Financial Services

We’re committed to ensuring that every student has access to the financial resources needed to pursue their education. Our OneStop and Financial Aid staff are here to support and guide you through the process of securing funds to attend our institution.

We strongly encourage all students to apply for financial aid, regardless of your financial situation. The application is used to determine eligibility for federal and state financial aid and is also required for a majority of Baker College scholarships. Our advisors are available to provide personalized assistance in various areas, including grants, scholarships, loans, employer reimbursement programs, veterans’ benefits, and more.

We’re dedicated to helping you overcome financial barriers so you can focus on your academic and personal growth.

How to Apply for Financial Aid

All students who wish to apply for financial aid (grants, scholarships, loans, or work aid) should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which can be completed online at studentaid.gov. You may contact the Baker College OneStop Office for assistance with this application process.

Once received by Baker College, the FAFSA results will be reviewed. Some students’ applications will be selected for verification; these students will be requested to submit additional documentation before their financial aid process can be completed. Once all necessary documentation is received, you will be sent a financial aid offer. If the financial aid offer includes a loan(s), you will need to take action via the financial aid portal to accept, decline, or reduce the loan amount. The Financial Aid Office will complete the loan certification process for all accepted loans.

Financial aid funds (including student loans) will not be applied to your account until after the financial aid census date or after the start of your classes (whichever is later). All new students who are first-time borrowers must attend classes at a minimum of half-time status for 30 days before receiving any loan proceeds. You will be notified when your financial aid funds (including loans) are disbursed and (if applicable) when a refund of excess financial aid is available.

Cost of Attendance

At Baker College, we understand that attending college involves various expenses beyond just tuition. That’s why our cost of attendance encompasses not only tuition and fees but also books, travel, and estimated living expenses while studying at our institution.

For detailed information on the cost of attendance, you can visit my.baker.edu/coa.

Student Aid Index

The Student Aid Index (SAI) is determined from the income, assets, and other information that you and your family report on the FAFSA. The SAI is an eligibility index number that is used to determine how much need-based financial aid a student may receive.

Types of Financial Aid

Once eligibility for financial assistance has been determined, you may be offered one or more types of aid in what is called a financial aid offer. The financial aid offer may include the following:

• Scholarships: Scholarship awards are usually based on academic excellence and not necessarily on financial need.
• Grants: Grants may be awarded from the federal government, the state government, Baker College, and/or private organizations. Unlike scholarships, which are merit based, grant awards are typically based on financial need.
• Loans: Loans are offered at low interest rates, and must be repaid after the student leaves college or drops below half-time enrollment.
• Work-Study: Work-study is typically a part-time job from which earnings are used toward college expenses.

Additional information about each of these programs is listed in the following sections.

Scholarships

We recognize that academic excellence, involvement in extracurricular activities, financial need, and career aspirations all play important roles in your college journey. That’s why our scholarship selection process takes into account these various factors.

We offer scholarships not only to new and transfer students but also to current Baker College students. Our scholarships aim to support students in reaching their educational and career goals. For a comprehensive list of scholarships available through Baker College, you can visit baker.edu/scholarships.

Additionally, there are opportunities for you to apply for scholarships from external agencies. These scholarships recognize outstanding achievements and provide further avenues for you to pursue your aspirations.

Michigan Achievement Scholarship

The Michigan Achievement Scholarship is available to students who graduate from high school in Michigan with a diploma or certificate of completion, or achieve a high school equivalency certificate in 2023 or later. The student and their parents must be Michigan residents since July 1st of the prior year, complete the FAFSA, have an SAI of 30,000 or lower, and the student must attend college full time within 15 months of high school graduation. Eligible students may receive a scholarship of $1,000-$4,000 per academic year. Full details are available at michigan.gov/mistudentaid.

Grants

Several grant programs are available for eligible Baker College students.

Federal Pell Grant 

Pell Grant funds serve as an essential resource for undergraduate students pursuing their first bachelor’s degree. Eligibility is based on financial need, the cost of attending school, and enrollment status.

For the 2024-2025 award year, the amount of a federal Pell Grant may range from $740 to $7,395.

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant 

The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) is another vital resource available to undergraduate students, particularly those with significant financial need. Like the Pell Grant, the amount of FSEOG awarded depends on factors such as your financial circumstances, the cost of attending school, and enrollment status.

