The primary mission of the Office of Scholarships & Financial Aid (OSFA) is to assist prospective and currently enrolled students and their families in securing the most suitable financial aid as the student pursues a degree or teaching certificate at UNCW. Through our outreach efforts, we support the University’s mission, including the commitment to public service and the encouragement of access to college. To this end, we administer federal, state and institutional student financial aid programs in excess of $100M to assist UNCW students.
Eligibility for the majority of our programs is determined using the U.S. Department of Education’s Federal Methodology. Most gift aid is need based. However, a significant amount of non-need based funding is also available, primarily in the form of loans.
UNCW offers assistance in the form of scholarships, grants, loans, Federal Work-Study jobs or a combination of these programs. For most graduate students, federal student loans are the primary source of financial assistance. Students are encouraged to file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon after January 1st as possible to receive priority consideration for aid. Aid funds are disbursed to the students’ account at the beginning of each semester on the first day of class to those students whose financial files are completed. Aid will continue to be disbursed through the rest of the semester as student’s financial aid files become complete. Refunds are processed regularly for students who have a credit balance. In order to receive a refund, the student needs to access the Student Accounts website to establish a student profile. This profile must be entered in order to receive excess funds from loans, overpayments, scholarships, and grant monies. The information provided in the profile is secure and confidential. The refunds are direct deposited into a checking or savings account specified by the student. Contact Student Accounts at (910) 962-4281(910) 962-4281 with any questions.
To apply for financial aid, students must complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Some students must submit other documentation as requested by the OSFA. To receive federally-funded financial aid, students must be making satisfactory academic progress as determined by the OSFA; be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen; and meet other criteria as specified by the U.S. Department of Education including at least half-time enrollment status. Questions concerning financial aid at UNCW should be directed to the Office of Scholarships & Financial Aid. The office is located in the Warwick Center.
Graduate Enrollment Status for Financial Aid Purposes
For financial aid purposes, the following definitions apply for determining graduate enrollment status during the academic year (fall, spring and summer semesters):
| Enrollment Status |
Graduate Level Credit Hours* |
| Full time |
9 or more |
| 3/4 time |
6.0 - 8.5 |
| 1/2 time |
4.5 - 5.5 |
| Less than 1/2 time |
0 - 4.0 |
*Number of credit hours in which the student is enrolled at the end of the drop/add period. Students enrolled in a master’s program must be earning credit hours in a qualified program in order to be eligible for financial aid. Note: a student may also be considered full-time when enrolled for less than nine hours if one of several conditions are met. See full-time status under the Academic Regulations and Procedures section.
Graduate students must be enrolled at least half-time in graduate-level courses to qualify for most financial aid programs.
Total credit hours for all summer sessions are used to define enrollment status in summer semester for financial aid purposes.
In order to receive a refund in the first session of Summer School, graduate students must be registered for at least 4.5 hours during Summer I. If the student registers for 3 hours in each session, the refund will not be available until the first day of class of the second session. All students, including graduate students, must be attending at least half-time prior to a refund being issued.
Classes may be held until Summer II aid is applied to your account. Students are responsible for book money and living expenses until Summer II classes start at the end of June.
Students who need summer school aid must complete a summer school application available at www.uncw.edu/finaid after March 1. In order to have summer school aid processed in time to hold classes, the application must be received no later than one week prior to the start of the session you are attending.
Assistantships
Graduate teaching assistantships are available on a limited basis in the Cameron School of Business; Watson College of Education; College of Health and Human Services; and the College of Arts and Sciences. The admission application process determines the candidates for these awards. For information contact the specific department/school or the Graduate School.
General Fellowships and Awards
The Ahuja Academy of Water Quality Fellowship was established by Dr. Satinder “Sut” Ahuja in recognition of his life-long career in the pharmaceutical industry and his desire to improve quality of life. This fellowship will be sued to assist graduate students engaged in research related to water quality.
The Jacob Boseman-Jarrell Scholarship for Excellence was established by Mark Griffis and Dave Robertson in honor of Senator Julia Boseman and UNCW softball coach Melissa Jarrell. The recipient of this merit scholarship may be an undergraduate or graduate student with a GPA of 3.00 or higher. Contact the Office of Admissions for more information.
The Dr. Ralph W. Brauer Fellowship was created through the estate of Dr. Brauer, a long tenured professor at UNCW. It is intended to provide financial support to one or more graduate students to assist with tuition and fees, books, publications or research travel as determined by the dean of the graduate school. A committee appointed by the dean recommends recipients and the amount to be awarded. Contact the dean of the graduate school for more information.
