Student Accounts and Financial Aid Policies

Saybrook University Standard Tuition and Fees

Current tuition and fees for all programs, may be found on the Saybrook University website at http://www.saybrook.edu/tuition-and-fees, and incorporated into the Academic Catalog by this reference. All fees are reviewed annually and may be subject to change by Saybrook at any time.

Additional Fees

Students should be prepared to meet additional costs of their degree program. These can include travel, accommodations, food, textbooks, learning guides, course readers, conference call charges, dissertation editors, computer software and hardware, courses at other institutions, commercial database searches, professional meetings, conferences, and workshops. Learning consultants or other editors are the sole responsibility of the students using their services. Explanation of additional fees may be found on our website.

Tuition Payment Policies

Payment Obligations

Students are expected to meet their payment obligations by ensuring that all balances are paid by the Friday of the first week of the term. Payment plans may be available by contacting the Student Accounts Office, but all semester tuition and fees must be paid in full by the last date of the semester. Late payment fees are charged monthly to students who fail to meet agreed-upon deadlines for any payment. Students will not receive monthly bills and are responsible for keeping track of their payment due dates. All student financial information is available online through the student Gateway.

Administrative Hold

Students whose payments have not been received in accordance with the terms outlined above will have a temporary administrative hold placed on their account until payment is received. Students on administrative hold are ineligible to enroll in courses or receive final diplomas until the hold is resolved and removed. Late payment notices will be sent to the student's official school email address.

Financial Aid

Financial aid is funding in the form of grants, loans, scholarships, and/or student employment that is used to pay tuition, fees, housing, meals, and other school-related expenses. Saybrook University is a participating institution approved by the US Department of Education to offer Title IV Federal Student Aid. 

A course is eligible for financial aid only if it meets a degree requirement as published in the Academic Catalog. Individual courses and graduate certificates completed outside of an academic degree program are ineligible for federal aid. 

The Office of Financial Aid’s policies and procedures are subject to change based on federal regulations and guidelines or interpretations thereof. Changes will be published in the academic catalog. It is the student’s responsibility to remain informed of all changes. The Office of Financial Aid adheres to the guidelines of ethical conduct developed by the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA).

Students relying on federal or private loans for tuition payment must have completed all necessary loan arrangements so that such loans are approved and on file with the Financial Aid Office by the first payment due date each semester.  If the financial aid deadline is not met, students are required to make payment arrangements with the office of Student Accounts, until the loan money becomes available.

Loan Repayment

If a student obtains a loan to pay for an educational program, the student will have the responsibility to pay the full amount of the loan plus interest, less the amount of any refund. If a student is eligible for a loan guaranteed by the federal or state government and the student defaults on the loan, both of the following may occur:

1. The federal or state government or a loan guarantee agency may take action against the student, including applying any income tax refund to which the person is entitled to reduce the balance owed on the loan.
2. The student may not be eligible for any other federal student financial aid at another institution or other government assistance until the loan is in good standing.

For Washington State residents seeking information and resources about student loan repayment or seeking to submit a complaint relating to your student loans or student loan servicer, please visit www.wsac.wa.gov/loan-advocacy or contact the Student Loan Advocate at loanadvocate@wsac.wa.gov.

Payment Options

Available Payment Methods

Approved Student Loans
Check: made payable to Saybrook University
Credit Card: Visa, MasterCard, or Discover
Online ACH/check (available on the student Gateway only)
Wire Transfer (fee will be charged)

Available Payment Plans

Payment in Full: Friday of the first week of the term
Installment Plan: 3-4 monthly installments spanning the length of the semester. Unless otherwise informed, students are subject to the standard Saybrook fee structure.
For all tuition, balance, or payment plan questions, contact the Student Accounts Office:

Studentaccounts@saybrook.edu

Refunds and Withdrawal

Student Refund Policy

Tuition charges may be eligible to be prorated based on the following conditions:

Notice of withdrawal must be made in writing to the Registrar’s Office or an Academic Advisor or by submission of a Withdrawal Request through the Academic Portal.

The date of receipt of written notice of withdrawal by the Registrar’s Office or the date of submission through the portal (whichever is earlier) determines the amount of tuition charges potentially eligible for a prorated refund.

Tuition refunds will be calculated on a pro-rated basis respective to the day of withdrawal and applies to students withdrawing voluntarily, as well as students who are dismissed from the University for academic, disciplinary, financial reasons or for non-attendance according to the attendance policy. The pro rata refund shall be no less than the total amount owed by the student for the portion of the educational program the student attended regardless of the fund source the student is using to pay for tuition. The pro-rata refund will be determined by the number of calendar days a student completes in the semester/term, divided by the total calendar days of the semester/term. If this amount is less than or equal to 60%, then the student is due a prorated refund equal to the difference of 100% of total tuition charged and the total percentage completed. Pro-rated refunds pertain to the semester/term tuition charges only. No tuition charge reversals are made after the 60% point in the semester or term (payment period). Not registering for courses or ceasing to attend current courses is not considered a notification of withdrawal and may result in tuition and fees owed to the University.

