FINANCING THE NORTHEASTERN EXPERIENCE A Guide for Incoming Students and Families

Expert Advice. Personalized Support.

The Northeastern PromiseAt Northeastern, we believe in your future. We also believe that financing your education is a partnership that continues throughout your college career, not just for your first year. That commitment is reflected in our Northeastern Promise. This promise enables you to plan for the entire cost of your degree. Under this promise, we guarantee that:

We are dedicated to meeting each incoming domestic financial aid applicant’s full demonstrated need.

Northeastern University scholarship and grant funds will not be reduced during your undergraduate program (for up to eight in-class semesters).*

Northeastern University need-based grant funds will be increased annually at the same percentage rate as the increase in tuition.

If your family experiences a substantial negative change in financial circumstances, we will reevaluate your aid package and make available all financial resources for which you qualify. *Students must file the FAFSA each year and meet satisfactory academic progress to be eligible for Northeastern University grant funds. Students must maintain the minimum cumulative GPA required to be eligible for any scholarship funds.

“ When I graduated from Northeastern and began looking for jobs, I felt confident because I knew going out that I had plenty of experience thanks to Northeastern’s co-op program.”

— FRANCISCO GUERRERO, D’AMORE-MCKIM STUDENT

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A Good Financial FitA top-tier education is a big investment—and also one of the most important and rewarding decisions you'll ever make. At Northeastern, the value of that investment is unparalleled. Through our unique, integrated learning model that combines rigorous academics and real-world experience, our students graduate with a distinct advantage.Northeastern has unprecedented momentum, demonstrated by new academic and interdisciplinary programs that reflect our rapidly changing world and a dramatic rise in research funding that supports significant use-inspired research. As part of our renowned cooperative education program (co-op), we're partnering with nearly 3,000 of the world's most influential companies and organizations.We're excited that you're interested in all the benefits of a Northeastern education. We understand that your financial situation is unique. In addition to finding an institution that provides a challenging academic program and an exciting campus experience, financial fit is another important factor in making the right enrollment decision for you and your family. That's why we are committed to providing you with clear information on costs, benefits, and our financial aid program so you and your family can make the best possible decision.At Northeastern, we work to keep our costs affordable while maintaining the highest possible educational value. In fact, we are meeting full demonstrated need for each incoming domestic student who applies for financial aid. We have an expert team of advisors who are dedicated to forging financial partnerships with students and their families. We look forward to meeting you and helping make your dream of a Northeastern education a reality.Sincerely,

Anthony R. Erwin Associate Vice President of Enrollment and Dean of Student Financial Services

TABLE OF CONTENTS

The Northeastern Promise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

A Good Financial Fit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

The Northeastern Value . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Keeping Northeastern Affordable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

The Awarding Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Financing Your Family Contribution . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Expert Advice and Personalized Support . . . . . . . . . 5

Types of Aid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Paying for Northeastern: Case Studies . . . . . . . . . . 9

Financial Aid Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Applying for Financial Aid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

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The Northeastern ValueFor over a hundred years, Northeastern has been the nation's leader in experiential learning, integrating classroom studies with invaluable real-world experiences via co-op, research, global opportunities, and service programs. Experiential learning enables students to fully develop their intellectual skills, as well as gain professional skills that give them a crucial competitive advantage as they head to top graduate schools or launch exciting careers.Because of our unique model, Northeastern students graduate with a distinct edge in the job market. Frequently, students' co-op placements lead to full-time job offers. The Princeton Review consistently ranks Northeastern among the top two universities in the nation for career services—and for good reason: 90 percent of our 2014 graduates obtained full-time employment or enrolled in a full-time graduate program within nine months of graduation. When you invest with us, we invest in you.

Keeping Northeastern AffordableA Northeastern education is an outstanding value not just because of our unique, integrated learning model, but because we stand behind our responsibility to keep costs as low as possible. We want to make sure Northeastern remains accessible and affordable for all students. That’s why we have increased our financial aid budget at double the rate of tuition over the last five years. We are dedicated to meeting each incoming domestic financial aid applicant’s full demonstrated need. Along with the many forms of need- and merit-based aid available to you, Northeastern only charges tuition while you are enrolled in a credit bearing course (students living in university housing during co-op pay only room and board if they are not simultaneously taking classes). If you pursue an international co-op, the Presidential Global Scholars Program provides more than 300 eligible students per year with up to $6,000 in financial assistance toward expenses related to travel and housing.For more information on costs, financial aid and financing options, visit northeastern.edu/financialaid. $239

million in institutional financial aid will be awarded

in the 2015-2016 academic year.

