Financial Aid Guide 2020-2021

Most financial assistance is awarded to students with an established financial need. For this reason, it is necessary for applicants to submit data that will allow the university to determine that need. The data is submitted on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at www.studentaid.gov. Students may begin applying for the next academic year beginning October 1. The FAFSA must be filed every year using the appropriate income tax information. There are two types of applications: paper or Web. Students are strongly encouraged to file the FAFSA on the web. The Department of Education has stated that those filing online are not only processed faster but have fewer errors.

1. You may begin filing on October 1, 2019
2. You will use the income from the calendar year 2018

The student should be sure to list William Penn University on the form with the school code of 001900.

Important Notices:

• Iowa residents, as defined by the State Board of Regents, must have their FAFSA to the U.S. Department of Education’s Central Processing System (CPS) by July 1 in order to be eligible for most State of Iowa funds (see State Student Financial Assistance below). It is recommended that the FAFSA, if using the paper application, be mailed no later than mid-June. 
• William Penn University reserves the right to modify awards if the student receives additional aid, if there is a substantial change in the parent or student income/assets, if there is incorrect information on the FAFSA, or if there is a change in student status involving either enrollment or housing. 
• Award amounts offered from federal and state programs are contingent upon congressional and legislative allocation of funds. 

FSA ID gives students and parents of dependent students online access to their FAFSA and other federal aid information. The FSA ID will not change from year to year. Students and parents can get an ID by going to the website at www.studentaid.gov. The FSA ID gives student’s access to personal information and should be kept PRIVATE. Do not share ID with anyone. Applicants can use their FSA ID to: 1) electronically sign a FAFSA on the Web as well as complete the student aid process completely online 2) parents of dependent students may request a FSA ID number to electronically sign the application 3) make corrections to their FAFSA online 4) see their EFC and other student aid report information as soon as the FAFSA is processed 5) sign electronic master promissory notes 6) review personal financial aid history as maintained in the National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS) which enables a student and or a parent, if applicable, to track their loans and the amounts borrowed while seeking a degree.

FAFSA Online Application may be found at www.studentaid.gov where a student can complete the application online and submit it directly to the U.S. Department of Education’s central processing system (CPS). If the student chooses to fill out the FAFSA online, there is an option to automatically retrieve income and tax data from the IRS, and automatically having it inserted into the FAFSA.

Paper FAFSA Application may be found at www.studentaid.gov, with a high school guidance office or at the William Penn University Financial Aid Office. After mailing the completed form, report documents (see below) will be generated in approximately 3 to 7 weeks and sent to the student and to the school(s) listed on the FAFSA application.

Student Report document: A Student Aid Report (SAR) is issued after the processing of the FAFSA is completed by the U.S. Department of Education’s central processing system (CPS). The delivery of the SAR, for FAFSA online users, depends on whether an e-mail address was provided on the FAFSA. If an email address was provided, the student will receive an e-mail within 3–5 days that will contain a secure link to access the SAR online. If an email address was not provided, a paper SAR will be mailed within 7–10 days. This process may be delayed up to two weeks if the student or parent (for a dependent student) did not sign with their FSA ID and chose to mail in a signature page. Paper FAFSA users please read Paper FAFSA Application above.

Expected Family Contribution (EFC) is calculated by the U.S. Department of Education central processing system (CPS), according to a formula established by law, when using the information you provided on your FAFSA. The EFC will appear on the SAR.

Award Notification will be sent by the William Penn University financial aid office and will list the types and amounts of all financial aid the student is eligible to receive from federal, state, and institutional sources.

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A student selected for verification must comply with the process outlined below. Students may be selected for verification by the U.S. Department of Education or William Penn University. The verification process is mandated by the U.S. Department of Education. Some students are selected for a specific reason and others are randomly chosen. The process is designed to verify that the data on the FAFSA matches the information reported on the federal income tax return and that the data is accurate.

If a student is notified by the William Penn Financial Aid Office to complete the verification process:

• The student and parent/spouse are responsible for providing supporting data such as:
  • Completed verification form(s)
  • Copies of tax return or tax transcript for both student and parent/spouse if the IRS data retrieval match was not used
  • Other documentation required as requested by the Financial Aid Office
• It is important for the student and parent/spouse to provide the data immediately:
  • Failure to provide this data prior to coming to campus may result in the inability to participate in extracurricular activities, including practice.
  • Failure to provide this data prior to the start of your classes for the term may result in registration issues.
  • Failure to provide this data can result in less time to earn the total federal work-study funds awarded to a student.
  • Failure to provide this data prior to a student dropping to less than half-time will eliminate the possibility of Federal Direct Stafford Loan(s) eligibility. See Enrollment Status Policy for other possible adjustments.
  • Failure to provide this data prior to a student completely withdrawing from the University will eliminate the possibility of any financial aid for the student. Should the student complete the verification process within 120 days from their last day of attendance may, if eligible, receive Pell and SEOG funds.
• Financial aid will not be credited to the student’s account until the process is completed.

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The Internal Revenue Service at www.irs.gov offers information regarding these programs.
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DIRECT EDUCATIONAL COSTS

Direct costs are billable costs for tuition and room/meals. These costs will be directly charged to the student’s university bill and are based on the combined fall and spring terms unless otherwise noted.

• Tuition
  • Traditional and Distance Learning Education Programs
    Full-time, 12–18 credits in a term $26,600
    Full-time, credits over 18 credits in a term $410 per credit
    Less than full-time, 1–11 credits in a term $410 per credit
    Summer, 2021 $410 per credit
    Audit, $100 per course
  • RN-BSN Program
    $483 per credit
  • Eight-Week (Online) Program
    $410 per credit
  • Eight-Week Evening (On Ground/Blended) Program
    $410 per credit
  • Graduate Programs
    $500 per credit

ROOMS AND MEALS (if contracted with the university – costs are listed per student for the academic year)

• Watson Hall
  • Double Occupancy $2,340
• Lewis Hall
  • Double Occupancy $2,340
  • Single Occupancy $2,940
• Twin Towers
  • Double Occupancy $2,840
  • Single Occupancy $3,440
• Market Street Hall
  • 4 Bedroom/2 Bath – 4 people per suite $4,120
  • 2 Bedroom/2 Bath – 2 people per suite $4,920
• Eltse Hall
  • 4 Bedroom/1 Bath – double occupancy per room $2,780
• Rosenberger Apartments
  • 1 Bedroom/1 Bath $3,700
  • 2 Bedroom/1 Bath $3,900
• Peasley House Apartments – International Students
  • 2 Bedroom/1 Bath – 4 people per apartment $3,700

Meals: (optional for Rosenberger and Peasley Apartments)

• Required for all Freshmen/Sophomore
  • Unlimited plan $3,970
• Available to Junior/Senior
  • 400 block plan + $200 Penn Bucks (apx. 12 meals per week) $3,400
    • 200 block plan + $100 Penn Bucks per semester
  • 220 block plan + $400 Penn Bucks (apx. 7 meals per week) $2,800
    • 110 block plan + $200 Penn Bucks per semester

INDIRECT EDUCATION COSTS

Indirect costs are not billed by the University. The following expenses vary each term and depend on the individual needs and program of study. On average, a full-time student will spend for the academic year:

• Books/Supplies: approximately $1,300 a year for all programs . A student may request to have their books/supplies billed directly to their university account, if purchased at the University, according to regulations provided by the Business Office.
• Loan/Lab Fees: approximately $528 for the following: Traditional, Distance Learning Education, Teacher Certification/Endorsement, and RN to BSN Programs. Approximately $80 for 8 Week Undergraduate Programs. Approximately $96 for Graduate Programs.
• Personal: approximately $2,820 for students living on campus. Approximately $2,866 for all programs for students living off campus. Approximately $1,886 for all programs for students living with a parent.
• Transportation: approximately $1,276 for students living on campus. Approximately $1,976 for traditional students living off campus. Approximately $1,196 for students living off campus for the following: Distance Learning Education, Teacher Certification/Endorsement, RN to BSN, 8 Week Undergraduate and Graduate Programs. Approximately $1,196 for all programs for students living with a parent.
• Off-Campus Room/Meals: approximately $6,430 for all programs for students living off campus. Approximately $2,090 for all programs for students living with a parent.

TOTAL COST OF ATTENDANCE

The total financial assistance needed is based on Cost of Attendance (COA) at William Penn University. The COA is comprised of the academic costs as detailed above and sets a limit on the total financial assistance you may receive. The following costs are based on full-time enrollment in courses and/or combined modules that span the full term for both fall and spring.