The Carl and Janice Brown Merit Scholarship was created by Mr. and Mrs. Brown to assist North Carolina residents interested in pursuing a degree offered by UNCW. Recipients shall be known as Carl and Janice Brown Scholars.
The Wayland H. Cato, Jr., Scholarship is a need-based scholarship created by Mr. Cato to assist motivated students who exhibit a strong work ethic and also give back to their communities.
The Sandra Koza Frank Travel Scholarship was created by David J. Frank and his children in memory of his wife and their mother. The award will be used to assist UNCW’s efforts to graduate global citizens by giving students an opportunity to broaden their experience while at UNCW through study abroad, and by supporting international students while at UNCW.
The Mae Rachel Freeman Scholarship was created to assist full-time students who are graduates of a high school in New Hanover, Brunswick, Pender, Columbus, Onslow, Sampson, or Duplin counties.
The Graduate School’s Awards for New Scholars A limited number of scholarships are available to students entering any of UNCW’s graduate programs for the first time. Students do not apply for these scholarships. Instead, nominations originate with the departments, which submit their recommendations to the dean of the graduate school. Criteria include evidence of exceptional scholarship, normally strong GRE scores (or their equivalent) and an excellent undergraduate GPA.
The Jane Logan Lackey Fellowship was established by E.G. Lackey, president of the Lackey Foundation and is allocated to promote diversity within the Graduate School. An undergraduate GPA of at least 3.25 in the applicant’s major is required.
The James R. Leutze Merit Scholarships were established by the UNCW Foundation in honor and recognition of Chancellor Emeritus Leutze’s outstanding thirteen-year service to the University. The fund provides a scholarship for undergraduate and graduate students, who are known as Leutze Scholars. Recipients are selected based on documented academic ability; the graduate student by the dean of the Graduate School. The scholarships may be renewable.
The Lewis/Wiley Alumni Fellowship is a merit based graduate fellowship subject to the criteria and guidelines adopted by the Alumni Association of UNCW. For more information, contact the UNCW Alumni Relations Office.
The Perry Daniel Lockamy, Jr., Graduate Alumni Fellowship was created by the UNCW Alumni Association in memory of Perry Daniel Lockamy, Jr. and provides an annual award based on academic achievement, leadership abilities, and potential. For more information, contact the UNCW Alumni Relations Office.
Jack and Carol Mills Scholarship established by Mr. and Mrs. Mills in appreciation of the University’s service to the region. It is available to either an undergraduate or graduate student attending UNCW. Selection is based on merit and demonstrated financial need. Complete the FAFSA to be considered.
The MSGT. (Ret.) E. S. Moncrief Military Dependents Scholarship was established by the Moncrief family in memory of “Big Ed” Moncrief, who served his country as a member of the USAF for over twenty years. It is available to an undergraduate or graduate student. Preference is given to the spouse of an active duty military member currently stationed in North Carolina, with demonstrated financial need. Contact the Office of Admissions for more information.
The Ralph H. Parker Scholarship was created and funded by alumni and friends of Ralph H. Parker, former director of the UNCW Office of Minority Affairs, in recognition for his long-time service to UNCW and especially his efforts to attract and retain African-American students. The scholarship is intended for any currently enrolled full-time UNCW student, is based on academic achievement and financial need. The recipient must have demonstrated the qualities of campus leadership as exemplified by Mr. Parker during his service to UNCW. Please contact the director of the Office of Institutional Diversity for further information. Complete the FAFSA and web-based application to be considered.
The Sylvia and B. D. Schwartz Graduate Fellowship Award may be awarded to any graduate student enrolled in nine hours or more at UNCW. Recipients are determined by the Graduate School and receive an amount equal to in–state tuition and fees.
The Staff Senate Scholarship is available to support university employees and their immediate family members seeking a degree at UNCW. Recipients are selected based on need, academic merit, and campus involvement and service.
The Lacy C. and Doris L. Sidbury Fellowship was established by Gwendolyn S. Solomon as a memorial to her parents. It is considered both a merit and need based fellowship subject to the criteria used by both the UNCW Graduate School and the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid.
The Student Accounts and Cashier’s Office (SACO) Scholarship was created by staff members of the Student Accounts and Cashier’s Office to assist students pursuing a degree at UNCW.
The Student Government Association Scholarship was established by the SGA to recognize student leaders of campus organizations. The scholarship is available to an undergraduate or graduate student with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.00 who is an active member of at least one student organization.
The Teal Spirit Distinguished Merit Scholarship is a merit scholarship created by Joe and Barbara Cowan. The recipient will be selected based on demonstrated academic ability and special achievement, and is renewable for a period of four consecutive years provided the recipient continues to remain a full-time student with a cumulative GPA of 3.0.