New Students will receive a 100% reversal of tuition and applicable fees, if they notify the Registrar’s Office in writing or through the Academic Portal that they are withdrawing from the program prior to the end of the Add/Drop period.

Students receiving Title IV funds are subject to the Return of Federal Funds policy regarding withdrawal and refunds. Any amount in excess of the aid “earned” for the time period the student was enrolled must be returned to the federal aid program. Students who remain enrolled through at least 60% of the payment period are considered to have earned 100% of the aid they received. Returning Title IV funds could result in a balance owed to the University by the student. 

Withdrawal often results in a balance due to Saybrook University. Students should contact the Student Accounts Office to arrange payment for any balance owed. If the student is due a refund, all checks and/or direct deposits will be automatically issued.

Military Refund Policy

U.S. Military personnel, U.S. Military Reservists, or National Guard members who are called into service and, as a result, are unable meet academic requirements prior to the completion of the term/semester will be entitled to receive a full refund of tuition and fees. This policy applies whether the call to service is voluntarily or involuntarily, but it does include active service for training. This same consideration may be available to spouses and dependents of active duty military personnel. A student who is drafted and must report for active duty during a term/semester is entitled to receive a full refund of tuition and fees. All refunds are subject to the presentation of official documentation. In the event a student receives any Title IV Federal Aid for education expenses, the institution will return those funds to the Department of Education. In those instances, if the student received funds in addition to those for tuition and fees, the student will be subject to the repayment of those funds. A student who volunteers for military service will be subject to the school’s standard Refund Schedule.

Returning Unearned Tuition Assistance (TA) Funds

Saybrook University returns unearned TA funds on a proportional basis through at least the 60 percent portion of the term/semester for which the funds were awarded. TA funds are earned proportionally during a term/semester, with unearned funds returned based upon when a student stops attending school.

State Specific Refund Requirements

Maryland Refund Policy

1. As required by the Maryland Higher Education Commission, the minimum refund that Saybrook will pay to a Maryland student who withdraws or is terminated after completing only a portion of a course, program, or term within the applicable billing period is as follows:

2. A refund due to a Maryland student will be based on the date of withdrawal or termination and paid within 60 days from the date of withdrawal or termination.

This refund policy must be disclosed to students upon enrollment, and documentation verifying student refunds in accordance with this policy must be maintained.

Wisconsin Refund Policy

A Wisconsin student enrolled at Saybrook University will receive a full refund of all money paid if:

1. The student cancels enrollment within the three-business day cancellation period under (SPS 406.03);
2. The student accepted, was unqualified, and the school did not secure a disclaimer under (SPS 409.04);
3. The school procured the student’s enrollment as the result of any false representations in the written materials used by the school or in oral representations made by or on behalf of the school.

Refunds will be made within 10 business days of cancellation.

A Wisconsin student who withdraws or is dismissed after attending at least one class, but before completing 60% of the instruction in the current enrollment period, is entitled to a pro rata refund, as calculated below:

As part of this policy, the school may retain a one-time application fee of no more than $100.  The school will make every effort to refund prepaid amounts for books, supplies, and other charges.  A student will receive the refund within 40 days of the termination date.  If a student withdraws after completing 60% of the instruction, Saybrook University may refund a pro rata amount if the withdrawal is due to mitigating circumstances beyond the student’s control.

While written notice of withdrawal is not required, students are encouraged to withdraw by submitting a Withdrawal Form to registrar@saybrook.edu or by emailing registrar@saybrook.edu indicating their intent to withdraw, from the Saybrook University student email.  Wisconsin students will be administratively withdrawn when their faculty notifies the Registrar’s Office of two consecutive weeks of non-participation in their course Canvas shell.  Their pro-rated refund will be based on their last date of participation (attendance).

Enrollment Status for Financial Aid Eligibility

Saybrook University has established minimum credit hour thresholds for determining full-time and half-time enrollment status.  Students must maintain a minimum half-time status to be eligible for financial aid. The reported enrollment status for the three enrollment periods (fall, spring and summer) is determined as follows: 

Furthermore, a student enrolled in one of the following courses found here  will be reported as indicated.

Students sponsored in F-1 status must maintain full-time enrollment in order to maintain non-immigrant status. To maintain non-immigrant status, International students should discuss any less-than full-time enrollment plans with their Designated School Official (DSO).

Maximum Course Load

In an effort to support student success, Saybrook University limits all students to a maximum course load of 15 credits per 15-week semester and 9 credits per 7- 8- or 12-week term.

Students seeking to enroll in more than the above-listed credit totals must submit a Maximum Credit Load Increase to the Office of the Registrar. Appeals will be reviewed by the Registrar, Department Chair and Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs.

