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Types of Financial Aid

Radford University use the results of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine student aid eligibility. You can learn more about the FAFSA application in Applying for Financial Aid.  Radford University does also utilize the Virginia Alternative State Aid Application (VASA) for eligible Virginia residents.  You can learn more about VASA on the SCHEV Level Up website.

Applications are reviewed and processed based on receipt by Radford University's priority deadline.  To be considered for grant programs, your completed FAFSA must be received by our priority deadline of March 1.

Radford University offers many forms of Financial Aid.  See the list below for more information on the different types.

Grant Aid Programs

Grants are need based gift aid that does not have to be repaid. 

A student's eligibility for grant funds is determined by demonstrated need which is ed on their EFC/SAI which is calculated when a FAFSA is completed.  In order to be considered for all grant programs a student must complete their FAFSA and all requested documents by the priority deadline of March 1st.

Effective for the 2024-2025 academic year, as a part of the FAFSA Simplification Act, the EFC will be replaced by the Student Aid Index or SAI.  The SAI will be utilized to help determine student eligibility for all grant programs.

Federal Grant List

Federal Pell Grant
The Pell Grant is a subsidy grant provided by the federal government.  It is need based and awarded based on the family's Expected Family Contribution (EFC) or Student Aid Index (SAI) as determined by the FAFSA.  Pell grants are awarded to undergraduate students who do not have a bachelor's degree.  Pell Grant aid will vary based on a student's EFC and enrollment status (derived from number of credit hours a student is enrolled in each semester).

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG)
The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant is a Federal grant program for students with exceptional demonstrated need.  Students must be Pell Grant eligible and seeking their first Bachelor's degree to be considered for SEOG.

Students seeking consideration for this grant must submit their FAFSA application and any requested financial aid documents, before the priority deadline date.  This must be completed each aid award year.

Federal TEACH Grant
The federal grant program for students who intend to teach in a public or private elementary or secondary school, that serves students from low-income families in a high need field.  The grant is awarded to students who apply and meet the defined program requirements.  If you are awarded a TEACH Grant and change majors or do not complete the service requirements, the grant will become a Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan and subject to all standard repayment obligations.

The Federal Teach Grant program is a grant program which provides up to $4,000 per year to students (regardless of income or need who are completing or plan to complete course work needed to begin a career in teaching and who intend to teach in a public or private elementary or secondary school that serves students from low income families in a high need teaching field.  The grant is awarded to students who apply and meet the defined program requirements.

If you are awarded the Federal TEACH Grant and change majors or do not complete the service requirements, the grant will become a Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan and subject to all standard repayment obligations.  The obligation must be completed within eight years of completing your program. 

Full TEACH grant program details can be found on the federal student aid website.

 

Radford University's Teach Grant Eligibility Requirements

  • Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
  • Complete Radford's Federal TEACH Grant Application
  • Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
  • Be enrolled in a TEACH eligible degree program.  Questions regarding eligible programs can be directed to Dr. Debbie Bays Wilbon – dbays@radford.edu
  • Must be able to document passing scores on Praxis II subject assessments for the specific program in which the applicant is enrolled(based on state requirements and/or Radford University's teacher education program requirements) on the Virginia Communication and Literacy Assessment, and Praxis II (based on specific program in which applicant is enrolled)
  • Must have, at a minimum, sophomore standing (freshman are not eligible for the TEACH Grant)
  • Must maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.25.  New students must score above the 75th percentile on the SAT or ACT test
  • Must be enrolled in at least 6 credit hours (5 credit hours as a graduate student)
  • Must complete Entrance Counseling and subsequent Counseling each year that you receive the grant
  • Sign a Teach Grant Agreement to Serve each year that grant is received
  • Must complete Exit Counseling at the time you become ineligible or complete your program

Teach Grant Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Apply for Admission to a TEACH Grant Eligible Program?

Information may be obtained from the Radford University's Office of Field Experience.

How Do I Apply for a TEACH Grant?

First, you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or Renewal FAFSA. After your FAFSA is processed, RU will review the results and request additional information, if necessary.  You must also complete the RU Teach Grant Application.  The Financial Aid Office will send your name to RU's College of Education and Human Development Education Department to confirm your program eligibility.  Upon completion of your financial aid application and confirmation of your acceptance into an eligible program, we will send an email to you directing you to OneCampus to accept the award. Upon acceptance, the RU Financial Aid Office will email instructions to you to complete your TEACH Grant Agreement to Serve.

What happens if I change majors / concentrations or do not fulfill the requirements of the service agreement?

If you change majors or concentrations to one that is not an approved TEACH Grant field, you have not fulfilled the provisions of the TEACH Grant Agreement to Service.

Students that do not fulfill the requirements of the agreements will have all TEACH Grant awards converted to Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans that you must repay, with interest charged from the date of the TEACH Grant Disbursement.  Information about Direct Loans may be found on the federal website or on our financial aid website. 

You will be obligated to teach full-time in a high need field at a school or educational service agency that serves low-income students and low income school for at least 4 years for each program that you receive TEACH Grant funds to complete.  Students who receive two years of the TEACH Grant ($8,000) and who do not complete the stipulations of the agreement will have their Teach Grant become a Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan.  For example, a student with an $8,000 TEACH Grant who has not fulfilled the requirements of the service contract within eight years after they leave school would have a loan that totals more than $18,000 (with accrued interest).  This would be in addition to all other Direct Loans that the student had acquired.

For full repayment obligations review the information on the federal aid website.

If you think that you may not meet the service obligations you can review the total amount of TEACH Grant that will convert to a loan using the National Student Loan Database (NSLDS).

 

Other Important Information:
To see the "Teacher Shortage Areas" search the information on this U.S. Department of Education site.