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The Awarding ProcessYour offer of financial assistance will reflect many factors, including your demonstrated financial need, your academic achievement, and meeting the priority filing deadlines. The information reported on your financial aid application materials, including the FAFSA and CSS PROFILE, is used to determine your Expected Family Contribution (EFC). The EFC is an estimate of the amount you and your family are expected to contribute annually toward your education. To determine your demonstrated financial need, the EFC is subtracted from our Cost of Attendance (COA), which includes both direct expenses (those billed by the university) and indirect expenses (books, supplies, etc.).Your demonstrated financial need is met through a combination of federal, state, and institutional grants, merit scholarships, and self-help options, which may include Federal Work Study and/or federal student loans. If you would like to see an estimated need-based financial aid award based on your specific financial profile, we encourage you to use our Net Price Calculator, which can be found at northeastern.edu/financialaid/aid/calculators. Please keep in mind that this is an estimate only, and may not accurately reflect your final offer.

Financing Your Family ContributionNortheastern offers a number of options to assist families in financing their Expected Family Contribution. These resources, which include a payment plan and supplemental financing, can be used in addition to any current family income and savings. The monthly payment plan administered through TuitionPay allows you to divide educational costs into more manageable installments over 9, 10, or 11 months, typically beginning in June. The payment plan is not a loan; there are no interest charges, just a nominal enrollment fee. The monthly payment plan can be used alone or in combination with a student’s awarded financial assistance. If you exhaust your current income, savings, and payment plan options, there are a number of parent and student alternative loan options available to those who qualify. For more information, please visit northeastern.edu/financialaid/financingoptions.

Cost of Attendance (COA) – Expected Family Contribution (EFC) = Demonstrated Financial Need $

Expert Advice and Personalized SupportFinancing your education shouldn’t be complicated. Our financial aid advisors will help you navigate the forms, terminology, numbers, and deadlines associated with applying for and receiving financial aid. Together, we’ll create a financial plan that makes sense for you and your family’s unique financial circumstances.Northeastern is committed to providing you with individualized support throughout the entirety of your college career, and to giving you the power to succeed financially even beyond graduation.

Financial Literacy Financial literacy is a critical competency for a college graduate in the 21st century. It is important for students to gain basic financial management skills. Financial literacy is more than knowing how to create a budget. It is a set of skills and knowledge that allows you to make informed and effective decisions with your financial resources. Our Center for Financial Independence, Thrive, offers unique programming and puts students in the driver’s seat. Thrive will help you develop the skills you need to make informed decisions about personal finances. You will have the opportunity to learn about topics that will help you long after graduation, including salary negotiations, credit cards, student loans, living on a budget, debt management, investments, and more.Thrive is unique among collegiate financial literacy centers in its structure and delivery. Students are the main architects—they play key leadership roles in the research, development, marketing, and delivery of all programming and in the operations of the center itself. In keeping with Northeastern tradition, the center is grounded in both innovation and student leadership.

$1Mmore in their lifetime than those with

only a high school diploma.

College graduates make almost

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Types of AidHard work pays off—really. At Northeastern, we recognize the achievements of our most qualified students with a variety of grants and scholarships. These students distinguish themselves as some of the nation’s top creative thinkers, intrepid entrepreneurs, and motivated researchers. There are many options available for those students and families who demonstrate financial need. Federal loans also offer low-interest options for students who find they need additional financial support.

Grants

Merit & Other Scholarship Programs

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A federally funded program that provides part- time employment to undergraduate students.

A low-interest option for students, loans may be subsidized or unsubsidized and must be repaid with interest.

Awarded on the basis of financial need, grants are a form of gift aid from federal, state and/or institutional sources.

Competitive scholarship programs based on academic achievement. Awards range from $10,000 per year to full tuition, room and board, depending on the scholarship type.