FSEOG funds are allocated to students who qualify for Pell Grants and demonstrate the highest level of financial need. Award amounts can range from $100 to $4,000, providing additional support to students facing financial challenges in pursuing their education.

Michigan Tuition Grant

The Michigan Tuition Grant (MTG) offers valuable support to undergraduate residents of Michigan who demonstrate financial need. Due to a recent phaseout of this program, the grant is only available to students who previously received Michigan Tuition Grant funds.

Students who attend at least half-time are eligible to apply for the MTG. To be considered for this grant, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by May 1st annually. 

The exact amount of funds available through the MTG program is announced annually by the State of Michigan. By providing financial assistance to eligible students, the MTG program aims to make higher education more accessible and affordable for residents of Michigan, thereby supporting their academic and career aspirations.

Tuition Incentive Program

The Tuition Incentive Program (TIP) serves as a valuable support system for students in Michigan, aiming to remove financial barriers and encourage high school completion and pursuit of post-secondary education.

This program is divided into two phases: Phase I and Phase II. TIP specifically targets students with financial need, recognizing the importance of addressing economic challenges that may hinder educational attainment. By incentivizing high school completion and post-secondary education, TIP aims to empower students to pursue their academic aspirations and build brighter futures.

For further details and application information, you can visit michigan.gov/mistudentaid.

Loans

Federal direct loans offer important financial support for students pursuing higher education, regardless of their financial need. To qualify for any type of federal loan, you must be enrolled at least half-time in college. It’s crucial to remember that loans must be repaid, so you should borrow responsibly and consider the repayment options.

There are two main types of federal direct loans available: Federal Direct Stafford Loans and Federal Direct PLUS Loans. Students can find detailed information about these loan programs on studentaid.gov.

Before receiving your first student loan, you are required to complete entrance loan counseling and sign a Master Promissory Note. Additionally, borrowers must complete exit loan counseling when they graduate, withdraw, or drop below half-time enrollment. This counseling provides essential information about loan repayment, deferment, forbearance, disbursement, and debt management strategies. You can complete this counseling online at studentaid.gov.

To ensure ethical practices regarding student loans, schools are mandated to establish a Student Loan Code of Conduct Policy. You can access Baker College’s Code of Conduct Policy on our website at baker.edu/about/get-to-know-us/disclosure-of-consumer-information/.

By providing comprehensive information and resources, we aim to support you in making informed decisions about borrowing and managing your student loans responsibly.

Federal Direct Stafford Loans

Federal Direct Stafford Loans are available to student borrowers at low, fixed interest rates. There are two types of Federal Direct Stafford Loans:

Subsidized Stafford Loan

Subsidized Stafford Loan eligibility is based on financial need. Subsidized loans are available only to undergraduate students. Under this loan program, you are not required to make payments as long as you are enrolled at least half time, and no interest will accumulate during this time. 

Unsubsidized Stafford Loan

Unsubsidized Stafford Loan eligibility is not based on financial need and is available to both undergraduate and graduate students. Under this loan program, you are not required to make payments while you are in college; however, interest will accumulate if not paid by the borrower.

Students cannot receive federal direct loans that exceed the cost of education. Listed below are the maximum federal direct loan amounts you may borrow annually, based on grade level:

Federal Direct PLUS Loans

Federal Direct PLUS Loans are available for parents of eligible dependent undergraduate students and for eligible graduate students at fixed interest rates. Under the Federal Direct PLUS Loan program, applicants are eligible to borrow up to the total cost of attendance minus any financial aid they will receive. Parents or graduate students may apply for the Federal Direct PLUS Loans at studentaid.gov.

Federal Work-Study

Baker College recognizes the importance of providing opportunities for undergraduate students to earn funds for college expenses through part-time work. These opportunities not only help reduce the need for loans but also complement other types of financial aid such as grants and scholarships.

Work-study programs offer jobs tailored to students with financial need, as indicated on the FAFSA. While work-study positions are typically on campus, Baker College also offers some off-campus work-study opportunities. Selection for work-study positions is based on financial need, class schedule, and academic progress.

All Baker College students are encouraged to apply for regular part-time employment opportunities, regardless of their eligibility for work-study. By offering a variety of job opportunities, both on and off campus, we strive to support students in meeting their financial needs while maintaining their academic pursuits.

