Step 3: Review and Accept Award

Eastern Oregon University Award Guide

Welcome to Financial Aid at Eastern Oregon University (EOU)

At Eastern Oregon University, we understand that navigating financial aid can be complex. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you understand everything from eligibility to disbursement. Approximately 91% of our students receive some form of financial aid, so you’re not alone in this journey.

How to Apply for Financial Aid

FAFSA Submission: Start your financial aid process by submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as early as possible, ideally right after October 1st. This application is crucial for both federal financial aid and many scholarships. Apply online at fafsa.gov.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for federal financial aid at EOU, you need to meet the following criteria:

  • Be a U.S. citizen or an eligible non-citizen.
  • You must not be in default on federal student loans or owe on federal student grants.

Undocumented students, including DACA students, may be eligible for state financial aid through the Oregon Student Aid Application (ORSAA), as well as scholarships and non-federal loans.

Types of Financial Aid

EOU offers various financial aid options:

  • Grants and Scholarships: Gift aid, including the Federal Pell Grant, Oregon Opportunity Grant, and the TEACH Grant.
  • Work-Study: Part-time employment opportunities.
  • Loans: Federal loans such as Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans, and PLUS loans for parents and graduate students. Loan entrance counseling and a Master Promissory Note (MPN) are required.

The TEACH Grant supports students planning to teach in high-need areas. Recipients commit to teaching for a specified time; otherwise, the grant converts to a loan.

Maintaining Your Financial Aid

Continuing your eligibility for financial aid requires maintaining satisfactory academic progress. This includes:

  • Achieving a minimum GPA of 2.0 each term.
  • Completing at least 67% of all attempted coursework.
  • Maximum time frame for degree completion (150% of the published time it takes to receive a degree).

Financial Aid Disbursement

Financial aid funds are typically disbursed before the start of each term, excluding summer. You’ll be notified about the disbursement schedule and any actions you need to take to receive your funds.

It’s important to note that disbursement amounts may vary based on your expected enrollment level for the term. If your enrollment changes, such as dropping below full-time status, your financial aid disbursement may be adjusted accordingly. Be sure to notify the Financial Aid Office of any changes to your enrollment status to avoid delays in receiving your aid.

Verification Process

Some students may be selected for verification by the federal processor. If selected, you will be required to provide additional documents to verify the accuracy of your FAFSA data. Timely submission of these documents is crucial to avoid delays in receiving your aid.

Parent PLUS Loans

Parent PLUS Loans are available to parents of dependent undergraduate students. This loan is credit-based and can cover the difference between the student’s cost of education and their financial aid award.

Book Vouchers and Payment Plans

If financial aid is not ready to disperse or is insufficient to cover tuition fees and on-campus room and board costs, students can make payment arrangements with the Student Accounts Office. Book vouchers may also be available to help with purchasing books.

Your Responsibilities

As a recipient of financial aid, you’re responsible for:

  • Keeping track of communications from the Financial Aid Office.
  • Understanding and complying with the terms of your aid.
  • Maintaining eligibility by meeting academic and enrollment requirements.

Need Help?

If you have questions or need assistance, our Financial Aid Office is here to help. Contact us via email at fao@eou.edu, or call us at 541-962-3550. You can also visit us in person Monday through Friday, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

We’re committed to helping you make your educational journey at EOU financially feasible and fulfilling.


Mountie Hub Basics

Mountie Hub is the online student access portal for things like registration, grades, billing information, holds, and financial aid. Use Mountie Hub to register for classes, check grades, review account information, accept or decline financial aid offers, and find holds or requirements that must be satisfied before receiving financial aid. Students have immediate access to their information, 24 hours a day.


Grants

Financial aid grants are often called “gift aid” because they are free money – financial aid that doesn’t have to be repaid. Grants are usually awarded based on your financial need.


Loans

Federal student loans are borrowed funds that you must repay with interest. A federal student loan allows students and their parents to borrow money to help pay for college through loan programs supported by the federal government.