State Grant List

Virginia Commonwealth Award
The Virginia Commonwealth Award is a state funded grant program for undergraduate (at state supported Virginia institutions) Virginia residents who demonstrate financial need. 

  • Student must be a Virginia resident, admitted into a Virginia public two- or four- year college or university.
  • Student must be enrolled at least half-time in an approved degree program, while seeking their first Bachelor's degree.
  • Student must meet federal financial aid eligibility requirements.
  • Student must meet and maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) standards.

Students seeking consideration for this grant must submit their FAFSA application and any requested financial aid documents, before the priority deadline date.  This must be completed each aid award year.

Virginia Guaranteed Assistance Program (VGAP)

The Virginia Guaranteed Assistance Program is a state funded need based grant program, for dependent students who are Virginia residents and meet the following criteria:

  • Student must be a dependent student & Virginia resident.
  • Student must graduate from a Virginia high school, with a 2.5 GPA.
  • Student's FAFSA must demonstrate exceptional financial need.
  • Student must be enrolled full time

VGAP may be renewed for up three years if the student continues to meet the following renewal criteria:

  • Maintains in-state residency
  • Is a dependent Student
  • FAFSA demonstrate exceptional financial need
  • Maintains a 2.5 minimum GPA
  • Maintains Full time enrollment
  • Maintains satisfactory academic progress
  • Meets FAFSA and FAFSA document priority submission deadline each year
  • Increases to the next grade level upon completion of each full year

Students seeking consideration for this grant must submit their FAFSA application and any requested financial aid documents, before the priority deadline date.  This must be completed each aid award year.

Virginia Transfer Grant (VTG)

The Virginia Two-Year College Transfer Grant Program is a need-based grant program for transfer students who have earned an Associate degree at a Virginia community college and graduated with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.

  • Students that are returning for the Spring term will see the Virginia Transfer Grant as a memo toward account charges. New students who are eligible to receive the award, will see it post after SCHEV certification. This occurs after Radford University’s census date. 
  • Students cannot exceed a maximum Expected Family Contribution (EFC) of $12,000.
  • Students must have enrolled as a first-time freshman in the two-year program, completed the associate degree program, and enrolled full-time in a Virginia four-year college or university the following Fall or Spring semester. 
  • Students must complete the Virginia Transfer Grant application and submit their final official transcripts with degree conferral date for consideration.
  • Continuing students must maintain full-time enrollment, minimum EFC requirements, and a cumulative 3.00 GPA or higher to renew the grant.

VA Transfer Grant applicant review cannot take place until after Radford University's census date each semester.

Radford University Academic Calendar

Institutional Grants

Highlander Grant

An institution funded grant program that began in Fall 2004 is awarded to students who have exceptional financial need and meet the priority application deadline each year.

Scholarship Programs

Scholarships are gift that that does not require repayment and are generally based on merit.  Scholarships can be awarded by various organizations and agencies.  

Radford University is committed to supporting students through a variety of scholarship programs.  We encourage you to review the programs below to learn more about scholarship opportunities as a Radford University student.

New freshman and transfer applicants are automatically considered for Institutional scholarships.  No additional application is required to be considered.

Institutional Scholarships

New Freshman Scholarships

The Highlander Distinction Program

The Highlander Distinction Program is a four-year renewable scholarship program for all incoming new freshmen and is designed to make your Radford University education more affordable.  The program launched in the 2020-2021 award year and provides more than $7 million dollars in support  to Radford University students.  Beginning with the 2024-2025 academic year all incoming new freshmen, regardless of learning location, will be considered for the Highlander Distinction program.  Award amounts for Virginia residents and students who qualify for in-state tuition range from $2,500 - $4,000.  Award amounts for out-of-state students range from $7,000 - $10,000.  This scholarship can be renewed for up to eight consecutive semesters if the student continues to meet the renewal criteria.

Highlander Distinction Scholarship Award Fact Sheet

As a scholarship recipient, you are encouraged to enroll in at least 15 credit hours per semester and are required to complete at least 12 credit hours each semester. Students who fall below 12 credit hours at any time will have their scholarship revoked.

The Highlander Distinction Scholarship will be applied toward the cost of tuition and mandatory fees.

  • If you receive other tuition-specific awards, a decrease in the amount of your Highlander Distinction Scholarship may result.  For example, if you are a military tuition stipend or academic common market tuition benefits, your Highlander Distinction Scholarship will be impacted.
  • The annual amount of your scholarship award will be applied in equal installments prior to the beginning of fall and spring semesters.
  • If at any time your residency changes and you are charged in-state tuition, the amount of your scholarship will be adjusted accordingly.
  • If the full amount of the Highlander Distinction Program is not allocated to tuition and mandatory fee charges, the remainder will neither be refunded to you, nor will it roll over to future academic terms.
  • The scholarship recipient is responsible for all costs of attendance not covered by the scholarship including: remaining tuition, fees, books, housing and dining costs, and personal expenses. If you have not yet applied for need-based financial assistance, please do so as soon as possible by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at https://studentaid.gov/.
  • At the end of the first academic year, and for each semester thereafter, you must achieve a cumulative grade point average of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale to be eligible for renewal of the Highlander Distinction Scholarship. Additionally, you must remain in good judicial standing to be eligible for scholarship renewal.
  • The Highlander Distinction Scholarship is reserved for undergraduate students at Radford University. Should you enroll in a professional sequence or any other program that will elevate you to postgraduate or graduate status, your award will immediately cease.
  • Please note, your Highlander Distinction Scholarship may not apply to study abroad or to some internship experiences. Please contact the Office of Financial Aid with additional questions on applying aid to these experiences.
  • As a Radford undergraduate student, additional donor-based support may be available through the Radford University Foundation. The application is available each fall semester for consideration of awards for the following academic year.