For detailed information on work-study, including how to apply and current job postings, you can visit my.baker.edu/workstudy.

Financial Aid Rights and Responsibilities

• You have the right to accept or refuse any part of your financial aid offer. If you reject any part of your financial aid offered, it may affect other aid offered.
• You may not receive financial aid from more than one college while enrolled at two or more colleges at the same time.
• Classes taken outside of your declared program do not qualify for most forms of financial aid.
• You must attend college at least half time (six undergraduate credit hours or five graduate credit hours) to be considered for most financial aid.
• Withdrawal from classes or failure to attend all classes may result in a loss or reduction of financial aid and a balance due to the College.
• It is your responsibility to inform Financial Aid of any changes to information provided on the financial aid application. Students should contact Financial Aid to report these changes.
• Financial aid offered to students is dependent upon the availability of funds. Any change in the availability of funds or in your academic performance may change the financial aid offer.
• If your financial aid application is estimated or incomplete, you will be responsible for any charges that may occur if the estimated financial aid indicated is incorrect or the application remains incomplete.
• Information regarding a student and/or parent Title IV-HEA loan will be submitted to the National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS) and will be accessible by authorized agencies, lenders, and institutions.

Financial Information

Tuition Charges

The tuition charge per semester hour of credit is based on the following schedule. Tuition is subject to change at the beginning of any semester.

*Program offered with no student or program fees

*Program offered with no student or program fees

Note: Tuition Assistance (TA) is only authorized for tuition charges up to $250 per semester credit hour for undergraduate courses and up to $370 per semester credit hour for master degree courses. TA does not cover doctorate program costs or fees, such as the technology fee, course fees, or books/supplies.

Student and Program Fees

Charges for Nontraditional Credits

Residence Hall Charges

*Rate may vary based on occupancy

Miscellaneous Fees

*May be required based on academic program.

Financial Responsibility

Each semester that you register for courses at Baker College, you accept all responsibility for tuition and fees resulting from the registered course/s, as well as an understanding that they are subject to the course withdrawal and refund policies at Baker College. Additionally, by registering for courses each semester, you acknowledge your understanding of the payment options and tuition deadlines set forth at Baker College, and that failure to satisfy these financial obligations by the payment deadlines may result in collection activity, which could include additional fees. Furthermore, by registering for courses each semester, you are acknowledging that you have read and understand Baker College’s policy on Student Billing Electronic Communications and that you consent to the terms of the policy. Additional information regarding available payment options, tuition rates, payment deadlines, and policies is located in this Handbook and within the Baker College knowledge-base at services.baker.edu.

Payment Options

Tuition Payments

1. Payment at Registration: Tuition can be paid upfront during the registration process.
2. Prior to Semester Start: Students can pay tuition prior to the start of the semester.
3. Approved Payment Plan: Students can opt for an approved payment plan, which incurs a $35 fee. Invoices are generated throughout the semester and can be viewed and paid via the student portal.

• Online via the student portal (my.baker.edu) using ACH or credit/debit card. Please note that there is a fee associated with credit/debit card transactions of 2.85 percent (4.25 percent for international debit/credit cards). The minimum service fee for card transactions over $20.00 and less than $160.00 is $3.00.
• Foreign Currency: Payments in foreign currency are accepted, with fee amounts varying based on the exchange rate.
• ACH Payments: No fees are associated with ACH payments.
• Personal Check or Money Order: Payments can be mailed to Baker College or delivered to the OneStop Office.
• Cash Payments: Cash payments are accepted at the OneStop Office.

It’s important to note that absenteeism and withdrawals do not reduce a student’s financial obligation. For more details, you can refer to the Class Withdrawal and Refund Policies section in the Handbook.

Baker College accepts Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express for credit/debit card payments. We strive to provide flexible payment options to ensure that you can manage your tuition payments conveniently and efficiently.

Employer Tuition Reimbursement Program

The employer tuition reimbursement program is a tuition deferment program available to students whose employers pay tuition costs. Enrollment in this program allows students to make monthly installment payments of 2% of the enrolled balance until the final payment due date. The final due date for this plan is after the end of the semester, allowing students to submit their grades to their employer for reimbursement. Students must enroll in the payment plan each semester they wish to defer tuition payments.