The Tower 7/WBLivesurf Scholarship is the brainchild of Joshua Vach and is available to two full time students who are active members of the UNCW Surfing Club or are active surfers. Preference will be given to students who are active participants in one or more surfing related organizations with a second preference being need. Recipients are selected by the Department of Psychology.
The Henry and Roya Weyerhaeuser Merit Scholarship Is a merit based scholarship created by Mr. and Mrs. Weyerhaeuser, long-time supporters of UNCW, to assist high ability students.
The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9408 Leland Scholarship is available to a freshman, undergraduate, or graduate student who is a member or dependent of Post 9408 or its auxiliary. Recipients who maintain a GPA of at least 2.50 may reapply. Contact the Office of Admissions for more information.
The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9408 Leland Scholarship is available to a freshman, undergraduate, or graduate student who is a member or dependant of Post 9408 or its auxiliary. Recipients who maintain a GPA of at least 2.50 may reapply. Contact the Office of Admissions for more information.
Accountancy
The Carr Riggs & Ingram-Jake Rhyne Memorial Scholarship is an annual scholarship created in memory of Jake W. Rhyne, C.P.A., and is used to assist students enrolled in the MSA program in the Cameron School of Business. The recipient is chosen based on scholastic achievement and citizenship. He or she must be a resident of Eastern North Carolina or any county west of I-95 in which Carr Riggs & Ingrammaintains an office.
The Deloitte Fellowship was established by employees of Deloitte. This merit scholarship is available to students in the Master of Science in Accountancy program.
The Pearson and Patterson Group Scholarship in Business is a merit scholarship created by Chad Pearson and Paul Patterson to assist students majoring in economics, finance, management, accounting, or marketing.
The Joanne Rockness MSA Scholarship was created to recognize the leadership of Dr. Rockness as the previous director of the Master of Science of Accountancy (MSA) program. The recipient must have been accepted into the Cameron School of Business and the MSA program. The scholarship is merit-based with financial need as a secondary consideration. Contact the chair of the Department of Accountancy and Business Law for more information.
Elwood Walker Fellowship is awarded annually to a MSA student in the Cameron School of Business. The recipient must be academically gifted, have a strong character and be supported by recommendations of the faculty of the Cameron School of Business.
The Robert F. Warwick Accounting Scholarship was created by family and friends of Robert F. Warwick to honor his contributions to both UNCW and the accounting profession, and is intended to reward academic merit. The recipient must have been formally accepted into either the undergraduate accounting program or the MSA program within the Cameron School of Business. First preference is given to students who attended a New Hanover County high school. Contact the chair of the Department of Accountancy and Business Law for more information.
Art and Art History
The Leslie N. Boney, Sr. Scholarship in Art is a merit scholarship created to assist students pursuing a degree offered by the Department of Art and Art History.
Biology and Marine Biology
The Department of Biology and Marine Biology Merit Scholarship is a merit scholarship created by the department to assist students majoring Biology and Marine Biology.
The Judith C. Bryan Holden Beach Turtle Watch Fellowship in Marine Biology was founded by the Holden Beach Turtle Watch Program to assist graduate students in Marine Biology interested in studying some aspect of sea turtle conservation. It is named in honor of Judith Bryan (known on Holden Beach as “The Turtle Lady”, founder of the Holden Beach Turtle Patrol in 1989. Ms. Bryan funded the program herself for many years and in 1989 was the recipient of the 34th Annual Governors Conservation Achievement Award.
The John Colucci, Jr. Memorial Scholarship is awarded to a marine biology student. The recipient is identified by the department and may be awarded to graduate or undergraduate students. Contact the Department of Biology and Marine Biology.
The F. P. Fensel, Jr., Memorial Fellowship is intended for a graduate student in marine biology as selected by the faculty of the department based on merit. If there are no students that meet the requirements the scholarship may be awarded to an undergraduate student in marine biology. The scholarship covers tuition and fees for one academic year. A student may reapply for a second year during the designated time as established by the department chair.
Got-Em-On Live Bait Club Graduate Fellowship is intended to provide financial support for a student who has been accepted into the graduate program, who will study fish biology and whose interest and research focus on the issues affecting the fish population in the waters of Southeastern North Carolina.
The Owen Graham Kenan Scholarship was created by Mrs. Owen G. Kenan and her children in memory of her husband and their father, and is used to assist graduate students in the marine biology program. This is a merit scholarship awarded to the student(s) with exceptional credentials based on documents submitted for admission to the graduate program. The recipient(s) shall have been accepted into the Master of Science or Doctor of Philosophy program in marine biology. The scholarship is renewable for a second year contingent upon exemplary performance during the first year.
