Financial aid brown maurice brown college park md financial aid cartoon
Brown University is dedicated to making its education accessible through a variety of financial aid initiatives. The university provides substantial need-based support to its students, including grants that replace loans for many families and programs designed to cover tuition, fees, room, and board. Whether you're an undergraduate, an international student, or a veteran, Brown offers resources to help you finance your education.
Understanding Financial Aid at Brown University
Brown University is committed to ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent qualified students from attending. The university has established several financial aid initiatives to assist students from diverse economic backgrounds.
Who Qualifies for Financial Aid?
Brown provides a significant amount of demonstrated financial aid to its enrolled students. Approximately 41% of undergraduate students currently receive need-based financial aid. For international students who are not permanent residents, a separate International Student Financial Aid Application form must be submitted along with supporting documents and the International Student Certificate of Finances. Canadian students specifically need to complete the CSS/Financial Aid PROFILE application to be considered for Brown's financial aid.
What Does Brown's Financial Aid Cover?
Financial aid awards at Brown are not disbursed as cash but are applied to cover direct educational costs. This typically includes tuition, fees, room, and board. Aid can also help cover essential expenses such as books and some personal costs. If you are not eligible for internal financial aid from Brown, you should explore and apply for outside sources of financial assistance.
Federal Financial Aid Programs Available at Brown
Brown University participates in several federal financial aid programs designed to help students manage their educational expenses. These programs include:
- Federal Pell Grant: This grant is provided by the federal government and does not require repayment. Pell Grants are awarded to undergraduate students based on demonstrated financial need, as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) application.
- Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG): Also for undergraduates, the FSEOG is designed for students with exceptional financial need.
- Federal Stafford Loan Program: These are low-interest federal loans available to students enrolled at least half-time. Interest rates for Stafford Loans vary based on the loan type (subsidized or unsubsidized) and the academic year.
- Federal Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students (PLUS): Designed for parents of dependent undergraduate students, PLUS loans have interest rates that vary by academic year.
- Federal Work-Study Program (FWS): This program allows students to earn money through part-time employment to help pay for their educational costs.
Veteran Education Benefits at Brown
Brown University proudly supports veterans in their pursuit of higher education by partnering with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). This partnership includes support for the Post 9/11 GI Bill and the Yellow Ribbon GI Education Enhancement Program.
Post 9/11 GI Bill Benefits
This program is intended for veterans who have served at least 90 days on active duty. Benefits typically include:
- Coverage for the cost of tuition and fees at a public institution of higher learning in the state (or a comparable amount for private institutions).
- A monthly housing allowance.
- A yearly stipend for books and supplies.
The Yellow Ribbon Program
The Yellow Ribbon Program is an extension of the Post 9/11 GI Bill, helping eligible veterans cover tuition and fees that exceed the maximum Post 9/11 GI Bill benefit. To qualify, applicants must have served at least 36 months and been honorably discharged from active duty. The amount of aid varies based on enrollment status (full-time or part-time).
Key aspects of Brown's Yellow Ribbon Program include:
- Support for a limited number of undergraduate Yellow Ribbon Program-eligible students each year.
- Brown typically grants Yellow Ribbon financial aid on a first-come, first-served basis.
Frequently Asked Questions About Brown Financial Aid
Does Brown University offer need-based financial aid?
Yes, Brown University is committed to providing need-based financial aid. Approximately 41% of undergraduate students receive this type of support, which can cover tuition, fees, room, board, books, and other personal expenses.
Are there specific financial aid options for international students?
Yes, international students who are not permanent U.S. residents must complete a separate International Student Financial Aid Application, along with an International Student Certificate of Finances. Canadian students specifically need to complete the CSS/Financial Aid PROFILE application.
What federal financial aid programs are available at Brown?
Brown participates in several federal programs, including the Federal Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG