Financial Information

Undergraduate College Expenses

Tuition

The tuition charge at Claremont McKenna College for the 2023-2024 academic year is $63,800. Tuition covers only a portion of the actual cost of the education each student receives. The College bears the additional cost through past gifts, now in use as endowments, and through current gifts. These additional resources in effect provide every student with a scholarship. Recent experience shows that tuition should be expected to increase yearly due to growing costs. At the same time, CMC is committed to helping students who need financial aid through an extensive program of scholarships, grants, loans, and employment. The College reserves the right to change fees at any time.

Part-Time Student Tuition

Students carrying fewer than three courses per semester pay tuition of $10,633.33 per course and $5,316.66 per one-half (0.5) course. For up to two-and-a-half (2.5) courses, these part-time student costs also apply to CMC students who have received permission to study in absentia. The charge for three (3) or more courses in absentia is full tuition. Students will be charged full-time tuition unless they obtain an approved petition from the Office of the Registrar or Dean of Students office.

Summer Senior Thesis Tuition

CMC students may register to complete the senior thesis requirement over the summer in consultation with a faculty reader. The charge for completing the senior thesis requirement in Summer 2023 is $5,316.66.

Housing and Food

• Residence Halls
  The charge for housing in a CMC residence hall is $10,560 per student, per year. The charge for a triple or quad housing is $9,220. These rental charges cover only the period when classes are scheduled, and the residence halls are closed for occupation during winter break. Students residing off campus, in non-CMC housing will be charged a $100 fee.
• CMC Apartments
  The rental charge for the on-campus apartments is $12,130 per student, per year. The rental charge for the off-campus apartments is $10,560 per student, per year.
• Food Plans
  Resident students may sign up for one of four food plan options:
  • 19 meals (per semester) for $9,090 per year
  • 14 meals (per semester) for $8,630 per year
  • 12 meals (per semester) for $8,180 per year
  • 8 meals (per semester) for $7,610 per year

Students who commute may purchase meals as they choose. The CMC dining hall is closed during winter and spring breaks. See Guide to Student Life for further residential life policies.

Student Fees

Students are responsible for a variety of fees, including the following:

• Student Activities Fee (ASCMC)
  Current students pay a student body fee of $350 per year; fees are used to support student activities.
• Student Orientation Fee
  First-time students pay a one-time $500 orientation fee in the year of entrance to the College; fees are used to support student orientation activities.  This is a one-time fee applicable to new students only.
• Vehicle Registration Fee
  All motor vehicles must be registered with Campus Safety during college registration, or within three days after the vehicle is brought to Claremont. The fee for vehicle registration is $75 per semester. With a valid registration, sophomores, juniors, and seniors may park in designated CMC parking lots. First years are not permitted to have cars on campus.
• Course Fees
  Students taking certain physical education courses are charged P.E. fees; some other courses also have fees. After the final date to enter courses, no course fees are refunded. Fee amounts are indicated individually in the online course schedule for courses with fees.
• Library Processing Fee
  The Claremont Colleges Libraries charge a processing fee for lost library books. The fee is not refundable if a book is later returned.

Other Expenses

Actual costs for a year at CMC include expenses for books and supplies, clothing, travel, recreation, and incidentals. Generally, books cost about $1,200 per year; other expenses vary considerably from student to student, but $1,500 is adequate for most students.  Travel expenses vary based on the residency of the student.

Insurance

All students are required to carry health insurance. Information about insurance expectations is provided to all students through the student portal and is available from the Office of the Dean of Students. An accident and sickness medical policy is available to all full-time students to protect them against major costs. It is designed to supplement the care provided by Student Health Services, which would be the primary care provider; it includes benefits for accidental injuries, hospitalization, surgery, doctors’ visits in the hospital, emergency care, and ambulance.

The College assumes no responsibility for loss or damage to students’ personal property; private coverage is advised.

Graduate School Expenses

The information on undergraduate expenses, scholarships, and financial aid does not apply to the graduate students enrolled at CMC.

Graduate Student Tuition

The tuition charge for the Master of Arts in Finance program is $68,525 for the one-year program.

Part-Time Graduate Student Tuition

Students carrying fewer than four courses per semester pay tuition of $8,565.63 per course. Graduate students will be charged full time tuition unless they obtain an approved petition from the Office of Registrar or Dean of Students office.

Graduate Student Fees and Other Expenses

• Vehicle Registration Fee
  All motor vehicles must be registered with Campus Safety during college registration, or within three days after the vehicle is brought to Claremont. The fee for vehicle registration is $150 for one year. With a valid registration, graduate students may park in designated CMC parking lots.
• Off-Campus Fee
  All students living off campus, in non-CMC housing, are charged a $100 fee.

Other Financial Information for Undergraduate Students

Payment Options

• Electronic Check (highly recommended)
  The preferred payment option is to make an electronic check (ACH) payment by accessing the Claremont McKenna College online student account system CASHNet powered by Transact. Authorization for other interested parties to review and make payments on behalf of a student’s account may be granted directly by the student from within the system. No service fees are charged for electronic check payments. Be sure to follow the instructions and carefully input your bank’s routing number and your checking or savings account number. DO NOT use your debit or credit card number.
• Paper Checks Sent via Traditional Mail
  Payment may also be made by sending paper checks via traditional mail to be delivered by the U.S. Postal Service to the address below. Include the student identification number in the memo line of all paper check payments. No cash payments will be accepted at this address.
  
  Claremont McKenna College
  PO Box 848142
  Los Angeles, CA 90084-8142

• Paper Checks Sent via Overnight Courier (FedEx, UPS, DHL, etc.)
  Paper checks may also be sent via overnight courier to the address below. Include the student identification number in the memo line of all paper check payments. No cash payments will be accepted at this address.
  
  Wells Fargo Lockbox E20001-049
  Claremont McKenna College
  3440 Flair Drive
  El Monte, CA 91731
   
• International Payments
  International payments may be submitted through any of the following;
  • CASHNet powered by Transact - available through the student portal or third-party access given by the student.
  • PayMyTuition - https://payment.paymytuition.com/paynow/cmc
  • Flywire - https://landing-pages.flywire.com/landing/claremontmckenna
• 529 Payments
  Payments can be made via mailed check using the traditional mail or overnight option. Keep in mind that 529s typically take 2-3 weeks to remit payment. As such you should plan to request payment as soon as the billing statement is posted. Plans now have a digital distribution option that saves time and improves transparency with real-time payment tracking. When requesting a withdrawal from your plan, look to see if a digital disbursement is available.
  529 payments may be submitted through the CASHNet website. Select your plan name and enter the plan account. Please note your 529 plan may not be supported. All payments are charged a $10.00 service fee.

*Regardless of the type of 529 plan, any charges not paid by the plan are the student’s responsibility and must be paid by the settlement deadline. Payments are considered received when the bank cashes the check, not when processed by a third party.

• Returned Payments
  Please note that at $25 fee will be assessed for a payment that is returned for any reason, including, but not limited to, insufficient funds and invalid account number.

Monthly Payment Plan

Annual charges may be paid in 8 monthly installments (due on the 20^th of August, September, October, and November for the fall semester and on the 20^th of January, February, March, and April for the spring semester). The service charge for the monthly payment plan is $100 per semester. This payment privilege may be revoked for cause.

Due Dates and Delinquent Accounts

Payments are due on the 20^th of each month. Delinquent accounts are subject to late charges and financial holds. A 1% late fee will be applied on the outstanding balance as of the last day of every month following the tuition due date.  Delinquent payments may cause the suspension of dining hall, residence, and classroom privileges. In the event of repeated failure to make payments on schedule, the privilege of deferred payments under a Payment Plan will be withdrawn. Students who have outstanding charges at the end of a semester may have grades and transcripts withheld until all bills have been paid. A financial hold will be placed on the account and the student will not be allowed to register for the following semester.

