Financial Aid

• Grants
• Scholarships
• Loans
• Part Time Employment
• Veterans
• Policies and Conditions of Awards
• Satisfactory Academic Progress

The Columbus State University Financial Aid Office offers a wide range of student financial assistance. The office provides information and aid to students seeking scholarships, grants, part-time employment and loans. Financial aid may be awarded based on financial need, academic ability, and/or leadership potential. 

Students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for consideration of federal, state and institutional aid programs. Many scholarship programs require this application. The 2007-2008 FAFSA applications are available online at www.fafsa.ed.gov beginning January 1, 2007.

Students seeking only the HOPE Scholarship program may apply on-line at GACollege411.

Students are urged to apply early for optimum financial aid benefits. The priority deadline for submission of completed financial aid applications to the CSU Financial Aid Office for Fall Semester 2007 is May 1.

In order to receive financial aid from federal or state financial aid programs, the student must meet Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards as required by federal regulations. Copies of the policy for determining Satisfactory Academic Progress are available in the CSU Financial Aid Office.

For additional information on financial assistance, review our website at http://finaid.colstate.edu. You may contact our office located in Fine Arts Hall by phone at 706-568-2036 or by fax at 706-568-2230.

Grants

A grant is gift aid with no repayment required. Primarily, grants are for undergraduate students. The amount awarded is based on financial need, school cost and enrollment status.

Federal Academic Competitiveness Grant. A federal grant for undergraduate students in their first-year ($750) or second-year ($1300) of study. Recipients must be a Federal Pell Grant recipient, have completed a rigorous secondary school program of study (as defined by the U. S. Department of Education), be a U.S. citizen and enrolled full-time in a 2 or 4 year degree program. First-year students must have completed the rigorous program after January 1, 2006 and second-year students after January 1, 2005. If a second-year student, must have a cumulative 3.0 gpa for the first academic year (30 earned hours).

Federal Pell Grant. Awarded to undergraduate students showing financial need as determined by a federal need analysis. Generally, Pell Grants are not awarded to students who have earned a bachelor's or professional degree.

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant. Awarded to exceptionally needy undergraduates with priority given to students who receive Federal Pell Grants.

Georgia's Leveraging Educational Assistance Partnership (LEAP) Grant. Awarded to Georgia residents receiving the Federal Pell Grant who demonstrate substantial need. The student must enroll at least half-time (6 semester hours).

National SMART Grant. The National Science and Mathematics Access to Retain Talent (SMART) Grant of $4000 is available to third and fourth year undergraduate full-time students who are majoring in physical, life, or computer sciences, mathematics, technology, engineering or in a foreign language determined critical to national security. The student must have maintained a cumulative 3.0 gpa in coursework for the major. Students must be a Federal Pell Grant recipient, a U.S. citizen, and enrolled full-time in a 4 year degree-granting institution. The 3.0 grade point average is checked each term. SMART recipients must have a minimum of 60 earned semester hours.

Scholarships

A current scholarship listing is available at http://finaid.colstate.edu/scholarships.

Honors & Leadership Scholarships

The AFLAC Endowment For Servant Leadership. Awarded to students who have demonstrated leadership potential by holding leadership positions in school and/or community organizations; active involvement in clubs, youth program, or student activities; and academic success. The award is $2,500 per year, given in four payments. Awards are renewable for up to 4 years, given that the recipient maintains the obligations of the program. Application deadline for entering freshmen is January 31st of each year and includes a written application and essay and an in-person interview. Associates in the Servant Leadership Program may apply for scholarships as they become available; those awards are renewable based on year of entry into the program. Contact the Director of Servant Leadership for more information at 706-565-3655.

Frank D. Brown Honors Scholarship. Awarded to academically talented entering freshmen that have a minimum SAT score of 1200 or ACT score of 27, and a high school gpa of at least 3.5. Awards are granted without regard to financial need and provide recipients with $2,500 for full-time enrollment during the fall and spring semesters and $3,200 toward the study abroad program during the junior or senior year. The award may be renewable for three years while participating in the Honors Program and maintaining a minimum cumulative gpa of 3.4.

Susan Chappell Butler Servant Leadership Scholarship. Awarded to students who have demonstrated leadership potential by holding leadership positions in school and/or community organizations; active involvement in clubs, youth program, or student activities; and academic success. The award is $2,500 per year, given in four payments. Awards are renewable for up to 4 years, given that the recipient maintains the obligations of the program. Application deadline for entering freshmen is January 31st of each year and includes a written application and essay and an in-person interview. Associates in the Servant Leadership Program may apply for scholarships as they become available; those awards are renewable based on year of entry into the program. Contact the Director of Servant Leadership for more information at 706-565-3655.

Robert C. Byrd Honors Scholarship. Awarded to entering full-time freshmen who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement. Maximum amount awarded is $1,500 per year. Contact your high school guidance counselor for further information.

Chattahoochee Valley Community College Honors Scholarship. Awarded to the top two graduates of Chattahoochee Valley Community College. This scholarship covers tuition and fees, and is renewable for an additional year for students who maintain a minimum cumulative gpa of 3.2.

Coca-Cola Servant Leadership Scholarship. Awarded to students who have demonstrated leadership potential by holding leadership positions in school and/or community organizations; active involvement in clubs, youth program, or student activities; and academic success. The award is $2,500 per year, given in four payments. Awards are renewable for up to 4 years, given that the recipient maintains the obligations of the program. Application deadline for entering freshmen is January 31st of each year and includes a written application and essay and an in-person interview. Associates in the Servant Leadership Program may apply for scholarships as they become available; those awards are renewable based on year of entry into the program. Contact the Director of Servant Leadership for more information at 706-565-3655.

Columbus State University Honors Scholarship. Awarded to academically talented entering freshmen that have a minimum SAT score of 1200 or ACT score of 27, and a high school gpa of at least 3.5. Awards are granted without regard to financial need and provide recipients with $2,500 for full-time enrollment during the fall and spring semesters and $3,200 toward the study abroad program during the junior or senior year. The award may be renewable for three years while participating in the Honors Program, maintaining a minimum cumulative gpa of 3.4 and remaining at full-time status.

Charles R. Eason Leadership Scholarship. Minimum of 60 hrs., 30 at CSU. 3.0 gpa. Proven outstanding leadership and service. Educational expenses up to cost of tuition and fees. Application deadline is October 1. Contact: Kim Rozycki, (706) 568-2273, rozycki_kim@colstate.edu.

