Selecting and paying for college are challenges most students and families face. The primary responsibility for meeting college cost rests with students and parents. Because there are limitations to family income and assets, various forms of financial aid are available to supplement the family contribution. Student aid programs are intended to help bridge the gap between family resources and the anticipated cost of education. Eligibility for financial aid varies according to program regulations and with the individual circumstances of the student and family. Generally, financial aid is granted on the basis of demonstrated need and academic potential. Most families are eligible for some form of financial assistance, be it gift aid from grants and scholarships or self-help such as employment or low-interest loans.
To be considered for College, Federal and State Financial Aid Programs, students must complete and submit each year the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA can be filed electronically using FAFSA Express which you can download from the Internet. The WEB address for FAFSA Express is: fafsa.ed.gov. Since it takes several weeks to process a FAFSA application, we suggest you submit a completed application to the federal processor no later than March 15th. Students who apply for financial aid after the priority date will be assisted based upon availability of funds. It is strongly encouraged to apply online. To simplify filling out the FAFSA, both students and parents need to apply for a Pin at www.pin.ed.gov.
There are a variety of financial assistance programs sponsored by the college, organizations, and the state and federal governments. Financial aid can take the form of grants and scholarships, work opportunities, and low-interest loans with repayment beginning six to nine months after graduation.
Paul Smith's College participates in the following U.S. Department of Education Financial Assistance Programs:
Federal Pell Grants
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG)
Federal Perkins Loans
Federal Stafford Loans
Federal Parent PLUS Loans
Federal Work-Study
Federal National Science & Mathematics to Retain Talent Grant (National Smart Grant)
Federal Academic Competitiveness Grant (ACG Grant)
To receive financial aid from the federal student aid programs, you must:
Pell Grants are awarded to undergraduate students who have not earned a bachelor's degree. To determine eligibility, the U.S. Department of Education uses a standard formula to evaluate the information reported on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. The formula produces an Expected Family Contribution (EFC) number. The result of the federal application is a Student Aid Report (SAR) which contains the EFC number and indicates Pell Grant eligibility. Pell Grants for the 2008 2009 award year will range from $890 to $4,731.
The Academic Competitiveness Grant provides up to $750 for the first year of undergraduate study and up to $1,300 for the second year of undergraduate study. The program became available for the first time for the 2006-2007 school year students who graduated from high school after January 1, 2006 and for second year students who graduated from high school after January 1, 2005. The Academic Competitiveness Grant award is in addition to the student's Pell Grant award.
The National Science & Mathematics Access to Retain Talent Grant, also known as the National Smart Grant is available during the third and fourth years of undergraduate study to full-time students who are eligible for the Federal Pell Grant and who are majoring in physical, life, or computer sciences, mathematics, technology, or engineering or in a foreign language determined critical to national security. The student must also have maintained a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.0 in course work required for the major. The National SMART Grant award is in addition to the Student's Pell Grant award. The grant award is $4,000.
A Federal Supplemental Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) is for undergraduates with exceptional financial need. These students have the lowest EFC and are generally eligible for Federal Pell Grants. The college is awarded an FSEOG allocation each year from federal funds and eligibility is determined by the Financial Aid Office. Since funds are limited, not every eligible student will receive an FSEOG. Priority consideration is given to those applicants whose Free Application for Federal Student Aid information is available in the Financial Aid Office by the May 1 deadline. FSEOG grants at Paul Smith's College range form $200 to $800 per year.
A Federal Perkins Loan is a low-interest (5%) loan for students with exceptional financial need. A Perkins Loan borrower is not charged any processing fees. The College is the lender and the loan is made with government funds with a share contributed by the college. You must repay the College beginning nine months after you graduate or leave college. The College is awarded a Perkins Loan allocation each year from federal funds, and eligibility is determined by the Financial Aid Office. Once a Perkins Loan is approved, the student signs a promissory note with the College. Since funds are limited, priority consideration is given to those applicants whose FAFSA information is available in the Financial Aid Office by the May 1 deadline. Perkins Loans at Paul Smith's College range from $500 to $2,000 per year.
Federal Stafford Loans are either subsidized or unsubsidized. A subsidized loan is awarded on the basis of financial need. Students will not be charged any interest before repayment begins or during authorized periods of deferment. The federal government subsidizes the interest during these periods. An unsubsidized loan is not awarded on the basis of need. Students are charged interest from the time the loan is disbursed until paid in full. The lenders for this program are banks, credit unions, or other lenders that participate in the federal loan program. Student loan applications can be obtained from the Financial Aid Office or from any lender. Students pay fees up to four percent of the loan, and these fees are deducted proportionately from each loan disbursement.