Refunds

Students who withdraw, take a leave of absence, or are approved for part-time status during the semester may be eligible for refunds, depending upon the time of the withdrawal. Students must give written notification to the registrar of their decision to withdraw or take a general leave of absence and complete the withdrawal procedures in order to be eligible for any refunds. Please note that refunds may impact your financial aid package, and it is recommended to contact the Office of Financial Aid for more detail. For medical leaves of absence students must consult the Dean of Students; please see the Dean of Students’ website for more information. For more information on Leave of Absence, Withdrawal, and Re-Enrollment policies please click here .

Housing and Food Refunds

Refunds for housing will generally not be prorated unless a new student occupant is immediately available. Refunds for food charges will be calculated on a prorated basis.

Tuition & Required Fees Refunds

Tuition and required fees will be prorated based on the number of days a student is in attendance at CMC, up to the 60 percent point of the semester. After that point, a student is no longer eligible for a refund. Students suspended or dismissed from the College for disciplinary reasons during the semester are not eligible to receive refunds. Students who received federal financial aid are subject to a pro-rata return of federal funds.

Claremont McKenna College reserves the right to withdraw students from the College for non-attendance. Students are responsible for confirming their enrollment at CMC or one of its approved off-campus study programs each semester by attending all registered courses, activating student ID cards (or equivalent), and communicating with College officials. Students who fail to satisfy any of these responsibilities may be withdrawn from the College for non-attendance as of the tenth day of the semester.  

Tuition insurance is available through Allianz Tuition Insurance. To get a quote or learn more about tuition insurance, call 1.888.427.5045 or visit their website.

Financing Global Education Programs

• Study Abroad
  CMC students participating in study abroad or international exchange programs are charged CMC tuition, room, and board fees. The ASCMC fee is not charged. CMC pays the study abroad or international exchange program tuition and fees, including room and board. CMC provides a meal allowance for students participating in programs which do not include meals. CMC also provides a travel allowance toward the cost of the round-trip airline ticket from Los Angeles to the study abroad destination. An allowance for local transportation and for international health insurance is also frequently provided as determined by program needs.
  
  Study abroad participants must personally pay for passport and visa fees, cost of medical examinations and immunizations, and refundable security/damage deposits. On site, students pay for personal needs such as books, supplies, clothing, medical charges, laundry, postage, recreation, entertainment, phone bills, snacks, and weekend or holiday travel. These costs vary considerably from site to site, and are likely to be higher than in Claremont. If a CMC student commits to a study abroad program, and then withdraws, the program’s non-refundable commit deposit and any CMC Center for Global Education issued stipends or airline ticket amounts will be added to the student’s account. Students receiving financial aid will continue to receive their full CMC package* during their semester off-campus. Scholarships for study abroad are listed below.

* Students who receive Veteran’s Affairs (VA) education benefits may not apply those benefits toward study abroad, as they are applicable only to Title-38-approved institutions. VA-benefit recipients should consider the domestic programs described below for their off-campus study experience.

