Financial Information

Tuition

Changes in tuition and fees became effective January 2019 and apply to all students unless otherwise specified. In-state and out-of-state tuition are the same. Tuition and fees are subject to change at the end of any term. Unless otherwise stated, the cost of books, technology charges, lab coats, and other miscellaneous expenses are not included in tuition or fees.

Tiered Tuition Structure:

Students who persist and successfully earn academic credits in their educational programs* are eligible for a reduced tuition structure that decreases the students’ actual tuition. 

Associate’s level programs:

Based on the length of the associate degree program, students will receive a tuition reduction by 10% to 15%†.  Students may qualify as long as they remain enrolled and participate in an eligible program of study, making them eligible for the reduced tuition within the program.  Program lengths vary in the number of credits required. This reduction will occur once the following thresholds are reached:

• Students who complete greater than 45 credits will receive a 10% tuition reduction^†
• Students who complete greater than 90 credits will receive a 15% tuition reduction^†
   

Bachelor’s and higher level programs:

Students who persist and successfully earn academic credits in their educational programs* are eligible for a tiered tuition structure that decreases the students’ actual tuition cost, ranging from 10%-20%†. Students may qualify as long as they remain enrolled and participate in an eligible program of study, making them eligible for the tiered tuition at different thresholds within the program.  This reduction automatically occurs as students reach the following thresholds: 

• Students who successfully earn greater than 25% of the credits in their program will receive a 10% tuition reduction^†
• Students who successfully earn greater than 50% of the credits in their program will receive a 15% tuition reduction^†
• Students who successfully earn greater than 75% of the credits in their program will receive a 20% tuition reduction^†
•  

Program lengths vary in the number of credits required; the tuition credit occurs once credits earned surpass the percentages above.

Reductions in tuition are applied at the beginning of each term (quarter). If the percentage of earned credit above is reached after the term starts, the reduction will occur at the start of the next term.  All reductions’ calculations are based on the original cost per credit hour.

For the purpose of eligibility for reduced tuition, transfer of credits that are accepted by the institution into a student’s specific program of study will qualify towards credits that are successfully earned. If transfer of credit is received after a term begins, the reduction will occur at the start of the next term.

* The following programs are not eligible for tiered tuition: Doctor of Ministry, Doctor of Pharmacy, Master of Medical Science in Anesthesia Science, Master of Science in Physician Assistant, all undergraduate and graduate Nursing programs, all post-graduate certificate programs, Master of Healthcare Administration, Master of Information Systems, Master of Public Administration, and Master of Public Health programs.

^†  Students utilizing partnership agreements or enrolling as a Continual Transfer Waiver will not be eligible for the reduced tuition.  The students will receive the tuition reduction as outlined in the partnership agreement or transfer waiver. 

Campus Program Tuition

Graduate Tuition for programs with no tiered tuition:

Tuition for the Doctor of Ministry degree program is as follows: $500 per credit hour. The digital textbook fee for the Doctor of Ministry program, is $400 per quarter for the first six (6) quarters for a customized South University Logos package. The customized South University Logos package is not refundable.

Tuition for the Doctor of Nursing Practice degree program is as follows: $500 per quarter credit hour.

Tuition for the Doctor of Pharmacy degree program, effective June 2018, will be $12,324 per quarter. Tuition does not include text books ($10 per credit hour for digitial textbooks) or a $1,000 nonrefundable acceptance fee, which is applied to tuition for the first quarter upon enrollment. Pharmacy students taking 16 hours or more are considered full time students and tuition will be based on the “per quarter” rate. Students taking less than 16 hours or who are remediating courses will be charged on a per quarter hour rate. The cost per credit hour is $1200; the maximum quarterly tuition is $12,324.

Tuition for the Master of Business Administration (after the completion of the Doctorate of Pharmacy degree program) is as follows: $650 per credit hour.  

Tuition for the Master of Medical Science in Anesthesia Science, effective June 2018, will be $10,600 per quarter.  Tuition does not include text books ($10 per credit hour for digitial textbooks) or a $500 nonrefundable acceptance fee, which is applied to tuition for the first quarter upon enrollment. The tuition cost is for a full-time course load and does not include expenses for such required items as lab coats (approximately $30), textbooks (approximately $2,000), stethoscope (approximately $100), and laboratory fees of $100 per quarter of laboratory coursework.  Anesthesiologist Assistant students are not eligible for part-time enrollment.

Tuition for the Master of Science in Physician Assistant, effective January 2019, is $9,400 per quarter,. Tuition does not include text books ($10 per credit hour for digitial textbooks) or a $500 nonrefundable acceptance fee, which is applied to tuition for the first quarter upon enrollment.

This is for a full-time course load and does not include expenses for such required items as uniforms (approximately $40) and professional instruments (approximately $1000). Students pay a $75 membership fee to the American Academy of Physician Assistants. Students are required to purchase a laptop computer with privacy screen (approximately $1500).  Students in the Physician Assistant program at all South University campuses where the program is offered are required to have a drug screen and criminal back ground checks prior to matriculation and prior to clinical placement through a third party vendor (approximately $200-$400). Students at the Richmond and Savannah campuses are required to purchase an ExamSoft license (one-time fee of $135). Physician Assistant students are not eligible for part-time enrollment.  All South University students pay a graduation fee of $125.

Tuition for the RN to Master of Science in Nursing degree program are as follows: $199 per quarter hour for undergraduate level classes and $500 per quarter credit hour for graduate level classes.  

Tuition for the Master of Science in Nursing degree programs are as follows: $500 per quarter credit hour.

Tuition for Post Graduate Certificates in Nursing degree programs are as follows: $500 per quarter credit hour.

Tuition for the Master of Business Administration in Healthcare Administration, Master of Healthcare Administration, Master of Science in Information Systems, Masters in Public Administration and Masters in Public Health degree programs are as follows: $325 per quarter credit hour.

Graduate Tuition for Programs eligible for Tiered Tuition

Tuition for the Doctor of Business Administration degree programs are as follows: $700 per quarter credit hour.

Tuition for the Doctor of Occupational Therapy degree program is as follows: $700 per quarter credit hour.

Tuition for the Master of Business Administration, Master of Science in Human Resources Management, Master of Science in Criminal Justice, and Master of Science in Leadership degree programs: $650 per quarter credit hour. 

Tuition for the Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree program is $600 per quarter credit hour.

Tuition for the BS to MS in Accounting degree program is as follows: $375 per credit hour for undergradate level classes and $575 per quarter credit hour for graduate level classes.

Tiered tuition plan:

Notes: Students utilizing partnership agreements or enrolling as a Continual Transfer Waiver will not be eligible for the tiered tuition.  The students will receive the tuition reduction as outlined in the partnership agreement or transfer waiver. 

Reductions in tuition are applied at the beginning of each term (quarter). If the percentage of earned credit is reached after the term starts, the reduction will occur at the start of the next term.  All reductions’ calculations are based on the original cost per credit hour.

For the purpose of eligibility for tiered tuition, transfer of credits that are accepted by the institution into a student’s specific program of study will qualify towards credits that are successfully earned. If transfer of credit is received after a term begins, the reduction will occur at the start of the next term.

Undergraduate Tuition for programs not eligible for tiered tuition

Tuition for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree program (entry level) is $470 per credit hour.  Tuition for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree program (professional level) is as follows: $600 per quarter credit hour. There is a $500 nonrefundable acceptance fee into the professional phase, which is applied to tuition for the first quarter upon enrollment. 

Tuition for the RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree program is as follows: $199 per quarter credit hour. 

Undergraduate Tuition for programs eligible for tiered tuition

Tuition for Bachelor in Business Administration, Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Sciences, Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design, Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences, Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Management, Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies, Associate of Science in Medical Assisting, Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies, Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Bachelor of Science in Public Health, and Bachelor of Science in Public Relations degree programs is as follows: $470 per quarter credit hour.

Tuition for Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, Associate of Science and Associate of Applied Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant, and Associate of Science and Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant degree programs is as follows: $375 per quarter credit hour.

Tiered Tuition plan for Bachelor Degree Programs:

Tiered Tuition plan for Associate Degree Programs:

Notes: Students utilizing partnership agreements or enrolling as a Continual Transfer Waiver will not be eligible for the tiered tuition.  The students will receive the tuition reduction as outlined in the partnership agreement or transfer waiver. 

Reductions in tuition are applied at the beginning of each term (quarter). If the percentage of earned credit is reached after the term starts, the reduction will occur at the start of the next term.  All reductions’ calculations are based on the original cost per credit hour.

For the purpose of eligibility for tiered tuition, transfer of credits that are accepted by the institution into a student’s specific program of study will qualify towards credits that are successfully earned. If transfer of credit is received after a term begins, the reduction will occur at the start of the next term.

Online Program Tuition

Graduate Tuition for programs with no tiered tuition:

Tuition for the Doctor of Ministry degree program is as follows: $500 per credit hour. The digital textbook fee for the Doctor of Ministry program, is $400 per quarter for the first six (6) quarters for a customized South University Logos package. The customized South University Logos package is not refundable.

Tuition for the Doctor of Nursing Practice degree program is as follows: $ 500 per quarter credit hour.

Tuition for the RN to Master of Science in Nursing degree program are as follows: $199 per quarter hour for undergraduate level classes and $500 per quarter credit hour for graduate level classes.  

Tuition for the Masters of Science in Nursing degree programs are as follows: $500 per quarter credit hour.

Tuition for Post Graduate Certificates in Nursing degree programs are as follows: $500 per quarter credit hour.

Tuition for the Master of Business Administration in Healthcare Administration, Master of Healthcare Administration, Master of Science in Information Systems, Masters in Public Administration and Masters in Public Health degree programs are as follows: $325 per quarter credit hour.

Graduate Tuition for Programs eligible for Tiered Tuition

Tuition for the Doctor of Business Administration degree programs are as follows: $650 per quarter credit hour.

Tuition for the Master of Accounting, Master of Business Administration and Master of Business Administration in Healthcare Administration, Master of Science in Human Resources Management, Master of Science in Criminal Justice, and Master of Science in Leadership degree programs: $575 per quarter credit hour. 

Tuition for the BS to MS in Accounting degree program is as follows: $375 per credit hour for undergrad level classes and $575 per quarter credit hour for graduate level classes.

Tiered tuition plan:

Student Earned Credits

Notes: Students utilizing partnership agreements or enrolling as a Continual Transfer Waiver will not be eligible for the tiered tuition.  The students will receive the tuition reduction as outlined in the partnership agreement or transfer waiver. 

Reductions in tuition are applied at the beginning of each term (quarter). If the percentage of earned credit is reached after the term starts, the reduction will occur at the start of the next term.  All reductions’ calculations are based on the original cost per credit hour.