Students are encouraged to first discuss their intended course load and schedule with their Department Chair and Academic Advisor.

*Students enrolled in the PhD in Clinical Psychology Program are limited to 12 credits per semester unless approved by the Department Chair

Minimum Course Load

Saybrook University is committed to supporting students and ensuring they graduate in a timely manner which requires that students register for a minimum number of credits each semester. In order to achieve degree completion in a reasonable timeframe Saybrook requires all degree-seeking students, with the exception of students in the PhD Clinical Psychology program, to enroll in a minimum of 6 credits during both the Fall and Spring semesters. The only stated exception to this policy is the summer term where students can take fewer credits without written approval.

Clinical psychology (CP) students are expected to maintain an average of nine credits per semester.

• Students can self-enroll in nine to twelve credits.
• Consultation with and approval from the Program Chair is required to enroll in less than nine or more than twelve credits per semester.

Reduced Course Load

Under certain specific circumstances (e.g. severe health circumstances, satisfying final degree requirement, etc.), a student can obtain approval for a reduced course load by written petition. Petitions for a reduced course load must be submitted in writing to the Registrar’s Office prior to the start of the semester and, if approved, the reduction in course load is valid for that upcoming semester only.

Financial Aid Refunds

Loan disbursements will be applied to a student’s account to offset owed tuition and fees for all students verified to be enrolled at least half-time and have been accepted and awarded financial aid.

Any aid amount in excess of the balance owed (credit balance) will be refunded to the student. In accordance with federal regulation, these refunds will be sent automatically to the student within 14 days of the credit balance appearing on the student’s account.

Student refunds are made available via direct deposit to a designated bank account determined by the student after submitting a completed Direct Deposit Authorization Form to the Student Account Office. If no direct deposit information is provided, refund checks will be mailed to the student’s address currently on file. To expedite this process, please make sure all information is current at least two weeks before the start of the semester.

Financial Aid Eligibility

To be eligible for State or Federal assistance under Title IV of the Higher Education Act, a student must satisfy all of the following criteria:

• Be enrolled as a regular student
• Have a High School Diploma or GED and a bachelor’s Degree
• Be enrolled or accepted for enrollment in a degree program at Saybrook University
• Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
• Have a valid Social Security Number
• Have demonstrated financial need as determined through completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) prior to being awarded need-based financial aid.
• No need must be shown to receive non-need based financial aid (Direct Unsubsidized Loans and Federal Grad Plus Loans). However, all applicants must file a FAFSA.
• Maintain minimum satisfactory academic progress requirements toward completion of the degree program as defined by Saybrook standards and practices**
• Cannot be in default with any federal student loan
• Have not borrowed an excess of the aggregate loan limits allowed for the federal loan programs Cannot owe a refund on a federal grant at any institution attended
• Certify that you will use Federal Student Loans for educational purposes only.

How to Determine Need

Calculating the Amount to Borrow

Before you apply for financial aid, please read the following information.

Living Expenses

Your award letter will indicate the maximum amount of aid you are eligible for. It is important that you determine the amount you will need to cover tuition, fees and living expenses if needed. After assessing how much aid is needed, you can then determine to accept the full amount, adjust (reduce) to your desired amount, or decline the aid listed on your award letter. Please note that financial aid programs are not intended to maintain a lifestyle nor are they intended to fund mortgages or credit card debts.

Reasonable living expense allowances are based on housing status and include rent, food, and utilities. To estimate your monthly income and expenses, try the Budget Calculator at the direct loan website to create your in-school student budget: www.ed.gov/DirectLoan/calc.html

Cost of Attendance (COA)

The cost of education is the estimated amount you will need to cover costs related to attendance at Saybrook University for one academic year of study. The academic year is defined as two consecutive semesters of enrollment. The standard budget is constructed by using basic costs of living plus tuition and fees for your particular program of study.

Determining Your Financial Aid Package

The financial aid package is based on the Expected FamilyContribution (EFC) of both the student and spouse’s resources. This amount is determined by a financial needs assessment which looks at assets, income, family size, and number of family members in college. The student’s financial need is the difference between the costs of education minus the EFC.

Once financial need is determined, the student’s financial aid award letter is generated. Your award may include Federal Direct Loans, Federal Work Study, and/or Saybrook Scholarships.

We encourage all students to apply for non-institutional scholarships and benefits.  Saybrook University accepts many outside resources. To get some ideas for resources, visit Other Scholarship Sources.

How to Apply for Financial Aid

To apply for federal aid, you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online at www.studentaid.gov  

Important Notes

Be sure to enter Saybrook University’s school code: G21206 on your FAFSA.

You must complete a new FASFA every calendar year. The new FAFSA is available in October.

We recommend that you complete your FAFSA at the time of Application to Saybrook and no later than 90 days prior to the beginning of the relevant semester of enrollment.