Jean Hartin Servant Leadership Scholarship. Awarded to students who have demonstrated leadership potential by holding leadership positions in school and/or community organizations; active involvement in clubs, youth program, or student activities; and academic success. The award is $2,500 per year, given in four payments. Awards are renewable for up to 4 years, given that the recipient maintains the obligations of the program. Application deadline for entering freshmen is January 31st of each year and includes a written application and essay and an in-person interview. Associates in the Servant Leadership Program may apply for scholarships as they become available; those awards are renewable based on year of entry into the program. Contact the Director of Servant Leadership for more information at 706-565-3655.

Hollis Leadership Scholarship. Awarded to students with solid Academic backgrounds who exhibit leadership potential.

Herbert H. Hughes Scholarship. Awarded to academically talented entering freshmen that have a minimum SAT score of 1200 or ACT score of 27, and a high school gpa of at least 3.5. Awards are granted without regard to financial need and provide recipients with $2,500 for full-time enrollment during the fall and spring semesters and $3,200 toward the study abroad program during the junior or senior year. The award may be renewable for three years while participating in the Honors Program and maintaining a minimum cumulative gpa of 3.4.

James Wallace Hunter Honors Scholarship. Awarded to academically talented entering freshmen with at least a minimum SAT/ACT score of 1200/27 respectively and a high school gpa of at least 3.5. Awards are granted without regard to financial need and provide recipients with $2,500 for a full-time enrollment during the fall and spring semesters and $3,200 toward the study abroad program during the junior or senior year. The award may be renewable for three years while participating in the Honors Program and maintaining a minimum cumulative gpa of 3.4.

Paull/Morrow Family Endowment for Servant Leadership. Awarded to students who have demonstrated leadership potential by holding leadership positions in school and/or community organizations; active involvement in clubs, youth program, or student activities; and academic success. The award is $2,500 per year, given in four payments. Awards are renewable for up to 4 years, given that the recipient maintains the obligations of the program. Application deadline for entering freshmen is January 31st of each year and includes a written application and essay and an in-person interview. Associates in the Servant Leadership Program may apply for scholarships as they become available; those awards are renewable based on year of entry into the program. Contact the Director of Servant Leadership for more information at 706-565-3655.

James Newsom Scholarship. Awarded to academically talented entering freshmen that have a minimum SAT score of 1200 or ACT score of 27, and a high school gpa of at least 3.5. Awards are granted without regard to financial need and provide recipients with $2,500 for full-time enrollment during the fall and spring semesters and $3,200 toward the study abroad program during the junior or senior year. The award may be renewable for three years while participating in the Honors Program and maintaining a minimum cumulative gpa of 3.4.

The Annie and Emmitt Scott Leadership Scholarship. Recipients must be enrolled as a full-time at CSU. Recipients must exhibit potential to become strong leaders in the community. Preference will be given to applicants from Manchester (Georgia) High School

Servant Leadership Stipend. Awarded to students who have demonstrated leadership potential by holding leadership positions in school and/or community organizations; active involvement in clubs, youth program, or student activities; and academic success. The award is $2,500 per year, given in four payments. Awards are renewable for up to 4 years, given that the recipient maintains the obligations of the program. Application deadline for entering freshmen is January 31st of each year and includes a written application and essay and an in-person interview. Associates in the Servant Leadership Program may apply for scholarships as they become available; those awards are renewable based on year of entry into the program. Contact the Director of Servant Leadership for more information at 706-565-3655.

T. Hiram Stanley Memorial Scholarship. Awarded to academically talented entering freshmen who have a minimum SAT score of 1200 or ACT score of 27, and a high school gpa of at least 3.5. Awards are granted without regard to financial need and provide recipients with $2,500 for full-time enrollment during the fall and spring semesters and $3,200 toward the study abroad program during the junior or senior year. The award may be renewable for three years while participating in the Honors Program and maintaining a minimum cumulative gpa of 3.4.

Pearl A. Thiele Scholarship. Awarded to academically talented entering freshmen that have a minimum SAT score of 1200 or ACT score of 27, and a high school gpa of at least 3.5. Awards are granted without regard to financial need and provide recipients with $2,500 for full-time enrollment during the fall and spring semesters and $3,200 toward the study abroad program during the junior or senior year. The award may be renewable for three years while participating in the Honors Program and maintaining a minimum cumulative gpa of 3.4.

Tower Scholar Scholarship. Awarded to academically talented students, either enrolled or enrolling with a minimum SAT/ACT score of 1200/27 respectively and a high school gpa of at least 3.5. $2,500 for full-time enrollment during the fall and spring semester, $3,200 toward the study abroad program during the junior or senior year.

The William B. Turner Sr. Endowment For Servant Leadership.  Awarded to students who have demonstrated leadership potential by holding leadership positions in school and/or community organizations; active involvement in clubs, youth program, or student activities; and academic success. The award is $2,500 per year, given in four payments. Awards are renewable for up to 4 years, given that the recipient maintains the obligations of the program. Application deadline for entering freshmen is January 31st of each year and includes a written application and essay and an in-person interview. Associates in the Servant Leadership Program may apply for scholarships as they become available; those awards are renewable based on year of entry into the program. Contact the Director of Servant Leadership for more information at 706-565-3655.

R. W. Woodruff Servant Leadership Scholarship. Awarded to students who have demonstrated leadership potential by holding leadership positions in school and/or community organizations; active involvement in clubs, youth program, or student activities; and academic success. The award is $2,500 per year, given in four payments. Awards are renewable for up to 4 years, given that the recipient maintains the obligations of the program. Application deadline for entering freshmen is January 31st of each year and includes a written application and essay and an in-person interview. Associates in the Servant Leadership Program may apply for scholarships as they become available; those awards are renewable based on year of entry into the program. Contact the Director of Servant Leadership for more information at 706-565-3655.

Scholarships By Major/Interest

Art Scholarships

Contact the Department of Art at (706) 507-8300 for further information.

Gerry Bosch Art Scholarship. Awarded to art majors with demonstrated high aptitude in visual arts. A minimum gpa of 3.0 and actively involved departmental activities. The application deadline is April 1st of each year.

Columbus Artist Guild. Awarded to a student who is enrolled full time and in a minimum of two art courses. The student must have a minimum cumulative gpa of 3.0 and be actively involved in departmental activities. The maximum amount awarded is $500 per year. The application deadline is April 1st of each year.

Frances H. Ellis Art Scholarship.Awarded to talented and academically qualified full-time art majors at Columbus State University.

Friends of Art Scholarship. Awarded to art majors with demonstrated high aptitude in the visual arts. A minimum cumulative gpa of 3.0 and active involvement in departmental activities are required. Awards vary based on annual appropriations. The application deadline is April 1st of each year.

Mary Passailaigue Art Scholarship. Awarded to art majors with demonstrated high aptitude in the visual arts. A minimum cumulative gpa of 3.0 and active involvement in departmental activities are required. Awards vary based on annual appropriations. The application deadline is April 1st of each year. 