Work Study

Loans

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Merit & Other Scholarship Programs

Fund Description Amount Per Year Eligibility

Dean’s, Excellence, and Connections Scholarships

Prestigious awards that honor the top 10–15 percent of freshmen applicants

Between $10,000 and $25,000 All fall applicants for undergraduate freshman admission to Northeastern are considered; apply no later than the regular decision deadline of January 1

National Merit and National Hispanic Scholarships

Distinguished scholarship programs that honor the nation’s top students

Up to $30,000 All fall applicants for undergraduate freshman admission designated National Merit Finalists and National Hispanic Recognition Program Scholars

University Scholars Program One of the nation’s most intellectually bold and selective scholarshipprograms, comprised of the top 1–2 percent of applicants; provides unprecedented access to university faculty and resources

Full tuition All fall applicants for undergraduate freshman admission to Northeastern are considered; apply no later than the regular decision deadline of January 1

Ujima Global Leaders Program This program recognizes students who have the potential to become agents for positive global change and are focused on developing leaders for a swiftly- changing world

$15,000 Ujima Global Leaders are selected by the admissions committee and the John D. O’Bryant African American Institute staff

Torch Scholars Program Designed to support first-generation, low-income students who have overcome exceptional odds and demonstrate the potential for academic excellence

Full tuition, room and board Students must be nominated by January 15 by a professional who has knowledge of their achievements and character, such as a guidance counselor, teacher, mentor, clergy member, or community worker

Boston Scholarship ProgramsNortheastern is deeply committed to working with the City of Boston and our campus neighbors. There are several additional scholarship programs available to Boston students including Boston Public High School, Boston Housing Authority, Northeastern Boston Valedictorian, Northeastern Neighborhood, and Balfour Academy Scholarships.

* For all awards listed above, recipients must make timely progress toward their degree and maintain a minimum grade point average. In awarding these scholarships, Northeastern considers the extent to which the student furthers the university’s commitment to a diverse student body. Factors such as family income, family history of higher education, race, ethnicity, and geographic location are incorporated into the selection process.

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Work Study

Fund Description Amount Per Year Eligibility

Subsidized Stafford Loan Based on demonstrated financiaI need; does not accrue interest while student is in school and is payable after graduation

$3,500 is for freshman dependent students. Amounts will vary based on year of study and dependency status

You must file the FAFSA

Perkins Loan, Health Professions Loan, Nursing Loan

Based on demonstrated financial need; does not accrue interest while student is in school and is payable after graduation

Between $1,000 and $2,000 You must file the FAFSA by the priority filing deadline to determine eligibility

Unsubsidized Stafford Loan Available to all FAFSA filers regardless of need; accrues interest while the student is in school

$2,000 You must file the FAFSA

*Eligibility for federal and state programs may vary each year due to changes in your family's financial circumstances, federal and state aid funding, and/or failure to meet priority deadlines.

For more information about types of aid please visit northeastern.edu/financialaid/aid/ugtypesofaid

Fund Description Amount Per Year Eligibility

Northeastern University Grant Based on demonstrated financial need Between $1,000 and full tuition File the FAFSA and CSS PROFILE by the priority filing deadline and demonstrate financial need

Federal Grant (Pell, SEOG),State Grant

Awarded on need-based criteria; students automatically considered when they file the FAFSA

Between $100 and $5,775 Eligibility depends upon student’s Expected Family Contribution (EFC) from the FAFSA; check with your state agency for eligibility guidelines

Grants

Fund Description Amount Per Year Eligibility

Federal Work Study Need-based program that provides funding for on-campus and eligible off-campus employment

Between $1,000 and $2,200 You must file the FAFSA by the priority filing deadline to determine eligibility

Loans

Paying for Northeastern: Case StudiesIn the following case studies, you'll see examples of the financial aid awards for three students with different academic profiles and financial circumstances.

Tuition and FeesBelow are the costs for the 2015–2016 academic year. Actual costs for 2016–2017 will be set by the Northeastern Board of Trustees in Spring 2016.

$44,620 Tuition* $910 Fees** $14,470 Room and board***

Massachusetts state law requires that every student in a Massachusetts institution of higher learning participate in a student health program or in a health benefit plan with comparable coverage. The cost of the Northeastern Student Health Plan in 2015–2016 was $2,159.In addition to these expenses, families should plan on the costs that students incur for transportation, books, and personal expenses. *Standard curriculum (16 semester hours per term).