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FALL & SPRING TERMS

As a general rule, and provided the student remains eligible, all scholarships, grants and loans awarded by the Financial Aid Office will be credited directly to the student’s university account after the census day of each term for students enrolled in full term or first module courses provided all required paperwork has been received. Students registered for only a module which starts later in the term will have their funds credited at the beginning of that module provided all required paperwork has been received. Work study is not credited to the student’s account; rather it is paid bi-monthly via student payroll. An exception to this general guideline is the delayed disbursement restriction for first year, first time undergraduate Federal Direct Stafford Loan borrowers. These borrowers have a 30 day delay from the start of the term.

Outside scholarships/loans are not credited until the funds are received from the donor/lender. Unless a donor specifies otherwise, outside scholarships/loans are to be applied one half in the fall semester and one half in the spring semester.

If there is a credit balance on the student’s account; a check will be issued for the amount of the credit balance no later than the 14th day the credit appeared on the account. If a credit balance appears prior to the start of a class, a check will be issued no later than the 14th day from the date the class begins.

If Federal Direct PLUS Loan creates the credit, the excess funds will be returned to the parent borrower, unless the parent indicates otherwise. If the student or parent chooses to leave the credit on the account, authorization must be given in writing to the Business Office.

SUMMER TERM

Summer I (4-week module) & Summer III (12-week term)

As a general rule, and provided the student remains eligible, all scholarships, grants and loans awarded by the Financial Aid Office will be credited directly to the student’s university account after the second week of classes provided all required paperwork has been received. Loan funds must be disbursed in two disbursements during the term. The second disbursement of loan funds will be approximately at the midpoint of the 12-week summer term provided all required paperwork has been received and the student remains eligible. An exception to this general guideline is the delayed disbursement restriction for first year, first time undergraduate Federal Direct Stafford Loan borrowers. These borrowers have a 30 day delay from the start of ther term for their first disbursement.

Outside scholarships/loans are not credited until the funds are received from the donor/lender.If there is a credit balance on the student’s account; a check will be issued for the amount of the credit balance no later than the 14th day the credit appeared on the account. If a credit balance appears prior to the start of a class, a check will be issued no later than the 14th day from the date the class begins.

If a Federal Direct PLUS Loan creates the credit, the excess funds will be returned to the parent borrower, unless the parent indicates otherwise. If the student or parent chooses to leave the credit on the account, authorization must be given in writing to the Business Office.

Summer II (8-week module)

As a general rule, and provided the student remains eligible, all scholarships, grants and loans awarded by the Financial Aid Office will be credited directly to the student’s university account after the second week provided all required paperwork has been received.

The second disbursement of loan funds will be approximately at the midpoint of the 12 week summer term provided all required paperwork has been received and the student remains eligible. An exception to this general guideline is the delayed disbursement restriction for first year, first time undergraduate Federal Direct Stafford Loan borrowers. These borrowers have a 30 day delay from the start of the term for their first disbursement.

Outside scholarships/loans are not credited until the funds are received from the donor/lender.If there is a credit balance on the student’s account; a check will be issued for the amount of the credit balance no later than the 14th day the credit appeared on the account. If a credit balance appears prior to the start of a class, a check will be issued no later than the 14th day from the date the class begins.

If a Federal Direct PLUS Loan creates the credit, the excess funds will be returned to the parent borrower, unless the parent indicates otherwise. If the student or parent chooses to leave the credit on the account, authorization must be given in writing to the Business Office.

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Registration

New students to the University must first be accepted by the Admissions Office at the University.

Returning students may register providing:

• They have not been academically dismissed by the Academic Dean
• The Business Office has not placed a hold on their account for:
  • a balance due on their account
  • required paperwork not received

Registration is a process by which students become officially enrolled in classes for a given term. This process involves a discussion between the student and the student’s academic advisor. All students are assigned an academic advisor based on program/major. A new advisor may be assigned when a student changes program/major.

Traditional and Distance Learning Education Program students (excluding selected student teaching students) should be enrolled in at least one course that spans the full semester unless a written request from the student is approved by the Vice President of Academic Affairs.

Validating Attendance

Fall and Spring Terms

To validate a student’s attendance in each course, a student should show as present (see Criteria for Attendance below) at least one time by the “no show” date, as indicated on the academic calendar, for full semester and each eight-week module.

Failure to validate a student’s attendance in a course within the specified time may result in the student being dropped from that course. Removal of the course could change the student’s enrollment status (see Enrollment Status Policy section).

Summer Term

To validate a student’s attendance in each course, a student should show as present (see Criteria for Attendance below) at least one time by the “no show” date, as indicated on the academic calendar, for each module in the summer term.

Failure to validate a student’s attendance in a course within the specified time may result in the student being dropped from the course. Removal of the course could change the student’s enrollment status (see Enrollment Status Policy section).

Criteria for Attendance

The faculty at William Penn University are required to take attendance in all courses throughout each term (see Attendance Policy below). The criteria for attendance are as follows:

• Courses in which the student physically meets in the same classroom as the instructor will have attendance validated by being present for class.
• Distance Learning Education program courses are taught via synchronous learning, Zoom Video Communications, Inc., which requires students and instructors to be online on a specified URL at a specific time on specific days. Attendance is validated by being online on the correct day and time of the course.
• Courses located in a “Connected Classroom” where there is a live audio/visual feed with the instructor teaching in a classroom at a different location will have attendance validated by being present in the classroom on the specified day and time of the course.
• Internships, practicums, and approved “to be arranged” courses will have attendance validated by the supervising faculty.
• For online on courses, attendance is validated each week by one of the following:
  • Student submission of an academic assignment
  • Student submission of an exam
  • Documented student participation in an interactive tutorial or computer-assisted instruction
  • A posting by the student showing the student’s participation in an online study group that is assigned by the institution
  • A posting by the student in a discussion forum showing the student’s participation in an online discussion about academic matters
    • A student logged into an online class is not sufficient, by itself, to demonstrate academic attendance

For all courses, an email from the student or other documentation showing that the student initiated contact with a faculty member to ask a question about the academic subject studied in the course may be considered present.

Attendance Policy

Student engagement and active participation in the learning process is critical to quality instruction. Students are expected to be in attendance on time, every time, without exception.

Although the online environment is such that there is no specific meeting time, students are still expected to fully participate in the class in a substantial way. For the purposes of attendance, students must log in and participate academically at least one day each week to be considered present.

In accordance with federal guidelines, as a university that takes attendance, any student who is recorded as absent in all classes for a period of two consecutive weeks may be administratively withdrawn from the University. Presence in intercollegiate athletic participation courses (PHLA 150-170) or fine arts performance ensemble courses (such as but not limited to: Jazz Ensemble, Marching/Pep Band, William Penn Singers, and Concert Band) will not preclude that withdrawal. An effort will be made by the University to contact the student regarding attendance in hopes to get the student re-engaged. If the student remains absent, the student will be administratively withdrawn (See Withdrawing section).

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Traditional and Distance Learning Education Programs

Traditional and Distance Learning Education Program students (excluding selected student teaching students) should be enrolled in at least one course that spans the full term for each the fall and spring terms unless a request from the student or Registrar approved by the Vice President of Academic Affairs.

Financial Aid Census (recalculation) Date Policy:

The Financial Aid Office will recalculate cost of attendance as well as federal, state, and institutional student aid funds based on the enrollment status at the end of the published census date for the fall and spring terms.  (For summer term see Summer Term All Programs below.)  Students not awarded by census day will be awarded according to their enrollment status on the date of their initial award.  Regardless of the date the student was awarded, if a student fails to start a course that would change their enrollment status, they will also have their cost of attendance and all federal, state, and institutional grants/loans recalculated to the current enrollment status.  If the student drops a course and/or fails to start a course that would change their enrollment status, they may be required to repay some or all previously disbursed financial aid funds.

• Fall term census (recalculation) day:  September 4, 2020
• Spring term census (recalculation) day: January 22, 2021

A student should contact the Financial Aid office before dropping or adding courses that may affect their enrollment status (for example: going from full-time to 3/4 time, or ¾ time to full-time).

A student withdrawing from the University should refer to the Withdrawing section.

Eight-Week Evening, Eight-Week Online, and RN-BSN Programs

Eight-Week Evening, Eight-Week Online, and RN-BSN programs are offered in two eight week modules combined within each fall and spring terms.