First time undergraduate dependent students can borrow up to $3,500 for the first year of study, $4,500 if they have completed 24 credit hours, and $5,500 a year if they have completed 60 credit hours.
Undergraduate independent students or dependent students whose parents are denied a Federal PLUS (parent) loan can borrow up to $6,625 for the first year of study (only $3,500 of this amount may be in subsidized loans), $8,500 if they have completed the first year of study (only $3,500 of this amount may be in subsidized loans), and $10,500 a year if they have completed two years of study (only $5,500 of this amount may be in subsidized loans).
Federal PLUS Loans enable parents with good credit histories to borrow up to the cost of education minus financial aid received.
Parents pay a four percent processing fee which is deducted proportionately each time a loan payment is made. The interest rate is variable, but it will never exceed nine percent. Generally, repayment begins within 60 days after the final loan disbursement for the academic year. There is no grace period for PLUS loans. This means interest begins to accumulate at the time the first disbursement is made.
For parent borrowers, Paul Smith's College has joined with American Student Assistance (ASA) to provide instant online credit pre-approval to PLUS loan applicants. Get a fast and secure online credit check after minimal data entry for your PLUS application, and with a choice of lenders. Once you're pre-approved, and if the school certifies your PLUS loan, just sign the promissory note you receive in the mail or print yourself, and return it to ASA.
Diplomas will be held for students who do not complete an exit interview regarding Federal Stafford and/or PLUS Loans.
The Federal Work-Study Program provides jobs for students who demonstrate financial need. In addition, the college funds a student employment program which is not based upon financial need. Students at Paul Smith's College work for 5 to 10 hours per week, earn an average of $2,000 per academic year and are paid the current federal minimum wage on a bi-weekly basis. Eligibility is determined by the Financial Aid Office. Students begin their job search with the College Student Placement Office where they obtain a Work-Study Authorization Form and a listing of job opportunities. Students are responsible for contacting potential employers and arranging interviews. The hiring decision is made by the person who listed the position. Since funds and job opportunities are limited, priority consideration is given to those applicants whose Free Application for Federal Student Aid information is available in the Financial Aid Office by the May 1 deadline. Work-Study is first-come, first serve. Work Study is not deducted from your bill. You are paid twice a month. Work-Study money is used for personal expense - Remember - Not deducted from your bill.
Application forms for VA Educational Benefits are available online at at the GI Bill Website. Under the Education Benefits tab on the left hand side of the page you will find links to all the information you need to complete your application for your benefits. Once you have completed the online application, the Department of Veterans' Affairs will mail you a letter confirming your eligibility for benefits. Please bring or mail a copy of this benefits letter to the Registrar's Office prior to the student's registration at Paul Smith's College.
TAP is a grant program for New York State residents attending college full time in New York State. There is neither a qualifying examination nor a limited number of awards.
The applicant must:
1. be a New York State resident, and a U.S. citizen or permanent resident alien
2. be enrolled full-time and matriculated at an approved New York State post-secondary institution
3. have, if dependent, a family net taxable income below $80,000; or independent and single with no tax dependents, a net taxable income below $10,000
4. be charged tuition of at least $200 per year. All income tax data are subject to verification by the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance.
Undergraduate students generally may receive TAP awards for four years of study. Currently, the amount of the award is scaled according to level of study, tuition charge, and net taxable income. Funding levels for the program are set by the state appropriations each year. The award is credited to the student's account on a semester basis.
Applicants must apply annually by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Start the TAP application process by completing and submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) electronically at www.fafsa.ed.gov. New York State will use FAFSA information as part of your application for TAP. If you apply using FAFSA-on-the-Web, you will be able to link to your online TAP application at the end of the FAFSA session.
You will be asked to establish a PIN (Personal Identification Number) for TAP. The TAP PIN will allow you complete your application, keep track of your application information, or make changes, later. After establishing your PIN, you will be able to complete your TAP application online. Information from your FAFSA and your family's calculated NYS net taxable income will be pre-filled on your TAP-on- the -Web application. Follow the instructions provided.