The David G. Lindquist Scholarship for Biology was created in honor of David G. Lindquist, Professor Emeritus of Marine Biology at UNCW. This scholarship is used to assist students majoring in biology and is awarded annually in the amount of $500. The recipient can be an undergraduate or graduate student and is selected on demonstrated academic ability. Contact the chair of the Biology and Marine Biology Department for more information.
The Lewis E. Nance Chemistry Fellowship created in honor of Dr. Nance, a beloved member of the chemistry faculty, is a merit based fellowship to assist a new or currently enrolled full-time chemistry graduate student.
The New Hanover/Pender Medical Scholarship is a merit scholarship intended to provide financial assistance to a student in their final year of graduate or undergraduate study at UNCW. The recipient must have excelled academically and exhibited a serious desire to attend medical school.
The NC Shell Club Scholarship in Malacology was created the organization dedicated to providing a friendly and enthusiastic forum where people of all levels of expertise can meet and share knowledge and information about the fascinating world of shells. This is a merit scholarship created to assist students conducting research or pursuing a degree in a discipline related to Malacology, the study and conservation of mollusks.
The Dr. James F. and Frances B. Parnell Fellowship was created by Dr. and Mrs. Parnell in recognition of Dr. Parnell’s long-time tenure and service to the UNCW Department of Biology and Marine Biology. This merit fellowship is intended to assist graduate students who have been formally accepted into the UNCW Graduate School. Preference is given to a student studying some aspect of field oriented terrestrial vertebrate biology. Contact the Department of Biology and Marine Biology.
Business Administration
The Frank Dunne, Jr. Memorial Scholarship is a merit scholarship awarded annually to a rising junior, senior or graduate student accepted into the Cameron School of Business who has demonstrated high scholastic ability, need, and strong character, supported by recommendations from the faculty of the Cameron School of Business.
The Matthew D. Glova Scholarship in Business is a merit scholarship created to assist students pursuing a degree offered by the Cameron School of Business.
The J. W. Jackson Scholarships were established by the J.W. Jackson family in memory of one of Wilmington’s leading businessmen. They are awarded annually to rising juniors, seniors, or graduate students in the Cameron School of Business. The scholarship is designed for students with high academic potential. Students awarded this scholarship are eligible to reapply.
The New Hanover County Estate Planning Council Scholarship in Business is a merit scholarship and will be used to assist students pursuing a degree offered by the Cameron School of Business.
The Norman R. Kaylor Scholarship was created by W. Chris Hegele, a Cameron School of Business Alumnus. It is a merit based scholarship available to a rising junior, senior or graduate student enrolled in the Cameron School of Business.
The Judy R. Tharp Scholarship in Business is a merit scholarship established by Mrs. Tharp to encourage students of diverse backgrounds to pursue a degree offered by the Cameron School of Business.
The William J. and Jaqueline S. Warwick Scholarship was created by Mr. and Mrs. Warwick. It is awarded to an in-state undergraduate or graduate student who has been formally accepted into the Cameron School of Business. Selection is based on demonstrated academic ability as evidenced by a minimum 3.3 GPA, with financial need as a secondary consideration. Preference is given to a recipient who continues to qualify for the scholarship until graduation.
The Wells Fargo Bank Scholarship was created by in 1994 to assist UNCW in fulfilling its diversity goals as defined by its mission. It is awarded based on demonstrated academic ability to an undergraduate or graduate student who has been formally accepted into the Cameron School of Business. It may be renewed.
The Will S. Deloach Chemistry Fellowship is available to academically outstanding Chemistry students. Contact the chair of the Department of Chemistry for more information.
The Mary Jo and Bill Oakley Fellowship in Chemistry was created by Mr. and Mrs. Oakley for a graduate student and chemistry major. It is merit-based and the recipient is selected on demonstrated academic ability and special achievement.
Computer Science
The Computer Science Chairs Scholarship is awarded annually at $1,000. The recipient must be a computer science major at UNCW and can be an undergraduate or graduate student. The scholarship is a merit scholarship and the recipient is selected on demonstrated academic ability. Apply to the chair of the Department of Computer Science.
The Construction-Imaging Systems Scholarship In Computer Science was created by the founder of Construction-Imaging Systems to assist students pursuing a degree in Computer Science. The award is $2,000 per year to be awarded to two students, undergraduate or graduate, at $1,000 each.
The Robert H. Byington Leadership Fellowship in Creative Writing was established to honor Dr. Robert H. Byington for his efforts in establishing the creative writing program at UNCW. A student must have at least one semester’s thesis work remaining. The recipient shall be an M.F.A. student of outstanding creative achievement who, by vote of the M.F.A. faculty, has demonstrated unusual generosity of spirit toward peers, faculty and staff, contributing significantly to the morale, community spirit, and excellence of the M.F.A. in creative writing program. Interested students should contact the Department of Creative Writing.