    To accept the Highlander Distinction Scholarship, please confirm your attendance as outlined in your letter of admission. Confirmation of attendance reserves your scholarship. Please confirm your attendance as soon as possible but no later than June 1, 2024.

Questions can be addressed to the Radford University Office of Admissions at 540-831-5371 or admissions@radford.edu or the Office of Financial Aid at 540- 831-5408 or finaid@radford.edu. 

The Highlander Heroes Scholarship
The Highlander Heroes Scholarship is a four-year renewable scholarship program designed to make your Radford University education more affordable.  The program was awarded to new freshmen students who started at Radford University Carilion in the Fall 2021 - Fall 2023.   These scholarships can be renewed for up to eight consecutive semesters if the student continues to meet the renewal criteria.

 

Highlander Heroes Scholarship Award Fact Sheet

As a scholarship recipient, you are encouraged to enroll in at least 15 credit hours per semester and are required to complete at least 12 credit hours each semester. Students who fall below 12 credit hours at any time will have their scholarship revoked.

The Highlander Heroes Scholarship will be applied toward the cost of tuition and mandatory fees.

  • If you receive other tuition-specific awards, a decrease in the amount of your Highlander Heroes Scholarship may result.  For example, if you are a military tuition stipend or academic common market tuition benefits, your Highlander Heroes Scholarship will be impacted.
  • The annual amount of your scholarship award will be applied in equal installments prior to the beginning of fall and spring semesters.
  • If at any time your residency changes and you are charged in-state tuition, the amount of your scholarship will be adjusted accordingly.
  • If the full amount of the Highlander Heroes Scholarships is not allocated to tuition and mandatory fee charges, the remainder will neither be refunded to you, nor will it roll over to future academic terms.
  • The scholarship recipient is responsible for all costs of attendance not covered by the scholarship including: remaining tuition, fees, books, housing and dining costs, and personal expenses. If you have not yet applied for need-based financial assistance, please do so as soon as possible by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at https://studentaid.gov/.
  • At the end of the first academic year, and for each semester thereafter, you must achieve a cumulative grade point average of 2.8 on a 4.0 scale to be eligible for renewal of the Highlander Heroes Scholarship. Additionally, you must remain in good judicial standing to be eligible for scholarship renewal.
  • The Highlander Heroes Scholarship is reserved for undergraduate students at Radford University. Should you enroll in a professional sequence or any other program that will elevate you to postgraduate or graduate status, your award will immediately cease.
  • Please note, your Highlander Heroes Scholarship may not apply to study abroad or to some internship experiences. Please contact the Office of Financial Aid with additional questions on applying aid to these experiences.
  • As a Radford undergraduate student, additional donor-based support may be available through the Radford University Foundation. The application is available each fall semester for consideration of awards for the following academic year.

    To accept the Highlander Distinction Scholarship, please confirm your attendance as outlined in your letter of admission. Confirmation of attendance reserves your scholarship. Please confirm your attendance as soon as possible but no later than June 1, 2023.

Questions can be addressed to the Radford University Carilion Office of Admissions at 540-831-1000 or rucadmissions@radford.edu or the Office of Financial Aid at rucfinancialaid@radford.edu. 

Transfer Student Scholarships

Transfer Excellence Scholarship
Transfer students that maintained excellent academic standards on all attempted college courses will be considered for the Transfer Excellence Scholarship.  To be considered for the Transfer Excellence Scholarship, all completed application materials must be received by the Admissions Office by March 1.  Award amounts for Virginia residents and students who qualify for in-state tuition range from $1,000 - $2,000 per academic year.  Amounts for out-of-state-students range from $7,000 - $10,000 per academic year.

Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship
Transfer students who are members of Phi Theta Kappa and maintained high academic success during their college work will be considered for this scholarship.  To be considered for the Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship, all completed application materials must be received by the Admissions Office by March 1.  Award for Virginia residents and students who qualify for in-state tuition is $3,000 per academic year.  

Foundation Scholarships

The Radford University Foundation has over $3.2 million in donor-funded scholarships to award to undergraduate and graduate students each academic year!

The scholarship application portal opens on November 1. For the most consideration, current students (and incoming students who have been accepted and claimed their accounts) should apply by the priority deadline, February 5. Additional scholarships may be awarded after the priority deadline as funding is available. 

The application process is competitive. Students should apply each year to be awarded or renewed. To have their scholarship renewed, students must continue to be eligible based on the scholarship criteria. Eligibility varies for each scholarship – major, merit, financial need and leadership experience may be considered. Additional requirements could include completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), writing essays and/or including references.

To learn more about Foundation scholarships and the application process, please visit www.radford.edu/foundation-scholarships.

Outside Scholarships

Many organizations provide scholarships for students such as The Lion's Club, Kiwana's Club, Rotary Clubs, Fraternal Organizations, etc. Students should inquire directly with those individual places for scholarship information.

Students applying to Radford University should talk with school and career counselors to learn more about scholarship opportunities offered at their high school.

In addition, review scholarship opportunities below that other Radford University students have received from outside organizations to help fund their education. 

One of the questions a financial aid counselor hears most frequently is, "How do I apply for scholarships?"  Here is our answer!  This list of resource opportunities can give you a jump start to finding scholarships that you are eligible to apply for.  These are scholarship programs that are in no way affiliated with Radford University, but are opportunities that these organizations would like for us to make known to the student population.  If you have any questions about the scholarship program please contact the organization awarding the scholarship.

