F.A.Q.'s

Q: Where can a student get information about financial aid?

A: FIDM Student Financial Services office.

Q: Whom should a student see about his/her Schedule of Payments?

A: Questions about tuition payments should be directed to the student's Admissions Advisor.

Q: How are financial aid funds credited? How are excess funds available?

A: Aid cannot be paid until the student registers and attends classes. Financial aid is disbursed/credited on a quarter-to-quarter basis, with the exception of external grants and stipends. Occasionally a student may have been awarded financial aid and cash payments which exceed tuition and fee expenses. In some instances, funds are not fully credited until the end of the academic year. These policies are not determined by the college, but by the federal or state government which issues the funds. Once excess funds are available, a check will be issued to the student.

Q: May a student use a tuition credit as a prepayment toward a future year of study?

A: Yes. Many students elect to use excess funds as prepayment toward tuition and fee charges for a subsequent year of academic coursework.

Q: Is there any difference between a loan and a grant?

A: Yes. A loan is aid which must be repaid in accordance with the terms and conditions on the promissory note. A grant is a gift which does not require any repayment.

Q: How does a student remain eligible for aid?

A: Students are strongly encouraged to review the Satisfactory Academic Progress policy statement and to work continuously with their Student Financial Services Counselor.

The following Government Aid Programs require Satisfactory Academic Progress

Q: Do financial aid requirements and programs ever change?

A: Yes. The federal and state agencies administering these programs can change eligibility requirements or award amounts. The Student Financial Services Counselor can answer any questions about changes or new requirements.

Q: What is the FIDM Scholarship Store?

A: FIDM students, staff and alumni, in cooperation with more than 400 manufacturers, retailers and wholesalers, create a laboratory store each year. Using donated merchandise, this public and community service project has put classroom instruction into practical use. This industry education partnership results in scholarships for students in all majors.

Q: What is the FIDM Scholarship Foundation Inc.?

A: The FIDM Scholarship Foundation, Inc. is a nonprofit organization established to retain and support talented students. Awards range from $1,000.00 to full tuition grants depending upon the funds available from the Foundation and the number of applicants for the scholarships.