Need-based Financial Aid

The University of Rochester is committed to meeting the full demonstrated need of all admitted students. We achieve this through the use of scholarships, grants, loans, and work opportunities. While every student's financial aid package is different, the following are some of the most common financial aid programs. Amounts will vary based on each individual student's demonstrated need.

Grants

Federal Pell Grant
The Pell Grant is a federal grant program designed to assist students whose families demonstrate the highest need.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
FSEOG is a joint program between the federal government and the University to provide additional funding to those students whose families demonstrate the highest need.
New York State Tuition Aid Program (TAP)
TAP is a New York state grant program based on a family's New York taxable income and the student's level of study. In addition to the FAFSA, a separate TAP application is required by the state. The UR TAP filing code is 1015.
Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP) Grants
HEOP is a joint program between New York State and the University to provide grant funding for admitted New York state residents coming from disadvantaged socioeconomic and educational backgrounds. For more information, contact your high school guidance counselor or call the University's HEOP office at 585-275-0651.
State grants
Certain states outside New York will allow their grant programs to be used at schools in New York. Contact your state agency for more information.
Rochester National Grant
In addition to the various federal and state grant programs, the University of Rochester commits significant funding to its own need-based grant program.

Self Help, Need-Based Aid Sources

Student educational loans were developed to assist students whose families cannot cover the full cost of education. They are designed to help ensure the student's ability to repay the loan. Some features of these loans include: an interest subsidy (the federal government pays the interest while the student is enrolled at least half-time); a 6-9 month grace period (the federal government pays the interest for 6-9 months after the student graduates or withdraws), and deferment options (for example, the student may defer the loan and not make payments while enrolled at least half-time in graduate school).

Federal Perkins Loan
The Perkins loan program is a joint program between the federal government and the University designed to provide low interest loans to assist students whose families demonstrate the highest need.
Direct Subsidized Loans
The Direct loan program is a federal program designed to provide students demonstrating financial need with a low-interest loan to help cover the cost of education.
Federal Work-Study Program (FWS)
The FWS Program is a joint program between the federal government and the University designed to provide opportunities for students to work during the school year to earn money to help cover their educational expenses. Opportunities are available across campus, as well as the surrounding community. Students utilize the Student Employment Office to locate positions and are paid an hourly wage for work performed. There is a special emphasis on community service opportunities.

Other Financial Resources

Institutional Employment
Campus employment is not limited to the Federal Work-Study Program. Many students without FWS eligibility work in dozens of different departments on campus.
Unsubsidized Federal Direct Loan
The Direct loan program also offers an unsubsidized version for students whose financial need is met through other resources (e.g merit aid, family contribution, etc.). The interest on this low interest educational loan accrues while the student is in school. The maximum yearly limit is determined by the Department of Education.
Federal Direct Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students (PLUS)
The PLUS program allows parents to borrow up to the cost of education minus any other financial aid offered. This loan offers an annual variable interest rate and repayment begins 60 days after the second disbursement. Interested parents can access the application for this loan on our website. The PLUS application requires a parent signature and can be accepted by our office via mail or fax.
Alternative Loans
There are many private alternative loan options available. Please visit Related Sites for a list of links for various alternative loan opportunities.