If you don't apply for federal aid online, you will have to get a paper FAFSA from a high school guidance office, the local library, or your college's financial aid office. Even if you use a paper FAFSA to apply for federal aid, you may still choose to complete your TAP application on the Web. Approximately 3 weeks after submitting your FAFSA, HESC will notify you, by post card or e-mail, that you can go to hesc.org, apply for a PIN, and complete your TAP application online. Follow the online instructions for completing the TAP-on-the-Web application.
If you choose not to apply online, HESC will mail you an Express TAP Application (ETA). Information from your FAFSA and your family's calculated NYS net taxable income will be preprinted on your ETA. Review this information, change any incorrect items, complete any missing items, then SIGN AND MAIL THE FORM USING THE RETURN ENVELOPE.
If you have previously received TAP, and your information remains the same, you may only have to file a FAFSA to get an award.
If you provide an e-mail address on your FAFSA, HESC will use that address to contact you about your TAP application, give you processing updates, or award information. Please respond to any requests or instructions sent by HESC. If you have submitted applications, you can check the status of your TAP at any time.
The TAP application deadline is May 1 of the academic year for which aid is sought.
The Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP) provides supplemental financial assistance and academic support services to financially disadvantaged and academically underprepared students.
All prospective HEOP applicants must:
In addition to the admission requirements for Paul Smith's College, HEOP applicants must complete the following:
To receive a HEOP brochure and application, please call the HEOP office on campus at (518) 327-6480 or indicate your interest in applying to HEOP on the Paul Smith's College application.
You may also apply on-line at the HEOP Website.
This program is for part-time students who are enrolled for 3-11 credit hours per semester, and provides an average award of $500 per semester to help pay tuition. Application forms may be obtained from the Financial Aid Office, and the completed application must be returned to that office for processing.
To be considered a candidate for the APTS assistance, the applicant currently must:
Independent students with dependents are eligible if their income is less than $50,550. An APTS recipient must remain in good standing. The award is credited to the student's college account on a semester basis.
Regents Awards to children of deceased or disabled veterans are independent of family income or tuition charge, and are in addition to such other grants or awards to which the applicant may be entitled. The amount of the award is $450 per year, for up to five years, depending on the program of study. The award is credited to the student's college account.
A special application, obtainable from your high school counselor, must be filed with the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation, Tower Building, Empire State Plaza, Albany, New York 12255. Documentary evidence to establish eligibility is required with the application.
The applicant must be:
April 14, 1917 November 11, 1918 |
December 7, 1941 December 31, 1946 |
June 25, 1950 July 27, 1953 |
October 1, 1961 March 29, 1973 |
The eligibility requirements for the VVTA program include:
Awards are $500 per semester for full-time study, and $250 per semester for part-time study. If the Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) is also received, the combined awards can be no greater than tuition. Application forms may be obtained from the Financial Aid Office or by writing to HESC, VVTA, Albany, New York 12255.
State Aid to Native Americans is a financial assistance program for applicants who:
There is neither a qualifying examination nor a limited number of awards. The award is currently $1,750 per year for a maximum of four years of full-time study, a minimum of 12 credit hours per semester. Students registered for less than this number will be funded at approximately $50 per credit hour.
Application forms may be obtained from the Native American Education Unit, New York State Education Department, Albany, New York 12234. The completed application should be forwarded to the Native American Education Unit along with the following materials:
Students are responsible for notifying the Native American Education Unit in writing of any change in status, program or institutional enrollment.
Paul Smith's College Grants
Awarded to students who demonstrate financial need. Award amounts are dependent on grants from all sources for which the College establishes a cap.
Merit Scholarship Award Paul Smith's College is pleased to announce the Merit Scholarship Program for incoming freshmen and transfer students for 2008-2009. This program offers scholarships to new entering freshmen students ranging from $3,000 to $9,000 per year for up to four years. All scholarships are renewable for up to eight semesters so long as the student is enrolled full time at PSC and maintains the cumulative GPA required for the individual scholarship. No separate scholarship application is needed to be considered for a Merit Scholarship. You simply need to:
Incoming Scholarships:
Requirements for the above scholarships are based on a sliding scale between high school GPA and standardized test scores (SAT/ACT). The Writing score of both the SAT and ACT is not used for scholarship calculation purposes.
