July 17, 2019

Dear Howard University Students,

Howard University remains committed to supporting our students and their academic pursuits by issuing more than $106 million in scholarships and grants each year. There are a variety of merit-based scholarships that students receive, each with its own criteria. Some are one-time grants, while others can be renewed, if the student meets the pre-set criteria.

Howard University has not canceled scholarships for any student who has met the eligibility requirements:

1. Be enrolled full time for both, fall and spring, semesters 
2. Complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by the stated deadline (U.S. born, permanent resident and naturalized citizens) 
3. Maintain a pre-determined GPA 
4. Earn the minimum number of required credits each semester

Prior to receiving aid, every student who receives merit-based aid is given, and required to sign, a “Scholarship Acceptance Statement” detailing what they must do to maintain eligibility for the next year’s award. The appeal process is a privilege that is extended for some, but not all institutional scholarships. The Scholarship Acceptance Statement indicates whether appeals are allowed for the scholarship that a student was originally awarded. 

On May 30, 2019, students were sent early renewal offer letters regarding their Howard University merit and need based aid.  The letter specified that merit and need based offers were contingent upon the scholar’s academic record after the submission of final grades for the semester. See full link to the letter students received here: https://ous.howard.edu/student-financial-services/scholarship-letter

Please note that the Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) standards differ from the standards in the Scholarship Acceptance Statement. A student can maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress and be eligible to return to the University to continue his or her academic pursuits but fall short of the requirements to maintain merit-based aid. Further, the SAP Appeal Form has no bearing on the student’s Howard University Freshman Scholarship.

Students who lose their merit-based scholarships may still be eligible to qualify for other University and Federal aid. The Office of Financial Aid is available to assist with questions students may have concerning scholarship funding sources. 

Our Enrollment Management staff continues to take calls from students and their families between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. at the following main number: (800) 822 – 6363.

It is in the best interest of Howard University and the Howard Community to assist its students in meeting the financial obligation to complete their degree. Scholarships continue to be an important part of that commitment. Enrollment Management looks forward to working with continued integrity and transparency as we serve the financial needs of our greatest asset, our students. 
 
Excellence in Truth and Service, 

Anthony E. Jones, M.Ed.

Associate Provost/Assist. Vice-President of Enrollment Management