For the purpose of eligibility for tiered tuition, transfer of credits that are accepted by the institution into a student’s specific program of study will qualify towards credits that are successfully earned. If transfer of credit is received after a term begins, the reduction will occur at the start of the next term.

Undergraduate Tuition for programs not eligible for tiered tuition

Tuition for the RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree program is as follows: $199 per quarter credit hour. 

Undergraduate Tuition for programs eligible for tiered tuition

Tuition for Associate of Science in Allied Health Science, Bachelor of Science in Accounting, Bachelor of Business Administration, Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Sciences, Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences, Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Management,Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies, Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies, Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Bachelor of Science in Public Health, and Bachelor of Science in Public Relations degree programs is as follows: $375 per quarter credit hour.

Tiered Tuition plan for Bachelor Degree Programs:

Tiered Tuition plan for Associate Degree Programs:

Notes: Students utilizing partnership agreements or enrolling as a Continual Transfer Waiver will not be eligible for the tiered tuition.  The students will receive the tuition reduction as outlined in the partnership agreement or transfer waiver. 

Reductions in tuition are applied at the beginning of each term (quarter). If the percentage of earned credit is reached after the term starts, the reduction will occur at the start of the next term.  All reductions’ calculations are based on the original cost per credit hour.

For the purpose of eligibility for tiered tuition, transfer of credits that are accepted by the institution into a student’s specific program of study will qualify towards credits that are successfully earned. If transfer of credit is received after a term begins, the reduction will occur at the start of the next term.

Payment of Tuition and Fees

All charges are due and payable on or before the start date of each quarter. For students in Online Programs, all charges are due and payable on or before the start date for each course. Circumstances which prevent a student from adhering to these dates should be discussed with the business office. Students attending school under a grant or loan should confer with the director of financial aid concerning the payment of fees; students attending school under the G.I. Bill® can discuss payment of school fees with the director of financial aid. Failure to make proper payments, unless otherwise cleared with the business office, will result in dismissal from the University. Grades will not be issued, degrees granted, or academic transcripts furnished until all financial obligations have been satisfied and all university property returned.

Please visit our Student Consumer Information page to find the average time to completion for continuously enrolled students for each credential level offered. This data is available at the average credit load, full-time or at full load. Changing programs, beginning programs at the mid-term start date, taking remedial courses, taking time off from coursework, registering for fewer hours or unsuccessful attempts at course completion will increase the total length of the program and overall cost of education from what is disclosed. Transfer credits awarded toward your program will likely decrease the overall length and cost of education.

Fees

Application Fee

South University does not charge application fees for any of its programs.  However, some programs (Pharmacy (PharmD), Physician Assistant (MS), and Anesthesia Science (MMSc)) utilize external application processing services and students may be charged a fee for using these services.  Students should contact the Senior Director of Admissions at their desired location to determine if this applies to their program.  Please see the Appendix for specific contact information.

Acceptance Fee

There is a non-refundable $500 acceptance fee for those applicants accepted into Anesthesiologist Assistant and Physician Assistant programs.

There is a non-refundable $500 acceptance fee for those applicants accepted into the professional phase of the BSN degree program. The acceptance fee does not apply to the RN to BSN degree program.

The non-refundable acceptance fee for applicants accepted through the General Admissions Procedure into the Pharmacy program is $1,000.

The acceptance fees for these programs will be applied to the student’s first quarter tuition payment. If an applicant accepted into the Pharmacy or Anesthesiologist Assistant programs encounters circumstances that prevent their matriculation, any amount paid by the applicant that is above the nonrefundable application fee and acceptance fee will be refunded.

Auditing Fee

Audited courses are subject to the same tuition and fees as courses taken for credit. Refer to the Tuition section. Requirements for auditing are published in the Academic Affairs section of this catalog.

Diploma Fee

Each student is entitled to have one official diploma sent to them upon graduation. Students may request duplicate diplomas for a fee of $75 each.

Final Project Extension Fee (Doctor of Ministry)

A fee of $200 will be collected for each extension course a student enrolls in to complete the Doctor of Ministry Degree.

Graduation Fee

A graduation fee of $125 will be collected from each candidate for graduation and is due and payable the quarter in which the candidate is to graduate. If the candidate is to receive a second degree at the same graduation ceremony, an additional fee of $50 will be charged. The fee will be $95 for a second degree awarded at a subsequent graduation ceremony.

Membership Fees

Students in the Occupational Therapy Assistant program may become a student member with full benefits of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) for a yearly fee of $75.00. On campuses with a local Student Occupational Therapy Association students may join for a nominal fee which may vary by campus.  Students should check with their program director at the campus for additional information.

Students enrolling in the Physician Assistant Studies program will incur a one-time fee for membership in the American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA). The fee of $75 is subject to change.

Students in the Physical Therapist Assistant program may become student members of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) for a yearly fee of $80.00 plus any state chapter dues.

Nurse Entrance Examination Fee

Applicants for the pre-licensure nursing programs are required to take an entrance examination (TEAS). The fee for this test is $55 and must be paid upon registration for the test.

Occupational Therapy Assistant Entrance Inventory Fee

Applicants for the Occupational Therapy Assistant program  (AS or AAS) are required to take the ATI TEAS. The fee for this test is $55 and must be paid upon registration for the test.

Physical Therapist Assistant Entrance Exam Fee

Applicants for the technical phase of the Physical Therapist Assistant program (AS or AAS) are required to take an entrance examination (ATI TEAS). The fee is $55 and must be paid upon registration for the test.

Student I.D. Replacement Fee

Photographs for student IDs are taken during orientation and student IDs are issued to new students during their first week of classes. There is no charge for the initial student ID. Students who lose their IDs may obtain a replacement through the office of the Dean of Student Affairs for a charge of $10 per occurrence.

Transcript Fee

The charge for official copies of transcripts is $7 each. Requests for transcripts can be submitted to the administrative office at the applicable campus or online through their student portal. Students who are current on their payment plan will have transcripts released regardless of their balance.

Doctor of Occupational Therapy Degree Program

Students enrolled in the Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) program should be aware that throughout the process of their graduate education they will incur additional expenses beyond the normal tuition and book fees. Such expenses include travel to/from West Palm Beach, Florida for their On Campus Intensives (OCI), as well as, course materials and equipment, such as, the Clicker Technology device used to authenticate course attendance and validate course learning.  Please refer to the OTD Student Manual (General Expenses for the On Campus Intensives-OCIs), for a general overview as to the additional expenses while attending the mandatory OCIs.

Doctor of Pharmacy Degree Program

Application

Individuals seeking admissions to the Doctor of Pharmacy degree program must apply through PharmCAS, the organization that processes centralized applications to schools of pharmacy in the U.S. Information on the PharmCAS application fee and process can be found at www.pharmcas.org.

School of Pharmacy Acceptance Fee

There is a nonrefundable $1,000 acceptance fee for applicants accepted into the Doctor of Pharmacy degree program. The acceptance fee will be applied to the student’s first quarter tuition payment. If an applicant accepted into the School of Pharmacy encounters circumstances that prevent their matriculation, any amount paid by the applicant that is above the nonrefundable acceptance fee will be refunded.

College of Nursing and Public Health Program Fees

Practicum Evaluation Fee

There is a nonrefundable $525 practicum evaluation fee charged for each practicum course in all Nursing programs.

*This fee is refundable in accordance with the cancellation refund policies outlined in the Refund of Tuition section of the catalog and for students withdrawing from their course(s) who are residents of Iowa and Wisconsin, per the applicable state refund policy outlined in the Refund of Tuition section of the catalog.

Please visit our Student Consumer Information page to find the average time to completion for continuously enrolled students for each credential level offered. This data is available at the average credit load, full-time or at full load. Changing programs, beginning programs at the mid-term start date, taking remedial courses, taking time off from coursework, registering for fewer hours or unsuccessful attempts at course completion will increase the total length of the program and overall cost of education from what is disclosed. Transfer credits awarded toward your program will likely decrease the overall length and cost of education.

Other Cost Information

Digital Textbooks

A digital textbook will be provided for applicable courses and will be automatically secured through South University’s contracted third-party vendor. The student cost for digital textbooks will be charged to the student account in addition to tuition. The student cost is per quarter credit hour is $10.

For the Doctor of Ministry program, the student cost is $400 per quarter for the first six (6) quarters for a customized South University Logos package. The customized South University Logos package is not refundable and students may not opt out.

For students opting out of the digital textbook, the associated charge will be reversed on the student account after the Drop/Add Period. Not all courses include a Digital Textbook.  Courses that include a Digital Textbook will be noted in the registration material. The purchase of the Digital Textbook is not refundable. Students who do opt out will be responsible for purchasing the required textbook. If a course does not use a Digital Textbook, the student is responsible for purchasing the required textbook.

Provision for Books and Supplies

South University automatically provides required digital textbooks to its students through a contracted third-party vendor.

The student cost for these digital textbooks are charged to the student’s account. This automatic process is the only way to obtain digital textbooks through South University.

Title IV funding will be used to pay for required digital textbooks for students who are eligible. Any books charged in excess of Title IV and other financial aid funding on the student account are the responsibility of the student.

Students may opt out of this method of receiving and paying for required digital textbooks. Opting out means a student will not be able to purchase any digital textbooks through South University.

Students who opt out are still responsible for purchasing their own textbook copies as a requirement for successful completion of South University courses. The opt out selection does not mean students do not have to purchase textbooks - only that they do not want to use South University’s automatic system for digital textbook purchases.

If a student opts out of South University’s method, the student’s account will not be charged and the student will still be responsible for purchasing the required books for her/his courses.  For courses using a digital textbook, the charge will be reversed on the student account after the Drop/Add Period.

If a student opts out of South University’s method, s/he will receive any Title IV credit balance, if one is created for the payment period in question, no later than fourteen (14) calendar days after the first day of class or fourteen (14) calendar days of the date the Title IV credit balance appears on the student account. If a Title IV credit balance is not created and, therefore, the student is not due to receive one, s/he is responsible for purchasing the required books and supplies for her or his courses.

Digital Textbook (for courses using Digital Textbooks) charge information is disclosed on South University’s Enrollment Agreement and in the Catalog, or a supplemental disclosure.

Students may request to modify your book selection payment option at any time for a future payment period by contacting the Student Financial Services or Student Accounting Department. The choice cannot be made retroactively.

Institutional Refund Policy

Initial Period of Enrollment and Cancellation Refund Policy for First-Time Undergraduate Students Enrolled in Campus-Based Programs

For purposes of this Initial Period of Enrollment Policy, a first-time undergraduate student is defined as a student who is not currently enrolled, is not a prior graduate from an undergraduate program, and does not have a prior enrollment in a withdrawn or dismissal status. 

