2008-2009 Catalog - Graduate School - Bethel University

FinancesFinancial Aid AppealsStudents who fail to meet satisfactory academic progress standards and lose financialaid eligibility can appeal this decision. The appeal must be made in writingand should be accompanied by appropriate supporting documentation. Appealsshould be submitted to the Office of University Financial Aid. Acceptable reasonsfor appeal might include injury or illness of the student, illness or death of animmediate relative of the student, or other extenuating circumstances beyondthe student’s control.Reestablishing Financial Aid EligibilityStudents who have had their financial aid terminated due to lack of satisfactoryacademic progress may choose to enroll without benefit of financial aid. Suchstudents may request a review of their academic record after any semester in whichthey are enrolled without the receipt of financial aid to determine whether theyhave met the satisfactory academic progress standards. If the standards are met,financial aid eligibility is restored for subsequent terms of enrollment.Students should consult with a financial aid counselor in the Office of UniversityFinancial Aid if they have any questions about this policy, the appeal process, orreinstatement of financial aid eligibility.Return of Title IV Funds PolicyIf a student withdraws or is dismissed from Bethel after a semester has begun,the school or the student may be required to return some of the federal aid fundsawarded to the student. This “Return of Title IV (meaning ‘federal’) Funds” policyis required by federal regulations.The federal formula requires a return of Title IV aid if the student received federalfinancial assistance in the form of a Federal Stafford Loan and withdrew from allclasses on or before completing 60 percent of the semester.A student planning to withdraw must notify the academic services manager andcomplete the required petition to withdraw before the enrollment deposit isrefunded. Because the institutional refund policy follows a different formula forreducing tuition, a student may still owe money to the school after all calculationsare complete. A student considering withdrawal is encouraged to contactthe Office of University Financial Aid to determine the effect withdrawing wouldhave on financial aid.26