Graduate Program

Depending on the major, the graduate program in both two, eight-week only modules or may have a combination of eight-weeks with full term courses, within each fall and spring terms.

Financial Aid Census (recalculation) Date Policy:

The Financial Aid Office will recalculate cost of attendance, federal, state, and institutional funds for students who begin in the first module and may or may not be registered for the second eight-week module based on the enrollment status at the end of the published census date for the fall and spring terms.  (For summer term, see Summer Term All Programs below.)   IMPORTANT:  Students starting in the first module and planning to take courses in the second module need to be registered for both modules prior to the end of the published census date.  Students starting the first module and not awarded by census day will be awarded according to their enrollment status (includes the second eight week module) on the date of their initial award.  Regardless of the date the student was awarded, if a student fails to start a course that would change their enrollment status, they will also have their cost of attendance and all funds recalculated.  If a student drops a course and/or fails to start a course that would change their enrollment status, they may be required to repay some or all previously disbursed financial aid funds.

A student should contact the Financial Aid office before dropping or adding courses that may affect their enrollment status (for example: going from full-time to 3/4 time, or ¾ time to full-time).

• Fall term census (recalculation) day:  September 4, 2020
• Spring term census (recalculation) day: January 22, 2021

Students who did not attend in the first module but begin in the second module will have their cost of attendance and financial aid funds based on the enrollment status at start of that module for the term. Students not awarded by the start of the module will be awarded according to their enrollment status on the date of their award. Failure to start a course that would change their enrollment status will have their cost of attendance and all funds recalculated.

Summer Term–All Programs

The summer term is a 12-week term with a four and an eight-week module within the term.  This term is considered a trailer to the academic year of fall and spring.

The Eight-Week Evening, Eight-Week Online, RN-BSN programs and the Masters in Business Leadership are limited to courses offered in the eight-week module without advisor approval.

The Masters in Sports Management is limited to courses offered in the eight and/or twelve-week module.

The Traditional and Distance Learning Education Programs may take a combination of courses in the four, eight, and/or twelve-week modules.

There are limited funds available for the summer term:

• Federal Pell Grant – see Federal Student Financial Assistance section
• Federal Direct Stafford Loans – see Federal Student Financial Assistance section
• Federal Direct Parent PLUS Loan – see Federal Student Financial Assistance section
• Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan – see Federal Student Financial Assistance section
• Loyalty Scholarship (for Graduate Program only) – see Institutional Student Financial Assistance – Graduate Program section

The Financial Aid Office will recalculate cost of attendance and awards based on the enrollment status at the end of the published census date.  Students not awarded by census day will be awarded according to their enrollment status on the date of their initial award.  Regardless of the date awarded, if a student fails to start a course that would change their enrollment status, they will also have their cost of attendance and all funds recalculated.  If a student drops a course and/or fails to start a course that would change their enrollments status, they may be required to repay some or all previously disbursed financial aid funds.

A student should contact the Financial Aid office before dropping or adding courses that may affect their enrollment status (for example: going from full-time to 3/4 time, or ¾ time to full-time).

• Summer term census (recalculation) day:  June 25, 2021

Repeating Courses–All Programs

When a student repeats a previously passed course, the higher grade received will be used in the calculation of the cumulative grade point average. For this purpose, passed means any grade higher than an “F”.  If the student passed the course once then received financial aid for retaking it and fails the second time, that failure counts as their paid retake.  If the student takes the course for the third or more times, that course will not be eligible for financial aid and will not be included in their enrollment status for financial aid purposes.  If a student  passed the course once then received financial aid for retaking it and withdraws during the second time, that withdraw will not count as their paid retake.  A student may repeatedly receive financial aid for repeatedly failing the same course.  When a course is repeated, the credits for the course will count as attempted credits but will not add into the cumulative earned credits unless the prior grade received was not a passing grade.

Written Confirmation of Future Attendance Within a Term–All Programs

A student is not considered to have withdrawn from a term if the student provides written confirmation at the time of their withdrawal that they will attend a module that begins later in the same term.  This confirmation must be provided at the time of the withdrawal, even if the student was registered for the courses that were to start later in the term.   If the student provides written confirmation of future attendance but does not return as scheduled, the student is considered to have withdrawn from the term (see Withdrawal from the University).

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William Penn University participates in the federal financial aid programs. Applications for these programs are made by annually completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at https://www.FAFSA.ed.gov. William Penn University should be listed on the form with the school code of 001900. See (Applying for Financial Assistance Section) The University requires all students to complete the FAFSA to become eligible for any financial aid.

The federal funds listed below are awarded by the Financial Aid Office at William Penn University. The result of the student’s FAFSA, enrollment status on census day (see Enrollment Status Policy section) and term enrolled may determine the eligibility for these programs.

Federal Pell Grant is based on need and does not have to be repaid. Pell Grants are awarded only to undergraduate students who have not earned a bachelor’s degree. Students are allowed a Pell Grant for the equivalent of six years. The grant provides a maximum of $6,345 for the 2020-2021 academic year.

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) is for undergraduate students who have not earned a bachelor’s degree and who show exceptional financial need (as determined by William Penn) and must be eligible for a Pell Grant. A federal SEOG does not have to be repaid. William Penn University provides a maximum of $1,000 for the 2020-2021 academic year.

Federal Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant or Additional Federal Pell Grant is based on need and does not need to be repaid. If the student’s parent or guardian died as a result of military service in Iraq or Afghanistan after the events of 9/11, may be eligible for additional aid. To be eligible, at the time of your parent’s or guardian’s death, you must have been less than 24 years old or enrolled at least part-time at a college. Payments will be adjusted if you are enrolled less than full-time.

• Additional Federal Pell Grant: If you meet the requirements above and are eligible to receive a Pell Grant, you will receive an Expected Family Contribution (EFC) of zero, which maximizes your Pell Grant eligibility and can increase eligibility for other federal student aid programs.
• Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grants: If you meet the requirements above but are not eligible for a Pell Grant based on your EFC, you will be eligible to receive the Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant. The maximum amount of this grant is the same as the maximum Pell Grant award. The student’s EFC will not be affected, and therefore neither will eligibility for any other need-based federal student aid.

Federal Children of Fallen Heroes Scholarship is for Federal Pell Grant eligible students, see Federal Pell Grant above, whose parent or guardian died in the line of duty while performing as a public safety officer. The student is eligible to receive a maximum Pell Grant for the award year for which the determination of eligibility is made and may be eligible for increased amount of other need-based federal student aid. To be eligible, the student had to be less than 24 years of age or enrolled in college at the time of their parent’s or guardian’s death. The student must provide documentation from federal, state or other sources WPU determines to be from a credible source that describes or reports the circumstance of the death and the occupation of the parent or guardian.

Federal Direct Stafford Loans:  The Federal Direct Stafford Loan program allows students who are enrolled at least half time to borrow low-interest loans from the federal government. Stafford Loans do not have to be repaid until six months after a student graduates or drops below half-time status. New borrowers must complete an online master promissory note and entrance counseling at https://studentloans.gov using your FSA ID. Beginning with the 2020-2021 academic year, all federal Direct Loan borrowers (subsidized, unsubsidized, graduate PLUS and parent PLUS) will be required to complete the Annual Student Loan Acknowledgement (ASLA) before receiving the first disbursement on the first Direct Loan that the student or parent borrows of each new award year at studentloans.gov using your FSA ID.

There are two types of Federal Stafford loans and your award letter may contain a combination of the two.

• The Subsidized Stafford Loan is a need-based loan, and the government pays the interest while the borrower is in school. Undergraduate students will have a 2.75%* fixed interest rate and a 1.057%** fee.
  • New borrowers as of July 1, 2013 (borrowers who do not have an outstanding Stafford Loan balance as of this date are considered “new.”) can only receive subsidized loans for 150% of their published program length. For example, if a program’s published length is four years, a student would be eligible for subsidized loans for six years.
• The Unsubsidized Stafford Loan is not need-based, and the government does not pay interest on this loan. Undergraduate students will have a 2.75%* fixed interest rate and a 1.057%** fee. Graduate students will have a 4.30%* fixed interest rate and a 1.057%** fee. While not required, it is recommended that the borrower makes payments on the interest while in school.