For students in graduate programs and undergraduate students who have previously attended, please see the Refund of Tuition section of the enrollment agreement and catalog.

South University programs provide all new applicants seeking a first-time enrollment in any campus-based undergraduate program of study, including blended (hybrid) programs, an Initial Period of Enrollment.  The Initial Period of Enrollment allows first-time undergraduate students the ability to begin classes as a non-regular student, without any financial penalty, to determine if our school and educational program are right for the student.  Students who enroll may cancel their enrollment prior to the start of the term or within seven (7) calendar days following the first day of the student’s first scheduled class, whichever is later (referred to as the “Initial Period”). 

The chart below illustrates the days in the Initial Period for a non-regular student:

A first-time undergraduate student who notifies the school of the intent to withdraw in person or in writing, or simply stops attending and does not attend classes past the seventh (7th) calendar day following the student’s first day of the term or first scheduled class, whichever is later,  will be considered a cancellation.  The school will refund any monies paid on the student’s behalf and will remove any charges from the student’s account.  All refunds will be made within thirty (30) calendar days of the date of the cancellation.

During a first-time student’s Initial Period of Enrollment in an undergraduate program, the student is considered a non-regular student for federal student aid purposes and is not eligible to receive federal, state or any other types of aid during this period. 

Please note, a first-time undergraduate student who is receiving military educational benefits may incur a debt with the benefit provider for educational benefits paid if the student cancels within the seventh (7th) calendar day following the student’s first scheduled class or does not meet the requirements for admission to the school. 

Students who complete the Initial Period of Enrollment will be reviewed for full admission into the school as a regular student on the ninth (9th) respective calendar day (the day after the first calendar day plus seven (7) calendar days).  Students are required to meet all school admission requirements and any additional programmatic admission requirements that apply to the student’s program of study.  Students completing the Initial Period of Enrollment who continue in the educational program will be subject to all student policies back to the first day of the student’s first term or first scheduled class day, whichever is later, including the withdrawal, refund and Return to Title IV policy should the student cease attending at a later date. 

In order to qualify for aid, students must be a regular student and meet all federal, state, or other types of aid eligibility requirements.  

Cancellation Refund Policy Student Examples for Campus-Based Students:

Example 1:

1. Student’s first scheduled class is January 5th. 
2. Student ceases to attend and his or her last date of attendance is January 9th (the 4th day).
3. Student would no longer be enrolled and would not be eligible for any Title IV, state aid and other aid program funding nor would the student be charged tuition or fees for any portion of his or her Initial Period or for the term.
4. Students receiving military educational benefits may incur a debt with the benefit provider for educational benefits paid.

Example 2: 

1. Student’s first scheduled class is January 5th. 
2. Student remains enrolled and attends class through January 14 (the 9th day), then ceases enrollment and attendance.  
3. Student would be charged for the full class amount and his or her refund, if any, would be calculated based on withdrawal on day ten (10) of the class. 
4. Student would be eligible for Title IV, veteran’s benefits, state aid, and other aid programs, if all other conditions are met for admission and aid eligibility, since he or she became a regular student after January 11th (the 7th day). 
5. Students receiving military educational benefits may incur a debt with the benefit provider for educational benefits paid.

Initial Period of Enrollment and Cancellation Refund Policy for First-Time Undergraduate Students Enrolled in Fully-Online Programs

A first-time undergraduate student is a student who has not previously attended the school in an undergraduate program.  A first-time undergraduate student is defined as a student who is not currently enrolled, is not a prior graduate from an undergraduate program, and does not have a prior enrollment in a withdrawn or dismissal status. 

For students in graduate programs and undergraduate students who have previously attended please see the Refund of Tuition section of the enrollment agreement and catalog.

South University programs provide all new applicants seeking a first-time enrollment in any fully online undergraduate program of study, an Initial Period of Enrollment.  The Initial Period of Enrollment allows first-time undergraduate students the ability to begin classes as a non-regular student, without any financial penalty, to determine if our school and educational program are right for the student.  Students who enroll may cancel their enrollment prior to beginning classes or within twenty-one (21) calendar days following the first day of the student’s first term. 

A first-time undergraduate student who notifies the school in person, in writing, or simply stops attending and does not attend classes past the twenty-first (21st) calendar day following the first day of the term will be considered a cancellation.  The school will refund any monies paid on the student’s behalf and will remove any charges from the student’s account.  All refunds will be made within thirty (30) calendar days of the cancellation.

The chart below illustrates the days in the Initial Period for a non-regular student:

During a first-time student’s Initial Period of Enrollment in an undergraduate program, the student is considered a non-regular student for federal student aid purposes and is not eligible to receive federal, state or any other types of aid during this period.

Please note, a first-time undergraduate student who is receiving military educational benefits may incur a debt with the benefit provider for educational benefits paid if the student cancels within the twenty-first (21st) calendar days following the first day of the first term (22nd day), or does not meet the admission requirements to the school. 

Students who complete the Initial Period of Enrollment will be reviewed for full admission into the school as a regular student on the twenty-third (23rd) respective calendar day (the day after the first day of the term plus twenty-one (21) calendar days).  Students are required to meet all school admission requirements and any additional programmatic admission requirements that apply to the student’s program of study.  Students completing the Initial Period of Enrollment who continue in the educational program will be subject to all student policies back to the first day of the student’s first term, including withdrawal, refund and Return to Title IV policy should the student cease attending at a later date.

Cancellation Refund Policy Student Examples for Fully Online Programs:

Example 1:

1. The term begins on January 5th. 
2. Student ceases to attend and his or her last date of attendance is January 24th (the 19th day). 
3. Student would no longer be enrolled and would not be eligible for any Title IV, veteran’s benefits, state aid and other aid program funding nor would the student be charged for any portion of his or her tuition or fees for the Initial Period or for the term.
4. Students receiving military educational benefits may incur a debt with the benefit provider for educational benefits paid.

Example 2:

1. The term begins on January 5th. 
2. Student remains enrolled and attends class through January 28 (the 23rd day) then ceases enrollment and attendance.  
3. Student would be charged for the full class amount and his or her refund, if any, would be calculated based on withdrawal on day twenty-four (24) of the term.
4. Student would be eligible for Title IV, veteran’s benefits, state aid and other aid program, if all other conditions are met for admission, since he or she became a regular student after January 25th (the 21st day). 
5. Students receiving military educational benefits may incur a debt with the benefit provider for educational benefits paid.

Refund of Tuition

Tuition charges are based on the total number of credit hours for which a student is enrolled on the first day of classes (as listed in the University calendar), regardless of program. All students will be subject to the institutional refund policy.  Students who receive Federal student aid are subject to the Return of Title IV Funds Policy.  Refunds or tuition adjustments will be awarded according to the following guidelines:

1. If circumstances prevent matriculation before a student begins attending the University, all tuition charges will be reversed and any payments made will be refunded. A tuition adjustment results when a student officially changes enrollment status (full-time to part-time, part-time to less than part-time or part-time to full time) during the drop/add period. No adjustment will be made for students dropping individual classes after the drop/add period.
    
2. Refund Policy after Class Start:

If a student has not attended sixty (60) percent of the academic term, the school shall not retain or be entitled to payment for a percentage of any tuition and fees or other educational costs for a session that was scheduled to be taken during the relevant academic term but was not attended because the student withdrew from school prior to the commencement of the session.  For example, if a student is enrolled for multiple sessions within the academic term but withdraws completely from school prior to the start of a subsequent session within the academic term, the adjustment of charges based on the student’s last date of attendance will be applied to the applicable period of attended session(s) using the session(s) charges and the start date of the first attended session through the end date of the last attended session within the academic term. Charges for the unattended session(s) after the student’s last date of attendance will be reversed if required based on the tuition charge pricing for the reduced academic credits for the term for the Institutional Refund Policy, or State Refund Policy where applicable.  The reversal of applicable charges will be completed after the Return of Title IV Policy.  For the Return of Title IV, the evaluation period and term charges will include the entire period in which the student registered.

If a student has attended sixty (60) percent of the academic term, the evaluation period and academic term charges include the entire period in which the student registered. The Institutional Refund Policy, or State Refund Policy, where applicable, shall be applied based on the student’s last date of attendance in the academic term using the academic term charges and the start date of the first session through the end date of the last session within the academic term. For the Return of Title IV, the evaluation period and academic term charges include the entire period in which the student registered.

3. Richmond and Virginia Beach Virginia campuses only: Rejection: An applicant rejected by South University is entitled to a refund of all monies paid. Three-Day Cancellation: An applicant who provides written notice of cancellation within three (3) business days, excluding weekends and holidays, of executing the enrollment agreement is entitled to a refund of all monies paid, less an application fee of fifty (50) dollars for certain academic programs. Other Cancellations: An applicant requesting cancellation more than three (3) days after executing the enrollment agreement and making an initial payment, but prior to the first day of class is entitled to a refund of all monies paid, less an application fee of fifty (50) dollars for certain academic programs. A student applicant will be considered a student as of the first day of classes.

Withdrawal Procedure: A student choosing to withdraw from the school after the commencement of classes is to provide notice in writing or in person to the Office of the Registrar. The notice must include the expected last date of attendance and be signed and dated by the student. A student will be determined to be withdrawn from the institution if the student violates the schools published attendance policy.  The withdrawal date is the last date of attendance as determined by the school from its attendance records.  All refunds must be submitted within forty-five (45) calendar days after receipt of a written request or the date the student last attended classes, whichever is sooner.

Returning from an Approved Leave of Absence: Students returning from an approved Leave of Absence that was granted during the time they were enrolled in a course will be allowed to complete coursework started prior to the leave with no additional charges assessed. The University allows students who start a Leave of Absence during a course to withdraw (with a grade of WV).

If a student does not return from an approved Leave of Absence, the official withdrawal date and beginning of the loan grace period (if applicable) is the last date of class attendance.

Tuition Refunds will be Determined as Follows:

4. Accelerated Graduate Programs, Atlanta, Austin, Columbia*, High Point, Montgomery, Novi, and Savannah campuses:

Tuition Refunds will be Determined as Follows, based on the week in which the student withdraws:

*Columbia campus only: For students attending the University for the first time and who withdraw from the institution, a prorate refund calculation shall be applied up to sixty (60) percent point in time of that initial term. Prorated refund is a refund for a student of not less than that portion of tuition, fees, and other charges assessed the student equal to the portion of the period of enrollment for which the student has been charged that remains on the last day of attendance by the student, rounded downward to the nearest ten percent of that period, less any unpaid charges owed for the period of enrollment for which the student has been charged that remains on the last day of attendance by the student, rounded downward to the nearest ten (10) percent of that period, less any unpaid charges owed for the period of enrollment for which the student has been charged, and less an administrative fee not to exceed the lesser of five (5) percent or one hundred (100) dollars.