The Philip Furia Departmental Award in Creative Writing was established in Dr. Furia’s honor by his wife, Dr. Laurie Patterson. During his tenure at UNCW, Dr. Furia has served as chair of the departments of English and Creative Writing, as well as director of the Film Studies program. He has also published numerous publications on notable American lyricists such as Ira Gershwin, Irving Berlin and Johnny Mercer. This merit scholarship will assist students pursuing a course of study in creative nonfiction.
The Bernice Kert Fellowship in Creative Writing was created in memory of Mrs. Bernice Kert, a published author and biographer, by her children. Mrs. Kert wrote “The Hemingway Women: Those Who Loved Him—the Wives and Others” and “Abby Aldrich Rockefeller: the Women in the Family.” This fellowship will be awarded to a student in the MFA program in the Department of Creative Writing; the recipient will be selected based on demonstrated creative talent and artistic promise.
The Margaret Shannon Morton Fellowship was created by Doug and Susan Morton in memory of his great aunt, Margaret Shannon Morton, one of the original faculty members at Wilmington College. The recipient must be a second-year student in the Creative Writing program. The fellowship is a graduate merit scholarship, with financial need as a consideration. The recipient must have a minimum 3.2 GPA from their first year in the graduate program.
Grace M. Burton Promise of Excellence Graduate Fellowship is offered to elementary, language and literacy, middle school or special education full-time graduate students. The fellowship award is made based on scores attained on the Miller Analogies Test or Graduate Record Examinations.
The Jewel and Joseph Cross Scholarship in Education is a merit scholarship created to assist students pursuing licensure or a Master of Arts in Teaching.
The Janis Norris Education Scholarship was created by Mrs. Norris, a long-time advocate and supporter of teacher education. She attained her Master of Arts degree in Educational Supervision from the Watson College of Education in 1981.
The Ann Royer Corley Scholarship created by Dr. Carol Chase Thomas in memory of her godmother, is offered to graduate or undergraduate students who have been formally accepted into one of the programs in the Watson College of Education. The scholarship recipient is selected based on demonstrated academic ability.
The Peggy and Jim Mahony Scholarship in Education is a merit scholarship, with financial need as a secondary consideration. It is available to either a graduate or undergraduate student pursuing a degree offered by the Watson College of Education.
Donald R. Watson Merit Award is offered to graduate students who are enrolled in the master’s program. A GPA of 3.0 and a commitment to the field of education is required. Selection is based on the student’s prior academic performance, uniqueness and quality of application, plans for future application of study abroad experience and letters of support. This scholarship may also be awarded to an undergraduate student.
The John Fischetti Global Education Award was created by the first cohort of the Watson College of Education’s Doctor of Education program on honor of Dr. Fischetti, the first coordinator of the program, who provided outstanding guidance and support to the members of the cohort. The intent of the award is to extend Dr. Fischetti’s passion for global perspectives in education by providing students enrolled in the Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and Administration program an opportunity to study abroad.
The Philip Gerard Graduate Fellowship is intended to provide tuition, fees and other expenses to graduate students of English who are working toward an M.F.A. in creative writing. The scholarship is merit-based as a first priority, with exemplary moral character and leadership potential serving as secondary consideration.
The Christopher Gould Fellowship in English has been established by Charles F. Green, III in honor of Dr. Christopher Gould, a distinguished member of the faculty of the UNCW Department of English. Through Dr. Gould’s tireless advocacy, professional writing now has a strong certificate program, making it the largest option in the English major. The fellowship will be awarded to a graduate student pursuing a graduate degree offered by the UNCW Department of English and the recipient is selected based on demonstrated academic ability and special achievement.
The Kathy Rugoff Scholarship in English is a merit scholarship created by Jeffrey Eng in memory of his beloved wife. Dr. Rugoff had a distinguished 24-year career (spanning from 1987 to 2011) as a dedicated teacher and scholar in the Department of English. Her interdisciplinary approach to her work was fueled by her passion for literature, music, art and photography.
The Wilmington Coca-Cola Scholarship Fund is intended to provide assistance to undergraduate and graduate students majoring in the humanities. Recipients are selected based on character and leadership. Consideration is also given to candidates who have shown evidence of self-help. The scholarship rotates between English, history, foreign languages, and philosophy and religion. Contact the Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures.
