Below is a list of frequently asked questions regarding the new fee increase for the 2009-2010 academic year. If you have any additional questions or need more specific information as it relates to your financial aid eligibility, please feel free to contact us at (805) 437-8530.
1.Q: Is the fee increase for one year?
A: The fee increase is in effect for the fall 2009 term. It is hard to predict what future fee increases will be implemented.
2.Q: Will I be given additional financial aid for the fee increase?
A: If you have been awarded a Pell Grant in the amount of $5,350, your full registration fees are covered for the year. Also: any student awarded a Cal Grant B AND Cal Grant B access award will have enough funding to cover the full fee charges, pending approval and release of Cal Grant funds.
For all other students, the answer depends on several unique variables. You could potentially qualify for additional loan assistance. It is best that you contact the Financial Aid office so that we can check your file to see what options are available to you.
3.Q: Is there any additional paperwork needed for this fee increase?
A: No. The fee increase will automatically be posted to your student account and can be paid online, in person at the University Cash Services office, or with a mailed check.
4.Q: Will I get dropped from my classes if I don’t pay the additional fee?
A: No. As long as your total registration fees are paid minus this additional fee, you will not be dropped.
5.Q: What is the deadline for payment of this new fee?
A: Students will have until September 25, 2009, to pay for the fee associated with the increase. Failure to pay by September 25 will result in a late fee and/or a financial hold. The only exception is students who are utilizing the registration fee installment payment plan. They will follow the due dates provided on their contract.
6.Q: Can I talk to someone about waiving this fee due to my special circumstances?
A: Unfortunately, the California state budget shortfall requires that this fee be mandatory; it cannot be waived. If you will have difficulty paying it by the September 25 deadline, please contact the Financial Aid office to see if you qualify for additional student loan assistance.
7.Q: If I am maxed out on my loan eligibility, what can I do to pay this amount?
A: You will need to contact the University Cash Services office to enroll in a registration payment plan. This will allow you to pay the fee over time.
8.Q: Will any other fees be increased?
A: No. The only fee increase is the State University fee that is mandated statewide. All CSUCI fees will remain the same for the 2009-10 academic year.
9.Q: Can I get financial aid to cover this additional expense, which I hadn’t expected?
A: You can always apply for financial aid throughout the academic year. To be considered for financial aid assistance, you need to submit a FAFSA application which is the standard financial aid application. This can be accessed electronically at www.fafsa.ed.gov. It can take up to 4 weeks to get an award letter from the time that we receive your financial aid application, so please contact us as soon as possible if you would like to use financial aid to assist with this additional fee.