• Washington, D.C. Program
  CMC students participating in the College’s Washington Program continue to pay CMC tuition and the ASCMC fee to cover the costs of the academic program, special events, field trips, and transportation. Expenses for housing, meals, health insurance, and local transportation are the responsibility of the participants. If a CMC student commits to the Washington, D.C. program, then withdraws, a $500 withdrawal fee will be added to the student’s account.  A non-CMC student will be invoiced a $500 withdrawal fee. Students receiving financial aid continue to receive state and federal aid, as well as private and merit scholarships. Students with CMC grants-in-aid will also continue to receive their grants. For students on the Washington Program, the total financial aid package received will include a moderate increase in aid to compensate students for the higher cost of living in Washington, D.C.
• Silicon Valley Program
  CMC students participating in the SVP pay CMC tuition and the SVP room fee to cover the costs of the academic program, special events, field trips, and housing. Expenses for meals, health insurance, and local transportation are the responsibility of the participants. If a CMC student commits to the Silicon Valley program and then withdraws prior to a housing commitment, a $500 withdrawal fee will be added to the student’s account. If housing has been secured for the student, a $1,000 withdrawal fee will be added to the student’s account. Non-CMC students will be invoiced the withdrawal fee. Students receiving financial aid continue to receive state and federal aid, as well as private and merit scholarships. Students with CMC grants-in-aid will also continue to receive their grants.
• U.S. Exchange Programs
  CMC students participating in U.S. exchange programs pay CMC tuition, room and board, and student body fee. Students receiving financial aid will continue to receive their full CMC package during their semester off-campus. Participants are responsible for transportation expenses to the program.

Veteran Affairs Compliance Policy

In accordance with Title 38 US Code 3679 subsection (e), this school adopts the following additional provisions for any students receiving benefits from U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Post 9/11 G.I. Bill® (Ch. 33) or Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment (Ch. 31).  To qualify for this provision, such students are required to produce the VA Certificate of Eligibility (COE) by the first day of class.

If the student’s financial obligations are covered 100% by VA funding, while payment to the institution is pending from the VA, Claremont McKenna College (CMC) agrees to the following:

• CMC will not prevent the student’s enrollment.
• CMC will not assess a late fee to the student.
• CMC will not require the student to secure alternative or additional funding.
• CMC will not deny the student access to any resources (classes, libraries, or other institutional facilities) available to other students who have satisfied their financial obligations to the institution.

Financial Aid for Undergraduate Students

Claremont McKenna College coordinates a comprehensive financial aid program consisting of scholarships, grants, loans, and student employment with funds from institutional resources, federal and state funding, and other sources. In order to be considered for any of these funds, students must apply for financial aid.  Approximately half of CMC students receive aid to help meet their expenses. The combined aid awarded to a student is called a financial aid award. Students who have questions about their award should inquire with the Office of Financial Aid (OFA).

Eligibility for Federal Financial Aid

To be eligible for federal financial aid, students must:

• Complete the current year’s Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
• Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-U.S. citizen as defined by the Department of Education,
• Make satisfactory academic progress,
• Be enrolled as a CMC student at least half-time, and
• Sign a statement of educational purpose/certification statement on refunds and default.

Federal aid eligibility is calculated using a methodology established by Congress.

Eligibility for Institutional Financial Aid

To be eligible for institutional financial aid, students must:

• Complete the current year’s CSS Profile
• Make satisfactory academic progress,
• Be enrolled as a CMC student full-time, and
• Sign a statement of educational purpose/certification statement on refunds and default.

Institutional aid (meaning aid provided directly from CMC) eligibility is determined by policies and practices developed by CMC. Students must maintain the following minimum course load in each semester enrolled at CMC to be eligible for financial aid.

Students enrolled in less than 3.0 total course units per semester are considered part-time at CMC and are billed accordingly. Part-time students are not eligible for institutional financial aid unless the OFA has approved a special exception.

Financial Need

Financial need is based on the cost of a CMC education, minus a student’s expected family contribution. Family contribution is calculated from the information provided by students and parents on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and/or the College Scholarship Service (CSS) Profile. The total amount of aid awarded to a student is based upon financial need as determined by the OFA. The calculation of a student’s need considers many financial factors in the applicant’s family circumstances. The financial need of all domestic students is reviewed each year and may be revised depending on changes to a family’s financial situation. Domestic students and their parents must apply annually for need-based financial aid.

Parent Contribution

A student’s parental contribution is based on past income, current assets, the total number of family members living in the parents’ household, and the number of siblings attending a four-year college. In order to be counted in CMC’s institutional methodology for determining financial need, siblings must be enrolled full-time in an undergraduate program that leads to a college degree. The calculations make allowances for necessary family expenses such as taxes, reasonable living costs, unusual medical expenses, and a percentage of assets for retirement.