General Scholarships

Program Description Required Application
Abbott & Fenner Scholarship Abbott & Fenner are committed to continuing our efforts at helping those who have the desire and ambition to succeed.  Anyone studying at a post secondary school and is between the ages of 16-30 is encouraged to apply.  Abbott & Fenner Scholarship Website
AES Engineering Scholarship Scholarships are intended for our future leaders across a wide spectrum of fields of study. This award is available to high school seniors and all students attending a post secondary educational facility. AES Engineering Scholarship Website
Virginia Credit Union Scholarship Program Each year Virginia Credit Union recognizes outstanding student members of all ages through its scholarship program. VACU Scholarship Website

Communication Scholarship

Program Description Required Application
American Speech-Language-Hearing Foundation Scholarships for students in Speech-Language-Hearing programs ASH Scholarship Website

Computer Science Scholarship

Program

Description

Required Application

AFCEA Educational Foundation

This scholarship is for ROTC students majoring in electronics, computer science, physics, or mathematics at accredited degree-granting four-year  colleges or universities in the US. Candidates must be enrolled full time as sophomores or juniors at the time of application.

AFCEA Scholarship Website

Education Scholarships

Program

Description

Required Application

Southside Virginia Tobacco Teacher Scholarship/ Loan Program

Promote economic growth and development in Virginia's Southside and Southwest regions by attracting and retaining modern businesses, through methods designed to increase the skill levels of the regions' labor pools.  This objective is reached through a competitive grant program and regional scholarships.

VA Tobacco Scholarship and Loan Program Website

Virginia Teaching Scholarship Loan Program

This program provides assistance to full-time students enrolled at a participating Virginia institution in an approved teacher preparation program for special education, chemistry, physics, earth and space science, foreign languages, or technology education.  Minority students may be enrolled in any content area and male students may be enrolled in any approved elementary or middle schoolteacher preparation program.   The institutions nominate juniors and seniors who have at least a 2.7 grade point average for final selection by the Virginia Department of Education. For more information, students should contact the Director of the Education Department at Participating Colleges or Universities in Virginia.

Virginia Teaching Scholarship Loan Program Website

Nursing Scholarships

Program Description Required Application
VA Department of Health Nursing Scholarship Program Nursing scholarship programs administered by the Virginia Department of Health. VDH Website

Online Scholarship Searches

Resource Description Website
College Board Hosted by the same company that host's the SAT and provides one of the most comprehensive college search engines, this scholarship search will review up to 2,300 sources of available funding to find your best opportunities. College Board Scholarship Search
Fastweb A free scholarship search solution that uses profile information to search the database and provide you with scholarship opportunities Fastweb Scholarship Search

Scholarships.com

 

Scholarship America

A free scholarship search engine that uses profile information to search their database of 2.7 million scholarship opportunities to provide you with numerous scholarship opportunities.

A free scholarship search engine for scholarship programs and foundations across the United States of America

Scholarships.com

 

Scholarship America

Scholarships for Special Interest Groups

Program

Description

Required Application

Dolphin Scholarship Foundation

Scholarship opportunities for children/step-children, unmarried, under the age of 24 at the time of the deadline of Navy Submariners, Navy members who have served in submarine support activities

Dolphin Scholarship Website

Orphan Foundation of America

The Orphan Foundation of America (OFA) is one of the country’s leading advocates for older foster youth. It awards well over $1 million annually in scholarships to students in post-secondary programs nationwide.

OFA Scholarship Website

Army Emergency Relief Fund

AER funds are made available to commanders having AER Sections to provide emergency financial assistance to soldiers - active & retired - and their dependents when there is a valid need.

AER Scholarship Website

Federal Employee Education and Assistance Fund

FEEA is a private, not-for-profit 501(c)(3) tax-exempt corporation which provides educational benefits and emergency assistance exclusively to all civilian federal and postal employees and their dependent family members.

FEEA Website

Scholarships for Military Children

The Scholarships for Military Children Program was created to recognize the contributions of military families to the readiness of the fighting force and to celebrate the role of the commissary in the military family community.

Fisher House Scholarship Website

Hispanic Scholarship Fund

Recipients must be US citizen or permanent resident of Hispanic background residing in the fifty states or Puerto Rico, starting as a college freshman, sophomore, junior or senior by Fall 2008, enrolled (or in the process of enrolling) as a Full-time undergraduate student (minimum 12 credits per semester), applying to or enrolled in an accredited college or university in the fifty states or Puerto Rico, and in good academic standing with a minimum of a 3.0  GPA on a 4.0  scale.

HSF Scholarship Website

Seabee Memorial Scholarship Organization

Eligibility: Sons, daughters, step-children and grandchildren of Regular, Reserve, Retired or deceased officers or enlisted members who have served or who are now serving with the Naval Construction Force (Seabees) or Navy Civil Engineer Corps, or who have served, but have since been honorably discharged. Scholarships are for four year bachelor ’s degrees, and are not available for part-time or graduate study.

Seabee Scholarship Website

Tylenol Scholarship

Healthcare isn't just a career–it's a calling. Practitioners must dedicate their entire professional lives to helping others stay well. Tylenol believes this selflessness should be rewarded. That's why we have awarded $250,000 in scholarships to students pursuing careers in healthcare.

Tylenol Scholarship Website

Loan Programs

Loans are funds that must be repaid by the student, or parent (Parent PLUS Loan).  Loans help students defer the costs of their education until after graduation or when they are no longer enrolled at least half time.

The information provided below will provide a brief introduction of each loan program that Radford University processes for students.

The Department of Education provides an excellent resource for comparing Federal and Private Loans Federal Aid First  which may assist with making decisions about funding your education.