Upon review of your submitted FAFSA the Department of Education may require additional documentation. Should this be the case, The Financial Aid Office will contact and provided you with all the necessary details of how to resolve. 

Apply for a FSA ID

An FSA ID allows students to complete the following tasks:

• Electronically sign your FAFSA application
• Make online corrections to your FAFSA
• Access your Student Aid Report
• Access your federal student aid records online, including your student loan history information on the National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS) at www.nsldsfap.ed.gov.
   

Financial Aid Code of Conduct

The following Code of Conduct was last updated by a vote from NASFAA’s Board of Directors in November 2020, and published in January 2021. Subject to enforcement procedures that went into effect July 1, 2015, NASFAA institutional members of NASFAA will ensure that: 

1. No action will be taken by financial aid staff that is for their personal benefit or could be perceived to be a conflict of interest. 

1. Employees within the financial aid office will not award aid to themselves or their immediate family members. Staff will reserve this task to an institutionally designated person, to avoid the appearance of a conflict of interest. 
2. If a preferred lender list is provided, it will be compiled without prejudice and for the sole benefit of the students attending the institution. The information included about lenders and loan terms will be transparent, complete, and accurate. The complete process through which preferred lenders are selected will be fully and publicly disclosed. Borrowers will not be auto-assigned to any particular lender. 
3. A borrower’s choice of a lender will not be denied, impeded, or unnecessarily delayed by the institution, even if that lender is not included on the institution’s preferred lender list. 
4. No amount of cash, gift, or benefit in excess of a de minimis amount shall be accepted by a financial aid staff member from any financial aid applicant (or his/her family), or from any entity doing business with or seeking to do business with the institution (including service on advisory committees or boards beyond reimbursement for reasonable expenses directly associated with such service). 

2. Information provided by the financial aid office is accurate, unbiased, and does not reflect preference arising from actual or potential personal gain. 

3. Institutional financial aid offers and/or other institutionally provided materials shall include the following: 

• Breakdown of estimated individual Cost of Attendance components, including which are direct (billed by the institution) costs vs. indirect (not billed by the institution) costs 
• Clear identification and proper grouping of each type of aid offered indicating whether the aid is a grant/scholarship, loan, or work program 
• Estimated net price  
• Standard terminology and definitions, using NASFAA’s glossary of terms 
• Renewal requirements for each aid type being offered as well as next steps and financial aid office contact information 

4. All required consumer information is displayed in a prominent location on the institutional web site(s) and in any printed materials, easily identified and found, and labeled as “Consumer Information.” 

5. Financial aid professionals will disclose to their institution any involvement, interest in, or potential conflict of interest with any entity with which the institution has a business relationship. 

Institutional Scholarships

Saybrook’s Presidential Scholarship

All newly admitted students are eligible to be considered for the Saybrook University Presidential Scholarships. In order to maintain eligibility, students must be in good academic standing, meet all criteria with respect to Satisfactory Academic progress, and be in continuous full-time enrollment (except for summer awards).   

The President’s Academic Excellence Scholarship is awarded based on superior academic and/or professional merit and a minimum GPA of 3.75. 

The President’s Academic Honors Scholarship is awarded based on outstanding academic merit and/or high financial need and a GPA between 3.5-3.74.   

The President’s Academic Recognition Scholarship is awarded based on high academic merit and/or moderately high financial need and a GPA between 3.25-3.49. 

The President’s Scholarship is awarded based on moderately high academic merit and/or moderate financial need and a GPA between 3.0-3.24. 

Continuing Student Scholarships

The Rollo May, Alan Watts, Leonard Shlain, Marc Pilisuk, Nancy Anned Moss and Alumni Association scholarships are available for continuing students, who are enrolled full-time, and in good academic standing. Each is applied directly to the recipient’s student account in the fall semester of the award year. Students will be notified of the submission deadlines and guidelines in advance. Typically, a call for submissions will be sent out in spring to all students. Students may apply for only one scholarship per academic year. Students may only win a specific scholarship once during their lifetime. If students are awarded up to their cost of attendance, their loans will be reduced.

Permission: Scholarship recipients agree to have their name and other information, including images, shared publicly in announcements that recognize their achievement and the impact of the scholarship and its founder.

Alan Watts Student Scholarship Award: $2,000 - $5,000

The Alan Watts Student Scholarship Award is only available to continuing students. It is named in honor of British philosopher Alan Watts, who was associated with Saybrook University in its formative years. The scholarship is awarded to an accomplished student interested in the work and teachings of Alan Watts. Recipients seek to go beyond simplistic notions of what is, or of what should be, recognizing the need for exploration of oneself through various modalities ranging from meditation to humor, and the impact such practices have on our lives, on the continuing development of humanistic/transpersonal psychology and on our social order.