Transfer Scholarships Paul Smith's College is also pleased to announce the 2008-2009 Transfer Scholarship Program. This program currently offers two scholarships to new entering transfer students valued at either $4,000 or $5,000 per year for each year they attend the college. As with the Presidential Merit Scholarship Awards, all scholarships are renewable for up to eight semesters so long as the student is enrolled full time at PSC and maintains the required cumulative GPA. No separate scholarship application is required in order to be considered for a scholarship. As with our Merit Scholarship Awards, you simply need to:
Requirements for these scholarships are based on the incoming student's cumulative GPA form their prior institution and are awarded as follows:
Students receiving a Transfer Excellence scholarship must achieve a cumulative 2.5 GPA in order to maintain their scholarship. Any student awarded a Transfer Recognition scholarship is required to achieve a cumulative 2.0 GPA in order to maintain their award. |
Various associations and companies often make scholarship monies available to Paul Smith's students on a year-to-year basis. Students should ask Deans or the Financial Aid Office about the availability of these or other scholarships. Scholarships have been offered, or may be available from:
J. W. Allen & Co. |
American Hotel and Lodging Association |
William J. Cox Employee Charity Fund |
William J. Cox Memorial Fund |
The Davey Tree Expert Company |
New York State Hotel and Motel Association |
Statler Foundation |
Paul Smith's College has established awards to recognize returning students for their accomplishments. Some awards provide students with financial support while others constitute a plaque. When the award includes a specific dollar amount, returning students can expect to have the amount credited to their account upon their return to school for the subsequent semester. Questions regarding applications for these and other awards (not listed) may be directed to the Financial Aid Office. There is a separate application for these awards available every February. The availability of each award may vary each year.
The Adirondack Fred Sullivan Memorial Scholarship was established by the College and the family and friends of Fred G. Sullivan, who was the Director of Development at Paul Smith's College. Fred, perhaps more than anyone else, helped set the College on its current course of defining itself as the College of the Adirondacks. The scholarships are awarded to students with course work and a career focused on the Adirondacks.
The Alumni Award is awarded to a student for overall improvement academically over a period of at least four semesters.
The Augsbury Scholarships recognize students from the North Country region of New York State demonstrating financial need. The award, made possible through the generosity of Mr. Frank A. Augsbury, Jr. is open to both first year students and sophomores.
The F. A. Bartlett Tree Experts Company recognizes Urban Tree Management students with interest in a career in arboriculture. Recipients are recommended by the Forestry Division.
The Ira G. Payne Baumgartner Scholarship is offered to a Liberal Arts student who demonstrates high potential for success.
Chester L. and Mildred Z. Buxton Scholarships were established through donation by their many friends as a memorial to president emeritus, Chester L. Buxton and his wife, Mildred Z. Buxton. The scholarships are awarded to students on the basis of campus community service.
The Campus Life Award is given to the student selected by the Campus Life staff who has demonstrated an outstanding involvement and participation in campus life.
The Cantwell Family Memorial Scholarships were established by the family and friends of Paul Cantwell, who was a trustee and long time friend of Paul Smith's College. These $1,000 scholarships, based upon academics and citizenship, are awarded to students who demonstrate financial need.
The Eileen Crary Endowed Scholarship was established by a May 2000 resolution of the Board of Trustees of Paul Smith's College in honor of Secretary to the President Eileen Crary's exemplary service since 1950. The scholarship is awarded to a student resident of the Adirondack Park who exhibits the qualities of dedication, honesty, and loyalty as demonstrated by the honoree.
The Frank L. Cubley Scholarship Fund was established by a bequest from his wife, Frances. One $500 Scholarship is awarded to the returning sophomore with the highest scholastic average at the end of freshman year.
The Alfred W. Currier Scholarships are applied towards the payment of tuition for the following year. The selection committee chooses one recipient from the Forest Technician program and one recipient from the Pre-Professional Forestry program. Consideration will be given to scholastic records, citizenship and activity in forestry projects.
The Vaughn Doty Memorial Scholarship was established in memory of Vaughn Doty. He graduated from Paul Smith's College in 1967 and went directly into the army and fought in Vietnam. The people of the area have contributed to this memorial scholarship fund.
The Eastern New York Society of Land Surveyors Memorial Scholarship Award is presented annually by the association in memory of its deceased members. It is awarded to the second year student or students who are recommended by the Forestry Division based on achievements in scholarship, service and the submission of an essay. An interview with the Scholastic Development Committee of the association is required. A plaque and an award of $1,000 are presented to the recipient(s).