Federal Direct Parent PLUS Loan is available to parents of dependent students who are enrolled at least half time to borrow up to the amount equal to the cost of attendance minus other financial aid received. The interest rate is fixed at 5.30%*, and a 4.228%** origination fee is withheld from the loan. The Federal Direct PLUS Loan is subject to a credit check. In the case of adverse credit, the borrower may apply with a credit worthy co-signer. Parents have the option of beginning repayment on the PLUS loan either 60 days after the loan is fully disbursed, or deferring payments until six months after the dependent student ceases to be enrolled at least a half-time. While not required, it is recommended that the borrower makes payments on the interest while the student is still in school. If a parent is denied a Federal Direct PLUS Loan, the student is eligible for additional Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loan.   Parent PLUS loan borrower will need to complete a PLUS Master Promissory note at https://studentloans.gov.

Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan is available to graduate students who are enrolled at least half time to borrow up to the amount equal to the cost of attendance minus other financial aid received. The interest rate is fixed at 5.30%*, and a 4.228%** origination fee is withheld from the loan. The Federal Direct Grad PLUS Loan is subject to a credit check. In the case of adverse credit, the borrower may apply with a credit worthy co-signer. You begin repayment on the Grad PLUS loan six months after you cease to be enrolled at least half-time. While not required, it is recommended that the borrower makes payments on the interest while in school. A Grad PLUS loan borrower will need to complete a Grad PLUS Master Promissory note at https://studentloans.gov.

*    Interest rates are scheduled to change every July 1 and are based off of the federal 10-year treasury rate, plus a small margin. The interest rate shown begins July 1, 2020.
**  The origination fee rates are subject to change based on federal legislation every October 1.  The fee rates shown begin October 1, 2020.

Students will receive a financial aid award notification from William Penn University that will indicate the maximum eligibility for loans or a combination of the two loan types. Included with the award notification will be a William Penn University Loan Authorization Form. Students, or parent for parent loan, must complete the form and request the amount of loan(s) they wish to borrow. A student, or parent for a parent loan, may borrow less than the amount awarded.

All students who transfer credits to William Penn University have approximately the first four weeks of their first enrolled term module to provide official transcripts from prior colleges in order to determine grade level loan limits. Students who have transfer credits added after that time may notify the financial aid office to have their financial aid re-evaluated.

Students who advance a grade level between terms may notify the Financial Aid Office to have their financial aid re-evaluated.

Federal Work-Study is based on financial need and is designed to provide the student assistance in the financing of his or her education as well as the opportunity for broader educational experiences. Work-Study provides students the opportunity to work on or off campus. Employment awards generally range between $500 to $2,000 per year, with the average student working 5 to 10 hours a week. Students will need to schedule interviews for positions available; openings are posted on the Federal Work Study Program page. The Business Office pays employed students bi-weekly, providing all necessary paperwork is turned in. The student is allowed to earn up to the amount specified on his/her award letter, but the final responsibility for whether the amount is earned belongs to the student. Employment earnings are paid directly to the student bi-weekly for hours worked and does not show as a credit on the university account unless the student chooses to apply it. Requests may be made for a copy of “The Work Study Guide” provided by the Financial Aid Office at the university.

For more information regarding the federal programs including loan repayment plan options, origination fees, interest rates, and loan repayment estimators go to https://www.studentaid.ed.gov.

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Following is a list that includes, but is not limited to, a description of state of Iowa student financial assistance programs available to students who enroll at William Penn University. The result of the student’s FAFSA, enrollment status on census day (see Enrollment Status Policy section) and term enrolled may determine the eligibility for some of these programs. To read more, go to https://www.iowacollegeaid.gov.

All Iowa Opportunity Scholarship is for Iowa students who attend an eligible Iowa college/university. To read more, go to https://www.iowacollegeaid.gov/alliowaopportunityscholarship.

Education & Training Voucher (ETV) Program is for students who age out of foster care and students who are adopted after the age 16. To read more, go to https://www.iowacollegeaid.gov/ETV

Future Ready Iowa Grant is for Iowa students who:

• Have at least half of the credits completed and accepted toward an eligible program at an eligible school
• Have not been enrolled in postsecondary education for two or more years
• Have applied for all other available aid
• File the FAFSA and Iowa Financial Aid Application by the priority deadline established by the state of Iowa

To read more, go to https://www.iowacollegeaid.gov/FutureReadyGrant

GEAR UP Iowa Scholarship is for students who are part of the state-wide GEAR UP Iowa cohort. To read more, go to https://www.iowacollegeaid.gov/GEARUPIowaScholarship.

Governor Terry E. Branstad Iowa State Fair Scholarship is for outstanding Iowa high school seniors who have actively participated in the Iowa State Fair. To read more, go to https://www.iowacollegeaid.gov/IowaStateFairScholarship.

Iowa National Guard Service Scholarship provides annual awards to Iowa National Guard members who attend eligible Iowa colleges and universities. To read more, go to https://www.iowacollegeaid.gov/IowaNationalGuard.

Iowa Tuition Grant is for Iowa residents enrolled at one of Iowa’s eligible private colleges and universities. To read more, go to https://www.iowacollegeaid.gov/IowaTuitionGrant.

Robert D. Blue Scholarship is for Iowa students who demonstrate literary and scholastic ability, exhibit qualities of truth, courage, and fellowship, and display moral force of character are encouraged to apply for this scholarship. To read more, go to https://www.iowacollegeaid.gov/RobertDBlueScholarship.

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The following list includes, but is not limited to, a description of all need and non-need institutional student financial assistance funds available to undergraduate students who attend full-time (12 or more credits) at William Penn University in Traditional or Distance Learning Education Programs (See Enrollment Status Policy for Traditional and Distance Learning Education Programs). To qualify for need base aid; a student must annually file a FAFSA. Non-need based aid does not require additional application unless stated.

A student may receive institutional based aid on a limited basis. The student must be fully accepted, not be in default on their federal loans, seeking a degree, or taking teacher certification coursework as well as providing all required documents requested by the financial aid and business offices. Students seeking a second bachelor degree or taking teacher certification coursework, which does not lead to a degree, may qualify only for the Further Undergraduate Degree Scholarship as institutional aid.

Unless indicated, the following types of institutional aid are not based on need but on the criteria stated. Institutional aid in combination with any federal and/or state need based aid may not exceed the student’s demonstrated need. Institutionally funded aid in combination with any federal and/or state aid may not exceed the student’s direct cost.

Academic Scholarships may be awarded to full-time students seeking a degree and the following requirements apply:

• First Time Freshmen must have a minimum cumulative GPA of a 3.50 on a 4.00 scale as well as a minimum of a 20 ACT or 1030 SAT.
• Transfer student with less than 24 credits (credits must have been at a full-time status) need to have a cumulative GPA of a 3.50 on a 4.00 scale, must provide copies of their final high school transcripts and a copy of their ACT or SAT scores. See First Time Freshmen, above, for eligibility requirements.
• Transfer student with 24 or more credits (credits must have been at a full-time status) need to have a cumulative GPA of a 3.50 on a 4.00 scale.
• Currently enrolled William Penn student striving to obtain an academic scholarship must complete at least two consecutive full-time (12 or more credits per term) semesters at William Penn University by the end of the fall semester prior to the next academic award year and have a minimum cumulative GPA of a 3.50.

The following academic scholarships are available at William Penn University:

• Presidential Scholarship: The Presidential Scholarship is the most prestigious academic award offered by William Penn University. Candidates must possess extraordinary academic ability and potential, as evidenced by their high school or prior college(s) performance and their success on the ACT and/or the SAT.
• Dean’s Scholarship: The Dean’s Scholarship is awarded to students possessing exceptional academic ability and potential as evidenced by their high school and/or prior college(s) performance, and their success on the ACT and/or the SAT.
• Academic Leadership Scholarship: The Academic Leadership Scholarship is awarded to students possessing outstanding academic ability and potential as evidenced by their high school and/or prior college(s) performance, and their success on the ACT and/or the SAT.
• Academic Achievement Scholarship: The Academic Achievement Scholarship is awarded to students possessing strong academic ability and potential as evidenced by their high school and/or prior college(s) performance, and their success on the ACT and/or the SAT.

Renewal requirements for an academic scholarship will be based on the student’s cumulative grade point average earned after completing at least two consecutive full-time semesters by the end of the fall term prior to the next academic award year at William Penn University. If a student has one full-time semester by the end of the fall term prior to the next academic award year, they will continue to receive the same scholarship for the next academic award year if the student remains a full-time student. Following are the minimum cumulative GPAs for each scholarship: 

Alumni Scholarship may be awarded to a full-time student whose mother and/or father graduated from William Penn University.

