Programs

The following is a brief description of the most common federal, state, and institutional aid programs.

Grant Programs

Federal Pell Grant

The Pell Grant is a federal grant that provides funds of up to $4050 based on the student's financial need. Eligibility is determined by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The Pell Grant is an entitlement grant, which means the value cannot be lessened by the receipt of other aid, including athletic scholarships.

Federal Supplemental Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)

Only the "neediest" undergraduate students can receive these federal grants. FSEOG grants are awarded by the school's financial aid office. The maximum amount at ECU is $1500. Eligibility is determined by completion of the FAFSA.

North Carolina Student Incentive Grant (NCSIG)

The NCSIG program is a state financial aid program for NC residents. North Carolina receives matching funds from the Federal government to help fund the program. Applicants must complete the FAFSA prior to March 15 of the award year in order to be considered for NCSIG funds. Awards are made by NC State Education Assistance Authority.

University of North Carolina Grant (UNCIG)

The UNCIG is a stat-funded grant program for N.C. residents. Applicants must complete the FAFSA before March 15. Awards are made by N.C. State Education Assistance Authority.

NC Need Based Grant (NCNBG)

The NCNBG is a state funded grant program awarded to students who have shown exceptional financial need. The maximum amount at ECU is $1,000. Eligibility is determined by completion of the FAFSA.

Loan Programs

Federal Perkins Loan

Low interest (5%) loan, funded by the federal government and previous borrowers' repayments. Loan eligibility is based on financial need. Repayment begins 9 months after the student borrower ceases to be enrolled at least half-time. First time Perkins Loan borrowers receive information about debt management before receiving loan funds. Minimum payments are $40 per month. Borrowers have up to 10 years to repay the loan, depending on amount borrowed. The ECU annual limit is $2000. Aggregate loan limits are $15,000 for undergraduate studies and $30,000 for graduate and professional studies, including undergraduate borrowing. Students who receive a Perkins loan on their award letter must report to the Student Loans Office, 126 Old Cafeteria Complex to sign a promissory note. Eligibility is determined by completion of the FAFSA.

Federal Stafford Loan

Loans are funded by private lenders but regulated by the federal government. Repayment begins 6 months after the student borrower ceases to be enrolled at least half-time. Borrowers have up to 10 years to repay depending on amount borrowed. Subsidized portion is based on financial need, while unsubsidized portion available without regard to need. The loan amount may not exceed the cost of attendance. First time borrowers are required to complete debt management entrance counseling at www.mapping-your-future.org. The amount of loan funds a student may borrow depends upon his/her academic grade level, remaining financial need, and dependency status. Grade level limits for dependent students are: $2625 for first academic year, $3500 for second year, $5500 for the third and fourth years. Graduate students may borrow up to $18,500 for each academic year. For more information about his loan program please visit our links page and our preferred lenders web pages.

Federal Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students (PLUS)

Low-interest loan, funded by private lenders but regulated by the federal government. This loan program is available to parents of undergraduate students. Parents may borrow up to the cost of attendance minus student aid. Repayment usually begins 60 days after funds are disbursed. For more information about his loan program please visit our links page and our preferred lenders web pages.

Nursing Student Loan

Low-interest loan (5%), funded by previous borrower's repayments. Loan eligibility is based on need and the amount awarded depends on the availability of funds. The maximum amount at ECU is $3000. Repayment begins 9 months after the student ceases to be enrolled at least half-time. Students enrolled in "pre-nursing" programs are not eligible.

Federal Work Study Program

Federally funded, need based part-time employment program with positions on and off campus. Some positions are in community service settings. Students are paid at least minimum wage and are paid for the hours actually worked. The average student works 10 to 12 hours per week while enrolled in classes. Employment opportunities are posted by the Career Center at 701 E. 5th Street, 252.328.6050. Eligibility is determined by completion of the FAFSA.


Click here for Federal Work Study procedures for Summer 2008.

The information is also available online at the Student Employment Office website.