Edward Shorter Endowment Scholarship. Awarded to art majors with demonstrated high aptitude in the visual arts. A minimum cumulative gpa of 3.0 and active involvement in departmental activities are required. Awards vary based on annual appropriations. The application deadline is April 1st of each year.

Bebe Smith Art Scholarship. Awarded to art majors with demonstrated high aptitude in the visual arts. A minimum cumulative gpa of 3.0 and active involvement in departmental activities are required. Awards vary based on annual appropriations. The application deadline is April 1st of each year.

College of Arts and Letters Scholarships
Contact the Financial Aid Office at (706) 568-2036 for further information, unless otherwise indicated.

Alfonso Biggs Scholarship. Awarded to a deserving high school student accepted into the freshman class of Columbus State University with preference to students who have expressed an interest in History. Recipient must demonstrate financial need and must have a minimum 3.0 high school academic grade point average.

Columbus Junior Women's Club Fine Arts Endowment. Awarded to talented and academically qualified students majoring in the areas of art, music or theatre. Contact the Art Department (706) 568-2047

Patricia A. Spano Book Award. Awarded to academically qualified and deserving students who are majoring in the area of language and literature. Awarded in the spring to those who are planning on studying abroad in the summer or the fall. Contact the Department of Language and Literature (706)568-2054.

Elizabeth Kyle Spencer Memorial Scholarship. Awarded to an entering freshman majoring in History or English.

College of Business Scholarships

Contact the College of Business at (706) 568-2044 for more information.

W.L. Amos, Sr. Scholarship. Awarded to talented and academically qualified students pursuing a course of study with a concentration in Business at Columbus State University.

Judge John S. Averill Scholarship. Awarded to a full-time graduate student majoring in a program in business. Award covers the cost of tuition and fees for one year plus a stipend.

Georgia Society of CPAs Scholarship. Awarded to junior or senior accounting majors with a 3.0 or higher gpa. Must be a Georgia resident.

Regina Jankiewicz Memorial Scholarship Awarded to juniors and seniors who have completed at least one year of study in the College of Business and have a minimum cumulative gpa of 3.3. Students must be enrolled full time. The award covers the cost of tuition and fees for one year, and is renewable. The deadline for an application is April 1st of each year. 

National Association Purchasing Managers/Chattahoochee Valley Golf Scholarship. Awarded to a member of the Columbus State University golf team who is enrolled in the D. Abbott Turner College of Business with a 3.00 gpa or higher. The award covers tuition and fees for one year, and is renewable.

Charles D. Pattillo Scholarship. Awarded to junior or senior business majors with a minimum 3.0 gpa. Application deadline-April 1.

College of Education Scholarships

Contact the Financial Aid Office at (706) 568-2036 for further information, unless otherwise indicated.

The Ophelia Fleming Alsobrook Scholarship Endowment.  Awarded to undergraduate or graduate students in the Teachers Education Program at Columbus State University either in the alternative preparation program and/or the traditional program. Priority will be given to student(s) who currently reside, or previously have resided in Talbot County and /or desire to teach in the Talbot County School System. Students must maintain a gpa of 3.0 and full-time status of 12 hours.

Richard L. Duncan Scholarship for the Physically Disabled. Awarded to a physically disabled person majoring in Education at Columbus State University.

The Goizueta Foundation Scholarship. Preference given to students of Hispanic/Latino heritage with families residing in the U.S. Preference will be given to students enrolled in the College of Education. Recipients must demonstrate financial need as determined by CSU Financial Aid Office. Recipients must be in good academic standing.
Awards: Educational expenses up to cost of tuition and fees.
Deadline/Renewable: August 1
Contact: Financial Aid Office, Columbus State University, (706) 568-2036

HOPE Promise Teacher Scholarship Program. Awarded to juniors and seniors, as defined by the institution, who have a minimum cumulative gpa of 3.0, and who are aspiring to be teachers in Georgia schools. The maximum amount awarded is $3,000 per year for students taking six or more hours each term. The award is renewable for the senior year.

HOPE Teacher Scholarship Program. Awarded to legal residents of Georgia seeking advanced education degrees in critical fields. Recipients must commit to teach in a Georgia public school after earning an advanced degree. The maximum amount awarded is $125 per semester hour.

MEA Federal Credit Union/L.B. Hickson Memorial Scholarship. Awarded to a member of the MEA Federal Credit Union who holds a baccalaureate degree with teacher certification and who has been successfully employed as a full-time schoolteacher at least three years in Muscogee or Russell County. For more information, contact the College of Education at (706) 568-2212.

Elizabeth W. Purcell Scholarship. Awarded to a full-time student enrolled in the Columbus State University College of Education with a minimum gpa of 3.0.

William Henry Shaw Scholarship. Awarded to academically talented graduates of the Muscogee County School System. Recipients must be enrolled full time at CSU majoring in education. Awards vary based on annual appropriations. Contact your high school guidance counselor for further information.

Paul and Miriam Witt Family Scholarship. Awarded to a full-time student enrolled in the Columbus State University College of Education with a minimum gpa of 3.0.

College of Science Scholarships

Environmental Science Scholarship. Sponsored by The Columbus Water Works and awarded to juniors who have a minimum cumulative gpa of 3.2, who are majoring in science, and who are interested in a career in or directly related to environmental science. The maximum amount awarded is $1,000 for the senior year. Contact the College of Science at (706) 568-2056 for further information.

Georgia Lung Association Health Sciences Scholarship. Awarded to students who have been accepted into a health education or other health sciences program. Students must demonstrate financial need and have a minimum gpa of 2.5. The award is renewable and has an application deadline of May 1st each year. Contact the Director of the Health Science program at (706) 568-2300 for further information.

Norman Illges Memorial Scholarship. Awarded to students enrolled or accepted into a health science program, undergraduate or graduate. Must have a minimum undergraduate gpa of 2.5 or graduate gpa of 3.0 and demonstrate financial need. The award is renewable and has an application deadline of May 1st each year. Contact the Director of the Health Science program at (706) 568-2300 for further information.

Runnels Scholarship. Awarded to students majoring in pre-medical studies. The award is renewable and has an application deadline of May 1st each year. Contact the Director of the Health Science program at (706) 568-2300 for further information.

Communication Scholarships

Contact the Department of Communication at (706) 565-3650 for further information.

Celia B. Taylor Communication Scholarship. Awarded to students with above average gpas, strong records of extracurricular university activities, and departmental and/or community service. The maximum amount awarded is $1000 per year. The award is renewable and has an application deadline of January 15th each year. 

WRBL Rozell Fabiani Scholarship Fund. Awarded to juniors and seniors majoring in communication, with a minimum gpa of 3.0 and strong record of extracurricular university activities and/or community service. The maximum amount awarded is $1,000 per year. The award is renewable and has an application deadline of January 15th each year.

