This page outlines your rights and responsibilities as a financial aid recipient, JCU’s financial aid policies, and refund and withdrawal information. Paper copies of any item on this page are available upon request — contact Student Enrollment and Financial Services.
Your Rights & Responsibilities
As a financial aid recipient, you have the right to know:
- What financial aid programs are available and their deadlines
- How your financial need was determined and how much of it has been met
- How your financial aid will be distributed
- What portion of your package is gift aid and what must be repaid
- If aid is a loan: the interest rate, repayment schedule, and when repayment begins
- How satisfactory academic progress is determined and what happens if you don’t meet it
- Your right to accept, decline, or request an adjustment to your award
- That your information is treated confidentially
- That you may appeal your award if your financial circumstances change
It is your responsibility to:
- Apply for financial aid each year and complete the FAFSA accurately and on time
- Provide all documentation requested by the Financial Aid Office
- Read all forms you sign and keep copies of your financial aid records
- Complete required entrance and exit loan counseling
- Repay all loans in accordance with your promissory note
- Notify the Financial Aid Office if you change your name, housing plan, major, or enrollment status
- Use your JCU email to receive financial aid communications
Financial Aid Policies
Federal regulations require students to maintain satisfactory academic progress to remain eligible for financial aid. Reviews GPA, completion rate, and maximum timeframe requirements.
When a student withdraws, federal regulations require JCU to calculate how much federal aid was earned. Unearned aid must be returned to the federal programs.
First-time federal loan borrowers must complete entrance counseling before funds are disbursed. Exit counseling is required before graduating or dropping below half-time enrollment.
View your complete federal loan and grant history, loan servicer information, and current balances.
Withdrawal & Refund Schedules
Refund eligibility is based on your official withdrawal date. All communication received on weekends or holidays will be processed the following business day. Submit a Withdrawal or Leave of Absence Form →
For the Leave of Absence and Permanent Withdrawal policy, see the Academic Policies in the Course Catalog →
Tuition Refund Appeal
Students who withdraw due to extenuating circumstances may appeal for a tuition refund outside the standard schedule. Submit the completed form to Student Enrollment and Financial Services.
Financial Aid Code of Conduct
The Financial Aid Office at John Carroll University is a member of NASFAA, the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators. Staff are expected to maintain exemplary standards of professional conduct in all aspects of financial aid administration. In doing so, Financial Aid Office employees are bound to:
- Refrain from taking any action for personal benefit
- Refrain from taking any action contrary to law, regulation, or the best interests of students and parents
- Ensure that information provided is accurate, unbiased, and free from any preference arising from actual or potential gain
- Remain objective in making decisions and advising University administration regarding relationships with financial aid entities
- Refrain from soliciting or accepting anything of more than nominal value from any entity involved in the making, holding, consolidating, or processing of student loans
- Disclose to University administration any involvement with or interest in any entity involved in any aspect of student financial aid
For the full NASFAA Statement of Ethical Principles, visit nasfaa.org.
