The staff of the Office of Financial Aid at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, is committed to providing students with educational access through a variety of financial assistance programs. Each year, more than 34,500 Rutgers students receive some form of financial assistance from the university. Key considerations for obtaining financial aid are understanding both the types of aid available and the aid process itself. This chapter provides the basic information to satisfy these needs; however, the staff of the financial aid office always is available to offer assistance in the aid process and to help clarify the options available.

Most aid processed through the Office of Financial Aid is available to students who demonstrate financial need and are enrolled full time in a degree program. The amount of aid offered is dependent upon the availability of funds and both family and student need as determined by federal and state guidelines.

Assistance to students usually is offered in a "package" that consists of some combination of scholarships, grants, loans, and campus employment. Continuance of need-based assistance is dependent upon the availability of funds and the student`s completion of a renewal application, demonstration of continued need, satisfactory academic progress, and compliance with federal and state regulations.

Students or parents seeking detailed answers to particular questions about eligibility or award processing should request an appointment with a financial aid counselor. In cases of particular sensitivity or complexity, an appointment may be made with the staff of the Office of Financial Aid, who are especially prepared to assist students and parents in these matters. All information is kept strictly confidential.

Rutgers participates in the full range of state and federal financial aid programs and has a large number of university supported scholarships. A brief description of each program follows. All students are encouraged to file an application for financial assistance.