Military Science Scholarships

Contact the Department of Military Science at (706) 568-2449 for further information.

The Frank Lumpkin ROTC Scholarship Endowment. Awarded to students in the military science program.

ROTC Two-Year Scholarships. Awarded to students who have two years remaining to graduate and have a minimum cumulative gpa of 2.5. The maximum amount awarded is $16,000 per year for tuition and fees, $450 per year for books, and a $200 per month stipend. The application deadline is June 1st each year.

ROTC Three- and Four-Year Scholarships. Awarded to high school seniors and college freshmen who have a minimum cumulative gpa of 2.5 and a minimum SAT score of 920 or ACT score of 19. The maximum amount awarded is $16,000 per year for tuition and fees, $450 per year for books, and a $200 per month stipend. The application deadlines are November 14th for high school seniors and April 17th for college freshmen.

Benjamin Thomas Siegfried Memorial Scholarship. Awarded to juniors and seniors with above average gpas and strong records of school or community service. Must be enrolled in the ROTC program and submit an essay on army values. A board interview will be conducted and financial aid need will be considered. This award covers tuition, fees and books and is renewable. Contact the Military Science Department at (706) 568-2058.

Music Scholarships

A generous scholarship program provides financial assistance to talented music students based on performance ability and academic standing. The Schwob School of Music's primary concern is the education of promising musicians regardless of their financial circumstances. Auditions determine the recipients of the scholarships. Contact the Schwob School of Music (706) 649-7225 or visit http://music.colstate.edu/auditions.asp for deadline dates and further information.

Lloyd and Effie Bowers Music Scholarship. Eligibility: Students majoring in music who have achieved recognition of excellence in music.

The George H. Brawner, Sr. Music Scholarship Endowment. Awarded to talented students majoring in music with preference given to students participating in jazz band and guitar.

The Columbus Junior Woman's Club Fine Arts Endowment. Provides scholarships to talented and academically qualified students majoring in the areas of Art, Music, and Theatre.

The Maude Flournoy Dixon Music Scholarship Endowment.  Provides support to students majoring in music with a concentration in piano.

The Dwight Curtis Floyd Memorial Fine Arts Scholarship Endowment. Awarded to talented students majoring in music.

The Lenora Jordan Garrard Music Scholarship Endowment. Awarded to students majoring in music who have achieved recognition of excellence in music.

The Ken and Melinda Goldman Music Scholarship Endowment. Eligibility: Students majoring in music who have achieved recognition of excellence in music.

The Greenblatt Family Music Scholarship Endowment. Awarded to talented and academically qualified students majoring in music.

The Bert S. and Mary Eleanor Harp Music Scholarship Endowment. Awarded to students majoring in music who have achieved recognition of excellence in music.

The Georgia Mae Hopkins Piano Scholarship Endowment. Provides scholarship support to students majoring in music with a concentration in piano.

Jill Howard Music Educational Endowment. Awarded to talented students majoring in music with an emphasis in voice.

The Virginia Cook Lee and Katie Lou Cook Memorial Music Scholarship Fund.  Provides support to students majoring in music or music education.

The G. Gunby Jordan Endowment for Operatic Studies. Eligibility: Students majoring in music with an emphasis in voice who have achieved recognition of excellence in music.

The Alma Taliaferro McGee Music Scholarship Endowment. Provides scholarship support to students majoring in music with a concentration in piano.

Patrons of Music Scholarship Fund. Scholarships are available for talented students in the fields of music and music education. The amount ranges from the cost of applied music lessons to full tuition and fees.

Presser Foundation Music Scholarship. Awarded to a rising senior majoring in music. The award provides full tuition and fees.

The Dr. E. Stephen Purdom Music Scholarship Endowment. Students majoring in music who have achieved recognition of excellence in music.

The Helen Roberts Music Scholarship Endowment. Awarded to talented students majoring in music. The amount ranges from the cost of applied music lessons to full tuition and fees.

The Gerald Benjamin Saunders and Charlotte Alexander Saunders Music Scholarship Endowment.  Provides assistance to talented students majoring in music.

The Otis and Sandy Scarborough Music Scholarship Endowment. Recipients must be enrolled as a full-time music major with first priority given to students majoring in piano.

The Ruth S. Schwob Music Scholarship Endowment. Provides support to talented students majoring in music and music education.

The Simon Schwob Foundation Music Scholarship Endowment. Provides support to talented students majoring in music and music education.

Service Awards. Awarded to students who have demonstrated musical talent in piano, organ, strings, vocal, wind and percussion. Applicant screening consists of an audition and interview.

The Martha S. Turner Music Scholarship Endowment. Awarded to talented and academically superior students majoring in music and enrolled full-time.

The L. Rexford Whiddon Music Scholarship Endowment. Provides assistance to talented students majoring in music.

Woodruff Award Competition. Funded by The Woodruff Family Endowment for Cultural Advancement, the Woodruff Award is an innovative program established for the Schwob School of Music in December 1999. The Woodruff Scholarship, intended for entering undergraduates, provides a five thousand dollar ($5,000) annual stipend and is renewable for up to four years for a total of twenty thousand dollars ($20,000).

Deadline/Renewable: March 1/Yes

Nursing Scholarships

Nursing scholarships and awards are selected and presented to deserving junior and senior nursing students spring semester each year at Nursing Honors Night, held the night before graduation.

There are no nursing scholarships available to nursing major prior to admission to upper level clinical nursing courses. There are, however, loans and other financial aid available through the Financial Aid office. Of particular interest are the service cancellable' loans available through the state of Georgia. These loans are cancellable with work as an RN in qualifying facilities within the state of Georgia. Contact the Financial Aid office for details.

The Sarah Angermuller Award. Eligibility: Senior nursing student
Awards: Selected & awarded by nursing faculty in May
Deadline/Renewable: One time faculty selected based on clinical excellence..
Contact: None (oriented to scholarships and awards during orientation to nursing program)

The Astrid Hiie Baker Nursing Scholarship Fund.Eligibility: Junior nursing student
Awards: Selected & awarded by nursing faculty in May.
Deadline/Renewable: One time faculty selected based on merit.
Contact: None (oriented to scholarships and awards during orientation to nursing program)

Jane T. McEwen Christophil Memorial Fund. Eligibility: Junior and senior nursing students.
Awards: Selected & awarded by nursing faculty in December for spring semester.
Deadline/Renewable: Faculty selected based on nursing gpa.
Contact: None (oriented to scholarships and awards during orientation to nursing program)

CSU ADP Endowment Eligibility: Junior and Senior nursing student.
Awards: Selected & awarded by nursing faculty in May.
Deadline/Renewable: One time faculty selected based on merit.
Contact: None (oriented to scholarships and awards during orientation to nursing program).