Athletic Scholarships may be awarded to full-time students seeking their first bachelor’s degree. William Penn University is a member of National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). Scholarship amounts are based on athletic ability as determined by the coach. Renewal necessitates the student meet academic and/or participation requirements established by the coach.

Annual and Endowed Named Scholarships are mainly based on need and are awarded to full-time students. These scholarship funds are made possible through the generous financial support of alumni, trustees, and friends of William Penn University. When these funds are awarded to a student, an adjustment may be made to the other institutional student financial aid previously awarded to the student. Annual and Endowed Scholarships are not intended to increase the total award package amount. A recipient may be requested to write a thank you note to the donor of their scholarship. Failure to write the thank you may result in the loss of the award.

Digital Communication Scholarship may be awarded to full-time students seeking their first bachelor’s degree. The student should offer outstanding promise in the digital communication area. Renewal necessitates the student meet the participation requirements established by the department.

Digital Impact Team Scholarship may be awarded to full-time students seeking their first bachelor’s degree.  The student should show a serious interest in technology and are willing to participate in all required practices and events, and be an active member of the Computer Club.  For more information and to apply please see the Digital Impact Team page.  Renewal necessitates the student meet participation requirements established by the Digital Impact Team chairperson.

Further Undergraduate Degree Scholarship may be awarded to full-time students who have already earned a bachelor’s degree and are seeking an additional bachelor’s degree or teaching certificate. Students may not receive other institutional financial assistance funds.

International Scholarship may be awarded to full-time non-citizens with an F1 student visa who are seeking their first bachelor’s degree. The student must offer academic promise in order to receive these funds. The scholarship may not be awarded if other institutional financial assistance is provided. Amounts may vary.

Iowa Community College Transfer Scholarship may be awarded to full-time incoming transfer students who have their AA/AS degree with at least a 3.00 cumulative grade point average, and did not attend another institution after receiving their AA/AS degree. Students should file their FAFSA by July 1. Renewal necessitates the student maintain a 2.70 cumulative GPA at the end of the fall term prior to the next academic award year at William Penn University (all post-secondary and dual credit courses taken during high school with WPU will factor in to the cumulative grade point average). The award amount may vary from year to year.

Iowa Pride Scholarship may be awarded to first time, full-time incoming freshmen who are Iowa residents and have graduated from an Iowa high school with at least a 3.00 cumulative grade point average. Students should file the FAFSA by July 1. Renewal necessitates the student maintain a 2.70 cumulative GPA at the end of the fall term prior to the next academic award year at William Penn University (all post-secondary and dual credit courses taken during high school with WPU will factor in to the cumulative grade point average). The award amount may vary from year to year.

Iowa Para or Iowa School District Employee Scholarship may be awarded to full-time students who are Iowa residents seeking their first bachelor’s degree and enrolled in the Distance Learning Education Program.  Students must show proof of employment in an Iowa school district (verification letter from school district is preferred).  Students should file the FAFSA by July 1.  Renewal necessitates the student maintain a 2.70 cumulative GPA at the end of the fall term prior to the next academic year at William Penn University and show proof of employment at the school district for the new academic year.  Exception to proof of employment will be the final term the student is student teaching.

Music Scholarships may be awarded to full-time students seeking their first bachelor’s degree with outstanding vocal, jazz band or marching band ability. Auditions are recommended and may be either recorded or in person. For further information regarding these scholarships, contact the chairperson of the department of music at meinerta@wmpenn.edu. Renewal necessitates the student meet the participation requirements established by the department chairperson.

Penn Recognition Scholarship may be awarded to full-time students who have above average academic records from high school or prior college(s) who do not qualify for other non-academic merit aid. The student must apply by providing a copy of their school transcript, an essay letter stating their achievements, and at least one letter of reference. Renewal necessitates the student should maintain a 2.00 cumulative GPA at the end of the fall term prior to the next academic year at William Penn University (all post-secondary and dual credit courses taken during high school with WPU will factor in to the cumulative grade point average). The award amount may vary from year to year.

Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship may be awarded to full-time students seeking their first bachelor’s degree who have been recognized at their previous two-year college as a Phi Theta Kappa member.

Religious Leadership Scholarship may be awarded to full-time students seeking their first bachelor’s degree who are interested in developing leadership skills in Campus Ministry programs. Students must be approved and will be supervised by the religious life coordinator. For more information and to apply please see the Campus Ministries page or contact the Religious Life Coordinator, Randall Nichols, at 641-673-1143 or by email. . Renewal necessitates the student meet participation requirements established by the department chairperson.

Resident Associate (RA) may be awarded to full-time students seeking their first bachelor’s degree who live in the dorms and are selected by the Director of Residence Life. RAs are chosen to provide assistance in the social aspects at William Penn University.

Student Government Association (SGA) may be awarded to full-time students seeking their first bachelor’s degree who have been elected by the student body to hold an official position in the organization.

Theatre Scholarship may be awarded to full-time students seeking their first bachelor’s degree with outstanding theatre talent either in acting or some aspect of technical theatre. Either an audition or a personal interview is recommended. For further information regarding acting or technical theatre, contact the director of drama and technical theatre at gdca@georgedaily.org. Renewal necessitates the student meet the participation requirements established by the department chairperson.

Tuition Exchange is available to the dependent student whose parent is employed by a participating college or university. To receive this benefit, the student must file the FAFSA, the participating school must file the tuition exchange paperwork, and William Penn University must approve the paperwork. The tuition exchange benefit will be reduced by any federal or state gift funds so that the maximum benefit will never exceed the cost of tuition.

William Penn Success Scholarship may be awarded to full-time students seeking their first bachelor’s degree who have a 2.50–3.49 cumulative grade point average. May be all or partially reallocated to endowed or annual scholarships only. Renewal necessitates the student maintain a cumulative grade point average of a 2.50-3.49 at the end of the fall term prior to the next academic year at WPU.

William Penn University Scholarship may be awarded to full-time students seeking their first bachelor’s degree. May be all or partially reallocated to endowed or annual scholarships only.

William Penn Loan is a low interest (5% APR) loan awarded to full-time students, seeking their first bachelor’s degree in the Traditional program, and a U.S. citizen. William Penn University is the lender. Students that demonstrate financial hardship may be candidates for this loan.  To qualify for the William Penn Loan the student must write an essay to the Vice President of Finance explaining their circumstance.  The William Penn Loan may be issued to up to 20 people per year.  Loan amounts will vary from $1000.00-$4000.00 per year.  This loan has a limited amount of funding.  The university will credit the student’s account once all necessary paperwork has been received by the University. Students have six months after leaving school or dropping below half-time status before they begin repayment. Monthly repayment amounts will depend on the size of the debt and the length of the repayment.

William Penn Forgivable Loan is a low interest (5% APR) loan awarded to first-time full-time incoming freshmen, seeking their first bachelor’s degree in the Traditional program, have a minimum of a 2.50 high school cumulative grade point average, and a U.S. citizen. William Penn University is the lender. The university will credit the student’s account once all necessary paperwork has been received by the University. Students have six months after leaving school or dropping below half-time status before they begin repayment. Monthly repayment amounts will depend on the size of the debt and the length of the repayment. The William Penn Forgivable Loan is forgiven if the student completes full-time consecutive academic years until graduation at the University except in mitigating circumstances. Renewal necessitates the student maintain a cumulative GPA of a 2.50 at the end of the fall term prior to the next academic award year.

INSTITUTIONAL STUDENT FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE – GRADUATE PROGRAM

The following list includes, but is not limited to, a description of all non-need institutional student financial assistance funds available to master’s degree seeking students who attend full or part-time at William Penn University.

A student may receive institutional based funds on a limited basis. The student must be fully accepted, not be in default on their federal loan(s), seeking a degree and provided all required documents requested by the financial aid and business office.

Loyalty Scholarship may be awarded to full or part-time students who earned their bachelor’s degree from William Penn University.

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Any financial assistance that a student may receive from sources not listed on their award notification, with the exception of Veterans’ Benefits, must be reported to the William Penn University Financial Aid Office. When notifying the Financial Aid Office of an outside award, please list the name of the outside award, organization providing the award, and the amount of the award. The additional funds will be added to the student’s award letter which may adjust other aid to stay within the student’s need and/or cost of attendance. Unless a donor specifies otherwise, outside awards are to be applied one half in the fall semester and one half in the spring semester. The university will attempt to adjust the award in a manner that is most beneficial to the student while maintaining compliance with federal, state and institutional regulations.

