Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a separate application for merit-based scholarships?
No. Once admitted, students are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships.
An additional application is required for Excellence Scholarships. Visit the Excellence Scholarship page for application information.
Is it worthwhile to complete the FAFSA even though we know we won’t qualify for federal or state need-based aid?
Yes, at least for the first year. The FAFSA is required for Houghton need-based scholarships, some other Houghton scholarships as well as for federal loans.
Do I need to fill out a separate form for Houghton, or does the FAFSA cover it?
In most cases, the FAFSA is the only financial aid form you’ll need to complete. View our Applying for Aid webpage for complete details.
What's the timeframe for applying for financial aid?
Students can begin filing financial aid applications after January 1st. The priority application deadline is March 1st. Financial aid award letters are sent in March. May 1st is when you’ll need to notify colleges whether or not you are accepting their offer of admission and financial aid. View our Financial Aid timeline for complete details.
Can I work on campus to help pay my expenses?
Nearly half of our students participate in the federal work study
program. Some common on-campus employers include the
admission office, campus store, custodial, maintenance, food
service, and the library to name a few.
Students generally work 8-10 hours per week and use their pay toward books and living expenses.
Can I use my Houghton financial aid when studying abroad?
You can receive your Houghton College financial aid (Excellence scholarship, Houghton College Grant, etc.) only when studying abroad on a Houghton College program. These include the Houghton Honors Program, Houghton in London and Houghton in Tanzania. Discover more about off-campus programs at Houghton.
What are the payment options?
Your bill can be paid by check, credit card or a 12-month payment plan through Tuition Management Systems. You can also cover the remaining balance with a PLUS or Alternative loan.
What if my family has unusual or unexpected financial circumstances?
You can complete our special circumstances form to inform us about any unusual or unexpected financial circumstances. We will take this additional information into account when completing your financial aid award letter.
Do you negotiate financial aid packages?
Our goal is to provide the best financial aid package the first time. We can reevaluate your financial aid package if new information arrives, such as new SAT/ACT scores, loss of a job, change in financial situation, etc.
Acronyms
The financial aid world is filled with acronyms...FAFSA, PELL, SEOG, TAP. Here are definitions for a few of them!
EFC: Expected Family Contribution
An amount derived from the FAFSA information that students and families are expected to contribute to the extent that they are able toward their educational costs.
FAFSA: Free Application for Federal Student Aid
The form that most colleges require families to submit in order
to apply for financial aid. The form required for federal
government need-based funding, including PELL grants and Stafford
loans. Houghton's FAFSA code is 002734.
PELL Grant:
A grant program targeted to the most needy students, PELL provides up to $5,350 per year for full-time students. Students must apply via the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Federal SEOG : Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant
Typically ranges from $500 to $750 per year and is directed toward students with exceptional financial need. Priority is given to PELL Grant recipients.
Federal PLUS Loan
The Parental Loan for Undergraduate Students (PLUS) allows a parent to borrow the difference between the cost of education and financial aid received.
New York State TAP: Tuition Assistance Program
The New York State TAP program provides annual awards for up to
$5,000 to eligible, full-time undergraduate students. The applicant
must be a New York state resident, meet income eligibility
requirements, and attend college in New York state. Apply by
completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and
listing a college in New York state. An Express Tuition Application
(ETA) will then be mailed to the student.