How to apply:

Applications should include eight to 12 double-spaced pages of the student’s Saybrook writings, which establish the relationship between the work/areas of interest of Alan Watts and the student. Material for submission may consist of excerpts from the student’s dissertation proposal, candidacy essays, or papers from Saybrook courses, integrated into one document. Relevant publications by Alan Watts and related scholars should be cited. If students are awarded up to their cost of attendance, their loans will be reduced.

Leonard Shlain Student Scholarship Award: $1,500

The Leonard Shlain Student Scholarship Award is only available to continuing students. This award, which is named in honor of former Saybrook trustee Leonard Shlain, MD, provides two awards of $1,500 to accomplished students interested in the work and research of Dr. Shlain. These areas include the following:

Creativity

The development of the human brain and neuroscience

Art and science

Human sexuality

The effects of word and image on the human brain

“This scholarship has allowed me to buy some of the equipment that was needed for my study …  I can dream bigger. I am now looking into continuing my research in a post-doctorate. In future research I hope to make a difference in health care and understanding testosterone when used as a supplement to aid in transitioning from female to male, or for other gender identification reasons.”

- Taylor Williams, student in the Ph.D. in Psychology, Psychophysiology Specialization

How to apply:

Applications should include an essay (eight to 12 double-spaced pages) with a brief bio of the student; a brief description of the student’s interests, life work, and academic studies; a description of why the student is interested in studying Dr. Shlain’s research and/or research interests; and a statement regarding the candidate’s financial need. The applicants must reference Dr. Shlain’s work and state how his work influenced or will inform their work. If students are awarded up to their cost of attendance, their loans will be reduced.

Nancy Anne Moss Integrative Medicine and Health Sciences Scholarship Award: $2,500

The Nancy Anne Moss Integrative Medicine and Health Sciences Scholarship is created in memory of Nancy Anne Moss, beloved partner of Donald Moss, Ph.D., who currently serves as the founding dean of the College of Integrative Medicine and Health Sciences. Nancy Anne Moss was a lifelong educator, working with students from elementary to graduate levels. In honor of her commitment, this scholarship is dedicated to Saybrook University Mind-Body Medicine students to support their pursuit of their master’s or doctoral degrees.

How to Apply:

Submit a philosophy statement that outlines an interest in humanistic values specifically as it applies to holistic health practices, articulated research/scholarly focus, and the application to one’s practice, organization, or community to advance creativity and various applications. Statement should also include future career goals and how these goals will foster efforts to advance a more just, humane, and sustainable world.

Rollo May Student Scholarship Award: $5,000

The Rollo May Student Scholarship of $5,000 is funded each year through the generosity of our donors. The scholarship is available only to continuing students and is awarded to students whose graduate work explicitly applies to and carries forward the existential-humanistic contributions of Rollo May, Ph.D. Applicant’s work may include scholarship in the following areas:

Personality theory

Psychotherapy

Art and literature

Cultural criticism

Existential encounters

Other topics clearly connected to the Rollo May tradition

“My research is about bringing the understanding of human vulnerability to the divorce professionals who are instrumental in setting up the space in which people can decide what kind of agreement they want to make for their future family, including their children. … I would like to publish and talk about what I have discovered. This scholarship has eased my fears of using the time required to transform my understanding into something that people can read.”

- Dominique Walmsley, student in the Ph.D. in Psychology, Existential, Humanistic, and Transpersonal Psychology Specialization

How to apply:

Applications should include eight to 12 double-spaced pages of the student’s Saybrook writings, which establish the relationship between the work of Dr. May and the student. Materials for submission may consist of excerpts from the student’s dissertation proposal, candidacy essays, or papers from Saybrook courses, integrated into one document. Relevant publications by Dr. May should be cited. If students are awarded up to their cost of attendance, their loans will be reduced.

Saybrook Alumni Association Scholarship Award: $2,500

This fund was created to support Saybrook students who are working on their dissertation, thesis, or capstone project and need financial assistance to successfully complete the rigorous research required for their program. Generous donations from alumni “pay it forward” to ensure future Saybrook graduates can inspire transformational change in individuals, organizations, and communities toward a just, humane, and sustainable world.

How to apply:

Students will submit a statement of need, which explains how they will foster humanistic values in the world after graduation.

Dr. Marc Pilisuk Transformative Social Change and Leadership Scholarship Award: $2,500

The Dr. Mark Pilisuk Transformative Social Change and Leadership Scholarship is created to honor the life and work of Marc Pilisuk, Ph.D., whose research and experience has led to significant advancements in the areas of peace and social justice. His work is aligned with the work of countless Saybrook students and faculty across multiple disciplines, inspiring and promoting positive social change in organizations and communities around the country. Recipients demonstrate a deep passion and commitment to humanistic values, as evidenced through their work as scholars and/or practitioners. Recipients also demonstrate a dedication to humanistic values through academic work or on-the-ground efforts to promote peace and/or social justice.

This award is applied directly to the recipient’s student account in the fall semester of the award year and will go toward tuition expenses.