The Creighton C. Fee Alumni Surveying Scholarship Fund was established by alumni and friends to provide financial assistance in the form of a book grant for textbooks and necessary classroom supplies to a freshman enrolled in the PSC Surveying Technology program. The Surveying faculty will present annual candidates to the Northern New York State Association of Land Surveyors Scholarship Committee, who will select the recipients. This scholarship honors longtime member of the surveying faculty, Creighton C. Fee, in tribute to his many years of dedication to his students, Paul Smith's College, and to the fields of surveying and education.
The Forestry Division Achievement Award is presented to an outstanding forestry student in recognition of his or her achievement in forestry activities. The student is presented with a plaque.
The Freshman Chemistry Achievement Award is given to an outstanding chemistry student in recognition of his or her achievements in chemistry during the year.
The John Gay P.E., L.S. Surveying Scholarship Award was endowed in 1993 by John Gay, President of Northeast Land Survey and Land Development Consultants of Ballston Spa. The award is presented to a returning Surveying Technology student with above average scholastic standing, displaying outstanding citizenship on and off campus, and in need of financial assistance. The Surveying Technology faculty recommends candidates annually to the Awards Committee.
The Stephen O. Gehring B. F. Dewey Conservation Scholarship, established in 1988, recognizes the returning students who have distinguished themselves in the areas of forestry and/or conservation. It is given in honor of noted conservationist Stephen Gehring and his long-time friend, Benjamin "Bud" Dewey.
The Dr. Edwin H. Hughes Memorial Scholarship is granted to a first year student to be applied to tuition during the following year. The recipient is chosen on the basis of scholarship, activities and character.
The Raymond C. Jack Memorial Scholarship, established in 1993 by a bequest from the estate of this 1951 graduate, recognizes academic achievement and financial need of a returning Hotel and Restaurant Management student.
The Matthew S. LeClair Memorial Scholarship was established by friends and family of Matthew LeClair, a 1983 Forest Technician graduate of PSC. It is given each year to a Forestry student residing in Clinton County, New York.
The Llenroc Matching Fund is provided by Mr. George Callaway of Argyle, N.Y. to Urban Tree Management students who can prove their ability to save earnings for their college education. Established in 1993, this award will recognize the strong work ethic of the PSC student and further the study of shade tree care by matching students' savings.
The Thomas F. "Red" McGraw '48 Memorial Scholarship Fund was established in 1998 to provide financial support to one or more students, with preference given to those from the Capitol District of New York State. It is given in memory of "Red" McGraw, a graduate of the College's first class, charter member of the Alumni Association, and active and involved alumnus.
The Chris Michielen Memorial Award is presented to a Forestry student who exhibits a love for other people, nature and the outdoors.
The Charles F. Monzeglio Scholarship, established in December of 1988, recognizes a Liberal Arts student who displays outstanding citizenship on and off campus and demonstrates financial need. Both first and second year students are eligible for this award, made possible through the generosity of Mr. Charles F. Monzeglio, Jr., a member of the Paul Smith's College Class of 1962.
The New York State Association of Professional Land Surveyors Memorial Award is presented in memory of Arthur D. Shaw to the second year student or students who are recommended by the forestry faculty to the awards committee of the association. The award is based on achievements in scholarship, service, and the submission of an essay. A plaque and a monetary award are presented to the recipient or recipients.
The Northern New York Association of Land Surveyors provides an annual award to an outstanding Surveying Technology student.
The Outstanding Athlete Awards are presented to the outstanding female and male athletes for demonstrating leadership, sportsmanship, community participation on the Paul Smith's College campus, and having made significant contributions to the College by achievements of merit in league, regional, or national competition.
The Paul Smith's College Outstanding Graduate Award is presented at commencement to the graduate whose comprehensive abilities and achievements have been deemed to be the most outstanding among all students receiving their degrees.
The Edward F. Prescott Memorial Scholarship was established by family in 1995 in memory of this 1962 Liberal Arts graduate. This award recognizes a student's appreciation of the Adirondack Park.
The President's Award is made to the graduate earning the highest cumulative average during the previous two full semesters, or their equivalent, including a minimum of 30 credit hours earned at Paul Smith's College. The student must also have earned a 2.0 cumulative grade point average before entering the second year.