To be eligible for the program, you must complete the following:

• Complete the Request for Tuition Reimbursement Payment Plan contract.
• Submit a letter on company letterhead or a copy of the company policy stating the guidelines for tuition payments made by the employer.

It is your responsibility to submit the invoice and grades to the employer. Baker College will not bill the employer directly. Any portion of tuition not paid by the employer must be paid by you by the deadline stated on the contract. A nonrefundable $35 fee is assessed each semester for this program. Please contact the OneStop Office for details.

Employer Tuition Assistance Program

Employers that provide tuition assistance issue a voucher, letter of credit, or tuition assistance form for tuition. You must turn in this documentation to the OneStop Office upon receipt. Please verify that all information is correct, including start date(s), course name(s), and course number(s). The College will invoice your employer using this document and employers will send payment directly to the College. Any unpaid balance is your responsibility. It is also your responsibility to obtain the voucher. The College will not invoice your employer unless you have turned in the voucher/form.

GI Bill® Payments

If you will be using veteran assistance (VA) benefits through the GI Bill® to pay for tuition and fees, any portion of these charges not covered by the GI Bill® is due by the published due date of each semester. Baker College allows the cost of books/supplies to be charged to your account, which provides the VA time to release the book stipend to you. Please note that the books/supplies balances are not considered covered by the GI Bill®, as these funds are paid directly to you. If you have not received your VA book stipend by the published due date for the semester, you are still responsible for payment of the balance (see the “Important Dates and Information” knowledge-base article on services.baker.edu for semester deadlines). A $50 late fee is applied, in accordance with these dates, for any balance still outstanding that is not covered by the GI Bill®. 

If you need assistance paying a balance, you may be eligible to apply for financial aid or for enrollment in a payment plan. For more information on these options, contact the OneStop Office.

Baker College does not impose a penalty on students in the event payment is delayed for any portion of their balance covered by the GI Bill®. Delays in payment of these benefits does not result in a late fee or prevent you from registering, continuing in your current courses, or maintaining access to other Baker College services. If any portion of a balance originally covered by the GI Bill® is later denied payment by VA, you are responsible for payment of that portion of the balance. Some common reasons for a partial payment under the GI Bill® are: withdrawals from courses, a change in student eligibility, or loss of eligibility/exhaustion of benefits.

Any questions regarding VA certifications should be directed to vet2vet@baker.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 website at benefits.va.gov/gibill.

Veteran Readiness and Employment Services (Chapter 31)

If you are using veteran assistance (VA) benefits through the Veteran Readiness and Employment Services (Chapter 31) to pay for tuition, fees, and books/supplies, any portion of these charges not covered by this benefit are due by the published due date of each semester (see the “Important Dates and Information” knowledge-base article on services.baker.edu for semester deadlines). A $50 late fee is applied, in accordance with these dates, for any balance still outstanding that is not covered by Chapter 31 benefits.

Invoices for approved tuition, fees, and books/supplies are issued directly to the Department of Veteran Affairs. Payment for these charges are issued directly to Baker College and applied to the student billing account balance. Baker College does not impose a penalty on students in the event payment is delayed for any portion of their balance covered by Chapter 31 benefits. Delays in payment of these benefits does not result in a late fee or prevent you from registering, continuing in your current courses, or maintaining access to other Baker College services. If any portion of a balance originally covered by Chapter 31 benefits is later denied payment by VA, you are responsible for the payment of that portion of the balance.

Questions regarding VA certifications should be directed to vet2vet@baker.edu.

Payment Plans

• Enrollment and Fee: You can enroll in a payment plan, which requires a $35 non-refundable fee. Enrolling in the payment plan prior to tuition due dates prevents you from being charged the $50 late fee imposed by Baker College.
• Late Fee Policy: If you fail to meet the terms of the payment plan, Baker College may assess a late fee. It’s crucial for you to fulfill your payment plan obligations to avoid additional fees.
• Understanding Terms: You are responsible for fully understanding the terms of the payment plan before enrolling. Failure to adhere to these terms may result in additional fees imposed by Transact Payments and/or withdrawal from the payment plan.
• Enrollment Process: You can sign up for payment plans conveniently through the student portal at my.baker.edu. For detailed information on available payment plans, students can refer to the Payment Plan Options knowledge-base article on services.baker.edu.