How to Apply:

Submit a philosophy statement that outlines an interest in humanistic values specifically as they apply to non-violent practices, structural inequality, and community empowerment. Also, explain the application to a specific discipline or articulated research/scholarly focus and how this will be or is currently being applied to one’s practice, organization, or community, specifically in advancing peace and/or social justice. Also include future career goals and how these goals will foster efforts to advance a more just, humane, and sustainable world.

Marlene Chance Creativity and Innovation Scholars Program

The Marlene Chance Creativity and Innovation (MCCI) Scholars program is created to both honor the life and work of Marlene Chance, beloved sister of trustee and Saybrook alumna, Gloria Chance, Ph.D., and to advance cutting-edge work across creativity, innovation, mental health, and wellness. Marlene Chance was a devoted member of her New York City community, a beloved neighbor, devoted mother, daughter and sibling, colleague, and friend to many. In honor of her life, cut tragically short as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the MCCI Scholars program is dedicated to her memory with the primary purpose of supporting graduate students who demonstrate a passion and commitment to research and scholarship in the areas of expressive arts therapies, innovation, mental health, and creativity.

The submission period will open in spring 2023. This award is available to continuing students for the fall semester.

How to Apply:

Submit a completed action agenda, research focus, and philosophy statement that outlines an interest in humanistic values specifically as it applies to holistic health practices. The action agenda should outline creation and deployment of a project that is impactful within the community the student is currently serving and include the definition of the community to be served; project overview leveraging creative approaches; type of project (i.e., short film, book, website, mobile app, gaming experience, AR/VR experience, etc.); a timeline for creation and deployment; and an identified mentor and/or support team who will help guide the student through the process. The application of research and scholarly focus to one’s practice, organization, or community should advance innovation and improve mental health or creativity. Also, discuss future career goals and how these goals will support a more just, humane, and sustainable world.

Saybrook Study Abroad Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to Saybrook students studying abroad in the pursuit of furthering their international education and becoming a global agent of change. Only students already accepted to a study abroad program are eligible to apply. Students must indicate how the experience relates to their academic goals and how they plan to bring their global learnings back to campus.

Outside Scholarship

Scholarship Search Services

ION tuition: https://www.iontuition.com/

CollegeView: http://www.collegeview.com/index.jsp

Fastweb: http://www.fastweb.com/

FinAid: http://www.finaid.org/

Peterson’s: https://www.petersons.com/

Federal Student Aid and Office of the U.S. Department of Education: https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/

U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Disability Employment Policy, Disability Resources:  https://www.disability.gov/scholarships-specifically-students-disabilities/

Open Education Database: http://oedb.org/phd-scholarship

Loan Types

The following information provides links to help prospective students learn about loans available to those who qualify. Please utilize these sites and contact Saybrook’s Financial Aid Staff for further assistance: email finaid@saybrook.edu or phone 888-253-5100 option 1.

Federal Loans

For an overview of federal loans, please visit www.studentaid.gov

Loans for International Students

Some privately funded student loans, such as those provided by eduPASS are available to non-US citizens provided there is a credit-worthy co-signer who is a US citizen or permanent resident.

Canadian students may use both the Canada and provincial loan programs to fund their education at Saybrook. For information on the Canada Loan program, please visit the International Student Loan website  or the Student Aid website

Veterans Benefits

Use your GI Bill^® Benefits at Saybrook

Saybrook University is approved by the California State Approving Agency for Veterans Education (CSAAVE). CSAAVE has approved most of Saybrook’s schools and programs to administer educational benefits for eligible students through independent study provisions of the Veterans Administration.

Veterans interested in using their benefits are encouraged to begin the application process at least three months before enrollment. Applying for Benefits - Veterans Benefits Administration (va.gov)

VA Benefits Eligibility

Veterans who have served at least 90 days of active duty service after September 10, 2001 and received an honorable discharge may qualify for the Post 9/11 GI Bill^®. For those who served on active duty after 9/10/2001, see the VA website for more information. Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33) | Veterans Affairs (va.gov)

VA Benefits Enrollment Verification

Saybrook University’s School Certifying Official will verify your enrollment and submit the necessary enrollment certification provided that you have already registered for your courses.

Yellow Ribbon Program

Chapter 33 students with 100% entitlement are eligible to participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program. This program is a supplement to the Post 9/11 GI Bill^® that helps veterans bridge the gap between the Post 9/11 tuition benefit and the actual cost of tuition and fees. Students currently on Active Duty are not eligible to participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program.

At Saybrook University, the Yellow Ribbon Program provides students up to $6,000 additional tuition dollars per year ($3,000 from Saybrook and $3,000 matching funds from VA). The exact amount of Yellow Ribbon dollars received is based on the student’s tuition and fees balance after Chapter 33 benefits and some institutional aid are applied.