Withdrawal Procedure:  To withdraw officially from the institution, students must contact the office of the registrar to provide notification of their intention to withdraw. A student will be determined to be withdrawn from the institution if the student violates the University’s published attendance policy in all their classes. The withdrawal date is the last date of attendance as determined by the school from its attendance records. All refunds must be submitted within thirty (30) calendar days of the determination of the withdrawal date.

5. Florida campuses including Orlando, Tampa, and West Palm Beach:

Tuition charges are based on the total number of credit hours for which a student is enrolled on the first day of classes (as listed in the University calendar), regardless of program. Refunds or tuition adjustments will be awarded according to the following guidelines:

Students who apply for enrollment into a Florida campus but are rejected or provide written notice of cancellation within three (3) calendar days of executing the enrollment agreement are entitled to a refund of all monies paid. An applicant requesting cancellation more than three (3) calendar days after executing the enrollment agreement and making an initial payment but prior to the first day of class is entitled to a refund of all monies paid.

Withdrawal Procedure:  To withdraw officially from the institution, students must contact the office of the registrar to provide notification of their intention to withdraw. A student will be determined to be withdrawn from the institution if the student violates the University’s published attendance policy in all their classes. The withdrawal date is the last date of attendance as determined by the school from its attendance records. All refunds must be submitted within thirty (30) calendar days of the determination of the withdrawal date.

Tuition Refunds will be Determined as Follows, based on the week in which the student withdraws:

6. Ohio campus:

Students who apply for enrollment into the Cleveland campus but are rejected or provide written notice of cancellation within five (5) calendar days of executing the enrollment agreement are entitled to a refund of all monies paid.  An applicant requesting cancellation more than five (5) calendar days after executing the enrollment agreement and making an initial payment but prior to the first day of class is entitled to a refund of all monies paid.

Withdrawal Procedure: The University requests that a student choosing to withdraw from the school after the commencement of classes is to provide notice in writing or in person to the Office of the Registrar. The notice must include the expected last date of attendance and be signed and dated by the student. A student will be determined to be withdrawn from the institution if the student violates the University’s published attendance policy. The withdrawal date is the last date of attendance as determined by the school from its attendance records. All refunds will be submitted within thirty (30) calendar days of the determination of the withdrawal date. Refunds are calculated based on the student’s last date of attendance or participation in an academic activity.

Refunds for Tuition and Refundable Fees will be determined as Follows:

7. South University, Term-Based and Non-Term Based Online Programs:

Student Right to Cancel/Buyer’s Right to Cancel:

Students in South University’s online programs who drop before the start date of the academic term will receive a one hundred (100) percent refund of the total cost of tuition for the academic term. Tuition refunds after the start of an academic term are based on weekly attendance. Fully online students must contact their Academic Counselor to officially withdraw from school. A student will be determined to be withdrawn from the institution if the student violates the University’s published attendance policy in all their classes. The withdrawal date is the last date of attendance as determined by the school from its attendance records. All refunds must be submitted within thirty (30) calendar days of the determination of the withdrawal date.

Term-Based Online Programs:

Mid-Quarter Start:

• Students who withdraw during week 1 will receive a 75% tuition refund.
• Students who withdraw during week 2 will receive a 50% tuition refund.
• Students who withdraw during or after the 3rd week will receive a 0% tuition refund.

Quarter Start:

• Students who withdraw during weeks 1 and 2 will receive a 75% tuition refund.
• Students who withdraw during weeks 3 and 4 will receive a 50% tuition refund.
• Students who withdraw during or after the 5th week will receive a 0% tuition refund.

Non-Term Based Online Programs:

4, 5 and 5.5 Week Course

• Students who withdraw from their course during week 1 will receive a 75% tuition refund.
• Students who withdraw from their course during week 2 will receive a 50% tuition refund.
• Students who withdraw from their course during or after the 3rd week will receive a 0% tuition refund.

10 and 11 Week Course

• Students who withdraw from their course during weeks 1 and 2 will receive a 75% tuition refund.
• Students who withdraw from their course during weeks 3 and 4 will receive a 50% tuition refund.
• Students who withdraw from their course during or after the 5th week will receive a 0% tuition refund.

Iowa State Refund Policy

Students taking online courses from their home state of Iowa who withdraw from their academic term will receive a prorated academic term refund based on their official last date of attendance (LDA). Tuition charges are based on the total number of credit hours for which a student is enrolled on the first day of classes (as listed in the University calendar), regardless of program. Refunds or tuition adjustments will be awarded according to the following guidelines:

1. If circumstances prevent matriculation before a student begins attending the University, all tuition charges will be refunded.
2. Students who drop before the start date of the course will receive a one-hundred (100) percent refund of the total cost of tuition for the course. Tuition refunds after the start of a course are based on weekly attendance. 

Mid-Quarter Start:

Quarter Start:

3. For a student who is a member, or the spouse of a member if the member has a dependent child, of the Iowa national guard or reserve forces of the United States and who is ordered to state military service or federal service or duty, the student shall have the following withdrawal options:

1. Withdraw from the student’s entire registration and receive a full refund of tuition and mandatory fees.
2. Make arrangements with the student’s instructors for course grades, or for incompletes that shall be completed by the student at a later date.  If such arrangements are made, the student’s registration shall remain intact and tuition and mandatory fees shall be assessed for the courses in full.
3. Make arrangements with only some of the student’s instructors for grades, or for incompletes that shall be completed by the student at a later date.  If such arrangements are made, the registration for those courses shall remain intact and tuition and mandatory fees shall be assessed for those courses.  Any course for which arrangements cannot be made for grades or incompletes shall be considered dropped and the tuition and mandatory fees for the course refunded.

Maryland State Refund Policy

The Maryland State Refund Policy applies to students who are residents of Maryland. Refunds are made within sixty (60) days from the date of withdrawal or termination. The withdrawal date is the last date of attendance as determined by the school from its attendance records.  A Maryland student that withdraws or is terminated after completing only a portion of a course, program, or term within the applicable billing period is as follows:

Term-Based and Non-Term Based Online Programs:

New Mexico Refund Policy

The New Mexico State Refund Policy applies to students who are residents of the state of New Mexico who withdraw from all courses from South University online programs.

Any student signing an enrollment agreement or making an initial deposit or payment toward tuition and fees of the institution shall be entitled to a cooling off period of three business days from the date of agreement or payment or from the date that the student first visits the institution, whichever is later.  During the cooling off period, the agreement can be withdrawn and all payments shall be refunded. Evidence of personal appearance at the institution or deposit of a written statement of withdrawal for delivery by mail or other means shall be deemed as meeting the terms of the cooling off period.

Following the cooling off period but prior to the beginning of instruction, a student may withdraw from enrollment following the cooling off period, prior to submission by the student of any lesson materials and effective upon deposit of a written statement of withdrawal for delivery by mail or other means, and the institution shall be entitled to retain no more$100 or 5% in tuition or fees, whichever is less, as registration charges.

A student may withdraw after beginning instruction or submitting lesson materials, effective upon appearance at the institution or deposit of a written statement of withdrawal for delivery by mail or other means. The institution shall be entitled to retain, as registration charges, no more than one hundred (100) dollars or five (5) percent of tuition and fees, whichever is less. Additionally, institutions are eligible to retain tuition and fees earned at a pro-rata amount according to the following schedule, based on the date of student withdrawal as a percentage of the enrollment period for which the student was obligated.  The withdrawal date is the last date of attendance as determined by the school from its attendance records:

Term-Based and Non-Term Based Online Programs:

Upon request by a student or by the department, the institution shall provide an accounting for such amounts retained within five (5) business days of the request.

Tuition and fee refunds will be made within thirty (30) calendar days of the institution receiving written notice of a student’s withdrawal or of the institution terminating enrollment of the student, whichever is earlier.

Ohio State Refund Policy                                          

Residents of Ohio who apply for enrollment at South University but are rejected or provide written notice of cancellation within five (5) calendar days of executing the enrollment agreement are entitled to a refund of all monies paid.  An applicant requesting cancellation more than five (5) calendar days after executing the enrollment agreement and making an initial payment but prior to the first day of class is entitled to a refund of all monies paid.

The University requests that a student choosing to withdraw from the school after the commencement of classes is to provide notice in writing or in person to the Office of the Registrar. The notice must include the expected last date of attendance and be signed and dated by the student. A student will be determined to be withdrawn from the institution if the student violates the University’s published attendance policy. The withdrawal date is the last date of attendance as determined by the school from its attendance records. All refunds will be submitted within thirty (30) calendar days of the determination of the withdrawal date. Refunds are calculated based on the student’s last date of attendance or participation in an academic activity.

Term-Based and Non-Term Based Online Programs

Refunds for Tuition and Refundable Fees will be determined as Follows:

Oregon State Refund Policy

The Oregon State Refund Policy applies to students who are residents of Oregon.  Students who drop before the start date of the course will receive a one-hundred (100) percent refund of the total cost of tuition for the course. Tuition refunds after the start of a course are based on weekly attendance.  A student will be determined to be withdrawn from the institution if the student violates the University’s published attendance policy.  The withdrawal date is the last date of attendance as determined by the school from its attendance records. All refunds will be submitted within thirty (30) calendar days of the determination of the withdrawal date.

Non-Term Based Online Programs

4, 5 and 5.5 Week Courses

• Students who withdraw from their course during week 1 will receive a 75% tuition refund.
• Students who withdraw from their course during week 2 will receive a 50% tuition refund.
• Students who withdraw from their course during week 3 will receive a 25% tuition refund.
• Students who withdraw from their course during or after the 4th week will receive a 0% tuition refund.

10 and 11 Week Courses

• Students who withdraw from their course during week 1 and 2 will receive a 75% tuition refund.
• Students who withdraw from their course aduring week 3 and 4 will receive a 50% tuition refund.
• Students who withdraw from their course during week 5 and 6 will receive a 25% tuition refund.
• Students who withdraw from their course during or after the 7th week will receive a 0% tuition refund.

Wisconsin State Refund Policy

The Wisconsin State Refund Policy applies to students who are residents of the state of Wisconsin who withdraw from all courses from South University. The enrollment agreement is a legally binding contract upon acceptance of the student by the school unless the student cancels the enrollment agreement within three (3) business days of acceptance by the school day cancellation period.

A student who withdraws or is dismissed after the three (3) business day cancellation period, but before completing sixty (60) percent of the potential units in the current enrollment period, shall be entitled to a pro rata refund, as calculated below, less any amounts owed by the student for the current enrollment period. Pro rata refund shall be determined as the number of units remaining after the last unit completed divided by the total number of units in the enrollment period, rounded downward to the nearest ten (10) percent. The withdrawal date is the last date of attendance as determined by the school from its attendance records. Pro rata refund is the resulting percent applied to the total tuition and other required costs paid by the student for the current enrollment period.