Vocational Rehabilitation Benefits: The Division of Vocational Rehabilitation of the Iowa Department of Public Instruction, or a similar division in other states, make assistance available to physically and mentally challenged students who are residents of the state. Families should contact the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, 510 East 12th Street, Des Moines, Iowa 50319, or the student’s home state office. Students who receive funds should contact the Financial Aid Office to discuss costs related to the student’s disability.

Outside Scholarships: Outside sources of aid are usually awarded by employers, corporations, civic groups and/or educational groups. You may contact businesses and organizations within your community for possible scholarship funds. Funds will be credited to the student’s University account when the funds are received at the University Business Office.

The deadline for applications is April 1st, students can apply for the scholarship program at: http://www.campusrn.com/register/scholarship.asp

Veterans’ Benefits: Veterans that served on active duty may be eligible for education benefits offered by the Dept. of Veterans Affairs. For example, the Post-9/11 GI Bill provides financial support for educational and housing expenses to individuals with at least 90 days of aggregate service after September 10, 2001, or individuals discharged with a service-connected disability after 30 days. Veterans must have received an honorable discharge to be eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill.

Currently serving military personnel may be eligible for funding offered through the Department of Defense Tuition Assistance program. Eligibility status and amounts should be confirmed prior to enrolling.

Spouses and children of service members, who are serving on active duty Title 10 orders in the pay grades of E1-E5, O1-O2, or W1-W2, may be eligible for financial assistance from the Department of Defense for education, training and/or the occupational license and credentials necessary for a portable career.

Spouses and children of service members may be eligible to receive transfer of the service member’s Post-9/11 benefits. Student’s planning on receiving educational benefits, as determined by the Department of Veterans Affairs, should contact Pam Eklund, in the Registrar’s Office at William Penn University, at 641-673-1011 or eklundp@wmpenn.edu well in advance of enrollment to request certification.

Yellow Ribbon Program: The Yellow Ribbon Program was established by the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008. William Penn voluntarily entered into an agreement with a VA to jointly fund tuition and fee expenses that exceed tuition and fee amounts provided by the Post-9/11 GI Bill. Veterans are encouraged to visit the VA’s Yellow Ribbon webpage at www.gibill.va.gov for additional information on the Yellow Ribbon Program, Post-9/11 GI Bill, and other educational programs.

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Consortium Agreements:  Occasionally, a student wants to enroll simultaneously at William Penn University and another institution and will want to combine the hours for financial aid purposes.  Sometimes this is possible through the creation of a consortium agreement.  A consortium agreement is a contract between two institutions that recognize a student’s registration at each location for financial aid purposes.  It also certifies only one of the two institutions can administer financial aid. A student interested in a consortium agreement must contact the WPU financial Aid Office for terms and procedures.

Part-Time Students: All part-time students must be fully admitted to a degree seeking program or in the teacher certification/endorsement program at the University to receive funds. The University will award federal and state aid for which a part-time student is eligible. The University’s Institutional funds are not available to part-time students in the undergraduate programs.

Repeated Coursework: When a student repeats a previously passed course, the higher grade received will be used in the calculation of the cumulative grade point average. For this purpose, passed means any grade higher that an “F”. If the student passed the course once then received financial aid for retaking it and fails the second time, that failure counts as their paid retake. If the student takes the course for the third or more time, that course will not be eligible for financial aid and will not be eligible for financial aid and will not be included in their enrollment status for financial aid purposes. If a student passed the course once then received financial aid for retaking it and withdraws during the second time, that withdraw will not count as their paid retake. A student may repeatedly receive financial aid for repeatedly failing the same course. When a course is repeated, the credits for the course will count as attempted credits but will not add into the cumulative earned hours unless the prior grade received was not a passing grade.

Study Abroad: A student interested in studying abroad may be eligible for federal aid if the program is approved for academic credit toward their degree by the Registrar at William Penn University. William Penn University must have a contractual agreement with the foreign school (or with another U.S. school that contracts with a foreign school) or a single written arrangement with a study-abroad organization to represent an agreement between the home school and the foreign school. A student interested in a study abroad agreement must first have the course(s) approved by the Registrar at William Penn to verify the coursework counts towards the student’s degree with William Penn University.  Once this is completed, the student should contact the WPU Financial Aid Office.

Summer Term: The summer term is made up of modules, which are combined to equal one term and trails the academic year of fall/spring. To be eligible for summer financial aid, a student must be in a degree seeking or in a  teacher certification/endorsement program and have filed the appropriate year FAFSA. Students seeking financial aid through the Federal Direct Loan Program must be enrolled in at least six credit hours and have unused funds from the academic year of fall/spring. Undergraduate students who have not earned a bachelor’s degree may be eligible for a Federal Pell Grant if they have unused funds from the academic year of fall/spring or if taking at least six credit hours may receive up to 150% of their scheduled Pell for an award year. The University’s institutional funds are not available during the summer term in the undergraduate programs. Financial assistance will be based on information on the published census day. For more information refer to the enrollment status policy section and locate the Summer Term-All Programs section.

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The federal government requires students to maintain satisfactory progress toward their degree to receive financial aid. All students, regardless of whether they apply for federal financial aid via the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), will be evaluated. The following standards will apply to all federal, state, and institutional funds.

Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) is achieved when a student maintains both the required grade point average and the required pace (see below). At William Penn University, the minimum standards are established for all undergraduate and graduate students, regardless of program, who wish to establish or maintain financial aid eligibility. These standards apply to a student’s entire academic record at William Penn University and include transfer credit hours accepted by William Penn University from another school. William Penn University will evaluate the Registrar’s records at the end of every term (fall, spring, and summer) of a student’s enrollment to determine compliance with the SAP policy.

Grade Point Average (GPA) Requirements (Qualitative):

Students must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA according to their cumulative earned hours (transfer credits accepted from other universities by William Penn are considered earned hours). The minimum GPA requirements are as follows:

• UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMS
  • 1–27 credit hours earned 1.70
  • 28–57 credit hours earned 1.90
  • 58–and above credit hours earned 2.00
• GRADUATE PROGRAMS
  • 1–12 credit hours earned 2.70
  • 13–24 credit hours earned 2.85
  • 25–and above credit hours earned 3.00

A student who repeats a previously passed course, the higher grade received will be used in the calculation of the cumulative GPA. For this purpose, passed means any grade higher than an “F”.

Required Pace (There are two components to Pace):

1. Progress throughout the Program: All full and part-time students must earn a minimum of 67% of the total number of their cumulative credits attempted. To determine the 67%, a student would take their cumulative earned credits and divide it by of their cumulative attempted credits.

2. Maximum Time Frame to Complete the Program: Eligible undergraduate or graduate seeking students may receive financial aid while attempting up to, but not exceed, 150% of the published normal completion length of the student’s program. Students enrolled at either a part-time or full-time pace at William Penn University may have a maximum of:

• Program
  • Undergraduate 186 attempted credits
  • Graduate 54 attempted credits

The number of credits accepted by William Penn University from other universities will count toward the maximum. The Financial Aid office may notify students as they approach the maximum time frame of their program.The following are counted when determining minimum Pace Progress throughout the Program and Maximum Time Frame requirements:

• Transfer Credits: Transfer credits that are accepted by WPU will be counted toward the total attempted and earned credits when determining pace. Transfer credits do not impact GPA as grades are not transferred in.
• Repeating a Course:When a student repeats a course, credit hours for the course are counted as attempted each time it is taken. Once the course is passed, the credit hours will count in the cumulative earned one time. The highest grade earned will count in the cumulative grade point average.
• Incomplete Grades: An incomplete or “I” grade will count as credits attempted but not earned for the purpose of determining SAP. If the credits are later given for the course(s), the student should notify the financial aid office so SAP may be reassessed.
• Withdrawal: All courses a student withdraws from and receives a grade of a “W” will be counted as attempted credit hours for pace progress throughout the program and maximum time frame.
• Remedial Coursework: : Credit hours for remedial coursework will count as attempted and if a passing grade (grade higher than “F”) is received will count as earned for the purpose of determining academic progress.
• Changes in Major: A student who changes majors will still be required to stay within the maximum 150% rule to receive financial assistance.
• Students Seeking Additional Undergraduate Bachelor Degree After Graduating: A student seeking financial aid for an additional undergraduate bachelor degree after graduating from William Penn may have an additional 90 credit hours attempted for the additional degree, or 276 total undergraduate credit hours attempted, including all transfer credits, whichever limit is met first.