Louise B. and F. L. Griffin Nursing Scholarships. Eligibility: Junior nursing student.
Awards: Selected & awarded by nursing faculty in May.
Deadline/Renewable: One time faculty selected based on merit.
Contact: None (oriented to scholarships and awards during orientation to nursing program)

Rose Gutman Nursing Scholarship Memorial. Eligibility: Junior nursing student.
Awards: Selected & awarded by nursing faculty in May.
Deadline/Renewable: One time faculty selected based on merit.
Contact: None (oriented to scholarships and awards during orientation to nursing program)

Katherine P. Hazouri Memorial Award. Eligibility: Junior nursing student.
Awards: Selected & awarded by nursing faculty in May
Deadline/Renewable: One time faculty selected based on merit.
Contact: None (oriented to scholarships and awards during orientation to nursing program)

Jean MacArthur Memorial Award. Eligibility: Junior and senior nursing student.
Awards: Selected & awarded by nursing faculty in May .
Deadline/Renewable: One time faculty selected based on clinical excellence.
Contact: None (oriented to scholarships and awards during orientation to nursing program)

Kenneth Nance Nursing Scholarship Endowment. Eligibility: Junior & senior nursing students.
Awards: Selected & awarded by nursing faculty in May.
Deadline/Renewable: One time faculty selected based on merit
Contact: None (oriented to scholarships and awards during orientation to nursing program)

Shelby Spears "Hero Mama" Scholarship. Eligibility: Junior nursing students, with preference given to single mothers caring for minor children alone.
Awards: Selected & awarded by nursing faculty in May
Deadline/Renewable: One time faculty selected based on application and merit
Contact: None (oriented to scholarships and awards during orientation to nursing program)

General Selection Criteria for Scholarships and Awards

1. gpa 3.0 or higher
2. Demonstrates clinical competence, judgment & decision making skill appropriate for level in the nursing program.
3. Displays high degree of initiative and motivation.
4. Demonstrates significant leadership potential.
5. Displays compassion and concern for others.
6. Communicates effectively with peers, patients, families and members of the health care team.

* Some scholarships and awards have other criteria specified by the donor.

Political Science

The Mario R. Mion Political Science Honors Scholarship Endowment. Awarded to a student majoring in Political Science with a minimum of a 3.0 gpa who has obtained at least 90 semester hours of college/university study, of which at least 45 semester hours has been earned from Columbus State University. For more information, contact the Political Science Department at (706) 568-2027.

Theatre Scholarships

Contact the Department of Theatre at (706) 568-2048 for further information.

Department of Theatre Assistantships. Primary consideration given to Theatre majors. The maximum amount awarded is $1,400 for one year. The application deadline is March 1st each year.

Department of Theatre Scholarships. Awarded to theatre majors with a minimum cumulative gpa of 3.0. The maximum amount awarded is $1200 for one year. The application deadline is April 1st each year.

Springer Theatre's Bill Evans Memorial Scholarship. Awarded to theatre majors who are sophomores or above. Other departmental considerations apply. The maximum amount awarded is $500 for one year. The application deadline date is April 1st each year.

Theatre Education Scholarship. Awarded to an outstanding full-time Theatre Education major classified as sophomore or above. The maximum amount awarded is $1500 per academic year. The application deadline is April 1st each year.

Emily Woodruff Scholarship. Awarded to the top academic theatre majors, one in each category of sophomore, junior, and senior. Award covers tuition and fees for one year. The application deadline is April 1st each year.

Undergraduate Scholarships

Application available online at http://finaid.colstate.edu/scholarships.

Academic Decathlon Scholarship. Awarded to academically talented entering freshmen. This is a one-time award of $600. Contact the Muscogee County School District at (706) 649-0500 for further information.

Elena Diaz-Verson Amos Educational Scholarship. Awarded to students in good academic standing to assist them in paying for a study abroad program in Latin America or Spain.  Contact: Center for International Education (706) 565-4036.

Paul S. Amos, AFLAC Scholarship Fund. Awarded to dependents of AFLAC employees only. Award covers educational expenses up to the cost of in-state tuition and fees.

Paul S. Amos Educational Scholarship. Provides support to CSU students employed full-time in the Columbus/Phenix City area who have strong community service records and a minimum cumulative gpa of 2.5. Award covers tuition and fees up to a maximum of nine semester hours each term. Preference is given to AFLAC employees.

Asian Pacific Alliance Educational Foundation, Inc. Scholarship. Awarded to entering freshmen who have a minimum high school gpa of 3.0 and a minimum SAT score of 1100. Recipients must demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum cumulative gpa of 3.0. Award covers educational expense up to tuition and fees. Awarded to graduates of Muscogee County School District. Deadline May 31st each year. Contact the Asian Pacific Alliance Educational Foundation program office at (706) 327-0678 for further information.

Leo and Florence Brooks Scholarship Fund. Awarded to full-time freshmen with demonstrated academic and leadership potential.

Gerald G. and Linnie T. Coady Scholarship. Awarded to students who have excelled academically and have a documented financial need. The scholarship covers educational expenses up to the cost of tuition and fees.

CPPS. A service cancelable scholarship for Columbus Police Department officers to obtain an Associates Degree in Criminal Justice. Officers must maintain a 2.5 gpa each semester of enrollment. Cancellation is made by completing two years of employment with the Columbus Police Department after finishing all coursework towards the Associates Degree in Criminal Justice.
Contact: Financial Aid (706) 568-2036

Ralph H. & Annie G. Owen Curry Scholarship. Awarded to students who are not Columbus State University employees or family members of CSU employees. Recipients must be enrolled as full-time students, have at least a cumulative gpa of 2.5, and have demonstrated financial need. Award covers educational expenses up to the cost of tuition and fees up to a maximum of two semesters.

Edwards-Dimon Fellowship. Mary Dimon, a teacher in the Muscogee County School District and a dedicated women's advocate, left educational funds for re-entry women to be named for her mother, Margaret Edwards Dimon. These funds will be awarded by the Columbus Branch of the American Association of University Women. The fellowship is $500 per semester and AAUW affiliate membership. Contact Erma Banks, (706) 565-3684.

Mildred Miller Fort Foundation Scholarship.p. Awarded to students in good academic standing to assist them in paying for a study abroad program. The maximum amount awarded is $1,000 per year. Contact: Center for International Education(706) 565-4036.

Georgia Governor's Scholarship. Awarded to entering freshmen selected as STAR students or valedictorians. The maximum award is $900 per year. Contact your guidance counselor for further information.