Federal Loan Programs

William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program

The Federal Direct Loan Program is a long-term repayable educational loan that offers low interest rates. It is the Department of Education's major form of self-help aid. Repayment is deferred until you graduate, withdraw, or drop below half-time status (does not include summer sessions). This loan program offers funds to students regardless of family income level. Federal Direct Loans are either subsidized or unsubsidized. The results of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) determine which type of loan you are eligible for.

You can find more information regarding this loan program, on the Federal Student Aid website for Direct Loans.

Here are some commonly asked questions about Federal Direct Subsidized/Unsubsidized Loans -

  1. How do I apply for the loan?
    Complete the FAFSA.  The results of your FAFSA will provide us with the information on which loan you are eligible to receive.
  2. How much can I borrow?
    Direct Loan limits vary by the student's class level. Freshman are eligible to borrow up to $5500 in Direct Loan funds, with no more than $3500 in Subsidized funds.  These limits increase as you progress through your degree program.
  3. How will I know I was awarded a Direct Loan?
    It will be included in your Financial Aid Award Notification that you receive via e-mail.  You will need to accept the loan and complete all requirements to receive the funds.
  4. How many hours must I be enrolled to receive the loan?
    You must be enrolled at least half time to receive any direct loan funds, there are no exceptions.
  5. Do I need to be making Satisfactory Academic Progress to receive a Direct Loan?
    Yes.  If you are not making Satisfactory Academic Progress you are not eligible to be awarded a Direct Loan.
  6. When will my loan funds credit my account?
    The financial aid office will credit your student account at the beginning of each semester.  If you have completed all the loan requirements your loan funds will credit your account for the start of each semester.
  7. When will repayment begin on the loan?
    As long as you are enrolled and attending at least half time, you have six months after you graduate, withdraw from school, or drop below half-time status before you must begin repayment.  You can learn more about the Repayment Plans available on the Federal Student Aid Direct Loan website.
  8. Where can I find out my total federal student loan amounts?
    You can keep track of your federal loan accumulations by using the federal National Student Loan Database (NSLDS).

Federal Parent PLUS Loan

The Federal Parent PLUS Loan program allows parents of a dependent undergraduate student to borrow funds to assist in funding the student's educational expenses.  The Federal Parent PLUS Loan is a credit based loan.  A parent must complete the online application at www.studentaid.gov.   In order for a Parent PLUS Loan application to be certified, the student must have a FAFSA on file with Radford University.

Each aid award year, this loan is utilized, the parent borrower will need to complete a Parent PLUS Loan application and Master Promissory Note (loan agreement).  To do this they (the parent borrower) will need to log at studentaid.gov, with their FSA ID.

*If the MPN is completed under the student's FSA ID, it cannot be processed.

 

Federal Graduate PLUS Loan

The Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan is for graduate/professional students who need additional assistance with paying educational expenses.  Students are not eligible to borrow from a Graduate PLUS Loan, unless Direct Subsidized/Unsubsidized loan limits for the academic year are exhausted.  The Direct Graduate PLUS Loan is a credit based loan.

Each aid award year, this loan is utilized, the graduate student will need to complete a Graduate PLUS Loan application.

If a graduate student is utilizing a Graduate PLUS Loan for the first time, they will also need to complete their Master Promissory Note (loan agreement) by visiting studentaid.gov.

Other Loan Programs

Nursing Student Loan

The Nursing Student Loan Program is a need-based loan fund available to undergraduate students accepted into the Nursing Program and enrolled in at least a half-time basis. An NSL recipient must demonstrate exceptional need, via their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®).  This federal program provides long-term, low-interest loans to help meet the costs of a nursing education for needy students.

This student loan has a 5% interest rate.  Which will begin accruing after the repayment period of 9 months.  The loan will not enter repayment until a student graduates or experiences a break in at least part-time enrollment (6 credit hours, undergraduate students).

This loan is awarded (automatically) by the Financial Aid Office, to students who meet the above eligibility requirements. Typically, this occurs close the approach of the academic year.  There is no application for this loan.

Here are some commonly asked questions regarding the Nursing Student Loan:

  1. How do I apply for the loan?
    Complete the FAFSA.  The results of your FAFSA will provide us with the information on which loan you are eligible to receive.
  2. How much can I borrow?
    A student may borrow up to $2,500 for an academic year. Third and fourth year nursing students may potentially borrow up to $4,000 per year. Aggregate maximum for the nursing loan is $13,000.
  3. How will I know I was awarded a Nursing Loan?
    It will be included in your Financial Aid Award Notification that you receive via e-mail.  You will need to accept the loan and complete all requirements to receive the funds.
  4. How many hours must I be enrolled to receive the loan?
    You must be enrolled at least half time to receive any direct loan funds, there are no exceptions.
  5. Do I need to be making Satisfactory Academic Progress to receive a Nursing Loan?
    Yes.  If you are not making Satisfactory Academic Progress you are not eligible to be awarded a Nursing Loan.
  6. When will my loan funds credit my account?
    The financial aid office will credit your student account at the beginning of each semester.  If you have completed all the loan requirements your loan funds will credit your account for the start of each semester.
  7. When will repayment begin on the loan?
    As long as you are enrolled and attending at least half time, you have nine months after you graduate, withdraw from school, or drop below half-time status before you must begin repayment.  The five percent interest rate begins nine months after you leave school and may extend for up to 10 years with a minimum payment of $40 per month. 
  8. Where can I find out my total federal student loan amounts?
    You can keep track of your federal loan accumulations by using the federal National Student Loan Database (NSLDS).

Private Student Loans

Private Student Loans provide a source of funding to finance the costs of a student’s education not covered by other forms of financial aid.

Private Loan programs require an established credit history or a co-signer.  These loans are subject to higher interest rates than the federal loan programs offered by the Financial Aid Office.  Students considering ways to finance their education, should first apply for financial aid through Radford University. Students who do not receive sufficient funding for the cost of attendance should then consider alternative financing. 

