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Financial Aid

Principles of Financial Aid

Students who have satisfactory academic records and demonstrate financial need may qualify for financial assistance. The primary responsibility for financing an education remains with students and their families; financial aid is intended to supplement these resources.

The primary principles of administering financial aid programs are:

• Financial aid is designed to assist students who require additional resources to pursue their educational and career objectives.

• Financial aid may include grants, scholarships, student employment, loans, or a combination of these resources.

• Eligibility for financial aid is contingent upon the student’s ability to maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) in accordance with Coker University policy.

• Financial aid eligibility is subject to change based on enrollment status, academic progress, verification of financial information, and compliance with federal, state, and institutional requirements.

Financial aid programs are administered in accordance with applicable federal and state regulations and institutional policies. 

Financial Aid Programs

In addition to institutional scholarships and grants, Coker University partners with federal, state, and local organizations to provide financial assistance to eligible students. Information on specific federal and state programs, including the Federal Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), South Carolina HOPE, LIFE, and Palmetto Fellows Scholarships, South Carolina Tuition Grant, and Federal Direct Loan programs, is available on the Coker University website. All financial aid programs are subject to eligibility requirements and availability of funds. 

The published cost of tuition, housing, and meals at Coker University may be reduced through a combination of grants, scholarships, and other financial aid resources. Federal loan eligibility is subject to annual and aggregate borrowing limits established by federal regulations and may not cover the full cost of attendance.

Students are responsible for any balance remaining after all financial aid has been applied. Students and families are encouraged to review financial aid offers carefully and plan for any remaining balance.

To obtain an estimate of the cost of attendance and potential financial aid, students are encouraged to use the Net Price Calculator.

Additional financial assistance may be available from employers, community organizations, foundations, civic groups, and other external sources. Students are encouraged to explore and apply for outside scholarship opportunities.

Federal and state financial aid programs are subject to change based on legislative and regulatory updates. 

Cost of Attendance

The Cost of Attendance (COA) represents the estimated total cost of enrolling at Coker University for an academic year. The COA includes direct costs such as tuition, fees, housing, and meals, as well as indirect costs such as books, supplies, transportation, and personal expenses.

Financial aid eligibility is determined based on the student’s Cost of Attendance, enrollment status, and federal need analysis. Financial aid awards may be adjusted based on a student’s enrollment status, including less-than-full-time enrollment.

The Cost of Attendance also establishes the maximum amount of financial aid a student may receive for an academic period. 

Federal Aid Eligibility

Students must meet the following criteria to be eligible for Federal (Title IV) student aid programs:

1. Demonstrate financial need, as determined by federal methodology, for need-based programs.

2. Have a high school diploma or recognized equivalent.

3. Be enrolled or accepted for enrollment as a degree-seeking student in an eligible program.

4. Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen.

5. Have a valid Social Security Number, except as permitted under federal regulations.

6. Maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) in accordance with Coker University policy.

7. Certify on the FAFSA that federal student aid will be used only for educational purposes and that the student is not in default on a federal student loan and does not owe an overpayment on a federal grant.

Additional eligibility requirements may apply based on federal regulations and specific program criteria.

Application Procedures

To apply for financial aid at Coker University:

• Submit a completed admissions application to the Office of Admissions. Students must be accepted as degree-seeking students in an eligible program before financial aid can be awarded. Transient students must coordinate financial aid through their home institution. Non-degree-seeking students are not eligible for federal financial aid.

• Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year at https://studentaid.gov. Students are encouraged to complete the FAFSA as early as possible to ensure timely processing of financial aid.

Students are responsible for completing all required financial aid processes and submitting requested documentation in a timely manner. 

Students may be required to submit additional documentation to verify information reported on the FAFSA. The Office of Financial Aid reserves the right to request additional information and resolve conflicting information in accordance with federal regulations.

Financial aid for summer enrollment is limited and based on remaining annual eligibility and program availability. Students must meet all eligibility requirements.

All financial aid information is treated as confidential in accordance with federal privacy regulations.

Financial aid programs are administered in accordance with applicable federal and state regulations and institutional policies. 

Awarding Process

Once a student’s financial aid eligibility has been determined based on the FAFSA, required documentation, and satisfaction of all eligibility requirements, the Office of Financial Aid will notify the student of their financial aid award. 

A financial aid award may include a combination of scholarships, grants, student employment, and loans. Grants and scholarships are awarded prior to loan eligibility. Federal loan eligibility is subject to annual and aggregate borrowing limits and may not cover the full cost of attendance.

Financial aid awards for new students are provided once both the admissions and financial aid files are complete. Returning students receive financial aid information through CobraStop, Coker University’s online student information portal, which may also be used to track required and completed financial aid documents.

Students are responsible for completing all required financial aid processes and submitting requested documentation in a timely manner in order to receive and maintain financial aid eligibility.

The Office of Financial Aid reserves the right to request additional documentation and resolve conflicting information in accordance with federal regulations.

