The rising cost of higher education can be a significant burden for students and their families. Many students struggle to balance their academic responsibilities with the financial demands of attending college. That's where student financial services come in – to provide support and guidance to help students navigate the complex world of financial aid, scholarships, and student loans.
Ohio University (OU) is committed to providing its students with comprehensive financial support. Here are five ways OU supports student financial services:
Expert Financial Aid Counseling
OU's Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships provides expert counseling to help students understand their financial aid options. The office is staffed by experienced professionals who can guide students through the financial aid process, from completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to understanding the different types of financial aid available.
One-on-One Financial Counseling
OU's financial aid counselors offer one-on-one counseling sessions to help students create a personalized financial plan. During these sessions, counselors can help students:
- Understand their financial aid award letter
- Explore scholarship and grant opportunities
- Learn about student loan options and repayment plans
- Develop a budget and financial plan for the academic year
Scholarship Opportunities
OU offers a wide range of scholarship opportunities to help students fund their education. The university awards millions of dollars in scholarships each year, ranging from merit-based awards to need-based grants.
Some of the scholarship opportunities available at OU include:
- Merit-based scholarships for high-achieving students
- Need-based grants for students who demonstrate financial need
- Departmental scholarships for students majoring in specific fields
- External scholarships for students who apply through external organizations
Scholarship Search Tools
OU also provides students with access to scholarship search tools, such as the OU Scholarship Search Engine. This online tool allows students to search for scholarships based on their academic major, interests, and other criteria.
Student Loan Support
OU's Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships also provides support for students who need to borrow money to fund their education. The office can help students:
- Understand their student loan options, including federal and private loans
- Complete the necessary paperwork to apply for student loans
- Develop a plan to repay their student loans after graduation
Default Prevention
OU is committed to helping students avoid defaulting on their student loans. The university offers default prevention counseling and resources to help students understand their repayment options and avoid default.
Budgeting and Financial Literacy
OU's Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships also offers resources to help students develop good budgeting and financial literacy skills. The office provides workshops, online tutorials, and one-on-one counseling sessions to help students:
- Create a budget and financial plan
- Understand credit scores and credit reports
- Make smart financial decisions about saving and investing
Financial Wellness Program
OU's Financial Wellness Program is designed to help students achieve financial stability and success. The program offers a range of resources, including financial counseling, budgeting workshops, and online tutorials.
Emergency Assistance
Sometimes, students may face unexpected financial emergencies, such as car repairs or medical bills. OU's Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships offers emergency assistance to help students in these situations.
Emergency Loan Program
OU's Emergency Loan Program provides short-term loans to students who are facing financial emergencies. The program is designed to help students cover unexpected expenses, such as car repairs or medical bills.
Food and Housing Assistance
OU also offers food and housing assistance to students who are struggling to make ends meet. The university's Food Pantry and Housing Assistance programs provide support to students who are experiencing food insecurity or housing instability.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive understanding of the ways in which Ohio University supports student financial services. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.
What is the FAFSA and how do I apply?
+The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is a form that students must complete to determine their eligibility for financial aid. To apply, visit the FAFSA website and follow the instructions to complete the application.
What types of financial aid are available to OU students?
+OU students are eligible for a range of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs.
How do I apply for scholarships at OU?
+To apply for scholarships at OU, visit the university's scholarship website and follow the instructions to complete the application.