*If SAP is not achieved, the student will be placed on:

FINANCIAL AID WARNING: Students are placed on Financial Aid Warning for one term if they do not meet the minimum GPA and/or pace progress throughout the program. A letter is mailed to the student being placed on Financial Aid Warning.

FINANCIAL AID SUSPENSION: Students are placed on Financial Aid Suspension for one of the following reasons:

• Do not meet the SAP requirements after one term on Financial Aid Warning
• Do not meet the SAP requirements after one term on Financial Aid Probation (see Probation below).
• Do not meet the requirements of the Academic Plan by not adhering to the plan, showing progression during the plan, or meeting the requirements by the last term of the Academic Plan (see Academic Plan below).
• Meet or exceed the Maximum Time Frame requirement to obtain a degree.
• Withdrawal (official, unofficial, or administrative) from all credit hours during a term, or between modules, scheduled to attend (See Withdrawing), and not making SAP requirements at the time of the withdrawal.

Students are not eligible for financial aid while on Financial Aid Suspension. A letter is mailed and email sent to the student being placed on Financial Aid Suspension. Suspension of aid is not the same as academic suspension which is handled by the Academic Dean.

• Take courses to meet the minimum SAP requirements while not receiving financial aid.
• Appeal the Financial Aid Suspension (see below) and the appeal is granted.

APPEAL OF FINANCIAL AID SUSPENSION: When a student loses financial aid eligibility due to not making SAP, the student may submit an appeal to the Director of Financial Aid if extenuating circumstances prevented the student from meeting the SAP requirements. Extenuating circumstances may consist of illness or injury of the student; death of a family member; family difficulties such as divorce or illness; difficulty balancing school with work, athletics, or family responsibilities; or other special circumstances.The appeal should explain the extenuating circumstance and what has changed in the situation that would allow the student to make SAP at the end of the next evaluation.The appeal should be submitted within 15 days from the date of the official notice of financial aid ineligibility.An appeal committee will review the student’s request. The Director of Financial Aid will notify the student, in writing, of their decision:Probation: If the committee determines the student should be able to meet the SAP standards by the end of the subsequent term of enrollment, the student will be placed on probation for that term.If the student is still not making the SAP standards by the end of the term on probation, the student will be suspended from receiving financial aid.Academic Plan: If the committee determines the student would require more than one term to meet the SAP standards, the student would be placed on an academic plan for multiple terms. The student would be required to meet with their adviser to develop an academic plan. The plan must be submitted to the Director of Financial Aid before financial aid would be awarded to the student.The student would be reviewed after each term of their academic plan. If the student is not adhering to the plan, showing progression during the plan, or meeting the requirements by the last term of the plan, the student will be suspended from receiving financial aid.Back to Top

Withdrawal From Term

A student is considered to have withdrawn from a term (fall, spring, or summer) if the student does not complete all the days in the term for which the student was scheduled to complete.

If a student is attending only courses offered in modules, (courses that do not span the full length of a term, such as but not limited to 8-week modules) completes the first module then drops or fails to start the courses scheduled to attend in a module that begins later in the same term (withdrawing between modules) will be considered withdrawn from the term using the last day of academically related activity.

If a student provides written confirmation at the time of their withdrawal of their intent to attend courses registered in a module that begins later in the same term (example would be an eight-week module in the term that had not yet started), they would not be considered withdrawn. If, however, the student fails to return as intended, the student would be considered withdrawn from the term and the last day of attendance or academically related activity would be the withdrawal date and the payment period would be the modules scheduled to attend at the time of the written confirmation.

Nearing the end of a module, a student absent from all courses within the module and begins attendance in the next module within the term will not be considered administratively withdrawn from the term.

William Penn University takes attendance throughout the term and therefore the student’s last day of academically related activity is used as the student’s last day of attendance.

A student who officially withdraws or is administratively withdrawn during a term may not re-enter the University until the start of the next term.

For official or administrative withdrawals (see below) from the University, all courses a student begins attendance will have a grade of a “W”.

Official Withdraw

An official withdraw is when the student notifies the University of their intent to leave school prior to completing all the days in the term they were scheduled to attend. The student should contact the Director of Financial Aid, in PAC 204 or by email.

Official notification may be in written form, via telephone, in person, or through email.

Administrative Withdraw

Students who fail to attend at least one of their courses for two consecutive calendar weeks or are asked to leave the University are considered to be administratively withdrawn from the University.

When a student has failed to attend any of their courses for two consecutive calendar weeks, the University will make every effort to contact the student in an effort to re-engage them in their courses prior to administratively withdrawing the student.

Academically related activities do not include activities where the student may be present but not academically engaged such as:

• Living in the dorms
• Participating in the school’s meal plan
• Logging into an online course without active participation
• Participating in academic counseling or advisement
• Presence in intercollegiate athletic participation courses (PHLA 150-170) or presence in fine art ensemble courses such as but not limited to Jazz Ensemble, Marching/Pep Band, William Penn Singers, and Concert Band.

Unofficial Withdraw

Indicators of an unofficial withdrawal would include, but are not limited to:

• Students registered in only one module or full term courses  and do not have a passing grade in at least one course.
• Students registered in two sequential modules and do not have a passing grade in at least one course in the second module.
• Students registered in a combination of modules and full term courses and do not pass at least one full term or second module course.

All “F”, “NC”, “I” grades or a combination of “F”, “I”, “NC”, and “W” grades are not considered passing and would result in a 0.00 term grade point average and may be considered as an unofficial withdraw. A student present one of the scheduled days of final exams (see academic calendar for exam dates) would not be considered unofficially withdrawn.

Return of Title IV Funds Policy

The student’s failure to begin attendance in courses they were registered for and/or fail to submit paperwork required by the University at the time of their last day of attendance may result in an adjustment to the student’s financial aid assistance prior to completing the withdraw calculation.

The student who fails to begin attendance in any courses scheduled to attend which results in a change in enrollment status will have, if awarded, Pell, SEOG, Federal Work Study, any state, and institutional funds recalculated prior to the return calculation being performed. If the student has SEOG or Federal Work Study as part of their award, cost of attendace will be recalculated to determine if the student remains eligible for those funds prior to the return calculation being performed.

When a student withdraws, the amount of financial aid the student is eligible to receive may be affected. The Return of Title IV funds to the federal government is based on a calculation which determines how much aid the student is eligible to receive and how much the student is no longer eligible for because they are no longer enrolled in school. This calculation is applicable until the student has completed more than 60% of their payment period of the term. The student’s university bill will be charged what the student is no longer eligible to receive. Title IV, HEA funds may not cover all unpaid institutional charges due to the institution upon the students withdrawal.

• A payment period for students in at least one course spanning the full term would be the full term. (Fall and spring terms = 16 weeks each; summer term is 12 weeks)
• A payment period for a student in only one module would be the length of the module (fall or spring term = 8-week modules; summer term has a 4 or an 8-week module).
• A payment period for a student in a combination of two modules would be the length of the combination (fall or spring term have two 8-week modules to equal 16 weeks; summer term has a 4 and an 8-week module to equal 12 weeks). A student who dropped all courses in the second module while attending the first module would have a payment period of the one module as described above.

Once the student has completed more than 60% of their payment period of the term, all financial aid is considered earned. Calculations are made throughout the entire payment period to determine the percent.

To calculate the percent of the payment period completed for federal financial aid funds, take the number of calendar days the student attended in their payment period for the term and divide that by the number of calendar days in the payment period for the term (less scheduled breaks of at least five consecutive days). Students may need to repay financial aid that they received but did not earn since they did not complete the term.

When determining the amount of state, institutional, and outside financial aid the student is eligible to receive, the same percent used for calculating Title IV (federal) funds will be used.

Examples:

1. Student resided on campus and enrolled full-time for courses that spanned the full 16 weeks. The student, after attending all courses, withdrew from all courses on day 35. The original charges of $12,500 for tuition and $3,500 for room/board for the term total of $16,000.  The funds disbursed (credited) to the student university billing account were: $1,732 Federal Direct Stafford Loan, $500 state funds, and $6,000 institutional funds on day 10 of the term.  The balance due of $7,768 ($16,000- (1,732 + 500 + 6,000)) was paid in full by the student on day 20.