Financial aid funds are disbursed in accordance with federal regulations and institutional procedures and are typically issued in multiple disbursements over the academic term.

Financial aid awards are based on enrollment status and may be adjusted if a student’s enrollment changes.

Changes in enrollment status, including less-than-full-time enrollment, may impact eligibility for certain types of financial aid.

Coker University reserves the right to adjust or cancel institutional grants or scholarships during the period of the award if a student engages in serious misconduct that results in disciplinary action.

In accordance with federal and state regulations, students must maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) to remain eligible for financial aid.

Financial aid awards are subject to adjustment to ensure compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations, including overaward limitations.

Withdrawal and Return of Title IV Funds (R2T4)

Students who withdraw from the University may be subject to a Return of Title IV Funds (R2T4) calculation in accordance with federal regulations. This calculation determines the amount of federal financial aid earned based on the student’s withdrawal date.

Federal financial aid is earned based on the number of days a student attends during the payment period. 

If a student withdraws before completing more than 60% of the payment period, a portion of the federal financial aid received may be required to be returned to the U.S. Department of Education. This may result in a balance owed to the University.

Students may be responsible for repaying a portion of unearned financial aid to the University and/or the U.S. Department of Education. 

The withdrawal date used in the calculation may be based on the date the student officially withdraws or the last date of academically related activity, as determined by the University.

Additional information regarding the Return of Title IV Funds policy is available in the Coker University Financial Aid Policies and Procedures.

Financial Assistance Programs

The University provides access to a variety of federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs. Awards are determined based on eligibility, availability of funds, and applicable program requirements. Federal and state financial aid programs are subject to change based on legislative and regulatory updates.

Federal and State Aid Programs

South Carolina Tuition Grant

The South Carolina Tuition Grant is awarded to eligible South Carolina residents enrolled full-time at independent colleges within the state. Awards are based on family financial resources, cost of attendance, and satisfactory academic progress. Students must complete the FAFSA annually by the established state deadline.

Federal Pell Grant

The Federal Pell Grant provides need-based financial assistance to eligible undergraduate students. Award amounts are determined based on federal methodology, including the student’s financial circumstances and enrollment status. Students must complete the FAFSA each year to be considered. Award amounts may vary based on enrollment intensity.

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)

The FSEOG program provides additional need-based grant assistance to a limited number of undergraduate students with exceptional financial need. Funding is limited and awarded based on eligibility and availability of funds.

Federal Direct Loan Program

The Federal Direct Loan Program provides low-interest loans to eligible students enrolled at least half-time and maintaining Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) in accordance with Coker University policy.

Loan eligibility is subject to federal annual and aggregate borrowing limits based on the student’s grade level and dependency status. Students must complete required loan counseling and a Master Promissory Note prior to receiving loan funds.

Repayment on Federal Direct Loans begins after the student ceases to be enrolled at least half-time and the applicable grace period has ended. Depending on the loan type, interest may accrue while the student is enrolled. Students may choose to pay interest while in school.

Federal loan eligibility is limited by federal regulations and may not cover the full cost of attendance. Students and families are encouraged to review borrowing options carefully and plan for any remaining balance.

Federal Work-Study (FWS)

The Federal Work-Study program provides part-time employment opportunities for eligible students to help offset educational expenses. Awards are based on financial need and availability of funds.

Students may earn up to the amount of their Federal Work-Study award. Employment is not guaranteed and is dependent upon job availability.

Students typically work up to 20 hours per week while enrolled. Federal Work-Study earnings are paid directly to the student through payroll and are not applied to the student’s billing account. Continued participation in the Federal Work-Study program is contingent upon maintaining eligibility, including Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP).

LIFE Scholarship

The LIFE Scholarship is a merit-based award for eligible South Carolina residents. Initial eligibility is based on academic criteria established by the state. Continued eligibility requires maintaining a minimum cumulative GPA and meeting annual credit hour requirements as defined by state regulations.

HOPE Scholarship

The HOPE Scholarship is a merit-based award for first-time entering freshmen who meet state-defined academic criteria but do not qualify for the LIFE or Palmetto Fellows Scholarships. The HOPE Scholarship is limited to the first year of enrollment. Students may become eligible for the LIFE Scholarship in subsequent years if renewal criteria are met.

Palmetto Fellows Scholarship

The Palmetto Fellows Scholarship is a merit-based award administered by the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education (CHE). Initial eligibility is determined by the state, and students must meet ongoing academic requirements to maintain eligibility.

Other Financial Options

Aid from Private Sources

Grants, scholarships, and other forms of financial assistance may be available from employers, community organizations, foundations, civic groups, and religious organizations. Students are encouraged to research and apply for outside scholarship opportunities using reputable scholarship search tools and community resources.

Private (Alternative) Loans

Private (alternative) loans may be used to assist with educational expenses not covered by federal, state, and institutional financial aid. Students and families are encouraged to carefully review loan terms, interest rates, and repayment options before borrowing. Private loans are not federal student aid and are subject to credit approval and lender-specific terms.

