Financial Aid Disbursement, Refund and Return Process
The Office of Student Financial Aid reviews FAFSA/TASFA and determines eligibility for grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study.
Disbursement Process
- Students who complete the FAFSA/TASFA and meet eligibility requirements will receive an electronic award notification.
- Notifications are sent to:
- Returning students: UTPB email address.
- New students: Mailing address on file.
- The award package includes the types and amounts of aid offered. Students must:
- Complete any additional applications.
- Enroll in required credit hours.
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress.
Disbursement of Funds
- Financial aid is credited to the student’s account on scheduled dates:
- Fall Semester: Mid-August. Based on course start dates and aid type.
- Spring Semester: Early-January. Based on course start dates and aid type.
- Summer Sessions: Based on course start dates and aid type.
- Funds apply toward:
- Tuition and fees.
- On-campus housing.
- Important: Federal aid cannot cover installment plans, late fees, excess hours, or repeated courses.
Student Responsibilities
- Students are responsible for any remaining balance after aid is applied.
- Outstanding balances may result in an Accounting Delinquent Hold.
- Federal regulations prohibit disbursement if there is an unpaid balance over $200 from a prior year.
Refunds and Residuals
- If aid exceeds charges, the account enters credit status.
- Refunds are issued within 14 days of disbursement:
- Direct Deposit: Recommended for faster processing.
- Paper Check: Mailed to the address on file.
Return of Title IV Funds (R2T4)
Federal regulations require the University of Texas Permian Basin to apply the Return of Title IV Funds policy when a student receiving federal financial aid withdraws from all courses before completing more than 60% of the term. The amount of Title IV aid earned is based on the percentage of the term completed. Unearned funds must be returned to the U.S. Department of Education, which may result in the student owing a balance to the university. Students considering withdrawal are strongly encouraged to contact the Office of Financial Aid to understand the impact on their financial aid and future eligibility.
Additional Policies
- Report external scholarships promptly to avoid over-awards.
- Submit FAFSA/TASFA by priority deadlines for timely processing.
- Summer aid disbursement occurs only after the student begins the session and meets minimum enrollment requirements.
Explore financial aid opportunities at UTPB by visiting the UTPB Financial Aid Website. Learn about FAFSA, scholarships, grants, and more to make your education affordable. Start your journey today!