When the Saint Leo University Office of Student Financial Services “packages” your financial aid, we will consider all of the aid types and sources for which you qualify and/or for which you have applied.

The three types of financial assistance are:

1. Gift Aid
   Scholarships and grants that have no repayment or work obligation. This includes institutional merit scholarships and grants, as well as Federal grants such as the Pell and Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity (FSEOG) Grants. It also includes Florida state grants, such as the Florida Resident Access Grant (FRAG), the Florida Student Access Grant (FSAG), and the Bright Futures Scholarships. Merit-based awards, which are given on the basis of your merit or accomplishment or personal circumstances that fit an award’s criteria, are generally awarded in the form of scholarships.
2. Loans
   Repayment is required, but terms vary based on the type of loan.
3. Work-Study
   Awards that have a work obligation, allowing students to earn money to help pay for college expenses.

How Financial Aid is Awarded

Each college or university will determine its own policies for packaging (putting together an award from various sources) and awarding financial aid, based upon federal, state and institutional guidelines.

Merit awards are packaged with need-based financial aid, work-study and loans on your award letter, if you are eligible to receive these funds. Merit-based scholarships and grants are usually awarded for recognition of academic achievement or specific talents, without regard to your financial need. In some cases, a merit award may reduce need-based aid rather than be added to your package. Unless otherwise noted, most merit and non-need- based scholarships at Saint Leo are awarded for a maximum of four full years of study for entering freshmen, based on certain restrictions.

Before an award program can be packaged for you, you must:

1. Be admitted as a degree-seeking student, who will be enrolled at least half-time. So be sure to complete all of the necessary steps for admission to Saint Leo; and
2. Comply with any requests for additional documentation by the Office of Student Financial Services, if applicable.