Federal Programs Based on Need

The U.S. Department of Education provides campus-based and direct aid programs using funds authorized by Congress. These programs help to bridge the gap between the cost of attendance and the amount that your Expected Family Contribution (EFC). The U.S. Department of Education determines the EFC using a standard formula called Federal Methodology. 

School Programs Based on Need 

Funds from the federal student aid programs are never sufficient to meet the needs of all Towson University students who apply for aid. Towson University provides some money in a university need-based grant program for undergraduate students. This Institutional Grant Program helps to supplement the federal programs, and uses the same application procedure and general eligibility criteria.

Federal Loan Programs Not Based on Need

The U.S. Department of Education makes it possible for every student to benefit from federal student financial aid, even those who do not demonstrate need. Federal aid for those who do not demonstrate need are loans with no interest subsidy: Federal Direct Unsubsidized Student Loan and Federal Direct Parent's Loan for Undergraduate Students (PLUS). There are no Federal Title IV grant programs for students who do not demonstrate need.

Scholarships 

Various university departments offer scholarships to students who show talent or outstanding academic abilities. For example, academically outstanding incoming freshmen or transfer students might receive a scholarship offer from the Office of Admissions.

Most scholarships from the university do not require a financial aid application because they are based on talent, merit, or academic standing and cumulative GPA.    Students who are legal residents of Maryland will apply for Maryland State Scholarship programs using the same Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) used to apply for Federal Title IV need and non-need based aid.