The school will make every effort to refund prepaid amounts for books, supplies and other charges unless the student has consumed or used those items and they can no longer be used or sold to new students, or returned by the school to the supplier.

The school will issue refunds within forty (40) calendar days of the effective date of termination. A written notice of withdrawal is not required. The student is considered withdrawn from the school if the student fails to attend classes, utilize instructional facilities, or submit lessons, without providing an explanation to the school regarding the inactivity for fifteen (15) calendar days.

No refund is required for any student who withdraws or is dismissed after completing sixt (60) percent of the potential units of instruction in the current enrollment period unless a student withdraws due to mitigating circumstances, which are those that directly prohibit pursuit of a program and which are beyond the student’s control.

Cancellation Privilege:

A student shall have the right to cancel enrollment for a program not exempted until midnight of the third (3^rd) business day after written and final receipt of notice of acceptance from the school.

The student will receive a full refund of all money paid if the student cancels within the three (3) business day cancellation period; the student accepted was unqualified and the school did not secure a disclaimer; the school procured the student’s enrollment as the result of false representations in the written materials used by the school or in oral representations made by or on behalf of the school. The school will issue refunds within three (3) days of cancellation.

Adjustments of the Tuition and Fee Charges before Attending Any Units of Instruction but after the three (3) Day Cancellation Period:

One hundred (100) percent refund less a one-time application fee of $50.

Term-Based and Non-Term Based Online Programs

Adjustment of Charges after Completing:

Institutional Refund Policy for Single Courses

Refund of Tuition

Tuition charges are based on the total number of credit hours for which a student is enrolled on the first day of the class (as listed in the University calendar), regardless of the class. All students will be subject to the institutional refund policy. Refunds or tuition adjustments will be awarded according to the following guidelines:

1. If circumstances prevent matriculation before a student begins attending the University, all tuition charges will be reversed and any payments made will be refunded. A tuition adjustment results when a student officially changes enrollment status during the drop/add period. No adjustment will be made for students dropping the class after the drop/add period and will be subject to the tuition refund schedules below.
2. Richmond and Virginia Beach Virginia campuses only: Rejection: An applicant rejected by South University is entitled to a refund of all monies paid. Three-Day Cancellation: An applicant who provides written notice of cancellation within three (3) business days, excluding weekends and holidays, of executing the enrollment agreement is entitled to a refund of all monies paid, less an application fee of fifty (50) dollars for certain academic programs. Other Cancellations: An applicant requesting cancellation more than three (3) days after executing the enrollment agreement and making an initial payment, but prior to the first day of class is entitled to a refund of all monies paid, less an application fee of fifty (50) dollars for certain academic programs. A student applicant will be considered a student as of the first day of classes.

Withdrawal Procedure: A student choosing to withdraw from the school after the commencement of the class is to provide notice in writing or in person to the Office of the Registrar. The notice must include the expected last date of attendance and be signed and dated by the student. A student will be determined to be withdrawn from the institution if the student violates the schools published attendance policy.  The withdrawal date is the last date of attendance as determined by the school from its attendance records.  All refunds must be submitted within forty-five (45) calendar days after receipt of a written request or the date the student last attended the class, whichever is sooner.

Tuition Refunds will be Determined as Follows:

3. Accelerated Graduate Programs, Atlanta, Austin, Columbia*, High Point, Montgomery, Novi,  and Savannah campuses:

Tuition Refunds will be Determined as Follows, based on the week in which the student withdraws:

*Columbia campus only: For students attending the University for the first time and who withdraw from the institution, a prorate refund calculation shall be applied up to sixty (60) percent point in time of that class. Prorated refund is a refund for a student of not less than that portion of tuition, fees, and other charges assessed the student equal to the portion of the period of enrollment for which the student has been charged that remains on the last day of attendance by the student, rounded downward to the nearest ten percent of that period, less any unpaid charges owed for the period of enrollment for which the student has been charged that remains on the last day of attendance by the student, rounded downward to the nearest ten (10) percent of that period, less any unpaid charges owed for the period of enrollment for which the student has been charged, and less an administrative fee not to exceed the lesser of five (5) percent or one hundred (100) dollars.

Withdrawal Procedure:  To withdraw officially from the institution, students must contact the office of the registrar to provide notification of their intention to withdraw. A student will be determined to be withdrawn from the institution if the student violates the University’s published attendance policy. The withdrawal date is the last date of attendance as determined by the school from its attendance records. All refunds must be submitted within thirty (30) calendar days of the determination of the withdrawal date.

4. Florida campuses including Orlando, Tampa, and West Palm Beach:

Tuition charges are based on the total number of credit hours for which a student is enrolled on the first day of the class (as listed in the University calendar), regardless of the class. Refunds or tuition adjustments will be awarded according to the following guidelines:

Students who apply for enrollment into a Florida campus but are rejected or provide written notice of cancellation within three (3) calendar days of executing the enrollment agreement are entitled to a refund of all monies paid. An applicant requesting cancellation more than three (3) calendar days after executing the enrollment agreement and making an initial payment but prior to the first day of class is entitled to a refund of all monies paid.

Withdrawal Procedure:  To withdraw officially from the institution, students must contact the office of the registrar to provide notification of their intention to withdraw. A student will be determined to be withdrawn from the institution if the student violates the University’s published attendance policy. The withdrawal date is the last date of attendance as determined by the school from its attendance records. All refunds must be submitted within thirty (30) calendar days of the determination of the withdrawal date.

Tuition Refunds will be Determined as Follows, based on the week in which the student withdraws:

5. Ohio campus:

Students who apply for enrollment into the Cleveland campus but are rejected or provide written notice of cancellation within five (5) calendar days of executing the enrollment agreement are entitled to a refund of all monies paid.  An applicant requesting cancellation more than five (5) calendar days after executing the enrollment agreement and making an initial payment but prior to the first day of class is entitled to a refund of all monies paid.

Withdrawal Procedure: The University requests that a student choosing to withdraw from the school after the commencement of classes is to provide notice in writing or in person to the Office of the Registrar. The notice must include the expected last date of attendance and be signed and dated by the student. A student will be determined to be withdrawn from the institution if the student violates the University’s published attendance policy. The withdrawal date is the last date of attendance as determined by the school from its attendance records. All refunds will be submitted within thirty (30) calendar days of the determination of the withdrawal date. Refunds are calculated based on the student’s last date of attendance or participation in an academic activity.

Refunds for Tuition and Refundable Fees will be determined as Follows:

6. South University Online, Term-Based and Non-Term Based Courses:

Student Right to Cancel/Buyer’s Right to Cancel: 

If circumstances prevent matriculation before a student begins attending South University, all tuition charges will be refunded.

Students in South University’s online courses who drop before the start date of the course will receive a one hundred (100) percent refund of the total cost of tuition for the course. Tuition refunds after the start of a course are based on weekly attendance. Fully online students must contact their Academic Counselor to officially withdraw from school. A student will be determined to be withdrawn from the institution if the student violates the University’s published attendance policy.  The withdrawal date is the last date of attendance as determined by the school from its attendance records. All refunds must be submitted within thirty (30) calendar days of the determination of the withdrawal date.

Term-Based Online Courses:

Mid-Quarter Course:

• Students who withdraw during week 1 will receive a 75% tuition refund.
• Students who withdraw during week 2 will receive a 50% tuition refund.
• Students who withdraw during or after the 3rd week will receive a 0% tuition refund.

Quarter Course:

• Students who withdraw during weeks 1 and 2 will receive a 75% tuition refund.
• Students who withdraw during weeks 3 and 4 will receive a 50% tuition refund.
• Students who withdraw during or after the 5th week will receive a 0% tuition refund.

Non-Term Based Online Courses:

4, 5 and 5.5 Week Courses:

• Students who withdraw from their course during week 1 will receive a 75% tuition refund.
• Students who withdraw from their course during week 2 will receive a 50% tuition refund.
• Students who withdraw from their course during or after the 3rd week will receive a 0% tuition refund.

10 and 11 Week Courses:

• Students who withdraw from their course during weeks 1 and 2 will receive a 75% tuition refund.
• Students who withdraw from their course during weeks 3 and 4 will receive a 50% tuition refund.
• Students who withdraw from their course during or after the 5th week will receive a 0% tuition refund.

Iowa State Refund Policy

Students taking online courses from their home state of Iowa who withdraw from their course(s) will receive a prorated course refund based on their official last date of attendance (LDA). Tuition charges are based on the total number of credit hours for which a student is enrolled on the first day of the class (as listed in the University calendar), regardless of the class. Refunds or tuition adjustments will be awarded according to the following guidelines:

If circumstances prevent matriculation before a student begins attending the University, all tuition charges will be refunded.

Students who drop before the start date of the course will receive a one hundred (100) percent refund of the total cost of tuition for the course. Tuition refunds after the start of a course are based on weekly attendance. 

Term-Based Online Courses:

Mid-Quarter Courses:

5 Week Refund%                                     5.5 Week  Refund%

Week 1 LDA 75%                                     Week 1 LDA 75%

Week 2 LDA 54%                                     Week 2 LDA 57%

Week 3 LDA 36%                                     Week 3 LDA 40%

Week 4 LDA 18%                                     Week 4 LDA 24%

Week 5 LDA   0%                                     Week 5 LDA   7%

                                                                Week 6 LDA   0%

10 Week Refund%                                     11 Week Refund%                                            12 Week Refund %

Week 1 LDA 81%                                      Week 1 LDA 82%                                              Week 1 LDA 83%

Week 2 LDA 75%                                      Week 2 LDA 75%                                              Week 2 LDA 75%

Week 3 LDA 63%                                      Week 3 LDA 65%                                              Week 3 LDA 68%

Week 4 LDA 54%                                      Week 4 LDA 57%                                              Week 4 LDA 60%

Week 5 LDA 45%                                      Week 5 LDA 49%                                              Week 5 LDA 53%

Week 6 LDA 36%                                      Week 6 LDA 40%                                              Week 6 LDA 45%

Week 7 LDA 27%                                      Week 7 LDA 32%                                              Week 7 LDA 38%

Week 8 LDA 18%                                      Week 8 LDA 24%                                              Week 8 LDA 30%

Week 9 LDA 9%                                         Week 9 LDA 15%                                              Week 9 LDA 23%

Week 10 LDA 0%                                      Week 10 LDA 7%                                              Week 10 LDA 15%

                                                                  Week 11 LDA 0%                                              Week 11 LDA  8%

                                                                                                                                           Week 12 LDA 0%

Non-Term Based Online Courses:

4 Week Course Refund%                      5 Week Course Refund%              5.5 Week Course Refund%

Week 1 LDA 68%                                      Week 1 LDA 75%                              Week 1 LDA 75%