Georgia HERO Scholarship:p: Be a Georgia National Guard or U.S. Military Reserve member of child of a member who has completed at least one qualifying term of service. A qualifying term is defined as deployment overseas, on or after May 3, 2005, for active service to a location outside of the United States and its territories designated by the Department of Defense as a combat zone, for a consecutive period of 181 days. Information about this scholarship is available at GACollege411.

Helping Outstanding Pupils Educationally (HOPE). Funded through the Georgia lottery, HOPE is a state-sponsored scholarship program. Freshmen are identified as HOPE recipients by their high schools. The Financial Aid Office evaluates sophomores, juniors and seniors to determine HOPE eligibility. The scholarship covers tuition and most mandatory fees and awards a maximum book allowance of $150 per semester.

Mae Johnson Scholarship. Awarded to a student whose academic credentials and leadership skills are worthy of recognition. Preference will be given to children of domestic employees.

Kennon, Parker, Duncan and Key Scholarship. Awarded to juniors or seniors with above average gpas and strong records of school or community service. Award covers tuition and fees for one year and is renewable up to one year.

Law Enforcement Personnel Dependents Grant and Public Safety Memorial Grant. Awarded to children of law enforcement officers, firemen, or prison guard in Georgia who are permanently disabled or were killed in the line of duty. Recipients must be legal residents of Georgia working on their undergraduate degree. The maximum amount awarded is $2,000 per year. Information is available at GACollege411.

Walter and Sally Lunsford Scholarship. Recipients must be of good character, must demonstrate academic potential and financial need. Preference will be given to single working mothers attending CSU at least half-time.
Awards: Varies.
Deadline: March 1
Contact: Financial Aid (706) 568-2036

Elizabeth McTaggart Memorial Scholarship. Awarded based on financial need to a sophomore female undergraduate Adult Re-entry student who has a cumulative gpa of 2.5 or better. Applicants must have completed between 30 and 60 hours, declared a major, and be enrolled in nine or more hours. Contact Erma Banks, (706) 565-3684.

Nakai Fund for Asian Studies Scholarship. Awarded to students in good academic standing to assist them in paying for a study abroad program in Asia. Contact: Center for International Education (706) 565-4036.  

John and Judith Satlof Scholarship. Recipient must demonstrate financial need, academic achievement and actively participate in community and student activities.

Florence Jean and C. Alex Sears, Jr., Scholarship. First priority in awarding the scholarships will be given to applicants from Girls, Inc. Applicants from Girls, Inc. who also enroll in the CSU Servant Leadership Program will be given priority consideration.

James Henry Smith and Gladys Manning Smith. Awarded to a deserving high school students who wish to attend Columbus State University with preference to graduates from high schools in Muscogee County.

Spencer/Oxford Scholarship. Awarded to students who are accepted into the CSU in Oxford Visiting Student Program. Award covers all program charges in excess of CSU tuition, fees and accomodation.

Students Abroad with the Assistance of the Regents' (STARS). Stipends, travel awards and assistantships awarded to students attending a University System of Georgia institution to assist them in paying for a study abroad program. The maximum amount awarded is $500 to $1,000 per year. The number of awards varies based on annual appropriations.

Teen Achievers Award. Awarded to a high school graduate who was a member of the CSU Teen Achievers Program during grades 8-12. Award covers tuition and fees for one semester at CSU. Other teen achievers attending CSU may receive a $100 book allowance. Contact the Minority Affairs Office at (706) 568-2273 for more information.

Mattie C. Thomas Memorial Scholarship. Awarded to a student who has been enrolled in the Muscogee County School District and who has been admitted to CSU under the High School Joint Enrollment Program with outstanding academic grades, extra curricular leadership and community service. Contact Erma Banks (706)565-3684.

Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of Georgia Foundation Memorial Scholarship. Awarded to a full-time undergraduate student who is a Georgia resident with financial need, and who has demonstrated successful academic achievement and active participation in community and student activities. Award covers tuition and fees for one year based on availability of funds.

Graduate Scholarships

Columbus State University Alumni Scholarship. Awarded to graduates of CSU with a bachelors or masters degree. Recipients must be active donors to CSU, be enrolled in a degree program, and have completed at least three semester hours. The maximum amount awarded is $500 per semester. The award is renewable and has an application deadline of May 31st (fall semester) and October 31st (spring semester).

Alumni Scholarships

Contact the Alumni Association at (706) 568-2280 for further information, unless otherwise indicated.

Columbus State University William Howard Alumni Scholarship. Awarded to entering freshmen who are alternates for the CSU Honors Scholarship. Recipients must have a minimum SAT score of 1200 or ACT score of 25 and minimum high school gpa of 3.5. The award covers tuition and fees for one year, and is renewable for the sophomore year.

Columbus State University Roy Tanner Alumni Scholarship. Recipients must be adult re-entry students and have successfully completed 30 semester hours (minimum of nine hours at CSU). The maximum amount awarded is $800 per year. The award is renewable and has an application deadline of May 31st each year.

Charles R. Eason Alumni Book Scholarship. Recipients are alternates for the CSU Alumni, William Howard, and Roy Tanner scholarship along with other eligible students. Financial need and academic potential are also considered. The minimum gpa required is 3.0. The maximum amount awarded is $500 per year. The application deadline is May 31st (fall semester) and October 31st (spring semester).

Miss Columbus State University Scholarship. Awarded to the winner of the Miss CSU Title. The maximum amount awarded is $1,000 per year. Contact the CSU Campus Athletics Coordinator at (706) 568-2317 for further information.

Athletic Scholarships

Contact the Department of Athletics at (706) 568-2204 for further information.

The Ruth O. Andrae Scholarship Fund. Awarded to a CSU women's basketball player who demonstrates talent in the area of athletic competition and who is actively involved in the community. Contact: Athletic Department, (706) 568-2204.

Columbus State University Athletic Scholarship. Awarded to men and women with demonstrated talent in baseball, basketball, cheerleading, cross country, golf, softball and tennis. Recipients must be enrolled as full-time students. Awards vary depending on annual appropriations. 

Columbus State University Fifth Year Senior Scholarship. Awarded to student athletes who have completed their athletic eligibility and are within one year of obtaining their baccalaureate degree. 

The Alvin "PIG" Davis /Cal Carter Athletic Scholarship. Recipients of the scholarship are required to display exceptional talents in the area of athletic competition, and excel in their academic studies.

Rebecca 'Granny' Davis Scholarship. Student should be a member of Columbus State University Cheerleading Team who has exhibited leadership, shown willingness to work hard, contributed the most to the team, and represented the model of a CSU cheerleader during the past year.

Lenora Jordan Garrard Tennis Scholarship. Awarded to a Columbus State University tennis player with a 3.0 gpa or higher.

The 'PUD' Greene Athletic Scholarship. Awarded to student athletes who display exceptional talents in the area of athletics.

