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Advising Resources

About Financial Aid

The Financial Aid Office staff administers federal, state, and institutional aid programs, and assists students and parents with questions about the financial aid process.

All students are encouraged to utilize Self-Service and MyCarlow for current financial aid information and to access all forms necessary to apply for financial aid.

Contact Information
Office Hours

Email: finaid@carlow.edu

Phone: 412-578-6389

Location: Student Hub, Antonian Hall, 2nd floor

Monday–Thursday 9am–4:30pm; Friday 9am–4pm;

  • Virtual appointments (via Teams) available by email request

Financial Aid Policy Information

Aid Eligibility Requirements & Verification

This page reviews the criteria for receiving financial aid, including completing the FAFSA annually, maintaining satisfactory academic progress (SAP), and being enrolled at least half-time in an eligible program. The verification process confirms the accuracy of FAFSA information and may involve submitting additional documents for verifying identity and educational purposes. 

Drop & Withdrawal Refund Policies (Student Accounts)

This document outlines Carlow University's tuition, fee, and housing refund policies for students who drop courses or withdraw completely. It details refund eligibility by course type and withdrawal timing, including specific timelines for accelerated, semester-long, and summer courses. It also explains how federal financial aid is recalculated upon withdrawal and includes appeal procedures for exceptional cases.

Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) Policy

This document explains the academic standards students must meet to maintain financial aid eligibility. It outlines GPA and credit completion requirements, consequences like warnings and suspensions, and options for appeal. The policy applies to both undergraduate and graduate students and includes special considerations for state grants, repeated courses, and transfer credits.

Attendance Policies & Procedures

Federal aid eligibility depends on verified student attendance, per federal regulations. The document outlines the university's attendance policies, including specifics related to accelerated courses and online courses.

Return of Title IV Funds Policy

The Financial Aid Office is required to recalculate Title IV (federal) financial aid if a student withdraws, drops out, is dismissed, or takes a leave of absence prior to completing 60% of a payment period or term, usually a semester. In these circumstances, the Financial Aid Office uses the Return of Title IV Funds formula to recalculate the student’s eligibility for Title IV Funds.

Rights & Responsibilities of Receiving Financial Aid

This page outlines students' obligations and entitlements when receiving financial aid.

Financial Aid Code of Conduct

Any Carlow University officer, employee, or agent who has responsibilities with respect to student educational loans is required to comply with this Code of Conduct.

Student Financial Aid Forms

Carlow University’s Financial Aid Forms are listed by year or generally, with completion instructions.

Forms must be downloaded, printed, filled out, and signed, unless otherwise noted. An ink signature is required.

  • Financial Aid Forms: here, you will find a list of forms you may be asked to complete as a student attending Carlow, including:

    • Standard Verification Worksheet (Download): If you are a dependent student selected for standard verification, complete this with your parents. If you are an independent student selected for standard verification, complete this alone (or with spouse if applicable).
    • Identity Statement of Educational Purpose Form (Download): If selected for verification, this form must be completed in person at the financial aid office or by a notary.
    • Independent Student Appeal Form (Download): Use this form if you are considered dependent by federal standards, but feel you are in extenuating circumstances that qualify you as an independent.
    • Parent Special Conditions Form (Download): Use this form, if you are facing special circumstances not covered on the FAFSA.
    • Independent Student Special Conditions Form (Download): Use this form, if you are facing special circumstances not covered on the FAFSA.

*If you need assistance with completing any forms, contact Financial Aid.*

Additional Fin Aid Resources

Learn More About Loans and Lenders

Learn More About Budgeting and Financial Literacy:

  • YouCanDealWithIt.com is a public service initiative by the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) designed to support students, recent graduates, and parents in navigating financial challenges associated with higher ed. The website offers advice and tools focused on student loans, budgeting, credit management, and overall financial literacy.

  • Khan Academy’s Financial Literacy course is a free, self-paced online program designed to you understand a wide range of real-life financial topics, including budgeting, saving, credit, loans, insurance, investing, taxes, and major life decisions like car buying and housing.

  • AICPA & CIMA Financial Literacy Resources page offers free tools to help you budget, manage credit, prepare for taxes, and plan for life after college.

  • The Simple Dollar offers advice on budgeting, saving, paying off debt, and managing money. It's a helpful resource for students looking to build strong financial habits and make smart choices with their money

  • MyMoney.gov is a U.S. government website offering free  tools to help you budget, manage credit, file taxes, and plan for life after college.