Past Due Balances

• Re-Enrollment Restrictions: Students with outstanding balances may not be permitted to re-enroll for another semester, and previously registered courses may be dropped until the account is settled.
• Title IV Funds Limitation: Federal regulations prohibit the use of Title IV funds to cover past due balances exceeding $200.
• Collections and Credit Reporting: Unpaid balances will be forwarded to an outside collection agency and reported to credit bureaus. Additionally, Baker College reserves the right to charge students for collection costs.

Email

• Balance due amounts
• Refund status
• Adjustments to tuition charges resulting from withdrawal calculations
• Financial aid documents needed
• Financial aid awards
• Loan eligibility
• Loan postings to student accounts

Student Billing Electronic Communications

Baker College utilizes electronic communication, rather than paper, whenever possible for the conduct of official business processes and notifications. Electronic communication between Baker College and the student or authorized payer may be provided by:

1. Email to the Baker College email address assigned to the student or the last email address provided by the authorized payer,
2. Access to information presented electronically on the my.baker.edu web site, or
3. Access to a website that Baker College will generally designate in advance for such purposes.

Communications to be provided electronically may include, but are not limited to:

• Student Billing Account Balances
• Course and Fees Statements
• Baker College Fee Catalog and Payment of Miscellaneous Fees
• Payment of Tuition Invoices
• Payment of Admission Fees
• Submitting a Title IV Authorization Form
• Selecting a BankMobile Disbursement Refund Preference
• Notifications of Changes in Student Billing Account Activity
• Payment Plan Enrollment, Payments, and Reminders
• Announcements of New or Upcoming Electronic Features

This also includes electronic delivery of form 1098-T. Students wishing to receive a paper copy of the 1098-T form can opt out of electronic delivery by visiting the 1098-T Delivery Method option on my.baker.edu.

Consent for Electronic Communications

The electronic communications policy at Baker College is part of a global “Consent to do Business Electronically” agreement and is presented to students prior to registering each semester at Baker College. Students provide their consent for electronic communications as part of the registration agreement. Once consent is given it is in effect for the duration of the registered enrollment period or until a request for withdrawal of consent is received from the student.

Although Baker College reserves the right to provide records in paper format at any time, a student’s consent to conduct business electronically with Baker College is also an agreement that Baker College is not required to provide those same communications in a paper format. Students wishing to retain a paper copy of any records provided electronically can do so by printing or saving a copy of the communication. 

Hardware and Software Requirements

For the hardware and software requirements for electronic communications please visit the knowledge-based article, “Minimum Technical Requirements” at services.baker.edu.

Updating Student Records

It is your responsibility to provide Baker College with accurate and complete email addresses, mailing addresses, and phone contact information and to maintain and update promptly any changes in this information.

You can update your address and other contact information with Baker College at my.baker.edu.

Withdrawing Consent for Student Billing Electronic Communications

You may withdraw your consent to electronically conduct business with Baker College at any time. However, a withdrawal of this consent may result in the loss of access to the Student Portal, which includes an inability to view student billing account balances, enroll in payment plans, or make payments online. To withdraw consent, submit a request in writing to the Accounts Receivable Processing Center, 1020 S. Washington St., Owosso, MI 48867 or by email to billing@baker.edu. Any withdrawal of your consent to conduct business electronically will become effective only after Baker College has had a reasonable period of time to process your request.

Student Housing Costs

Student housing is available at our Cadillac, Muskegon, Owosso, and Port Huron campuses. The rate for all housing options is $2,300 per semester; however, the rate may vary based on occupancy. Contact the OneStop or Housing Departments for details. A non-refundable Residence Hall Fee of $100 is required of all new students and due when confirming enrollment through the admissions process. A non-refundable $100 commitment fee is required each Fall semester a student returns to housing and is due when the Intent to Return Housing Application, found at www.baker.edu/housing, is submitted. 

Estimated food costs are an additional $1,000 per semester. If you leave during a semester for any reason, there will be no refund of room fees for that semester.

• Students who live in the residence halls must add the cost of student housing.
• Estimates do not include higher program tuition rates for the following programs:

Automotive Services Technology, Culinary Arts, Diesel Service Technology, School of Nursing, CIM Course Fees, and Nursing Course Fees.