Student Contribution

Students are expected to contribute to the cost of their CMC education. This contribution is based on a percentage of the student’s reported assets and a percentage of either previous year’s total income OR a set minimum amount based on the student’s classification, as described below.

The combination of the parent contribution and student contribution is the expected family contribution (EFC).

California Residents and Cal Grants

CMC requires all students who are California residents to apply for a Cal Grant. To be considered, students must submit a GPA Verification Form certified by a high school or college official no later than March 2 and it must be submitted directly to the California Student Aid Commission. For more information, please visit the California Student Aid Commission’s website.

AB540-eligible students must also complete the online California Dream Act Application at no later than the FAFSA and CSS deadlines listed below. AB540 students should also submit their GPA Verification Form to CSAC by March 2.

Applying for Financial Aid

CMC strongly recommends early application for financial aid. Financial Aid applications are available October 1 prior to each academic year. Federal tax information from two years prior will be utilized in completing the financial aid forms for the current academic year. New and returning students who apply late for financial aid are not guaranteed aid. Detailed information on the aid application process and links to the applications are available on the CMC OFA website.

New Students

Admitted domestic first-year and transfer students who apply for financial aid by the required deadlines and have financial need are awarded aid to meet 100% of their demonstrated need. While CMC strives to meet each student’s full demonstrated need, late applicants may not receive scholarships or grants because available funding was used to meet the need of on-time applicants. All first-year and transfer candidates who wish to apply for financial aid must complete their financial aid file by the following deadlines:

• All domestic and eligible non-U.S. citizens applying for any types of aid must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Students and parents will be required to create a Federal Student Aid (FSA) ID in order to complete the FAFSA. CMC’s federal school code is 001170.
• AB540-eligible students must complete the online California Dream Act Application. All California residents must also apply for the Cal Grant by submitting their GPA Verification Form to CSAC by March 2.
• All students, including domestic, international, eligible non-U.S. citizens, AB540, or undocumented students applying for aid, must complete the College Board’s CSS Profile application. CMC’s CSS school code is 4054.
• CMC utilizes the College Board’s Institutional Documentation Service (IDOC) to collect families’ federal income tax returns and other required documents. Students are notified by the College Board via email if an IDOC packet is required. Students must upload documents within two weeks of receiving notification. Upon admission, detailed financial aid information is available to students through the financial aid portal Net Partner.

Returning Students

Returning domestic students must reapply for financial aid for the next academic year by completing and submitting the FAFSA and CSS Profile starting on October 1 and no later than February 15 of the prior academic year and upload any requested documents to IDOC within two weeks of receiving notification. CMC provides renewal application instructions during the fall semester to all students receiving some form of financial aid. Additionally, the OFA hosts application workshops and encourages students to schedule individual appointments if they need assistance with the renewal process. If a student does not receive renewal application instructions, or has questions, it is the student’s responsibility to contact the OFA.

Returning domestic students who apply for financial aid by the February 15 deadline and have demonstrated financial need are awarded aid to meet 100% of their demonstrated need. While CMC strives to meet each student’s full demonstrated need, late applicants may not receive scholarships or grants because available funding was used to meet the need of on-time applicants. Returning students who initially did not receive any financial aid but find themselves in need because of changes in circumstances are encouraged to contact the OFA to discuss potential eligibility. However, students who did not apply for or did not receive need-based financial aid previously at CMC are not guaranteed they will receive financial aid or be considered for financial aid in the coming academic year. Each year financial aid consideration will be determined based on the availability of funds.

International Students

International students may apply for financial aid at the time of admission by the published deadlines; however, only a limited amount of institutional aid is available for international students. Financial aid for international students is only awarded at the time of admission. Students who do not apply for or do not receive financial aid upon admission will not receive financial aid or be considered for financial aid in future years while enrolled at CMC. Merit scholarships are also not available once enrolled.

