Financial Aid Eligibility

To remain eligible for financial aid, you must make satisfactory academic progress (SAP) toward completing your degree. Federal regulations require the University to review your academic record each year.

What You Need to Stay Eligible

Undergraduate Students

  • Maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA
  • Complete at least:
    • 60% of attempted credits (under 30 credits attempted)
    • 67% of attempted credits (30+ credits attempted)
  • Complete your degree within:
    • 180 attempted credits or six academic years

Graduate Students

  • Maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA
  • Complete at least 70% of attempted credits
  • Finish your program within 150% of the published length

How SAP Is Reviewed

  • SAP is reviewed annually after spring grades are posted.
  • Your eligibility for summer and the next academic year is determined at that time.
  • You will be notified through your Montclair email and NEST if you are not meeting requirements.

If You Do Not Meet SAP

If you do not meet SAP standards:

  • You will lose eligibility for financial aid
  • You will receive instructions in NEST on how to submit an appeal (if eligible)
  • You may still enroll, but must pay without financial aid

Appealing Your SAP Status

If eligible, you may submit an appeal.

Appeals typically require:

  • A detailed explanation of what impacted your academic progress
  • A plan for how you will improve
  • Supporting documentation, if applicable

Appeals are submitted through NEST / StudentForms only and must be completed by the stated deadline. Late appeals are not accepted.

If Your Appeal Is Approved

  • You will receive an academic plan
  • You must follow that plan and pass all required courses
  • Failure to meet the plan will result in loss of financial aid

If Your Appeal Is Denied

You may continue enrollment, but must use other payment options such as:

  • Out-of-pocket payment
  • Payment plans
  • Private educational loans

Important to Know

  • SAP is separate from academic standing (probation, suspension, etc.)
  • Meeting academic standing requirements does not guarantee financial aid eligibility
  • Transfer credits count toward completion rate and timeframe, but not GPA

Next Steps

Learn More About SAP