Week 2 LDA 45%                                      Week 2 LDA 54%                              Week 2 LDA 57%

Week 3 LDA 23%                                      Week 3 LDA 36%                              Week 3 LDA 40%

Week 4 LDA  0%                                        Week 4 LDA 18%                              Week 4 LDA 24%

                                                                   Week 5 LDA   0%                              Week 5 LDA   7%

                                                                                                                             Week 6 LDA   0%

10 Week Course Refund%                   11 Week Course Refund%

Week 1 LDA 81%                                      Week 1 LDA 82%

Week 2 LDA 75%                                      Week 2 LDA 75%

Week 3 LDA 63%                                      Week 3 LDA 65%

Week 4 LDA 54%                                      Week 4 LDA 57%

Week 5 LDA 45%                                      Week 5 LDA 49%

Week 6 LDA 36%                                      Week 6 LDA 40%

Week 7 LDA 27%                                      Week 7 LDA 32%

Week 8 LDA 18%                                      Week 8 LDA 24%

Week 9 LDA 9%                                        Week 9 LDA 15%

Week 10 LDA 0%                                      Week 10 LDA 7%

                                                                  Week 11 LDA 0%

Iowa residents who are a member, or a spouse of a member if the member has a dependent child, of the Iowa National Guard or Reserve Forces of the United States and who is ordered to state military service or federal service or duty will be afforded the following options:

1. Withdraw from the student’s entire registration and receive a full refund of tuition and mandatory fees.
2. Make arrangements with the student’s instructors for course grades, or for incompletes that shall be completed by the student at a later date. If such arrangements are made, the student’s registration shall remain intact and tuition and mandatory fees shall be assessed for the courses in full.
3. Make arrangements with only some of the student’s instructors for grades, or for incompletes that shall be completed by the student at a later date. If such arrangements are made, the registration for those courses shall remain intact and tuition and mandatory fees shall be assessed for those courses.Any course for which arrangements cannot be made for grades or incompletes shall be considered dropped and the tuition and mandatory fees for the course refunded.

Maryland State Refund Policy

The Maryland State Refund Policy applies to students who are residents of Maryland. Refunds are made within sixty (60) calendar days from the date of withdrawal or termination. The withdrawal date is the last date of attendance as determined by the school from its attendance records. A Maryland student that withdraws or is terminated after completing only a portion of a course, program, or term within the applicable billing period is as follows:

Term-Based and Non-Term Based Online Courses:

New Mexico Refund Policy

The New Mexico State Refund Policy applies to students who are residents of the state of New Mexico who withdraw from all courses from South University online programs.

Any student signing an enrollment agreement or making an initial deposit or payment toward tuition and fees of the institution shall be entitled to a cooling off period of three (3) business days from the date of agreement or payment or from the date that the student first visits the institution, whichever is later.  During the cooling off period, the agreement can be withdrawn and all payments shall be refunded. Evidence of personal appearance at the institution or deposit of a written statement of withdrawal for delivery by mail or other means shall be deemed as meeting the terms of the cooling off period.

Following the cooling off period but prior to the beginning of instruction, a student may withdraw from enrollment following the cooling off period, prior to submission by the student of any lesson materials and effective upon deposit of a written statement of withdrawal for delivery by mail or other means, and the institution shall be entitled to retain no more one hundred (100) dollars or five (5) percent in tuition or fees, whichever is less, as registration charges.

A student may withdraw after beginning instruction or submitting lesson materials, effective upon appearance at the institution or deposit of a written statement of withdrawal for delivery by mail or other means. The institution shall be entitled to retain, as registration charges, no more than one hundred (100) dollars or five percent (5%) of tuition and fees, whichever is less. Additionally, institutions are eligible to retain tuition and fees earned at a pro-rata amount according to the following schedule, based on the date of student withdrawal as a percentage of the enrollment period for which the student was obligated.  The withdrawal date is the last date of attendance as determined by the school from its attendance records.

Term-Based and Non-Term Based Online Courses:

• On first class day                                          0%
• After first day and within 10%                      10%
• After 10% and within 25%                            50%
• After 25% and within 50%                            75%
• 50% or thereafter                                       100%

Upon request by a student or by the department, the institution shall provide an accounting for such amounts retained within five (5) business days of the request.

Tuition and fee refunds will be made within thirty (30) calendar days of the institution receiving written notice of a student’s withdrawal or of the institution terminating enrollment of the student, whichever is earlier.

Ohio State Refund Policy                                          

Residents of Ohio who apply for enrollment at South University but are rejected or provide written notice of cancellation within five (5) calendar days of executing the enrollment agreement are entitled to a refund of all monies paid.  An applicant requesting cancellation more than five (5) calendar days after executing the enrollment agreement and making an initial payment but prior to the first day of class is entitled to a refund of all monies paid.

The University requests that a student choosing to withdraw from the school after the commencement of classes is to provide notice in writing or in person to the Office of the Registrar. The notice must include the expected last date of attendance and be signed and dated by the student. A student will be determined to be withdrawn from the institution if the student violates the University’s published attendance policy. The withdrawal date is the last date of attendance as determined by the school from its attendance records. All refunds will be submitted within thirty (30) calendar days of the determination of the withdrawal date. Refunds are calculated based on the student’s last date of attendance or participation in an academic activity.

Term-Based and Non-Term Based Online Courses:

Refunds for Tuition and Refundable Fees will be determined as Follows:

Calendar Week                                                     Tuition Refund

Withdrawal during the first full week                      75% of tuition and refundable fees

Withdrawal during the second full week                50% of tuition and refundable fees

Withdrawal during the third full week                     25% of tuition and refundable fees                                                                                                                         

Withdrawal after the third full week                       No tuition or refundable fees refund

Oregon State Refund Policy

The Oregon State Refund Policy applies to students who are residents of Oregon.  Students who drop before the start date of the course will receive a one hundred (100) percent refund of the total cost of tuition for the course. Tuition refunds after the start of a course are based on weekly attendance.  A student will be determined to be withdrawn from the institution if the student violates the University’s published attendance policy.  The withdrawal date is the last date of attendance as determined by the school from its attendance records. All refunds will be submitted within thirty (30) calendar days of the determination of the withdrawal date.

Non-Term Based Online Courses:

4, 5 and 5.5 Week Courses

• Students who withdraw from their course during week 1 will receive a 75% tuition refund.
• Students who withdraw from their course during week 2 will receive a 50% tuition refund.
• Students who withdraw from their course during week 3 will receive a 25% tuition refund.
• Students who withdraw from their course during or after the 4th week will receive a 0% tuition refund.

10 and 11 Week Courses

• Students who withdraw from their course during weeks 1 and 2 will receive a 75% tuition refund.
• Students who withdraw from their course during weeks 3 and 4 will receive a 50% tuition refund.
• Students who withdraw from their course during weeks 5 and 6 will receive a 25% tuition refund.
• Students who withdraw from their course during or after the 7th week will receive a 0% tuition refund.

Wisconsin State Refund Policy

The Wisconsin State Refund Policy applies to students who are residents of the state of Wisconsin who withdraw from all courses from South University. The enrollment agreement is a legally binding contract upon acceptance of the student by the school unless the student cancels the enrollment agreement within three (3)-business days of acceptance by the school day cancellation period.

A student who withdraws or is dismissed after the three (3)-business day cancellation period, but before completing sixty (60) percent  of the potential units in the current enrollment period, shall be entitled to a pro rata refund, as calculated below, less any amounts owed by the student for the current enrollment period. Pro rata refund shall be determined as the number of units remaining after the last unit completed divided by the total number of units in the enrollment period, rounded downward to the nearest ten (10) percent. Pro rata refund is the resulting percent applied to the total tuition and other required costs paid by the student for the current enrollment period. The withdrawal date is the last date of attendance as determined by the school from its attendance records.

The school will make every effort to refund prepaid amounts for books, supplies and other charges unless the student has consumed or used those items and they can no longer be used or sold to new students, or returned by the school to the supplier.

The school will issue refunds within forty (40) calendar days of the effective date of termination. A written notice of withdrawal is not required. The student is considered withdrawn from the school if the student fails to attend classes, utilize instructional facilities, or submit lessons, without providing an explanation to the school regarding the inactivity for fifteen (15) calendar days.

No refund is required for any student who withdraws or is dismissed after completing sixty (60) percent of the potential units of instruction in the current enrollment period unless a student withdraws due to mitigating circumstances, which are those that directly prohibit pursuit of a program and which are beyond the student’s control.

Cancellation Privilege:

A student shall have the right to cancel enrollment for a program not exempted until midnight of the third (3rd) business day after written and final receipt of notice of acceptance from the school.

The student will receive a full refund of all money paid if the student cancels within the three (3)-business-day cancellation period; the student accepted was unqualified and the school did not secure a disclaimer; the school procured the student’s enrollment as the result of false representations in the written materials used by the school or in oral representations made by or on behalf of the school. The school will issue refunds within three (3) days of cancellation.

Term-Based and Non-Term Based Online Courses:

Adjustments of the Tuition and Fee Charges before Attending Any Units of Instruction but After the Three (3) - Day Cancellation Period:

One hundred (100) percent refund.

Adjustment of Charges after Completing:

Official and Unofficial Withdrawal

To officially withdraw, the student will need to notify the Office of the Registrar in person or in writing.  The registrar will assist the student to complete the withdrawal process and will determine the last date of attendance and the date of determination.  The date of determination would be the earlier of the date the student begins the school’s withdrawal process or the date the student provides notice.  For students who unofficially withdraw, the Registrar will determine the last date of attendance using attendance records.  The refund policies shall apply in the event that a student withdraws, is suspended, or is terminated from school.

Return of Title IV Funds

On-Campus Programs and Term-Based Online Programs

In compliance with Federal regulations, the school will determine how much Federal student financial assistance the student has earned or not earned when a student who is a Title IV recipient withdraws from school.

The school will calculate the percentage and amount of awarded Federal student financial assistance that the student has earned if the student withdraws up through the sixty (60) percent point of the term or session if the student is only attending a session. If the student has completed more than sixty (60) percent of the term or session the student earns one hundred (100) percent of the Federal student financial assistance.

The amount earned will be based on the percentage of the term that was completed in days up to and including the last date of attendance. To calculate the amount earned, the school will determine the percentage by dividing the number of calendar days completed in the term up to and including the last date of attendance by the total number of calendar days in the term. If there is a scheduled break of five (5) or more days, excluding periods of an approved Leave of Absence for campuses in Virginia only, it will reduce the term length and if the scheduled break is before the student’s last date of attendance, it will also reduce the calendar days completed.

