Financial Aid Eligibility Requirements

To receive and retain student financial aid, including the Federal Direct and PLUS Loans, undergraduate, graduate, and professional students must meet certain eligibility requirements.

• Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) annually. The FAFSA opens October 1 of the prior year.
• Review and complete all Financial Aid verification requirements in your Catalyst To Do List.
• Comply with the University of Cincinnati's Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) standards.
• Remain in good standing on educational loans and grants per the National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS).
• Remain enrolled at least half-time per semester for Federal loans:
  • Undergraduate Student: 6 hours
  • Graduate Student: 5 hours
  • Law Student: 6 hours
• Remain enrolled in an eligible degree program at University of Cincinnati.
• Be a citizen or eligible non-citizen with a valid Social Security Number.
• Have a high school diploma or recognized equivalent.
• Be registered for Selective Service if you are male and between 18-25 years of age.
• Complete Loan Entrance Counseling and Master Promissory Note.
  
• Be aware of federal loan maximums, including annual and aggregate limits.

Please note: Adding or dropping classes in a semester can impact your financial aid eligibility and aid amount(s). Be sure to check with your Academic Advisor for academic implications and the One Stop Student Service Center for financial and eligibility implications.