The Frank A. Reed Scholarship is awarded by The Woodsmen's Club, Tupper Lake, N.Y. and the Woodsmen's Field Day Committees of Boonville, N.Y. in honor of Reverend Frank A. Reed, sky pilot to the lumberjacks, author, founder of the Woodsmen's Club and the Northeastern Logger's Association, and editor of the Lumber Camp News and the Northeastern Logger. The recipients are selected by the Forestry Division based on grades, character, and need and participation in forestry activities and woodsmen's contests.
Paul Roberson Memorial Award is awarded to the first year student who typifies Paul Roberson's qualities of an outstanding athlete, leader, and active participant in campus organizations.
The Rosenblum Scholarship, established in 1989, is awarded to two first year students in the Culinary Arts and Hospitality Division demonstrating unmet need. These awards are made possible through the generosity of Herbert Y. Rosenblum, Paul Smith's Class of 1960, and his wife, Joyce Lapato Rosenblum.
The William Rutherford Award is presented to the first year student who has made the greatest contribution to the Paul Smith's Student Chapter of the Society of American Foresters. The award is given by alumni, colleagues, family and friends of William Rutherford, Jr. who served the College as a member of the faculty and as an administrator, and Head of the Forestry Division from 1950 until his retirement in May of 1982.
The John "Mouse" Schaeffer Memorial Scholarship was established in 1986 by the family and friends of this 1983 graduate. The income from the principal is to be awarded to a "worthy student, preferably in the Ecology and Environmental Technology Program."
The Sixth Man Award was established in 1991 by Bill Burns (LA '49) to honor a sophomore member of the men's basketball team who is not a regular starter. The recipient is chosen by the athletic director, basketball coach and members of the team.
The Brian W. Smith '95 Memorial Scholarship was established by classmates, family, and friends to provide financial assistance to a returning sophomore recommended through the Higher Education Opportunities Program. It is given in memory of Brian W. Smith, Hotel and Restaurant Management graduate from Brooklyn, N.Y.
The William S. Sullivan Memorial Scholarship was established in 1991 in honor of the former Gouverneur, N.Y. owner of White Crystal Quarries by his sister, Ruth Sullivan Greenhaus. The scholarships are awarded to students who have completed at least one semester of study.
The Roger W. Tubby Memorial Scholarship is presented to a graduate who demonstrates outstanding communication skills in the program of Ecology and Environmental Technology. The award is given in memory of Roger W. Tubby, a Presidential Press Secretary, United States Ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva, newspaper journalist and publisher, founder of the Adirondack North County Association and adjunct professor at Paul Smith's College. The award commemorates his devotion to preserving Adirondack lands and providing satisfying career opportunities for its residents.
The F. Ives Turner Surveying Scholarship, established in December of 1988, is presented annually to a returning Surveying Technology student who exemplifies outstanding citizenship, scholarship, and dedication to the surveying profession. It is given in memory of F. Ives Turner, prominent local land surveyor and long time associate of Paul Smith's College, by the Northern New York Association of Land Surveyors.
The Andy Vaughan Memorial Award was established by friends and family in memory of this 1990 graduate. It is given each year to a non-traditional Forestry student who displays spirit and character similar to Andy's and who has financial need.
The Brian Zehr Memorial Scholarship is awarded to a forestry student in memory of Brian Zehr. The recipient is chosen on the basis of high professional standards and a desire to contribute to the forestry profession.
Adirondack Mountain Club Scholarship established in 2001, is presented annually to a resident of the Adirondack Park, namely within what is designated as "the blue line" of regular acceptance.
Adirondack Park Scholarship is awarded to resident of the Adirondack Park who demonstrates financial need.
Gordan A. Rust and Phyllis R. Crowner Memorial Scholarship is awarded to a student based on character traits and overall academic effort.
Hector Boiardi Scholarship is awarded to students in the culinary program who demonstrate high financial need.
Mckittrick/Hoyt Natural Resource Scholarship established in 1997 by alumnus Russell C. McKittick, is presented to a recipient with financial need and enrolled in one of the Natural Resource Programs.
Rebecca L. Ibitiz '00 Memorial Scholarship established in 2002 by the family, is awarded to a female student in the Urban Tree Management Program who demonstrates financial need.
Ruth E. A. Davis '49 Scholarship established in 2002 by Ruth E. A. Davis, is awarded to a student in the Liberal Arts Program who demonstrates financial need.
Ruth Klein Hoyt Scholarship established in 2005 by a friend of the Hoyt family, is presented to a student who participates in any Paul Smith's College English curriculum, regardless of program of study, who demonstrates financial need.