Tuition Deposit - International Students

International students must deposit, in advance, an amount equal to the normal tuition, fees, books, and residence hall charges (if applicable) for one academic year. The deposit must be renewed prior to registering for the fall semester of each succeeding year. Any unused funds on deposit at the time the student graduates or withdraws will be refunded to the original depositor.

International students must also fulfill requirements for student visas. Information about the student visa process is available at any Baker College Enrollment Center. Graduate students should contact the Baker Center for Graduate Studies directly for assistance.

These regulations do not apply to commuting Canadian students.

Class Withdrawal and Refund Policies

Tuition Refunds

The Class Withdrawal and Refund Policies are based on the official notice date and enrollment period. A refund is available after withdrawal from a course if you are within the College’s guidelines. The tuition refund policy is subject to change at the beginning of any semester. Changes made to the tuition refund policy during an academic year will be published within the knowledge base on services.baker.edu.

NOTE: ABSENTEEISM OR FAILURE TO BEGIN A CLASS DOES NOT REDUCE A STUDENT’S FINANCIAL OBLIGATION.

Student-Initiated Withdrawal from a Course

You may withdraw from a course up to the end of the week that precedes the final week of the course. You are required to submit a withdrawal request by using the “Submit a Withdrawal Request” option. Tuition refunds are based on the official withdrawal date, which is the date you submit your withdrawal request via this option. You may contact the OneStop Office for assistance with completing the withdrawal process.

College-Initiated Withdrawal from a Course

You may be administratively withdrawn from a course for any of the following reasons:

1. If you do not initiate academic engagement during the first week of the course, you may be dropped or withdrawn. Note: you are responsible for withdrawing from courses you do not plan to attend and you will be held financially responsible for tuition charges for classes not dropped/withdrawn during the drop/add period.
2. You are not progressing academically in the course. Faculty will submit an Early Alert (EA) and communicate your status in the course. All administrative withdrawals will be at the discretion of the Director of Student Affairs (or designated official).
3. Violation of the Basic Principles of Student Responsibility Policy, or other reasons based on a case-by-case basis.

The official withdrawal date for a college-initiated withdrawal is the date the withdrawal is requested by the faculty member or college official.

Enrollment Period

The enrollment period begins on the Monday of the week that the course begins.

Percentage of Refund

Fall/Spring Tuition Refund Schedule
(Based on a 16-week semester or 112 days)

Summer Refund Schedule
(Based on a 12-week semester or 84 days)

• Weeks are defined as Monday through Sunday.
• For other course length refund periods contact onestop@baker.edu
• The Technology Fee is only refundable for students who drop all classes by the first week of the semester.
• The CIM and Nursing Course Fees are only refundable when the associated courses have been dropped.
• You are encouraged to contact the Financial Aid office before withdrawing from classes to understand the complete financial impact of a withdrawal. Many times, a withdrawal can result in you owing the College and/or federal government financial aid that had already been refunded to you.

Refunds on Residence Hall Charges

There is no refund of room charges for students who are expelled, dismissed, or move out voluntarily during the semester. (See the Residence Life  addendum of this Handbook.) An improper checkout from the residence hall may result in additional charges.

Credit Balance Refunds

All Baker College refunds to students are processed with BankMobile Disbursements, a technology solution powered by BMTX, inc. Visit this link for more information: https://bankmobiledisbursements.com/refundchoices/

Return of Title IV Federal Financial Aid for Withdrawals

You are encouraged to contact the Financial Aid Office before withdrawing from classes to understand the complete financial impact of a withdrawal. Many times, a withdrawal can result in you owing the College and/or federal government financial aid that had already been refunded to you. Federal laws set forth regulations that govern the treatment and calculation of refunds for recipients of federal financial aid (Title IV aid) when students withdraw from classes.

The Title IV federal financial aid includes the following programs:

• Unsubsidized Federal Stafford Loans
• Subsidized Federal Stafford Loans
• Federal Parent PLUS Loans
• Federal Pell Grant
• Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
• Other grants

For students who begin attendance in classes and then withdraw before they have completed over 60 percent of the payment period, Baker College is required, by regulation, to calculate the amount of earned and unearned Title IV aid. The regulations state that a student is entitled to keep only the portion of the aid earned and the College/student must return the funds that were not earned to the appropriate program. Note: students who successfully complete (with a passing grade) a course that is at least 49% of the enrollment period are not considered withdrawn even if they withdraw from future classes within the term.

