RECEIVING AND USING YOUR FINANCIAL AID
Learn how aid is paid and how to keep it.
How Financial Aid Disbursement Works
Disbursement is when aid is applied to eligible charges. Check RiverMail and New River Portal for updates.
Aid pays tuition, fees, and authorized bookstore charges first. Remaining funds are refunded after attendance is verified.
Most aid is paid 4-6 weeks after classes begin. Later-starting classes and first-time federal loans may take longer.
Set Up Direct Deposit
In The River Portal, go to General Self-Service, then Direct Deposit, and add your bank account.
Paying for Tuition Fees and Books
Your award may change if your eligible enrollment changes. You are responsible for any balance your aid does not cover.
Keep your address current. Contact the Financial Aid Office before withdrawing or changing your enrollment.
If Your Family Situation Changes
Contact Financial Aid if your family has a major financial change. You may need to provide documentation.
Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy
To keep federal aid, meet SAP standards. SAP is reviewed every semester.
SAP Standards and Evaluation
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Cumulative GPA | At least 2.0 cumulative GPA. |
| Completion rate | Successfully complete at least 67% of all attempted credits. |
SAP includes applicable College and accepted transfer credits, including withdrawals, failed courses, repeats, and developmental coursework.
SAP Status
SAP includes applicable College and accepted transfer credits, including withdrawals, failed courses, repeats, and developmental coursework.
SAP Appeals
If circumstances beyond your control affected your progress, you may appeal with supporting documents. If approved, follow your assigned aid plan.
Promise Program Students
Promise students must meet SAP standards. Promise covers two years only and does not automatically cover a full associate degree.
Withdrawal and Return of Aid
Withdrawing before completing 60% of the term may require repayment of federal aid. Contact the Financial Aid Office before withdrawing to understand how it may affect your aid.
Program Objective Enrollment Compliance
Federal aid applies only to coursework required for an eligible program. Stopping attendance in eligible courses may affect your aid.
Questions and Help
Need help with financial aid? Join The River Line to meet with the Financial Aid team virtually or in person. You can join from anywhere and receive a notification when it is your turn.