Currently Saybrook provides Yellow Ribbon funds to an unlimited number of qualified students. The university will review its Yellow Ribbon commitment each year. Participation levels may vary in future years.

Yellow Ribbon Eligibility Requirements

Individuals entitled to the maximum benefit rate (based on service requirements) may receive this funding. You may be eligible if you:

• Have served an aggregate period of active duty after September 10, 2001, of at least 36 months;
• Were honorably discharged from active duty for a service connected disability and served 30 continuous days after September 10, 2001;
• Are a dependent eligible for Transfer of Entitlement under the Post - 9/11 GI Bill^® based on a veteran’s service under the eligibility criteria listed above.

There is no minimum number of credit hours required for participation and awards will continue in subsequent years in which the student maintains satisfactory progress, conduct and attendance.

Application Process

• Step 1: If eligible, students should apply for benefits under the Post - 9/11 GI Bill^® with the Department of Veteran Affairs online at Vets.gov. Students that have previously used VA Educational Benefits at a previous school must complete form 1995 online at Vets.gov
• Step 2: Forward a copy of Certificate of Eligibility and internal Yellow Ribbon Application (see Saybrook Military Benefits Coordinator for application) to the Saybrook Military Benefits Coordinator at saymilitarybenefits@saybrook.edu.

Saybrook University also works with veterans receiving benefits under the Montgomery GI Bill^®, Veterans Educational Assistance Program (VEAP), Dependents Educational Assistance (DEA), and Vocational Rehabilitation.

For additional information, visit the Department of Veterans Affairs website or the Yellow Ribbon Program FAQ. Yellow Ribbon Program | Veterans Affairs (va.gov)

Students that have submitted a valid certificate of eligibility or VAF 28-1905 may attend courses for no less than 90 days after submission of the documentation while the VA processes payment. Furthermore, students will not be charged any late fees due to delays with VA payments provided the student remains eligible for benefits. Students who do not receive 100% entitlement for their benefits will need to secure an alternate method of payment. Students can be placed on a payment plan by contacting the School Certifying Official via email at saymilitarybenefits@saybrook.edu or via phone 888-253-5100, option 3.

Online Resources

The Montgomery GI Bill^® offers resources for veterans to assist with educational costs. Please go to http://www.gibill.va.gov/apply- for-benefits/ for more information or to have a form mailed to you. Or call 1-888-GIBILL-1 (1-888-442-4551).

GI Bill^® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

Special Tuition Rates/Institutional Waivers

Alumni Tuition Waiver

The Saybrook University Alumni Tuition Waiver supports alumni who have graduated with a masters or doctoral degree and desire additional coursework to further enhance their personal or professional goals. Alumni who have earned their degree from Saybrook within the past 3 years are eligible for the Alumni Tuition Waiver.  The Alumni Tuition Waiver is a one-time waiver on tuition only for up to three (3) credits during a single semester.  Students are responsible for all other fees and costs charged for enrollment. 

Effective Spring 2018, the Alumni Tuition Waiver may also be applied to tuition in a Saybrook-sponsored study abroad experience on a first-come, first-serve basis as space allows. 

Alumni Tuition Rate

The Saybrook University Alumni Tuition Rate supports alumni who have graduated with a terminal masters or doctoral degree and desire additional coursework to further enhance their personal or professional goals. The Saybrook University Alumni Tuition Rate is not available to students who earn a nested master’s degree while enrolled in an applicable doctoral program.

The Alumni Tuition Rate is determined for each academic year and is applied to tuition charges only. Students are responsible for all other fees and costs charged for enrollment. Details on the Saybrook University Alumni Tuition Rate can be obtained from the Office of Admissions.

The Alumni Tuition Rate will represent a 25% reduction in the published tuition rate for a given program, in a given semester, and the rate does not apply to institutional fees or other charges.

The Alumni Tuition Rate applies to future terms only and is not retroactive to current or prior terms.  Saybrook alumni who have earned a Saybrook M.S., M.A. or Ph.D. may be eligible for the Alumni Tuition Rate, and award decisions will be determined at the time of admission to a subsequent M.S., M.A., or Ph.D. programs. To be eligible for this special Rate, alumni of such programs must be admitted to a new, eligible program, for the first time. The Alumni Tuition Rate does not apply to alumni enrollments in Certificate programs. Special rates will not apply to those already receiving a separate special rate, and rates cannot be combined with Saybrook-issued scholarships. Currently-enrolled alumni who withdraw from the University will not be considered for the Alumni Tuition Rate upon readmission.

Students must also meet the following conditions each semester of enrollment to maintain eligibility:

• Must maintain good financial aid and academic standing and meet all satisfactory academic progress requirements. 
• Must maintain continuous full time enrollment in Fall and Spring semesters. 