Sterling Tomkins Forestry Scholarship is awarded to forestry students based on financial need, demonstrated academic achievement or leadership potential.
New York State Conservation Scholarship is awarded to an outstanding student with an interest in environmental studies or an interest in a career in fields related to natural resources or environmental conservation.
James D. Kurtowicz '66 Memorial Scholarship is awarded to a military veteran student demonstrating financial need.
Jarl Victor Memorial Scholarship is awarded to a BMES student who is an active member of the Paul Smith's College community, demonstrating a variety of interests, involvement and demonstrates financial need.
Milton J. Watson, Jr. '99 Memorial Scholarship is awarded to a student in the forestry program demonstrating financial need.
Raymond M. Krainski '77 Memorial Scholarship is awarded to non-traditional students with prior work and/or military experience enrolled in the Forestry, Natural Resources, and Recreation Division demonstrating financial need.
Ruth Gillespie Browne Memorial Scholarship is awarded to a female student who is majoring in the natural sciences who demonstrates financial need.
WJ Cox Scholarship is awarded to a forestry student from Western, NY.
Continued eligibility for scholarships and financial aid programs is dependent upon the maintenance of good academic standing and satisfactory progress toward a degree in accordance with the academic policies of Paul Smith's College and the regulations associated with federally sponsored aid programs.
The conditions for obtaining or to continue to receive financial aid are as follows:
1. Merit Scholarships: Recipients must maintain satisfactory academic progress at the end of each academic year of study to continue to receive these scholarships:
Presidential - 2.50 GPA Provost - 2.50 GPA
Dean - 2.00 GPA Faculty - 2.00 GPA
Transfer Excellence - 2.50 GPA Transfer Recognition - 2.00 GPA
Adirondack Park 2.5 GPA
2. Paul Smith's Scholarships & Grants: Recipients must maintain satisfactory academic progress at the end of each academic year to continue to receive the award. Specific academic guidelines are outlined for some awards.
Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy (SAP) (Federal and College)-
Financial aid recipients are required to maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP). The College will evaluate SAP after grades are reported at the end of each academic year. This SAP policy applies to all financial aid programs except for the New York State financial aid programs that have a different policy for academic progress and program pursuit. The SAP policy requires that financial aid recipients achieve a minimum number of earned credits and a minimum cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) after each year.
If you withdraw from a course, it may affect your aid for the next semester/year. The Financial Aid Office strongly encourages you to make an appointment with financial aid before officially withdrawing from a course.
**In addition to maintaining SAP toward the educational objective after each semester, recipients of Federal Student Aid (FSA) cannot receive FSA funding for more than 150% of the minimum time duration for completing their program. The time frame maximum in which a student must complete his/her Associate degree is three academic years; the time frame maximum for a Bachelor's degree is five academic years.
3. Pell Grant, Supplemental Opportunity Grant, Stafford & PLUS Loans, and Work-Study: The federal requirements for SEOG, Pell Grants, Work-Study, Perkins, Stafford, and PLUS Loans at the completion of each academic year. Cumulative Grade Point Average requirements for recipients of these Financial Aids sources are:
Associate Degree Candidates Bachelor's Degree Candidates
After 1st Year 1.50 GPA After 1st Year 1.50 GPA
After 2nd Year 1.75 GPA After 2nd Year 1.75 GPA
After 3rd Year 1.90 GPA After 3rd Year 1.90 GPA
After 4th Year 2.00 GPA
After 5th Year 2.00 GPA
Students receiving New York State funded aid, such as TAP, are required to maintain minimum program pursuit and academic progress standards in order to continue to receive this assistance.
Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) - TAP requires that students accumulate a specified number of credits and achieve a specified cumulative grade point average each term, depending on the number of state award payments students have received. Institutions are required to use a standard of Satisfactory Academic Progress, approved by the New York State Commissioner of Education, when determining academic progress. The following charts are used by Paul Smith's College:
For All Associate Degrees and Certificate Programs:
Before Being Certified for This Payment |
A Student Must Have Accrued at Least This Many Credits |
With at Least This Grade Point Average |
1st |
0 |
0 |
2nd |
3 |
.5 |
3rd |
9 |
.75 |
4th |
18 |
1.3 |
5th 6th |
30-45 |
2.0 |
**This includes successful completion of credit-equivalent work as set forth in 145-2.1 of the Commissioner's Regulations.