**Fees include the undergraduate student fee, student center fee, student activity fee, recreation fee, and residence hall activity fee.

***Room rate is based on a standard double but may vary depending on occupancy and assignment. Board charge is based upon 15 meals per week.

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“ Financial aid allows me to stay at Northeastern, [and will also allow me] to travel to Japan and work in different countries.”

— ALEXA AZARIAN, CAMD STUDENT

90%of our 2014 graduates

obtained full-time employment or enrolled in a full-time graduate

program within nine months of graduation.

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Case Study 3GPA/SAT Combined Score 3.8/2080 Expeced Family Contribution $45,096Cost of Attendance $62,800Billed Costs $60,000 Need $17,704Northeastern University Grant $14,200Federal Direct Subsidized Stafford Loan $3,500Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loan $2,000

Total Aid $19,700

Case Study 1GPA/SAT Combined Score 4.0/2100 Expected Family Contribution $2,000Cost of Attendance $62,800Billed Costs $60,000Need $60,800Northeastern University Grant $46,300Federal Pell Grant $5,775Federal SEOG Grant $3,000Federal Work Study $2,200Federal Direct Subsidized Stafford Loan $3,500Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loan $2,000

Total Aid $62,775

Case Study 2GPA/SAT Combined Score 4.4/2230 Expected Family Contribution $24,496Cost of Attendance $62,800Billed Costs $60,000Need $38,304Northeastern Dean’s Scholarship $20,000Northeastern University Grant $13,300Federal Work Study $1,500Federal Direct Subsidized Stafford Loan $3,500Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loan $2,000

Total Aid $40,300

Financial Aid Checklist for 2016–2017 Applicantsn Apply for admission by: Early Decision: November 1 Early Action: November 1 Regular Decision: January 1

n Complete the College Board/CSS Financial Aid PROFILE by the priority filing deadline: Early Decision: November 15 Early Action: December 1 Regular Decision: February 15 Northeastern code: 3667

n Complete the FAFSA by February 15 (for all application decisions) Northeastern code: 002199

n Submit additional documents such as prior year personal or business tax returns if requested by our office

n Receive admission decision and tentative aid award by: Early Decision: December 15 Early Action: December 31 Regular Decision: April 1

n To secure aid offer, pay enrollment deposit by: Early Decision: January 15 Early Action: May 1 Regular Decision: May 1

n If requested, complete the verification process and submit by May 1

n Sign up for a payment plan and/or apply for supplemental loans during the summer

n Secure financing and/or pay fall bill by due date in early August

n Begin your Northeastern experience!

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Applying for Financial AidIn addition to submitting a complete admissions application, you must complete two additional required forms to be considered for financial assistance.

The FAFSA (Free Application For Federal Student Aid) fafsa.govThe FAFSA is used to determine eligibility for federal aid programs. File the FAFSA online at fafsa.gov. You may file the FAFSA beginning January 1. Northeastern’s priority filing date is February 15. It is important that the federal processor receive your FAFSA by that date so that you can be considered for all funds for which you are eligible. Northeastern’s FAFSA code is 002199.

The College Board/CSS Financial Aid PROFILE student.collegeboard.org/cssThe CSS Financial Aid PROFILE form is required in addition to the FAFSA for those who would like to be considered for need-based institutional funds. You may file the PROFILE online any time after October 1. Students whose parents are not married to each other are also required to complete a Non-Custodial Parent PROFILE form. The PROFILE must be received by the College Board by February 15. If you are applying for Early Decision or Early Action and would like a tentative financial aid award, you must submit the PROFILE by November 15 or December 1 respectively. Northeastern’s CSS PROFILE code is 3667.

75%+ of new students receive some form of financial aid

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75%+U__10.15_30,000

Student Financial Services354 Richards Hall, 360 Huntington Ave. Boston, MA 02115-5000 617.373.3190 617.373.8735 (fax)617.373.5714 (TTY) northeastern.edu/financialaid sfs@neu.edu

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The information contained in this brochure is current as of its printing (Fall 2015). The contents are subject to change without notification if there is a change in federal and/or state regulations, and/or university policy.

Northeastern University is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc., and is an equal opportunity/affirmative action/Title IX educational institution and employer. Tuition rates, all fees, rules and regulations, and courses and course content are subject to revision by the president and the Board of Trustees at any time.

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