The Christian-Johns Family Scholarship in Environmental Studies was created by Gregory Johns and his wife, Terry Christian. It is a merit scholarship and will be used to assist students interested in pursuing a degree offered by the Department of Environmental Studies.
The Anna T. Kniffen Memorial Scholarship was established by Ernest T. Kniffen in memory of his mother. It is available to a student who has been accepted into either the department of history or the department of geography and geology as an undergraduate or graduate. Preference is given to students with financial need and demonstrated academic ability.
The Karel Dutton Scholarship was created by friends and colleagues of Karel Dutton in honor of her dedication to the pursuit of lifelong learning and service to the university. The scholarship will be used to assist students interested in pursuing a degree in an area related to Gerontology.
The Boney-Bellamy Mansion Fellowship in History was established by the Bellamy Mansion Museum, one of North Carolina’s most spectacular examples of antebellum architecture, built on the eve of the Civil War by free and enslaved black artisans. The fellowship will assist graduate students pursuing a degree in History with a concentration in Public History.
The Historic Wilmington Foundation Scholarship in Public History is intended to assist graduate public history students with an annual award. The recipients are selected and awarded internships at the Historic Wilmington Foundation.
The Hurston and Mora Scholarship in History was created in honor of two scholars who made significant contributions to American society and culture, Zora Neale Hurston and Magdalena Mora. The award is to assist a first generation history student, either graduate or undergraduate.
The Anna T. Kniffen Memorial Scholarship was established by Ernest T. Kniffen in memory of his mother. It is available to a student who has been accepted into either the department of history or the department of geography and geology as an undergraduate or graduate. Preference is given to students with financial need and demonstrated academic ability.
The M. Tyrone Rowell Fellowship is merit based and is available to a graduate student of history working toward a Master’s degree, and is chosen by the chair of the History Department. Recipients may reapply if their academic standing performance is competitive with that of other candidates for the scholarship.
The Stamp Defiance Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution Scholarship in History was created to assist graduate students who are studying and preparing for positions in museums, historic sites and historic preservation. Recipients must be graduate students in the public history program and the annual award amount is $500.
The Susan Goodman Stern Graduate Fellowship is awarded to a continuing or entering student in the history graduate program. The criteria include having a genuine interest in the study of ideas and people, sensitivity to the environment and concern of others within the community. The fellowship is awarded by the Department of History.
The Wilmington Coca-Cola Scholarship Fund is intended to provide assistance to undergraduate and graduate students majoring in the humanities. Recipients are selected based on character and leadership. Consideration is also given to candidates who have shown evidence of self-help. The scholarship rotates between English, history, foreign languages, and philosophy and religion. Contact the Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures.
The Wentworth Berg Scholarship in Graduate Liberal Studies was created by Barbara and Joe Cowan to honor Dr. Mike Wentworth, first director of the Graduate Liberal Studies Program, and Dr. Herb Berg, current director of the Graduate Liberal Studies Program. It is a merit scholarship intended to assist students who are enrolled in the Graduate Liberal Studies program at UNCW.
The Gene T. and Elizabeth J. Fales Scholarship is awarded to a full-time junior, senior, or graduate student who has declared a major in mathematics or pre-engineering and who has completed high school in North Carolina. Preference is given to students from New Hanover, Brunswick, Guilford or Randolph Counties. Scholarship is based primarily on need with merit as a secondary consideration. Contact the Department of Mathematics and Statistics or the Pre-engineering program.
The Adrian D. Hurst Mathematics Scholarship is available to full-time rising juniors and seniors or graduate students in mathematics and statistics or in the pre-engineering transfer program. The award may be renewable, but is limited to four semesters. Contact the Department of Mathematics and Statistics.
The Robbie & Glenn Hodges Scholarship in Nursing was created by Mr. and Mrs. Hodges to provide financial support to a student in their pursuit of becoming a nurse as a result of their keen awareness of the importance of the nursing profession. As Wilmington residents and alumni of UNCW (Robbie) and Wilmington College (Glenn), they also recognize the importance of UNCW to southeastern NC. This is a merit scholarship.
The Lois Kochanski Nursing Scholarship was created in honor of Lois Kochanski’s long-time support of health care, including 35 years as Executive Director of The Foundation for Advanced Education in the Sciences at the National Institutes of Health. This scholarship will be used to assist students interested in pursuing a degree offered by the School of Nursing.
The Jane Whedbee Lane Scholarship in Nursing was created by Lucile Whedbee in memory of her daughter, Jane, and is to be awarded to an undergraduate or graduate student interested in pursuing a degree in nursing. The annual award amount is $500.