Coker University provides access to lender information through FastChoice at: https://choice.fastproducts.org/FastChoice/home/342700

Aid for Students with Disabilities

Vocational rehabilitation agencies may provide educational benefits and support services for students with disabilities. Students interested in these services should contact their local vocational rehabilitation office for additional information.

Veterans’ Benefits

Coker University is approved by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to provide educational benefits to eligible veterans and their dependents.

Students receiving VA educational benefits must be enrolled in an eligible program and declare an academic major. Benefits are certified based on enrollment and program requirements and may be adjusted if a student’s enrollment changes.

Students are responsible for submitting required documentation, including a Certificate of Eligibility and a DD214, to the Office of Financial Aid at va_benefits@coker.edu prior to the start of the term.

Students may also contact the University’s VA Representative at va_benefits@coker.edu. Students must promptly notify the Office of Financial Aid of any changes in enrollment, program, or attendance, as these changes may impact VA benefits.

VA benefits are processed in accordance with federal regulations and VA program requirements.

Students may be required to provide appropriate documentation, including an updated Certificate of Eligibility, and any additional information necessary to certify enrollment.

For additional information regarding benefit eligibility and selection, students would contact the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs at 1-800-827-1000 or visit https://www.va.gov/education/about-gi-bill-benefits/,

VA Pending Payment Compliance

In accordance with Title 38 U.S. Code § 3679(e), Coker University will not:

• Prevent a student’s enrollment;

• Assess a late penalty fee;

• Require the student to secure alternative or additional funding; or

• Deny access to classes, libraries, or other institutional facilities

for students using U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) educational benefits while payment to the institution is pending.

Institutional Scholarships

Friends of Coker University have demonstrated their generosity and commitment to student success by endowing numerous scholarships. Coker University awards institutional scholarships and grants to students who demonstrate academic achievement, talent, and, where applicable, financial need.

Institutional scholarships and grants are limited to students enrolled in the traditional undergraduate day program unless otherwise specified. These funds are applied to direct educational expenses. Institutional scholarships do not have cash value and cannot generate a refund or credit balance. If total financial aid exceeds institutional charges, institutional scholarships may be adjusted in accordance with University policy.

Scholarship Programs

Trustees Scholarship

This award, up to $15,000 annually, is the University’s highest academic scholarship. It is awarded to in-state students who receive the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship and to out-of-state students who meet the required academic criteria.

Presidents Scholarship

This award is based on a minimum high school GPA of 3.50. Awards are up to $14,000 annually and are determined at the time of admission.

Deans Scholarship

This award is based on a minimum high school GPA of 3.00. Awards are up to $13,000 annually and are determined at the time of admission.

Bell Tower Grant

This award is based on a minimum high school GPA of 2.5. Awards are up to $11,000 annually and are determined at the time of admission.

Founders Scholarship

This award is based on academic performance at the time of admission. Awards are up to $7,500 annually.

Transfer Scholarships

Transfer students enrolling in the traditional undergraduate day program may be eligible for merit-based scholarships based on academic performance at previously attended institutions. Awards typically range from $7,500 to $15,000 annually and are determined at the time of admission.

Additional Institutional Scholarships

Departmental Scholarships

Academic departments, including Art, Dance, Music, Theatre, and Communication, Language and Literature, award scholarships to students demonstrating talent and achievement in their field of study.

Legacy Scholarship

Children of Coker University alumni may receive a scholarship of $500 per academic year.

Sibling Scholarship

Students with a sibling currently enrolled or who has graduated from Coker University may receive a scholarship of $500 per academic year.

Intercollegiate Athletics

Athletic scholarships are awarded in accordance with institutional and athletic program guidelines.

Scholarships for Foreign Study

Funding opportunities are available for study abroad through endowed programs, including the Susan Coker Watson Fellowship and other named scholarships.

Valedictorian Scholarship

Students ranked first in their high school class may receive a $500 annual scholarship.

Named Scholarships

Named scholarships at Coker University are established through the generosity of alumni, families, and friends of the University to honor individuals and support student success.

These scholarships are awarded on a competitive basis to degree-seeking students who demonstrate academic achievement, leadership potential, character, and, where applicable, financial need.

Named scholarships are renewable for up to four academic years, provided students meet all eligibility and renewal requirements. Award amounts and availability vary based on donor criteria and funding.

The C. W. Coker, W. C. Coker, Charles H. Campbell, and Linville Scholarships represent the University’s most prestigious named awards and are granted to students demonstrating exceptional academic ability, performance, and character.

All accepted applicants are automatically considered for named scholarships. A separate application is not required.

Named scholarships are awarded through institutional processes based on donor criteria, student eligibility, and availability of funds. Because scholarship availability and criteria may change, a comprehensive listing of named scholarships is not published.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

To learn more about financial assistance options and application procedures, contact:

Office of Financial Aid – Coker University
Phone: 843-383-8055
Email: financial_aid@coker.edu