Disbursement of Financial Aid
Before your financial aid funds can be disbursed to your student account you must meet the disbursement criteria specific to the aid program(s) you have accepted. Detailed descriptions of these aid programs are available in the award letter mailed with your initial financial aid award and in the publication Guide to Understanding Undergraduate/Graduate Financial Aid Award available to download. Unless otherwise stated on your award letter, your financial aid funds are evenly split between the fall and spring terms.
Many grants require full time enrollment (twelve credits for undergraduates, nine credits for graduate students). However some grants will be adjusted by a pro-rated amount for less than full-time enrollment. You must be enrolled at least half time (six credits) for the William D. Ford Direct Loan or the Perkins Loan to disburse to your account and you must also have a valid promissory note and Entrance Interview Form (if required) on file.
Once you have resolved all eligibility issues (including verification and satisfactory academic progress) your financial aid for the upcoming term will be disbursed no earlier than ten days prior to the start of classes. Final adjustments due to changes in your credit load will occur approximately six weeks after the start of the term. Your financial aid will be credited to your UMass Amherst tuition and fees, room and board (if living on campus), and miscellaneous fees.
Excess Funds
If the amount of financial aid and other credits on your bill exceed tuition, fees, and other charges, you may receive a refund. You may use your refund for off-campus living expenses, indirect expenses, or any other education expenses for the term. You will either receive an excess check or you can arrange for direct deposit into your bank account through Excess Express.
Excess Fund Reminders
- Before the Bursar’s Office may release your excess check, you must sign, complete, and return your Direct Loan Promissory Note to Financial Aid Services.
- If you are receiving a Graduate Appointment or any other waivers not listed on your award letter, please report them to our office by completing the back of the award letter. This will reduce any delays in releasing your excess funds.
- If you a graduate student on Program Fee, update your enrollment status (half time or full time) with the Graduate Records Office. The Bursar's Office will confirm your eligibility on line before releasing your excess funds.