The calculation steps are as follows:

1. Determine the Withdrawal Date

The withdrawal date is used to calculate the amount of earned and unearned federal aid for the semester. There are two types of withdrawals:

• Official withdrawals:
  • For student-initiated withdrawals, the withdrawal date is the date the withdrawal was submitted.
• Unofficial withdrawals:
  • For college-initiated withdrawals due to faculty request, suspension, expulsion, etc., the withdrawal date is the date the withdrawal was requested by the faculty member or other College official.

Note: Baker College officials may use the last date of academic engagement in place of the withdrawal dates listed above, on a case-by-case basis.

2. Calculate the Percentage of Enrollment Period Completed

Divide the number of calendar days completed by the number of calendar days in the enrollment period. (Any scheduled breaks of five days or more are subtracted.) If the percentage is greater than 60, the student has earned 100 percent of Title IV aid.

Note: The last date of academic engagement (provided by faculty) will be used for students who quit attending classes and receive a failing grade in their latest class session. If the last date of academic engagement is not provided, the midpoint (50%) will be used.

3. Calculate the Amount of Earned Title IV Aid

Multiply the percentage of the enrollment period completed (if less than 60%) by the total Title IV aid disbursed or that could have been disbursed according to late disbursement rules.

4. Calculate the Amount of Unearned Title IV Aid

Subtract the amount of earned Title IV aid from the total amount of federal aid disbursed. The difference must be returned to the appropriate Title IV program by the College or by the student.

5. Return of Title IV Funds

1. The College is required to return funds based on the total institutional charges for the payment period multiplied by the percentage of unearned Title IV aid. This could result in you owing money back to the College that had previously been disbursed as an excess credit to you during the semester. These funds must be returned within 45 days of determination that you have withdrawn (officially or unofficially for nonattendance).
2. You will be responsible for any balance of unearned Title IV funds that were not required to be returned by the College.
   • If your portion of the aid to be returned is a loan, you are not immediately required to repay the loan. The terms of the original loan repayment agreement will apply.
   • If your portion of aid to be returned is an over payment of a grant, you are required to repay only the amount exceeding 50 percent of the total grant for original amounts over $50. The College will notify you of the amount and the procedures for repayment, if this is required. If you do not repay the funds, you are not eligible for federal Title IV funds at any institution until the over payment is paid.

6. Return of Unearned Title IV Funds

The College allocates the return of Title IV funds and any over payment funds collected from you by reducing or eliminating outstanding balances on the funding source, received by you for the enrollment period for which you were charged. The return of funds is processed within 45 days from the date of determination of withdrawal, in the following order:

• Unsubsidized Federal Stafford Loans
• Subsidized Federal Stafford Loans
• Federal Parent PLUS Loans
• Federal Pell Grant
• Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
• Other grants

Post-withdrawal disbursements: If the calculation results in earned funds that have not been paid to the student account, a post-withdrawal disbursement may be calculated. If student loans are included in the aid that has not yet been paid, you will have the option to decline the loan funds so you do not incur additional debt. A post-withdrawal disbursement of loan funds is not an option for first-time/first-year borrowers who withdrew during the first 30 days of enrollment because loans cannot be disbursed. The College may use all, or a portion of, grant funds eligible for a post-withdrawal disbursement toward tuition, fees, and room and board charges without your permission. If you have any other charges, you must give permission to use the grant funds.

NOTE: The federal regulations governing Title IV aid refunds are separate from the College’s refund policy for tuition and charges. Withdrawing from classes may also impact satisfactory academic progress.

*In this example, funds the student must return are related to the Pell Grant. As stated in 5.b above, federal regulations exempt the student from returning grant funds if the balance is less than 50 percent of the original grant total. The student would not have any amount required to be returned in this example.

The Class Withdrawal and Refund Policies use the official notice date to determine tuition refund percentage and not the last date of attendance.

The example does not reflect all the different combinations of refund situations that may exist. More information on Title IV return calculations can be found at the OneStop Office. The College reserves the right to amend this procedure to comply with federal regulations.

Return of Unearned Military Tuition Assistance (TA)

Military Tuition Assistance (TA) is awarded to a student under the assumption that the student will attend school for the entire period for which the assistance is awarded. When a student withdraws, the student may no longer be eligible for the full amount of TA funds originally awarded.

To comply with the Department of Defense (DOD) policy, Baker College returns any unearned TA funds on a prorated basis through at least the 60% portion of the period for which the funds were provided. TA funds are earned proportionally during an enrollment period, with unearned funds returned based upon when a student stops attending. These funds are returned directly to the military service branch from which the funding originated and not to the student.

In instances when a service member stops attending due to a military service obligation, Baker College works with the affected service member to identify solutions that will not result in a student debt for the returned portion, in compliance with the DOD policy.

Schedule for the Return of Unearned TA Funds

To remain in compliance with the Department of Defense’s (DOD) policy, Baker College returns any unearned TA funds through at least 60% of the semester on a prorated basis. The amount of unearned TA that is returned is based on the date of withdrawal from the course.

After 60% of the semester has passed, TA will not be evaluated for a return to the DOD.

Baker College will not bill the DOD until after 60% of the billing period has passed, in an effort to reduce the amount of incorrect TA funds being disbursed by the DOD to Baker College. We only bill for the amount the student earned given his or her enrollment.

Note: Semester weeks are defined as 7 days, Monday through Sunday.

Note: Semester weeks are defined as 7 days, Monday through Sunday.

Note: Semester weeks are defined as 7 days, Monday through Sunday.

Note: Semester weeks are defined as 7 days, Monday through Sunday.

Course Lengths Other Than Listed Above

Unearned TA funds are returned on a prorated basis, depending on the length of the course. To determine the amount of TA that needs to be returned, the institution determines the date the withdrawal was submitted and then divides that by the number of days in the term to determine the percentage of TA that was earned by the student.

Example: The student enrolled in a course that was 5 weeks (35 days) in duration. The withdrawal was submitted on the 15th day. The institution would perform the calculation to determine how much TA was earned by the student’s attendance: (15 divided by 35 equals 42.9%. 43% of the TA authorized was earned by the student, which means 57% of what was authorized will be returned to the DOD).

Repeat Course Policy

You may repeat courses to improve your grades. Financial aid eligibility for repeated courses varies based on the type of aid:  

• Federal financial aid may be available to help pay for a repeated course if your existing grade in the course is an F or W. If you received a passing grade (D- or better), financial aid may be used to repeat the course only one time. 
• State financial aid may be available for repeated courses until the minimum grade for your program is earned. 
• Financial aid is not available for coursework completed in a previously earned certificate or degree program. 

A third attempt on any course must be approved by an Academic Advisor. You may be required to pay all related tuition and fees for a third attempt. If you repeat a course, the higher or highest of the grades will be used in computing your GPA. However, all grades will remain on your official transcript and will be included in the Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress calculation. 

An attempt is defined as a course completion in which a student is assigned a grade. 

Some programs are subject to exceptions to the third attempt policy based on licensing, accreditation and standards, which may stipulate fewer attempts.

Financial Aid Census Date

Baker College uses the financial aid census date to determine a student’s enrollment status for awarding Pell Grant funds. The census date is typically the 7th calendar day of the semester.

The courses that students are registered for at 11:59 p.m. (Eastern Time) on the financial aid census date will determine Pell Grant eligibility. This means if you add or drop courses before the census date, the amount of Pell Grant for which you are eligible will be affected. If courses are added after the census date, the Pell Grant award will not increase; however, if courses are withdrawn or dropped after the census date, Pell Grant funds may be reduced.

The financial aid census date does not apply to other forms of financial aid. Enrollment changes after the census date may affect the amount of other grants, scholarships, and loans you may receive. You are encouraged to contact the OneStop Office for details about how enrollment changes (including withdrawals) will affect your financial aid awards.

Satisfactory Academic Progress

In order for you to receive federal, state, or institutional aid, regulations require that you maintain satisfactory academic progress toward completion of your current academic program. All students will have their progress reviewed, whether or not they are receiving financial aid, since these rules decide eligibility for future terms.

There are three academic standards that all students are required to maintain to remain eligible for future financial aid assistance. The standards required to maintain eligibility for financial aid are:

1. Grade point average (GPA),
2. Pace, and
3. Maximum time frame.

In addition, you must be accepted for continued enrollment under the policies defined in the Baker College Catalog and Student Handbook. Detailed information regarding Baker College’s Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) Policy can be found here. You can also obtain information by contacting the Financial Aid Office.