The W. C. “Billy” Mebane, Jr., M.D. Scholarship was created by the Cape Fear Memorial Foundation in memory of W. C. “Billy” Mebane, Jr., M.D., to recognize his contributions to our community as a founder of Cape Fear Memorial Hospital. The recipient must have been accepted in the UNCW nursing program as either an undergraduate or graduate student, and must have graduated from a high school, or be a permanent resident, in Duplin, Pender, Brunswick, Columbus, Bladen or New Hanover County. The scholarship is merit-based with financial need as a secondary factor.
The Geraldine King Morris Nursing Scholarship was established by Lt. Gen (Ret.) John W. (Jack) Morris and his children in memory of his wife and their mother, Geraldine King Morris, and to honor her lifelong devotion to the nursing profession. The recipient of this merit scholarship must be accepted into the School of Nursing as an undergraduate or graduate student. Preference is given to students with an indicated desire to join the armed forces.
The Dr. R. T. Sinclair, Jr., M.D. Scholarship is awarded to a student accepted in the UNCW nursing program as either an undergraduate or graduate student. The recipient must be a graduate from a high school or be a permanent resident in Bladen, Brunswick, Columbus, Duplin, New Hanover or Pender County, and must have maintained a 3.25 GPA to be eligible for renewal.
The Kay Whitfield Scholarship in Nursing is a merit scholarship created by the Whitfield family in honor of Kay. The recipient must indicate an interest in pursuing a degree offered by the School of Nursing.
The Louie E. Woodbury Scholarship was established by the Cape Fear Memorial Foundation in memory of Louie E. Woodbury. This merit scholarship is available to an undergraduate or a graduate student in the School of Nursing who graduated from a high school in Duplin, Pender, Brunswick, Columbus, Bladen, or New Hanover County.
The Ryan A. Hartranft Fellowship in Psychology is a merit scholarship for students pursuing a graduate degree in Psychology. The scholarship was created by Ryan’s family and friends to honor the memory of Ryan, a smart, funny, loving, and caring young man with a very kind and giving heart. He always had the desire to help anyone he could, in any way, whether he knew them or not. Ryan lost the battle against substance abuse on January 12, 2014. The donors’ hope is that the recipient of this award will also want to make a difference in the lives of those that struggle with substance abuse.
The Holt Oil Fellowship was established by Hannah Holt and Holt Oil Company in memory of Charles B. C. Holt. Mr. Holt was a nature lover and advocate for land conservation; as a member of the NC House of Representatives, he was afforded opportunities to shape laws for land conservation and protection. This fellowship will assist students pursuing a Master in Public Administration degree.
The Jason R. Holcombe Scholarship in Human Services was created by the Holcombe family in honor of Jason’s creative and intense spirit in order to inspire and empower students that exemplify Jason’s commitment to creating. This is a merit scholarship, and preference will be given to transfer or non-traditional students.
The Nieka “Sean” Wright Memorial Fellowship in Foreign Languages and Literatures was created by the faculty of the Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures in memory of Sean, who completed his M.A. in December 2011 and passed away in April 2012. This merit award will assist students pursuing a graduate degree offered by the Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures.
The Wilmington Coca-Cola Scholarship Fund is intended to provide assistance to undergraduate and graduate students majoring in the humanities. Recipients are selected based on character and leadership. Consideration is also given to candidates who have shown evidence of self-help. The scholarship rotates between English, history, foreign languages, and philosophy and religion. Contact the Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures.
Loans
Students must complete a FAFSA to initiate the application process and are automatically considered for all Federal Loan programs and Federal Work-Study. Students may borrow up to $20,500 in Direct Student Loans per academic year.
Federal Unsubsidized Direct Student Loans are available to graduate students who file the FAFSA and otherwise are eligible. Students may borrow up to $20,500 or the cost of attendance minus all other resources (including financial aid, tuition remissions). Interest begins accruing when the funds are disbursed to the student. Repayment begins when the student graduates or drops below half-time enrollment status. There are a variety of repayment plans. A portion of the loan may be cancelled upon completion of employment under certain terms and conditions. Interest rate for 2014-2015 is 6.21%.
Students who complete the FAFSA are automatically considered. Students must be enrolled at least half-time to be eligible for Federal Direct student loans.
Federal Perkins Loans are available to students with substantial demonstrated need. Perkins Loans are low-interest loans to help cover educational expenses. Funds are limited in this program. Need is determined by the federal formula through the regular financial aid process. The Perkins Loan program will be discontinued following the 2014-2015 academic year. Contact the Office of Scholarships & Financial Aid for further information.