If the student received more than the amount of Federal student financial assistance earned, the difference will be returned to the Federal student financial assistance programs from which funds were received in the following order: Federal Unsubsidized Direct Loans, Federal Subsidized Direct Loans, Federal Perkins Loans, Federal Direct PLUS Loans, Federal Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant. Funds will be returned to the aid source within forty-five (45) calendar days of the date that the school determines that the student has withdrawn.

If more Federal student financial assistance has been earned than has been received, the student may be eligible for a post-withdrawal disbursement. The school will notify the student of any post-withdrawal disbursement loan funds for which the student may be eligible and what steps need to be taken for the Federal financial assistance funds to be received.  The student or parent, in the case of the Federal PLUS Loans, needs to provide permission before any loan funds may be disbursed on the student’s account or disbursed to the student or parent. However, the school may automatically use all or a portion of the post-withdrawal disbursement of grant funds for tuition, fees, and room and board charges (as contracted with the school), and, with the student’s authorization, the school may automatically use the grant funds for other educationally-related charges.  Any balance of grant funds that may be available will be offered the student.

If Federal student financial assistance funds need to be returned, the institution must return a portion or all of the unearned funds equal to the lesser of:

- The institutional charges multiplied by the percentage of the unearned Federal student financial assistance funds; or

- The entire amount of unearned funds.

If there are remaining unearned Federal financial aid funds to be returned, the student must return any loan funds that remain to be returned in accordance with the terms and conditions of the promissory note. If the remaining amount of funds to be returned includes grant funds, the student must return any amount of the overpayment that is more than half of the grant funds received. The school will notify the student as to the amount owed and how and where it should be returned.

If students are only scheduled to attend Session I or Session II, the Return of Title IV Funds calculation as described will be applied to the applicable Session attended using the session start and end dates.

Non-Term Based Online Programs

In compliance with Federal regulations, the school will determine how much Federal student financial assistance the student has earned or not earned when a student who is a Title IV recipient withdraws from school.

The school will calculate the percentage and amount of awarded Federal student financial assistance that the student has earned if the student withdraws up through the sixty (60) percent point of the payment period. If the student has completed more than sixty (60) percent of the payment period, the student earns one hundred (100) percent of the Federal student financial assistance.

When a student withdraws from the payment period, the amount of Federal financial aid assistance the student earned is determined by a specific for­mula. Scheduled breaks of at least five (5) consecutive days and days in which the student was on an approved leave of absence are excluded from this calculation. Generally, a payment period consists of eighteen (18) credits; this may vary by program. If the student received less assistance than the amount the student earned, the student may be able to receive those additional funds as a post-withdrawal disbursement. If the student received more assistance than the amount the student earned, the excess funds must be returned by the University and/or the student. The excess funds could result in an overpayment. The amount of assistance the student earned is determined on a rate-of-progression basis. When the student completes more than sixty (60) percent of the payment period, the student earns all the assistance scheduled for that payment period.

If the student received more than the amount of Federal student financial assistance earned, the difference will be returned to the Federal student financial assistance programs from which funds were received in the following order: Federal Unsubsidized Direct Loans, Federal Subsidized Direct Loans, Federal Perkins Loans, Federal Direct PLUS Loans, Federal Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant. Funds will be returned to the aid source within forty-five (45) calendar days of the date that the school determines that the student has withdrawn.

If more Federal student financial assistance has been earned than has been received, the student may be eligible for a post-withdrawal disbursement. The school will notify the student of any post-withdrawal disbursement loan funds for which the student may be eligible and what steps need to be taken for the Federal financial assistance funds to be received.  The student or parent, in the case of the Federal PLUS Loans, needs to provide permission before any loan funds may be disbursed on the student’s account or disbursed to the student or parent. However, the school may automatically use all or a portion of the post-withdrawal disbursement of grant funds for tuition, fees, and room and board charges (as contracted with the school), and, with the student’s authorization, the school may automatically use the grant funds for other educationally-related charges.  Any balance of grant funds that may be available will be offered the student.

If Federal student financial assistance funds need to be returned, the institution must return a portion or all of the unearned funds equal to the lesser of:

- The institutional charges multiplied by the percentage of the unearned Federal student financial assistance funds; or

- The entire amount of unearned funds.

If there are remaining unearned Federal financial aid funds to be returned, the student must return any loan funds that remain to be returned in accordance with the terms and conditions of the promissory note. If the remaining amount of funds to be returned includes grant funds, the student must return any amount of the overpayment that is more than half of the grant funds received. The school will notify the student as to the amount owed and how and where it should be returned.

Loan Disbursement Information

(Non-Term Based Programs)

The first payment period will be delivered on or after the start date of the course, depending upon completion of the financial aid paperwork .The second payment period will be delivered once a student has successfully completed the first payment period and the student has begun the second payment period of the Academic Year, which is defined as the time of certification of Title IV funds.

Grades of W, WP, WF, I, NCF, or F do not count toward successfully completed courses. Grades of D that do not count towards successful completion of required major course and thus must be repeated, also do not count toward successfully completed courses. In addition, students who are required or choose to repeat courses in which they earned a grade of C will not have the repeated course counted toward successfully completed courses.

A student may receive subsequent loans once the conditions of the current loan have been met.

NOTE: Once a grade of I is successfully completed for a permanent grade as outlined above, the course will count towards successful

completion. However, no subsequent Title IV certifications can occur until a grade other than I is posted.

Approved Tuition Waiver

(South University, Non-Term Based Programs)

Students receiving a W for a course will be granted an Approved Tuition Waiver upon return. Any students taking a course within 90 days of receiving a W will be granted an Approved Tuition Waiver as long as they successfully complete the subsequent course following the W grade. Any tuition for the course already paid by the student will be credited toward the student’s account.

Students in term-based programs are not eligible for the Approved Tuition Waiver.

Official Withdrawal Procedure

To withdraw officially from the institution, students must contact the office of the registrar to provide notification of their intention to withdraw in writing. The effective date of the withdrawal cannot be earlier than date of the written contact with the registrar’s office. Fully online students must contact their Academic Advisor to officially withdraw from school.

Financial Aid

Financial aid is available to those who quality.  Financial aid is the economic assistance available to help students meet the difference between what they can afford to pay and what it actually costs them to go to school. This economic assistance may be in the form of scholarships, grants, work-study programs, or loans.

A financial aid package is a combination of different forms of financial aid that together makes up a student financial aid award. A financial aid package may include grants, loans, or a combination of these two.

A student’s ability to contribute to the cost of his or her education is determined by the use of a needs analysis, which is a consistent, systematic way of measuring the ability of a family to pay for educational costs and its eligibility to receive funds from federal programs. It determines the ability, not the willingness, of a student or family to finance the student’s education. Everyone who applies is treated fairly and equally under this system. In determining how much a student and his or her family can contribute, a number of factors are considered. From these factors, a needs analysis determines how much a student and his or her family can contribute and how much money will be needed to finance the student’s education.

Application Process for Financial Aid

To apply for any form of financial aid at South University, a student must:

1. Apply for admission to the University.
2. Complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This form is for both in and out-of-state students.

Student Aid Programs

South University participates in several student aid programs. A brief description of each follows.

Grants

Alabama Student Grant (ASG) (Montgomery campus only)

This Alabama grant program is available to students who are Alabama residents and who are enrolled at least half-time in an undergraduate program of study. Applications are available in the financial aid office.

Alabama Student Assistance Grant Program (ASAP) (Montgomery campus only)

This Alabama grant program provides additional funds to Alabama residents with exceptional need and is awarded by the financial aid office to eligible students who are enrolled at least half-time in an undergraduate program of study and have a federal expected family contribution (EFC) of zero.

Alabama National Guard Educational Assistance Program (ANGEAP) (Montgomery campus only)

This Alabama grant program is available to Alabama National Guard members. Students submit an application to the Alabama National Guard Educational Assistance Program Office before August 1st of the academic year for which grant funds are being requested. Students may obtain applications through the financial aid office or the ANGEAP office.

Georgia Tuition Equalization Grant (Savannah campus only)

The Georgia Tuition Equalization Grant (TEG) entitles qualified Georgia residents who are full-time students to a tuition grant without respect to age, income, or academic standing. Applications are available from the financial aid office.

Florida Student Assistance Grant (FSAG) (Orlando, Tampa, and West Palm Beach campuses only)

This program is available to fulltime students meeting Florida residency requirements and working toward their first degree.

Federal Pell Grant Program

Federal Pell Grants are based on financial need, as defined by the U.S. Department of Education. To be eligible for a Federal Pell Grant, students must: make application each year by filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA); prove U.S. citizenship or permanent resident status; be able to show graduation from high school or its equivalency; not owe a refund on a federal grant nor be in default on a federal loan; and maintain satisfactory academic progress in school.

William L. Boyd, IV, Effective Access to Student Education (EASE) (Orlando, Tampa, and West Palm Beach campuses only)

This Florida grant program is available to full time undergraduate students who are Florida residents and working towards their first degree.

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant Program (FSEOG)

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants are for students who demonstrate exceptional financial need (with priority given to Pell Grant recipients). There are a limited number of awards available each year so early application is encouraged. This typically does not have to be repaid.

South University Institutional Grant

The South University Institutional Grant will be offered at $1,000 per quarter. In order to be eligible, students must meet the following requirements:

1. An official nine-month Expected Family Contribution (EFC), as determined by the U.S. Department of Education, based on completion of the applicable Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), of 3500 or higher.
2. Be in their freshman or sophomore years, as defined by grade-level classification.
3. Students are not required to accept any Federal student loans for which they may be eligible.
4. If Federal loans are requested at any time in the freshman or sophomore years, the student’s eligibility for the South University Institutional Grant may be eliminated.
5. If there is a difference (gap) between the direct charges (tuition, books, and required fees) from South University, minus all other aid such as Pell Grants and any state grants, Veterans military benefits or Training Assistance educational benefits, federal, or institutional loans, then:
6. If the unfinanced gap is less than $1,000 per quarter, the South University Institutional Grant will be zero.
7. In no quarter may the student’s aid and educational resources, including the South University Institutional Grant, exceed the student’s direct charges.
8. Maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress and be in good academic standing.
9. Attend a minimum of 10 credit hours per quarter.

Maintain enrollment status (as defined in #7 above) past the midpoint of the quarter, i.e., after attendance in Session II has been established as appropriate based on the student’s schedule of on ground and online classes; the South University Institutional Grant will be disbursed after that determination has been made.

The decision of eligibility by the financial aid office is final.

Loans

Federal Perkins Loan Program

Federal Perkins Loans offer a low 5 percent fixed interest rate and repayment terms may be as long as ten years. Because funds under this program are extremely limited, priority is given to students with the greatest financial need, as determined by the results of the FAFSA. Repayment on the loan generally does not begin until nine months after a student leaves campus or coursework is reduced to less than halftime (or less than 6 credits in a quarter). Only available to returning students.

