. 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.
  • We distribute merit-based aid regardless of a family's demonstrated financial need. However, Meliora Grants for residents of New York State do require students to submit a FAFSA to our financial aid office.
  • Like most private universities, the University uses an Institutional Methodology to calculate an expected family contribution (EFC). In some (not all) instances, this means the EFC at the University of Rochester will be different from the calculation reported to the family from other sources.
  • 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. Late applicants may not receive their award letter until after the May 1st deposit deadline, so it's important to keep track of deadlines.