Students who are interested in applying for a Private Student Loan should research information provided by various lending institutions.  Private Loan applications must be submitted directly to the lender.  This typically occurs through an online application.  A student will be required to submit several self-certification forms and disclosure statements and agreements throughout the loan application process.  They will also be asked to provide a loan period, stating the duration of which they will need the loan. 

Please make sure that the desired correct loan term period is entered.  For example, a student will be attending during the full year but only wants the loan for Fall, they would need to input August of that year to December of that same year, as the term duration period of loan.

Common Loan Term Periods are:

Fall only loan requests: August 15 - December 15
Fall and Spring loan requests: August 15 - May 15
Spring only loan requests: January 15 - May 15

The application process can take up to 30 days to complete, therefore applications should be submitted in a timely manner.  It is important that a student responds to any requests from their lender immediately.  Missing or incorrect information can cause a delay in the processing of the loan application.

Once the loan application is completed and approved by the lending institution, our office will receive a certification request.  It can take 3-5 business days for our office to complete a certification request.  We will certify the loan for the maximum eligible amount up to your financial aid cost of attendance.

All students who apply for a private student loan and do not complete the FAFSA may be required to submit the Private Loan Information Sheetto the Financial Aid Office so your loan can be certified.

Additionally, all students who apply will be required to minimally submit the Private Loan Self Certification Form to the lending institution.

Here are some commonly asked questions about Private Student Loans -

  1. How do I apply for the loan?
    Complete an application with the lender of your choice.  Once the application is completed and the loan is approved, we will be notified by the lender to certify your loan. 
  2. How do I know which lender to use?
    You have to research options and decide what you think is the best option for you.  Here is a list of lending institutions that were used by other Radford University students.
  3. Do I have to use a lender from the lender institution listing?
    No.  A student can utilize any lending institution that offers a student loan.  To alert us that you are using a lender not on the current list, please email studentloans@radford.edu.  Please be sure to include your RU ID number along with the name of the lending institution.  This will assist us in obtaining the information required to certify your loan.
  4. How much can I borrow?
    Students can borrow up to your financial aid cost of attendance in a Private Student Loan.  We encourage students to exhaust all Federal Loan programs before applying for a Private Student Loan.
  5. How many hours must I be enrolled to receive the loan?
    A student must be enrolled at least half time to receive most private loan funds.  There are some exceptions, but you will need to determine which lenders will process a loan for less than half time enrollment.
  6. Do I need to be making Satisfactory Academic Progress to receive a Private Loan?
    There are some lenders that do not require a student to be making Satisfactory Academic Progress.  You will need to review the loan requirements provided by the lender to determine if they allow this exception.
  7. When will my loan funds credit my account?
    The financial aid office will credit a student's account at the beginning of each semester.  If a student completed all the loan requirements, the loan funds will credit their account at the start of each semester. 

    Please note: many private loan programs have a 15 day waiting period before the loan is disbursed to the school.  It is important to read all documentation provided by your lender to understand when the funds will be disbursed to Radford University and then be applied to your account.
  8. When will repayment begin on the loan?
    Repayment varies by lending institutions.  A student will need to review the repayment information from their selected lender.
Short Term Loan Program

A limited amount of money is set aside by the University for short-term loans to students who have a temporary need for money to take care of expenses related to being a student at Radford.  The maximum amount of these loans is $250, and the usual length of a loan period is 30 days.  If after reading the following information, you believe you qualify for a loan, you must complete an application form and promissory note which are available in the Financial Aid Office.  The application requires that you be specific with the requested information, especially the reason for requesting the loan and how it will be repaid.

In order for a student to be considered for a short-term loan they must meet the following criteria:

  • Be currently enrolled at least half time at Radford University
  • Be in good academic standing with the university
  • Have paid off any previous short-term loans in a timely manner
  • Have no outstanding short term loans
  • Have a definitive method to repay the loan by the due date

Students interested in applying should also be aware that -

  • Students who were late repaying a previous short term loan are no longer eligible to participate in the program
  • If you do not complete the entire application it will delay receipt of the loan funds
  • Short term loans will be made only when classes are in session
  • Short term loans will not be available any longer 30 days prior to the end of the semester
  • Students may borrow a short term loan no more than twice during a standard semester and once during a summer session
  • Loan repayment is required during the semester the loan is borrowed
  • If the loan is not repaid by the due date the student's academic records will be blocked until the loan is paid in full
  • If repayment is more than 10 days beyond established due date a late fee will be charged

If your short term loan application is approved -

  • Checks can be picked up at the Office of the Bursar three business days after the loan is approved and the promissory note is completed.
  • Loans are to be paid back at the Office of the Bursar by 4:30 p.m. on the due date

Work Study and Student Employment

Student employment allows students to meet and work with staff, faculty, and administrators across campus and become an integral part of the university community.  Some work positions are part of our community service project. supporting the university's commitment to the greater community.

Work study positions are offered to students who have financial need as determined by the results of the Free Application For Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).  However, positions are available to any student after the second week of classes each fall semester.  Students who have financial need are given first priority for any positions that may be available.  Students who are interested in working on the student employment program should file a Free Application for Federal Student Aid by the priority application deadline.

Federal work study funding is earned as a paycheck through the semester.  Students are able to work on campus twelve hours per week.  For the 2023 - 2024 academic year, students will earn $12.00 per hour and can work a total of 160 hours per semester or 325 hours per academic year. 

If the student is eligible, federal work study will be one of the awards offered to the student on their aid notification.  Students may begin contacting department supervisors on or after June 15 for the Fall and Spring semester.