Henson Family Soccer Scholarship. Awarded to a CSU women's soccer player with a 2.5 gpa or higher who demonstrates dedication to the classroom and earning a degree from Columbus State University
Awards: Educational expenses up to cost of tuition and fees.
Deadline/Renewable: July 1/Yes
Contact: Athletic Department, (706) 568-2204

Hughston Athletic Training Fellowship. Awarded to graduate students with NATA certification enrolled in the master's degree program in health and physical education who have a minimum undergraduate gpa of 2.75.

Jack B. Key, Sr. Golf Scholarship. Awarded to a CSU golfer with a 3.0 gpa or higher. The award covers educational expenses up to cost of tuition and fees.

Elwood Moyer Scholarship. Awarded to student athletes with demonstrated financial need and athletic ability. The maximum award amount is $1,000 a year.

National Association Purchasing Managers/Chattahoochee Valley Golf Scholarship. Awarded to a Columbus State University golfer with a 3.00 gpa or higher. The award covers tuition and fees for one year, and is renewable.

The George P. Swift, Jr. Golf Scholarship. Awarded to a CSU golfer who demonstrates a dedication to the classroom and earning a degree from Columbus State University.

Jonathon Swift Tennis Scholarship. Awarded to a Columbus State University tennis player with a 3.0 gpa or higher. The award covers tuition and fees for one year, and is renewable. 

The Walden Athletic Scholarship. Awarded to an outstanding athlete who demonstrates financial need and athletic ability.

Wilcox-Lumpkin Foundation Athletic Scholarship. Attendance at CSU for one full year with a minimum gpa of 3.0. Must display exceptional talents in the area of athletics.

Loans

The Columbus Rotary Education Foundation. Information and applications may be secured from the secretary, Columbus Rotary Educational Foundation, Box 1138, Columbus, Georgia 31902-1138.

Columbus State University Emergency Loan.; This fund was established through the generosity of Dora G. and Jac. H. Rothschild for the benefit of Columbus State University students who are in need of small, short-term loans to help defray college expenses. It is co-sponsored by the CSU Foundation. The maximum amount is $1500 toward tuition, fees, room and board, not to exceed the unpaid balance of institutional charges. A co-signer is required. Students must have a cumulative 2.0 gpa. The gpa requirement is waived for entering freshmen without transfer coursework. Repayment is in 3 installments, on the 15th of each month.

Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan. Graduate students enrolled at least half-time (5 graduate hours or more) may borrow through the Graduate PLUS loan. The student must first apply for the maximum loan eligibility in Subsidized and Unsubsidized Stafford loans before a Graduate PLUS loan can be processed. Loan eligibility is based upon the cost of attendance minus other aid received. A credit check is required.

Federal Direct Stafford Loan. A federal loan bearing the following loan limits: freshmen - $2,625, sophomores - $3,500, juniors and seniors - $5,500. Graduate students may borrow up to $8,500. Independent students may borrow an additional unsubsidized amount of $4,000 - freshmen and sophomores, $5,000 - juniors and seniors, and $10,000 - graduate students.

Federal Direct PLUS Loan. Parents may borrow for dependent undergraduate students. Parents and the Financial Aid Office determine loan limits.

Federal Perkins Loan.  A low interest (5 percent) loan for both undergraduate and graduate students. Recipients must demonstrate financial need for the amounts borrowed. Loan funds are limited.

Georgia National Guard Service Cancelable Educational Loan. The Georgia Student Finance Authority offers a Service Cancelable Loan to eligible members of the Georgia National Guard. The loan is forgiven if the student maintains good military standing as an eligible member of the Georgia National Guard for a specified period of time. Loan funds are limited.

Greentree-Sevier Educational Loan. A limited number of these loans are awarded annually to students who have demonstrated satisfactory academic ability and are in need of funds to continue their education. These loans have a simple interest rate of 8.5 percent per annum. No interest accrues, nor is any payment due, while the student is enrolled. Repayment and interest begin 90 days after termination of studies.s.

Nursing Educational Service Cancelable Loan. The Georgia Student Finance Authority offers a Service Cancelable Loan to Georgia residents enrolled in a Nursing program. Certified nurses cancel each academic year of loan by practicing full-time for one calendar year at an approved site. Students must obtain employment in Georgia and receive approval of the employment site for service credit. Loan funds are limited.

Master's Programs in Counseling Loan. Students who have been fully admitted to either the MED in school counseling or the MS in community counseling may borrow up to two-thirds of in-state tuition and fees per semester. Contact the Financial Aid Office for more information.

The Pickett and Hatcher Educational Fund. A nonprofit private foundation created to assist entering freshmen students in fields of study other than law, medicine, or the ministry. For more information, review the website at www.phef.org. Applications are available in January of each academic year.

Elisabeth D. Pattillo Loan Fund. Provides support to undergraduate students majoring in special education with an emphasis in mental retardation. Students who qualify may borrow up to $800 annually. Borrowers may qualify for service repayment by teaching in the Muscogee County School District in the field of mental retardation.

Part-Time Employment

Federal Work-Study Program. Awarded to financially needy students interested in part-time employment. The award is made for a specified period and job assignments are based on funding, position availability and an interview with the employer.

Off-Campus Jobs. Listings for many part-time and full-time job opportunities are available in the Career Center. Most employers who call the center regarding job openings are willing to allow a student flexibility in order to work around class schedules.

Regular Student Assistant Program. A limited number of part-time positions are available to students through various campus departments. Applications should be made directly to the Career Center. Opportunities under this program are based on university work needs.

Veterans and Dependents

Eligibility and Entitlements title 38, U.S.C.

VA Educational benefits are provided to the veteran and qualified dependents as follows:s:
Chapter 30 - Montgomery GI Bill.  Service personnel may be eligible to receive benefits if they initially entered active duty on or after July 1, 1985, were discharged from active duty with an "Honorable Discharge," have completed their contractual active duty obligation and have contributed $100.00 a month for 12 months of active duty service.

Chapter 31 - Vocational Rehabilitation.  Vocational Rehabilitation is provided for veterans who have a service connected disability and were discharged or released from active duty under conditions other than dishonorable. The Veteran Administration determines eligibility.

Chapter 32 - VEAP (Post Vietnam Era Veterans).  Veterans who served and service persons currently serving are eligible if they entered active duty after December 31, 1976 and before June 30 1985, were released under conditions other than dishonorable or continue on active duty but have completed their obligation period of service and have satisfactorily contributed to the program. The contribution account must have been opened prior to April 1, 1987.7.