For Baccalaureate Programs:
Before Being Certified For This Payment |
A Student Must Have Accrued at Least This Many Credits |
With At Least This Grade Point Average |
1st |
0 |
0 |
2nd |
3 |
1.1 |
3rd |
9 |
1.2 |
4th |
21 |
1.3 |
5th 10th |
33-105 |
2.0 |
**Only students in five-year programs, approved pursuant to Section 145-2.7 of the Regulations, are eligible for more than eight semesters of undergraduate awards (exclusive of STAP)
The Financial Aid Office evaluates academic progress according to New York State's requirements for the Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) at the completion of each semester.
Continued eligibility for College funded awards and federal and state financial assistance programs is dependent upon the maintenance of good academic standing and satisfactory progress toward a degree. In order to maintain eligibility for financial aid, the student must progress at a rate that ensures completion of a degree program within a reasonable time frame. The maximum time allowed for completion of a Certificate program is two years, for an Associate Degree is three years, and for a Bachelor's Degree is five years.
Presidential - 2.5 GPA |
Provost - 2.5 GPA |
Dean - 2.0 GPA |
Faculty - 2.9 GPA |
Transfer Excellence - 2.5 GPA |
Transfer Recognition - 2.0 GPA |
Continued eligibility for scholarships and financial aid programs is dependent upon the maintenance of good academic standing and satisfactory progress toward a degree in accordance with the academic policies of Paul Smith's College and the regulations associated with federally sponsored aid programs.
The conditions for obtaining or to continue to receive financial aid are as follows
1. Merit Scholarships: Recipients must maintain satisfactory academic progress at the end of each academic year of study to continue to receive these scholarships:
Presidential - 2.50 GPA Provost - 2.50 GPA
Dean - 2.00 GPA Faculty - 2.00 GPA
Transfer Excellence - 2.50 GPA Transfer Recognition - 2.00 GPA
Adirondack Park 2.5 GPA
2. Paul Smith's Scholarships & Grants: Recipients must maintain satisfactory academic progress at the end of each academic year to continue to receive the award. Specific academic guidelines are outlined for some awards.
Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy (SAP) (Federal and College)-
Financial aid recipients are required to maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP). The College will evaluate SAP after grades are reported at the end of each academic year. This SAP policy applies to all financial aid programs except for the New York State financial aid programs that have a different policy for academic progress and program pursuit. The SAP policy requires that financial aid recipients achieve a minimum number of earned credits and a minimum cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) after each year.
If you withdraw from a course, it may affect your aid for the next semester/year. The Financial Aid Office strongly encourages you to make an appointment with financial aid before officially withdrawing from a course.
**In addition to maintaining SAP toward the educational objective after each semester, recipients of Federal Student Aid (FSA) cannot receive FSA funding for more than 150% of the minimum time duration for completing their program. The time frame maximum in which a student must complete his/her Associate degree is three academic years; the time frame maximum for a Bachelor's degree is five academic years.
3. Pell Grant, Supplemental Opportunity Grant, Stafford & PLUS Loans, and Work-Study: The federal requirements for SEOG, Pell Grants, Work-Study, Perkins, Stafford, and PLUS Loans at the completion of each academic year. Cumulative Grade Point Average requirements for recipients of these Financial Aids sources are:
Associate Degree Candidates Bachelor's Degree Candidates
After 1st Year 1.50 GPA After 1st Year 1.50 GPA
After 2nd Year 1.75 GPA After 2nd Year 1.75 GPA
After 3rd Year 1.90 GPA After 3rd Year 1.90 GPA
After 4th Year 2.00 GPA
After 5th Year 2.00 GPA
Students who withdraw or stop attending their classes prior to the end of a semester without proof of mitigating circumstances will lose their Paul Smith's College funded awards and Title IV Federal Student aid eligibility for their next term of study.
Federal regulations allow students the right to appeal the loss of their eligibility to receive Federal Title IV financial aid. The appeal procedures provide students who have experienced extraordinary circumstances beyond their control an opportunity to continue their aid eligibility. Students wishing to appeal must complete an Appeal Application and submit it to the Financial Aid Office.
Students whose appeal has been denied or who have not appealed and who choose to continue their studies at the College without Federal Title IV student assistance, may request a review of their academic record after the completion of additional credit hours to determine whether they have met the appropriate academic standard. If the standard has been met eligibility for Title IV financial aid may be restored for subsequent semesters.