Student Employment Opportunities

Student employment opportunities are listed in the university career portal, Handshake.  To view open positions, please visit the The Center for Career and Talent Development website and select the Handshake icon.    

Priority for all positions is given to students who file a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and who have financial need.  Students who have established need through FAFSA will be hired through the second week of classes.  Beginning with the 3rd week of classes, positions will open to any student regardless of need.

America Reads tutors play key roles in working with individual children and supporting classroom teachers and activities.  America Reads tutors will work 9-12 hours per week in area schools and classrooms, primarily in Montgomery County or Radford City.  Activities include: tutoring in the classroom; tutoring in after-school programs; reading at school; assisting teachers and students with classroom activities and homework.  Tutors must provide their own transportation. 

Hiring Process

A work study employee must follow the same hiring process as all University employees.  The following steps outline the onboarding process. 
  1. Student applies for open positions in the career portal, Handshake.  
  2. Supervisor submits student employee request to begin student employment process with the financial aid office.
  3. If approved, the student submits required pre-employment paperwork to Human Resources.
  4. Financial aid issues student employment contract once pre-employment paperwork is completed.
  5. Student is eligible to begin work on date included in student employment contract.
  6. Student and supervisor sign employment contract and return to the financial aid office.

Pre-employment Paperwork

Submission of I-9 Forms

All new student employees are required to submit a completed I-9 form to the Department of Human Resources before they will be issued a contract or considered eligible to work.  Students will be notified by the Department of Human Resources on what is required to complete the I-9 process.  The Office of Financial Aid cannot make exceptions to the paperwork that is required to complete the I-9 process.  Any students who do not work consecutive academic years will be required to submit a new I-9 form.

International students will need to have their I-9 form completed by the University's International Tax Manager to ensure the student is eligible for employment.

Completion of Income Tax Withholding Statements

Student employees are required to fill out the W-4 and VA-4 tax forms.  Students should send the completed forms to the Payroll Office - Campus Box 6906. Student employees of Radford University will receive a W-2 reflecting their total wages and tax withholdings for the calendar year. Work supervisors will assist student workers in completing the W-4's or VA-4's. Any questions regarding the completion of the forms should be directed to the Payroll Office.

International students should be referred to our International Tax Manager in Preston Hall to complete all tax forms.

submit direct deposit information

We encourage students to set up direct deposit, which is the most secure and convenient way to receive pay checks.  Direct Deposit is not required for Federal Work Study employees. An employee’s net pay is sent via electronic funds transfer directly to the employee’s checking or savings account(s). Multiple accounts can be designated for pay allocation. Net pay or take-home pay is available from the employee financial institution (bank) on pay day. 

In an effort to secure bank account change requests, the employee Direct Deposit Form is behind the OneCampus portal in the Employee Tools section. Completed forms may be faxed to 7219 or delivered to Payroll at 314B Tyler Avenue. To protect sensitive information, do NOT email direct deposit forms! Emailed forms will be deleted and will not be processed.

Please note: Direct deposit account changes may take more than one pay cycle to take effect. 

PAYROLL PAPER CHECK PROCESS

Employees who receive paper checks may pick up their paychecks at the Office of the University Bursar on payday. Photo ID is required.  Checks will not be released to anyone but the employee. 

Student Employment Contracts

The financial aid office will issue a contract for all student's who have met the employment criteria.  The employment contract will outline the dates of employment, the number of hours and the, the hourly wage, and the total dollar amount the student is eligible to earn.  Students and supervisors will need to sign and return a copy of the contract to the financial aid office.

It is the supervisor's responsibility to monitor the number of hours worked by each employee.  If a student works more than the awarded number of hours the department can be held responsible for paying their wages.

Policies Relating to Student Employees

Submission of Online Timesheets

For new student employees, your supervisor will work with you to complete and submit your timesheet for the first pay period.  If you have any questions on how to complete this process, you may review the Student Employee Time Entry Presentation (PPT).

As outlined in the payroll calendar, each pay period ends on a Friday and timesheets must be submitted to your supervisor by 10 a.m. the following Monday.  If you do not submit your timesheet to your supervisor by the 10 a.m. deadline you will not be paid on the defined pay date.  You will have to work with your supervisor to have your time worked submitted to the payroll office and you will be paid on the following pay day.

If you will not work on the last day(s) of the pay period you may submit your timesheet to your supervisor on your last day worked for each pay period.

Confidentiality of Records

Student employment positions that have access to student records must understand the sensitive and high confidential nature of these records.  Supervisors should communicate that all information contained in student records is strictly confidential and any breach of confidentiality will result in termination of employment. 

Students with access to the university system will be required to complete paperwork and training certifying that they understand the confidential nature of their position.

Drug and Alcohol Policy
All university employees, full time and student employees alike must comply with the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988.  Additionally there are two drug and alcohol related policies that all employees must abide by, the Commonwealth of Virginia has developed a Policy on Alcohol and Other Drugs as well as the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments as set forth for all universities that receive federal financial aid funds.  The human resources website contains the full Drug and Alcohol Policy for all University employees.

Falsification of Hours
Students are expected to accurately record and report the hours they work in their student employment position for each pay period.  Students who falsify hours reported on their timesheets (or the hours of a co-worker) is guilty of a Honor Code violation according to the Radford University Student Conduct Code.  If a student is found to be falsifying hours their position will be terminated and they will not be eligible for future employment in the student employment program.

Accidents/Injuries During Work Hours
All student employees are covered Radford University's Worker Compensation plan during periods of employment.  If a student employee is injured while working it is important that the incident is reported according to the standards set forth in the Human Resource Worker's Compensation policy.