Federal Direct Loan Program Subsidized

The Federal Direct Subsidized Loan is a fixed interest loan available to students through the federal government. The interest is subsidized by the federal government.  To be eligible, a student must be a citizen or permanent resident alien of the United States and meet other eligibility requirements. Repayment of the loan begins six months after the student’ drops below half time enrollment.

Unsubsidized

The Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan is a fixed interest loan available to students through the Federal Government. The interest is not subsidized by the federal government and begins accruing on the date of disbursement.  Students may either pay this interest as it becomes due or let it capitalize on the original loan amount which will increase the overall amount to be repaid by the student. The Unsubsidized Loan repayment begins six months after the student drops below half time enrollment. Dependent students who do not meet the need requirements for a Subsidized Loan will be eligible for unsubsidized loans. Students whose parents are denied a PLUS Loan, may also apply for additional unsubsidized loan amounts, based on the student’s grade level. Please refer to a Student Financial Services professional for additional information.

Federal Direct Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students (PLUS) Loan Program

The Direct Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students is a fixed interest loan available to parents through the Federal Government. The PLUS loan is a credit-based loan available to parents of dependent students. The PLUS loan repayment begins 60 days after the loan is fully disbursed.

Federal Direct Grad PLUS Loan

This loan is for graduate students. The student must have a good credit history. The interest on this loan is not subsidized. 

Plus Loan Borrowing Limits: Parents or graduate students may borrow up to the full cost of attendance minus any financial aid the student receives.

For Washington State residents seeking information and resources about student loan repayment or seeking to submit a complaint relating to your student loans or student loan servicer, please visit www.wsac.wa.gov/loan-advocacy or contact the Student Loan Advocate at loanadvocate@wsac.wa.gov.

Scholarships

Georgia HOPE Scholarship (Savannah campus only)

This scholarship is available to qualified Georgia residents who graduated from high school in 1996 or later with a minimum 3.00 grade point average. Additional information about eligibility is available from the financial aid or registrar’s office.

Georgia Zell Miller Scholarship (Savannah campus only)

This scholarship is available to qualified Georgia residents who meet the eligibility criteria.  Information about eligibility requirements is available from the financial aid office.

Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program (Orlando, Tampa and West Palm Beach campuses only)

This scholarship program is available to students who have applied before their graduation from high school or GED and are currently enrolled at the University and meet the scholarship criteria.

South Carolina HOPE Scholarship (Columbia campus only)

This scholarship is available to qualified South Carolina residents who graduated from high school in 2002 or later with a minimum of a 3.00 grade point average. Additional information about eligibility is available from the financial aid office.

South Carolina LIFE Scholarship (Columbia campus only)

This scholarship is available to qualified South Carolina residents who meet the eligibility criteria. Information about eligibility requirements is available from the financial aid office.

Military and Veteran Institutional Scholarships

South University is proud to offer institutional scholarship opportunities to qualifying military and veteran students. Eligibility may be based upon current or former military affiliation. An application will need to be submitted and documentation will be required to prove eligibility. School personnel will be able to advise you regarding available scholarships, eligibility requirements and required documentation.

Military Personnel

South University is pleased to offer an Military Tuition Scholarship to eligible Active Duty, Active and Drilling members of the Reserve and National Guard.

For undergraduate programs at all South University locations, the cost of tuition is $166.00 per quarter credit hour after the military tuition scholarships applied.

For graduate level programs, South University offers a military tuition scholarship of 10% at all of its locations.

Veterans

For undergraduate and graduate level programs at the online location only, South University offers eligible veterans the Veteran Scholarship of 10%.

Veteran Supplemental Housing Grant

This grant assists qualifying Veteran students, attending a campus that has ceased enrolling, to offset the reduction in the housing allowance paid by the Department of Veterans Affair (VA).  Additional information about eligibility is available from the financial aid office.

Vocational Rehabilitation Programs

Every state has programs to help people with physical and mental disabilities. Some states offer retraining programs for people who have been out of the job market for a length of time, for example. Eligibility criteria and amounts vary according to federal, state and private agency regulations. Students must apply directly to and be approved for benefits through the appropriate federal, state, or private agency. For more information, contact your local vocational rehabilitation office, unemployment office, or your state department of human resources.

Veterans Education Act

The Veterans Education Act provides varying levels of assistance to eligible veterans, disabled veterans, and their dependents. If you are a veteran or the dependent of a veteran, contact the local Veterans Affairs office in your region, visit www.gibill.va.gov. 

U.S. Departments of Veterans Affairs and Defense Education Benefits

South University has been approved by the veteran state approving agency in the states listed below for the training of veterans and eligible veterans’ dependents. Where applicable, utilizing the Department of Veterans Affairs education benefits may receive assistance from the School Certifying Official in the filing of appropriate forms. These students must maintain satisfactory attendance and academic progress (refer to the Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy of the catalog for more information). Students receiving veterans’ benefits must report all prior education and training. South University will evaluate prior credit and accept that which is appropriate. South University will not impose any penalty or late fees, deny access to classes, libraries, or other campus facilities, or require a covered individual to borrow additional funds due to delayed payments from the VA under chapter 31 or 33. Students with questions should contact the veteran state approving agency for the state in which their campus operates. 

Alabama:  South University, Montgomery, is approved for the training of veterans and other eligible individuals by the Alabama State Approving Agency under the Code of Alabama §§ 31-6-1, et seq. In accordance with Alabama state approving agency policy, it is required that all transcripts are on file and all prior learning has been evaluated for transfer into the student’s educational program by the completion of two (2) academic terms.  Failure to have an evaluation completed by this timeframe will result in a suspension of the student’s certified attendance to the VA until an evaluation is complete.  Students with questions should contact the Alabama State Approving Agency( P.O. Box 302130, 135 South Union Street, Montgomery, AL 36104; Phone: 334-293-4664; Fax: 334-293-4663; www.accs.cc).

Florida:  South University, Tampa, and South University, West Palm Beach, are approved for training veterans and other eligible individuals by the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs, Bureau of State Approving Agency for Veterans Education, Training . In accordance with Florida state approving agency policy, it is required that all transcripts are on file and all prior learning has been evaluated for transfer into the student’s educational program by the completion of two (2) academic terms.  Failure to have an evaluation completed by this timeframe will result in a suspension of the student’s certified attendance to the VA until an evaluation is complete.  Students with questions should contact the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs, Bureau of State Approving Agency for Veterans Education, Training (9500 Bay Pines Boulevard, Room 214; Bay Pines, FL 33744; 727-319-7402; www.floridavets.org).

Georgia: South University, Savannah, is approved for training veterans and other eligible individuals by the State of Georgia Department of Veterans Services’ Veterans Education and Training Division (Floyd Veterans Memorial Building., Suite E-970; Atlanta, GA 30334-4800; 404-656-2306 or 404-656-2322; http://sdvs.georgia.gov/).

Michigan:  South University, Novi is approved for training veterans and other eligible individuals by the Michigan State Approving Agency (Workforce Development Agency, State of Michigan; Victor Office Center; 201 North Washington Square, 5th Floor; Lansing, MI 48913; 517-335-5858; www.michigan.gov/bwt).

North Carolina: South University, High Point is approved for the training of veterans and eligible veterans’ dependents by the North Carolina State Approving Agency .  In accordance with North Carolina state approving agency policy, it is required that all transcripts are on file and all prior learning has been evaluated for transfer into the student’s educational program by the completion of two (2) academic terms.  Failure to have an evaluation completed by this timeframe will result in a suspension of the student’s certified attendance to the VA until an evaluation is complete.  Students with questions should contact the North Carolina State Approving Agency (120 Penmarc Drive, Suite 103; Raleigh, NC 27603-2434; 919-733-7535; http://www.northcarolina.edu/?q=academic-affairs/nc-state-approving-agency-ncsaa).

Ohio: South University, Cleveland, is approved for the training of veterans and eligible individuals by the State Approving Agency of the Ohio Department of Veterans Services (77 South High Street, 7th Floor; Columbus, OH 43215; 614-466-9287; http://dvs.ohio.gov/VETERANS_EDUCATION/State_Approving_Agency).

South Carolina:  South University, Columbia, is approved for the training of veterans and other eligible persons by the State Approving Agency.  In accordance with South Carolina state approving agency policy, it is required that all transcripts are on file and all prior learning has been evaluated for transfer into the student’s educational program by the completion of two (2) academic terms.  Failure to have an evaluation completed by this timeframe will result in a suspension of the student’s certified attendance to the VA until an evaluation is complete.  Students with questions should contact the South Carolina State Approving Agency (1122 Lady Street, Suite 300, Columbia, SC 29201; 803-737-2260; www.che.sc.gov).

Texas: South University, Austin, is approved for training veterans and other individuals by the Texas Veterans Commission (PO Box 12277, Austin, TX 78711-2277; 800-252-8387; www.tvc.state.tx.us).

 Virginia: South University, Richmond, and South University, Virginia Beach are approved for training veterans and other eligible individuals by the Virginia Department Department of Veterans Services, State Approving AgencyVeterans Education, Training and Employment (101 North 14th Street, 17th Floor; Richmond, Virginia 23219; 804-225-2083; http://www.dvs.virginia.gov/).

For students using Veterans Affairs (VA) education benefits, any complaint against the school should be routed through the VA GI Bill Feedback System by going to the following website: http://www.benefits.va.gov/GIBILL/Feedback.asp.  The VA will then follow up through the appropriate channels to investigate the complaint and resolve it satisfactorily.

As a Department of Defense Memorandum of Understanding education institution participant and signatory, South University is approved for Tuition Assistance. Eligibility for Tuition Assistance varies by military branch. Military spouses may also be eligible to use Department of Defense educational benefits under the Military Spouse Career Advancement Scholarship (MyCAA) program. Service members or military spouses wishing to use Department of Defense education benefits must obtain approval from their respective military branch or the Department of Defense prior to starting the course. 

While benefit and eligibility information is provided by South University, the ultimate approval of a student’s ability to use a particular benefit is determined by the respective government agency offering the benefit.   Eligible service members, veterans and dependents may contact the Student Financial Services department at South University to learn more about these programs and participation. For additional information, visit www.southuniversity.edu.

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site at  http://www.benefits.va.gov/GIBILL/Trademark_Terms_of_Use.asp.

Federal Work-Study Program (ground campuses only)

Through the Federal Work-Study program, students have the opportunity to meet part of their expenses by working part-time on or off campus. Students can earn at least minimum wage, and possibly higher for specific positions. A limited number of assignments are available, with priority given to students with the greatest need, as determined by the results of the FAFSA. The Student Financial Services Department has more details. The maximum students can earn through this program is the amount of their unmet need (the difference between expenses and all their resources).