PLUS Loans for graduate or professional students. Graduate or professional students are eligible to borrow under the Federal Direct PLUS Loan Program up to their cost of attendance minus other estimated financial assistance. The terms and conditions applicable to Parent PLUS Loans also apply to Graduate/Professional PLUS loans. These requirements include a determination that the applicant does not have an adverse credit history, repayment beginning 60 days after the last disbursement of the loan, and a fixed interest rate of 7.21 percent in the Federal Direct PLUS Loan program. Applicants for these loans are required to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). They must have applied for their annual maximum loan eligibility under the Federal Subsidized and Unsubsidized Direct Loan Program before applying for Graduate or Professional PLUS loan. They also must complete an entrance interview prior to first disbursement and an exit interview when the student leaves school. Entrance and exit interviews can be completed either in person or on the web.
Master Promissory Note. To receive a Direct Loan or PLUS loan for graduate students, the student is required to complete a Master Promissory Note (MPN) with the U.S. Department of Education Direct Loan Program.
Entrance and Exit Interviews
Students who receive a Federal Unsubsidized or Perkins Loan must complete a loan entrance interview prior to receiving the first disbursement of a loan.
Students who received a Federal Unsubsidized or Perkins Loan must complete an exit interview prior to leaving UNCW. Exit interviews must be completed by students who withdraw or graduate.
Entrance and exit interviews may be completed on the web. There is a link to both interviews on the OSFA web site.
It is important that students who borrow Perkins and Direct loans realize that the loans require repayment, usually within 10 years after leaving school. Loan calculators are available at the interview website demonstrating estimated loan payments and approximate income required to make payments.
Please note that all Federal Student Loans are processed through the U.S. Department of Education Direct Loan Program. Students who borrowed prior to 2010-11 and have loans through other lenders may be interested in consolidation. Contact the Direct Loan Servicing Center for more information.
Non-Federal and Alternative Loans
Non-federal loans are often referred to as alternative loans because they represent an alternative to the federal loan program.
The Direct Loans and PLUS Loans generally provide more favorable terms and conditions than non-federal loans. For that reason, we strongly recommend students and their families first apply for federal loans using the FAFSA before considering non-federal loans. Non-federal loans may be helpful to students who need to borrow more than allowed under the federal loan programs and those students who are ineligible for federal loans. Eligibility for non-federal loans is determined by the lender based on credit review. UNCW certifies the loan amount but has no influence on the credit decision. A very small percentage of students are ineligible for federal loans. The most common reason for this ineligibility is failure to meet UNCW’s satisfactory academic progress policy.
Employment
Federal Work-Study Program is federally funded and provides part-time jobs both on and off the UNCW campus for students who have financial need as determined by federal formula. To be awarded Federal Work-Study, a student must meet all eligibility requirements for federal aid and file a FAFSA. Students are automatically considered.
Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) for Financial Aid Eligibility (Graduate)
Federal regulations require that students receiving financial aid maintain satisfactory academic progress from both qualitative and quantitative measures: cumulative GPA, hours earned compared to hours attempted and maximum time limit. For graduate students, Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) standards regarding GPA are the same as the standards established by the UNCW Graduate School (see Retention Policy under Academic Regulations) for continued enrollment. To remain eligible for financial aid, graduate students must earn at least 67% of all attempted hours.
Satisfactory Academic Progress and eligibility for financial aid are determined each academic term after grades are available.
Appeals
Federal regulations allow for certain cases in which the school may waive the Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) standards. Specifically, if a student’s failure to be in compliance with one or more areas of satisfactory academic progress is due to events beyond the student’s control, such as a student’s extended illness, serious illness or death in the immediate family, or other significant trauma, and if such mitigating circumstances can be appropriately documented for the specific term(s) in which the deficiency occurred, the student may appeal to the Office of Scholarships & Financial Aid (OSFA). Eligibility may be regained by appeal. Contact the OSFA to obtain a Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) Appeal form.
Policy on Return of Title IV Funds
Federal financial aid funds are awarded with the expectation that students will complete the entire period of enrollment. Students “earn” a percentage of the funds they are disbursed with each day of class attendance. When a student who has received federal financial aid funds (Title IV Funds) leaves school before the end of the semester or period of enrollment, federal law requires UNCW to calculate the percentage and amount of “unearned” financial aid funds that must be returned to the federal government. This calculation may have the effect of requiring a return of funds that have already been disbursed to the student. Students are encouraged to meet with their financial aid counselor prior to making the decision to withdraw from school. Once a student has completed more than 60% of the enrollment period, students are considered to have earned all funding received.
Veterans Services
Veterans and dependents are encouraged to utilize their VA Educational Benefits while enrolled in the graduate programs at the University. For eligibility information, contact the Office of Scholarships & Financial Aid, (910) 962-3177, or e-mail the veteran services coordinator at: veterans@uncw.edu
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