Chapter 34 - GI Bill.  Veterans who served on active duty for more than 180 continuous days after January 31, 1955 and prior to January 1, 1977 and who were released under honorable conditions are eligible for the GI Bill. Eligibility for these benefits ceased at the end of 10 years from the date of release from active duty or on December 31, 1989, whichever comes first. Individuals who are eligible to receive Chapter 34 benefits on December 31, 1989 who served without a break in active duty from October 19, 1984 through June 30, 1985 and have served continuously on active duty after June 30, 1985 for 3 years are eligible for benefits.

Veterans and Dependents

Chapter 35 - Dependents.  Dependents of veterans with a 100% permanent service-connected disability or service-connected death are eligible for 45 months of educational entitlement.

Chapter 1606 - Selected Reserve.  Basic eligibility exists for a person who, after July 1, 1985

• Enlists, reenlists or extends an enlistment for a period of not less than six years, or
• Completes IADT (initial active duty for training), participating in Selective Reserve training and remains in good standing. Meets the requirements to receive a high school diploma or equivalency certificate before completing IADT.

Chapter 1607 Reserve Educational Assistance Program (Reap). REAP was established as a part of the Ronald W. Reagan National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2005. It is a new Department of Defense education benefit program designed to provide educational assistance to members of the Reserve components called or ordered to active duty in response to a war or national emergency (contingency operation) as declared by the President or Congress. This new program makes certain reservists who were activated for at least 90 days after September 11, 2001 either eligible for education benefits or eligible for increased benefits.

Interested persons may contact the VA website at www.gibill.va.gov or the Columbus State University Veterans Affairs Office, Fine Arts Hall, 706-568-2139.

For information regarding credit for military training, refer to the nontraditional sources of credit under the Undergraduate Admissions section of this catalog. 

Financial Aid Policies and Conditions of Awards

The following financial aid policies and conditions of award apply to students who are recipients of federal or state financial assistance while attending Columbus State University:

• Students must apply annually for federal aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Students seeking only the HOPE Scholarship may apply once on-line at GACollege411.
• Students must be regularly admitted to Columbus State University in a degree-seeking status and must be enrolled in an eligible degree-seeking program prior to the first day of the term to participate in federal and state aid programs. Provisionally admitted students are not eligible for financial assistance. Transient students should contact their home institution for financial aid.
• Students must (1) meet the school's Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards, (2) not owe a refund on any grant or be in default on any educational loan and (3) not have borrowed in excess of the loan limits under the Title IV programs at any institution.
• Financial aid is limited to coursework required for the declared major as stated in this catalog. Financial aid is not available for audit courses.
• Students must attend the classes in which they have enrolled to be eligible for aid payment.
• Financial aid awards are based on full-time enrollment for each term awarded. Less than full-time enrollment may require an adjustment to the aid award. Undergraduate students enrolled in 12 or more semester hours are classified as full-time; 9-11 semester hours as three-quarter-time; 6-8 semester hours as half time; and 1-4 semester hours as less-than-half-time. Graduate students enrolled in 9 or more semester hours are classified as full-time; 5-8 semester hours as half time; and 1-4 semester hours as less than half time.
• Students needing summer loan assistance may submit a loan request form or indicate their interest on-line in ISIS. The summer financial aid priority processing deadline is March 15th.
• Students awarded an educational student loan must complete loan counseling prior to their first loan disbursement.  Counseling is available on-line at www.dlservicer.ed.gov.
• Institutional charges (tuition, fees, room and board) will be deducted from the financial aid award each term. Students should be prepared to pay any difference owed by the fee payment deadline. For students with aid greater than the institutional charges, any remaining funds are released no later than 14 calendar days after their first day of class or the balance occurs, whichever is later.
• Late aid applicants will have their fund balance released no later than 14 calendar days from the date that the aid is credited to the student's account or their first day of class, whichever is later.
• No student may receive financial aid for more than 30 semester hours of remedial coursework, which includes all College Preparatory Curriculum deficiencies, remedial courses or learning support courses.
• Students must report any financial aid they receive or expect to receive from an outside source.
• Employment in the Federal Work-Study program is not guaranteed. Awards are based on funding, position availability and an interview with an employer. Students cannot earn more than their annual award. Students who receive an "unsatisfactory" job performance evaluation will be terminated from the program.
• Students receiving financial aid who withdraw or who stop attending all classes are subject to regulations regarding the return of funds to the aid programs. Federal aid recipients withdrawing before the 60% point of the term may owe a repayment of federal funds received. Refer to the Refund Section of this catalog.

Satisfactory Academic Progress

The Columbus State University Financial Aid Office administers Title IV Federal Student Aid under guidelines from the U. S. Department of Education. The Secretary of Education requires schools to develop and implement policies by which academic progress is evaluated and monitored. In order to receive federal or state financial aid, a student must maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP). Students who fail to maintain SAP will be notified in writing by the Financial Aid Office.

Eligibility is based upon an evaluation of the cumulative hours accepted for transfer and hours attempted at CSU. When computing the standards of Satisfactory Academic Progress, all regular courses (including those with grades of F, WF, W, U, I, and IP); repeated courses; and remedial courses (courses numbered 0001-0999) are included in total hours attempted toward this measure. All grades (first and subsequent attempts) of the attempted hours are computed in the grade point average calculations.

A student will be evaluated on both qualitative and quantitative measures. The minimum acceptable standards for receiving federal or state aid are as follows:

Qualitative.  All financial aid recipients are expected to earn the minimum required grade point average (gpa) that corresponds with the total number of hours attempted.
 

Graduate students must maintain a graduate gpa of 3.0. .

Quantitative.  Students must not exceed 150% of the normal length of the program. For example, the maximum timeframe of eligibility for an undergraduate student is 185 attempted hours for a 123 hour program. The maximum timeframe of eligibility for a graduate student is 54 attempted hours for a 36 hour program. 

Students are expected to successfully complete a minimum of 67% of the total hours attempted (transfer hours included). Successful completion is limited to grades of A, B, C, D, and S. Unsuccessful attempts include grades of F, WF, W, U, I, and IP.

Students who fall below the minimum overall financial aid gpa, fail to successfully complete 67% of the hours attempted or exceed the maximum timeframe for program completion will be in violation of the SAP policy. SAP is measured at the end of each spring semester.

Students notified that they are not making Satisfactory Academic Progress may request their eligibility for assistance be reinstated upon the removal of the deficiencies or submit a written appeal explaining the unusual circumstances regarding the deficiencies to: Financial Aid Appeals Committee, c/o Financial Aid Office, Columbus State University, 4225 University Avenue, Columbus, GA 31907-5645. Students will receive a written response to appeals within approximately three weeks.

Students placed on financial aid probation may continue to receive aid but must meet the following requirements every semester while in this status: earn a C average, enroll for a minimum of 6 hours and receive only successful grades (A, B, C, D, and S) in all courses taken.