Military and Veteran Special Tuition Rate

Saybrook University has implemented a 15% Military and Veteran Special tuition rate effective October 27, 2022.  The parameters of the special tuition rate are as follows:

1. The tuition rate would be available for all active duty servicemembers, military veterans, reservists, national guardsman, and qualifying dependents.
2. The rate will be applied to all programs, degree levels, and certificate programs. The rate is not retroactive and applies only to future terms.
3. Currently military and veteran students attending Saybrook would also qualify for the rate from the official date of the change.

Segal AmeriCorps Matching Grant

As part of its commitment to foster positive transformative change on an individual, organizational and community level, Saybrook University is proud to offer a Segal AmeriCorps Matching Grant to qualified AmeriCorps students.

This award will provide a 100% dollar-for-dollar match up to a lifetime maximum of $4,000. Students must be admitted to Saybrook, attending on a full-time basis, and submit a copy of their voucher prior to being awarded a Segal AmeriCorps Matching Grant.

Work-Study

Federal Work-Study Program

The Federal Work Study (FWS) Program subsidizes employment for students with financial need. The program encourages community service and work related to your course of study.

Your hourly wage is set by Saybrook as your employer; it may vary depending on the responsibilities of your position. Your total work-study award is based on financial need and available funding. Student employees are paid bi-monthly.

Students are not permitted to work more than 10 hours per week during periods of enrollment. Please note that international students and students who are not U.S. citizens may not be eligible for aid. Students must confer with the financial aid office to confirm eligibility prior to accepting a position.

To find out if you are eligible for federal work-study, please contact the financial aid office at finaid@saybrook.edu. For questions regarding job announcements and hiring forums, contact Joline Pruitt, Director of Business Operations, at jpruitt@saybrook.edu.

Constitution Day

http://www.constitutionday.com/

Rights and Responsibilities

When you obtain a federal student loan you have certain Borrower’s Rights and Responsibilities.

Borrower’s Rights

You have the right:

1. To know what financial aid programs are available at your school.
2. To know the deadline for submitting applications for each available program.
3. To know how financial aid will be distributed, how decisions are made and the basis for these decisions.
4. To know how your financial need was determined. This includes how costs for tuition and fees, books and supplies, room and board, travel, personal and miscellaneous expenses, etc., are considered in your budget.
5. To know how much of your financial need had been met as determined by the financial aid advisor at the college. To know what resources (other financial aid, your assets, etc.) were considered in the calculation of your need.
6. To know what portion of the financial aid you received must be repaid, and what portion is grant aid. If the aid is a loan, you have the right to know what the interest rate is, the total amount that must be repaid, the repayment procedures, the length of time you have to repay the loan, and when repayment is to begin. Under the Federal Stafford Loan program if you cannot meet the repayment schedule, you may request that the loan payments be reduced for a specific period of time if it will assist you in avoiding default.
7. To know how the school determines whether you are making satisfactory progress and what happens if you are not. To request an explanation of the various programs in your student aid package.
8. To know campus security policies and crime statistics.

Borrowers’ Responsibilities: You are obligated:

1. To complete all application forms accurately and submit them on time to the right place.
2. To provide correct information. In most instances, misreporting information on financial aid applications is a violation of law and may be considered a criminal offense.
3. To return all documentation, verification, corrections, and/or new information requested by either the Financial Aid Office or the agency to which you submitted your application.
4. If you borrow a federal loan, think about how much you’re borrowing.  Borrow wisely!
5. To use any federal, state-appropriated, or institutional financial aid received during the award year solely for expenses related to attendance at Saybrook University.
6. To read and understand all forms that you are asked to sign and to keep copies of them. To accept responsibility for all the arrangements that you sign.
7. Be enrolled at least halftime as a regular student. Students admitted on provisional or conditional status will be given a defined period of eligibility (usually one year) to achieve regular admission. Your Provisional and or Conditional Acceptance require that you adhere to the stipulations listed on your Saybrook University Admissions Acceptance Letter.
8. To perform the work that is agreed upon in accepting a Federal Work-Study award before you receive payment. To be aware of your school’s refund procedures.
9. To repay your student loans, even if you don’t complete your education, can’t get a job, or aren’t happy with your education. To maintain up-to-date address and telephone information with the Registrar’s Office.

All schools must provide information to prospective students about the school’s programs and performance. You should consider this information carefully before deciding to attend a school. As a recipient of a Federal Direct Student Loan, you must notify the lender if any of the following occur before the loan is repaid: if you change your address, Graduate, withdraw from school or attend less than half-time status, change your name, and/or transfer to another school. Request a deferment or forbearance, or change repayment plans if you’re having trouble making your monthly payments.

The Borrower’s Rights and Responsibilities Statement provides information about the terms and consideration of the loans you received under the accompanying Master Promissory Note (MPN) for Federal Direct Stafford/Ford Loans (Direct Subsidized Loans) and Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford/Ford Loans (Direct Unsubsidized Loans). You can view the document here: http://www.direct.ed.gov/pubs/dlrights.pdf