 

Student Payment Process

Students employed in a FWS position are paid an hourly wage.  Students are required to submit hours worked through the university timesheet system.  Student employees are paid twice a month for hours worked and paychecks are deposited directly into the banking account provided on the pre-employment paperwork.

Student employee earnings cannot direct the university to apply earnings toward education-related charges such as tuition, fees, room, or meal plans. 

Students are paid bi-weekly according to the schedule provided by the Payroll Office.

 

Supervising Operations

Advertising Open Positions

All student employment opportunities will be listed on Handshake through OneCampus. Once you have logged into Handshake you will be able to place your advertisement for open positions, check status of posted positions, and retrieve applications from advertisement. Assistance with Handshake can be found through Career and Talent Development.

Priority for all positions is given to students who file a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and have financial need. If a student is interested in a position, let them know to complete the FAFSA and to come to our office in Heth Hall if they need assistance.

The Hiring Process      

1.       Supervisor requests to have student's eligibility confirmed (see below).

2.       Financial Aid Office confirms student eligibility.

3.       Supervisor submits Student Employment Request Form (see below).

4.       Financial Aid Office forwards student information to HR to complete the I-9 process.

5.       Financial aid office is notified when the I-9 is completed and issues employment contract so the student can begin work.

6.       Supervisor returns a copy of signed work study contract to finaid@radford.edu.

Request to Hire a Student

If you would like to have a student's eligibility reviewed for an open position in your office please email the Student Employment Coordinator, Christopher McCloud at cmccloud@radford.edu, with the student’s name and ID number. If they are eligible, submit the Student Employee Request Form. Oftentimes, there will be an email sent to the student if other aid must be adjusted to accommodate the work-study award or from HR to complete the I-9 Process. Remind students to check their email for further instructions.

Job Description & Employment Standards

Each department that hires student employees has different job responsibilities and expectations for the employees.  It is the responsibility of the supervisor to provide the student with a job description for the position they are being offered.  Additionally, the supervisor should communicate the work standard that will be expected from all employees.  We recommend that you provide a formalized list of work expectations and guidelines that is given to each student. If you are able, an orientation meeting could provide beneficial information and training appropriate to their student employment position, you could explain the "do's" and "do not's" of the job as well as what procedures are to be followed when illness or other reasons keep a student away from daily work assignments.

Submission of I-9 Forms

All new student employees are required to submit a completed I-9 form to the Financial Aid office before they will be issued a contract or considered eligible to work.  Students must complete the form and set an appointment to present required documents to HR using the email that is sent to the student’s Radford email address.  Any students who do not work consecutive academic years will be required to submit a new I-9 form. When the I-9 is complete, HR will notify the Financial Aid Office and the contract will be processed.

Student Employment Contracts

The financial aid office will issue a contract for all students who have met the employment criteria.  The employment contract will outline the dates of employment, the number of hours, and the total dollar amount the student is eligible to earn.  Students and supervisors will need to sign and return a copy of the contract to the financial aid office.

It is the supervisor's responsibility to monitor the number of hours worked by each employee to ensure they do not exceed the amount of their financial aid work award.  If a student works more than the awarded dollar amount listed on their contract, the department will be held responsible for paying their wages.

Review & Approval of Student Timecards

Student timecards are due by 10 a.m. on Monday following the end of the pay period. The pay period schedule can be found on the Payroll website. As a supervisor you should review and approve all submitted timecards by 5 p.m. on Monday.  There are no exceptions to this policy.  If the student’s time is not submitted or approved by the deadlines, then the student will not be paid until the next pay period.

Student Worker Evaluations

Before a student's employment ends supervisors should complete a Student Worker Evaluation and discuss their evaluation of the employee’s performance with them.  These evaluations should be kept on file with the department for prospective employer inquiries regarding a student employee’s performance as a reference.

Terminating Employment

Termination of student employment may occur for several reasons. Students may resign, a supervisor may recommend termination, or the financial aid office may terminate employment when a student has reached the maximum work award.

If a supervisor feels a student has not performed the job as required, has been excessively absent, or is not abiding by the terms of employment the supervisor may request termination of a student's employment. Supervisors should recommend termination only after discussing the employment issue with the student and providing the student warning and an opportunity to correct the issue.

If a student is terminated the supervisor should have the student submit any hours worked to the supervisor for approval prior to the last day of employment.  The supervisor should communicate the termination with the Financial Aid Office immediately by submitting the Student Termination Form so the position can be processed appropriately.

Policies Relating to Student Employees

Confidentiality of Records
Students employment positions that have access to student records must understand the sensitive and high confidential nature of these records.  Supervisors should communicate that all information contained in student records is strictly confidential and any breach of confidentiality will result in termination of employment. 

Students with access to the university system will be required to complete paperwork and training certifying that they understand the confidential nature of their position.

Drug and Alcohol Policy
All university employees, full time and student employees alike must comply with the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988.  Additionally, there are two drug and alcohol related policies that all employees must abide by the Commonwealth of Virginia has developed a Policy on Alcohol and Other Drugs as well as the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments as set forth for all universities that receive federal financial aid funds.  The Human Resources website contains the full Drug and Alcohol policy for all University employees.

Falsification of Hours
Students are expected to accurately record and report the hours they work in their student employment position for each pay period.  Students who falsify hours reported on their timesheets (or the hours of a co-worker) is guilty of a Honor Code violation according to the Radford University Student Conduct Code found on the Office of Student Standards and Conduct website.  If a student is found to be falsifying hours their position will be terminated and they will not be eligible for future employment in the student employment program.

Accidents/Injuries During Work Hours
All student employees are covered Radford University's Worker Compensation plan during periods of employment.  If a student employee is injured while working it is important that the incident is reported according to the standards set forth in the Worker's Compensation policy on the Human Resources website.

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