Ninth Semester/Fifth-Year Financial Aid Policy

Decisions regarding financial aid beyond the usual eight semesters and once eligibility is exhausted are based on merit and individual circumstances.

Student-athletes are encouraged to take more than the minimum number of hours (over the 12 credit hour minimum) and are expected to graduate in four years. Additional semester funding once eligibility is exhausted is not guaranteed. However, there is flexibility within the system and each application for aid will be considered on an individual basis.

Student-athletes applying for fifth-year aid after their eligibility has been exhausted are responsible for being in good academic standing as defined by the university.

Each student-athlete, in conjunction with departmental and athletics counselors, is required to develop an academic plan of action. This plan is considered a flexible working document and guide toward graduation. Based on this plan, the student-athlete is advised regarding the best options for additional aid; i.e., an additional semester or an additional year.

Recruits and parents should be informed of this policy during the recruiting process.  It is important to understand that fifth-year aid is generally equivalent to an additional semester, not an additional year. In addition, student-athletes selecting double majors must begin these programs by the beginning of their junior year.

Student-athletes must make application for fifth-year financial aid and submit the application to their coach. The coach evaluates the request and makes a recommendation to the executive associate  director of athletics who issues a decision. In the event a request is not approved, the student-athlete may submit an appeal to a committee chaired by the faculty athletics representative.