• There are 107 days in the payment period (16 weeks times 7 days per week = 112 less a schedule break of 5 days for Thanksgiving break).
• 35 divided by 107 = .3271; rounded to 32.7% completed of their payment period for the term.
• Apply the percentage completed, 32.7% to:
  • Title IV (federal) aid disbursed: $1,732 times 32.7% = $566.36 earned and $1,165.64 charged back to the student’s university billing account and returned back to the student’s lender of the loan.
  • State aid disbursed: $500 times 32.7% = $163.50 rounded to $164 earned and $336 charged back to the student’s university billing account and returned back the state authorization agency.
  • Institutional aid disbursed: $6,000 times 32.7% = $1,962.00 to earned and $4,038 charged back to the student’s university billing account and returned back to the University.
• The original tuition charges of $12,500 for the term will be refunded at the rate of 50% (see “Institutional Refund Policy” section, in the Academic Catalog, for full details). The original charges of $3,500 for room/board will be refunded at a rate of 63% (see “Cost of Attendance” section, in the Academic Catalog, for full details).  A total of $8,455 will be refunded back to the student’s university account for tuition and room/board.
• A credit of $2915.36 ((1,165.64 + 336 + 4,038) – $8,000) is owed back to the student.

2. Student resided off campus and enrolled half-time (six credits) for courses that only span the first 8 weeks of the term. Student, after attending all courses, withdrew from all courses on day 35. The original charges for the term were $2,250.  The funds disbursed (credited) to the student’s university billing account were:  $1,732 Federal Direct Stafford Loan and $500 state funds on day 10 of the term. The balance due of $18 ($2,250 – ($1,732 + 500)) was paid in full by the student on day 20.

• There are 56 days in the payment period (8 weeks times 7 days per week = 56 and there are no scheduled breaks of 5 or more days)
• 35 divided by 56 = .6250; rounded to 62.50%
• As 62.50% is over 60%, therefore no refund or return of funds is required.
• The original charge of $2,250 for the term will be refunded at the rate of 0% (see “Institutional Refund Policy” section, in the Academic Catalog, for full details).

3. Student resided off campus and enrolled six credits in the first eight-week module and six credits in the second eight-week module of the fall term. Student began attendance in the six credits in the first eight-week module and withdrew from all courses on September 25, day 35 of the term. The original charges for the term were $5,100.  The funds disbursed (credited) to the student’s university billing account were: $1,933 Federal Pell and $50 Federal SEOG on day 11.  The balance due of $3,117 ($5,100 – ($1,933 + $50)) was paid in full by the student on day 16.

• Since the student did not start all the courses registered for in the term, 12 credits (full-time), only began 6 credits (half-time) their Pell and SEOG will be recalculated to half-time prior to doing the return calculation.
  • Federal Pell was recalculated from $1,933 to $967
  • Federal SEOG was recalculated from $50 to $25
• There are 107 days in the payment period (16 weeks times 7 days per week = 112 less a schedule break of 5 days for Thanksgiving break).
• 35 divided by 107 = .3271; rounded to 32.7% completed of their payment period for the term.
• Apply the percentage completed, 32.7% to:
  • Title IV (federal) aid disbursed: $992 times 32.7% = $324.38 earned and $667.62 charged back to the student’s university billing account and returned back to the Federal Pell grant program.
• The original charges of $5,100 will be adjusted to $2,550 (the six credits attended) for the term will be refunded at the rate of 0% % (see “Institutional Refund Policy” section, in the Academic Catalog, for full details).
• A credit of $891.38 ((1633.62 (1933-967+667.62) +25) – $2,550) is owed back to the student.

The University is required to perform the Title IV return calculation as soon as possible but no later than 30 days from the date of the University’s determination that the student withdrew.  The date of determination is as soon as possible but no later than 14 days from the student’s last day of academically related activity.

If, according to the calculation, the student has Title IV (federal) funds that must be returned to the federal government they will be returned in the following order:

1. Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan
2. Federal Direct Subsidized Loans
3. Federal Perkins Loan
4. Federal PLUS (Parent) Loan
5. Federal PLUS (Graduate) Loan
6. Federal Pell Grant
7. Federal SEOG

The University is required to return Title IV funds as soon as possible but no later than 45 days from the date of the University’s determination that the student withdrew.  Grants and scholarships will be rounded to the nearest whole dollar.

Students will be notified, in writing, of any adjustments made.

Post Withdrawal Disbursement

If the student or parent (the parent only if there is a Parent PLUS loan) did not have all their eligible Title IV (federal) funds disbursed on to the student’s billing account prior to the student’s last day of academically related activity,  they may be due a post-withdrawal disbursement. Inadvertent over payments, funds disbursed to the student’s billing account after the student’s last day of academically related activity, fall in this category.

If the post-withdrawal disbursement includes federal loan funds the student is eligible for (meaning the University received a completed loan authorization form from the student and/or parent (the parent only if there is a Parent PLUS loan)  and the loan was originated by the University prior to the student’s last day of academically related activity), the University must obtain the written permission by the student and/or parent (the parent only if there is a Parent PLUS loan) before the funds can be disbursed or retained in the case of an inadvertent over payment.  The student and/or parent may choose to decline some or all their federal loan funds.  If the student/parent fails to acknowledge the consent form, the funds will be cancelled and/or in the case of inadvertent over payment returned to the federal aid program.

William Penn University may automatically use all or a portion of the post-withdrawal disbursement of Title IV (federal) grant funds for tuition, fees, room/board (if contracted with the University), and if a written permission from the student for other allowable charges (such as but not limited to prior-year charges not to exceed $200).

Refer to the Academic Catalog under “Institutional Refund Policy” for a description on adjustments to tuition and fees and refer to “Cost of Attendance” section for a description on adjustments to room and board charges.

Withdrawing Due to Active Duty

A student called to active duty, or the spouse of a member if the member has a dependent child, and needing to withdraw from all classes at William Penn University must contact the Registrar’s Office as well as the Director of Financial Aid to begin the withdraw process.

The student will receive 100% refund of the following charges: tuition, fees, room/board (if applicable).

Financial aid will be refunded as follows: 100% of all state, institutional, and outside financial assistance returned to the appropriate sources.   All Title IV (federal) student financial assistance will be processed per the Return of Title IV Funds Due to Student Withdrawal Policy  (see above). The student and/or parent (the parent only if there is a Parent PLUS loan), may request, in writing, to have 100% of federal funds returned.  In short, you may choose not to use federal funds for the payment period which you are withdrawing from since all tuition, fees, room/board (if applicable) are being removed from your University bill.

Other Options for Active Duty

In the event that a student has completed a sufficient and significant portion of the coursework (as determined by the instructor) a grade may be assigned.

In the event that an instructor wishes to allow the student to complete the course at a later date, an incomplete, “I”, grade shall be assigned.

In no event may a student receive both a refund and a grade of A, A-, B+, B, B-, C+, C, C-, D+, D, D-, F, or I.

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Exit Counseling information is provided to Federal Perkins Loan borrowers and Federal Direct Loan Stafford (subsidized and/or unsubsidized) Loan borrowers when a student ceases at least half-time enrollment at the University.

• Federal Direct Stafford Loan borrowers are instructed to complete exit counseling online at studentloans.gov.
  • You will need your FSA ID and password to log in. This is the ID and password used to complete your FAFSA. Once you have logged in, choose Manage Loans and then Complete Exit Counseling.
• Federal Perkins Loan borrowers are directed to complete exit counseling online at heartlandecsi.com.
  • You will need your ECSI username and password to log in. If you don’t have your username or password, you’ll need to create one. Once you create them, you will need your Heartland Key (encrypted account number) to connect your profile to your loan account. If you can’t locate your Heartland Key, please call ECSI customer service at 888-549-3274 or William Penn University Business Office at 641-673-1037.

When a borrower ceases enrollment without the institution’s prior knowledge, or fails to complete the counseling as required, exit counseling information will be mailed to the borrower’s last known address.

Inceptia Provides Loan Repayment Assitance: William Penn has partnered with Inceptia, a division of National Student Loan Repayment (NSLP) to provide you with FREE assistance on your Federal student loan obligations. William Penn University and Inceptia want to ensure you have a successful and comfortable loan repayment experience. Inceptia’s friendly customer representatives may reach out to you during your grace period or if your loan(s) become delinquent. Inceptia is NOT a collection agency. An Inceptia representative will help you explore the many repayment options, deferments, consolidation, discharge, forgiveness and forbearance that best fits your personal situation. Your Inceptia representative with stay in touch with you via phone, letter and/or emails to help you with your questions and solutions to issues.

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