International students who are awarded need-based aid in their first year will continue to receive aid in subsequent years (up to eight semesters) based on their EFC established in the first year and as long as students are enrolled full-time and make satisfactory academic progress toward their degree. Transfer students will receive up to eight semesters depending on the number of credits transferred prior to matriculation. No appeals or adjustments will be considered once awards are accepted upon admission.

Notification

Financial aid award letters are usually sent to new CMC students with their letter of admission, assuming the student filed the appropriate forms by the required deadline. CMC tries to help students make a commitment decision by providing financial aid information as soon as possible. Returning students that complete their file by the deadline will receive notification of their renewal award as soon as Spring grades post in late May/early June. All other returning students that complete their file after the deadline are notified of their renewal award during the summer. All financial aid awards are subject to the availability of funds.

Revision of Awards

CMC reserves the right to revise an award due to changes in federal, state, or institutional regulations or funding levels, and/or changes relevant to student financial eligibility determination as supported by documented information.

Changes in a Family’s Ability to Contribute

For domestic students, if a change arises in your family’s financial circumstance after an aid package has been made, the student should contact the OFA for guidance on how to request reconsideration of the financial aid package. Each case is reviewed individually. When greater financial eligibility is determined (and the student continues to meet other eligibility criteria), the award will be adjusted based on availability of funds. Additional explanation and documentation may be required before awards are revised. For international students, as stated above, estimated family contributions are established at the time of admission. If an international student experiences a change in a family’s financial circumstance this will not result in the awarding of additional aid.

Students with questions about their financial aid should consult the Office of Financial Aid.

Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) Policy

To be eligible for federal, state, and CMC institutional aid, students are required by the U.S. Department of Education (34 CFR 668.34) and College policy to maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) toward their degree objectives. CMC has established this SAP policy to ensure student success and accountability and to promote reasonable and timely advancement toward degree objectives. Federal, state, and CMC aid programs subject to this policy include:

• Federal Pell Grant
• Federal SEOG Grant
• Federal Work-Study
• Federal Direct Loans (Student and Parent PLUS loans)
• California State Cal Grant
• CMC College Grants
• CMC Merit Scholarships
• CMC College Loans
• College Work-Study

Aid programs not subject to this policy include:

• Outside Agency Scholarships
• Sponsored Agency Awards (including Department of Defense and Veterans Awards)
• Employee Tuition Assistance Benefits
• Departmental Awards

Students receiving financial aid that is not subject to the SAP policy should contact the awarding agency for rules regarding retention of these awards.

CMC expects undergraduate students to remain in good academic standing and complete eight course units per academic year (four units per semester) to maintain satisfactory academic progress toward the degree. Students who fall below a 2.0 cumulative grade point average and/or fall two or more units behind on their progress toward the degree are no longer making satisfactory academic progress.

The OFA determines compliance with SAP based on the following criteria:

1. GPA

Maintain at least a 2.0 cumulative grade point average. More information on grades and grade point averages is available in the Statement of Academic Policy .

2. Pace of Progression

Maintain a minimum number of units completed by the conclusion of each enrolled semester. Students are expected to complete at least four course units per semester to complete the 32 units required to graduate within eight semesters. Students must complete the minimum units required for SAP as indicated in the table below to maintain financial aid eligibility. Students who fall behind on the units expected for on-time graduation must recover credit deficits as soon as possible. The Office of the Registrar can advise students on plans for credit recovery.

Pace of progression may be calculated by dividing the cumulative number of units the student has completed by the cumulative number of units the student has attempted. To remain eligible for federal, state, and institutional aid, students must complete a minimum of 67% of all units attempted within a given academic year. For example, a student who attempts eight units in an academic year must earn credit for at least six to remain in compliance with this criterion.

Students, who withdraw from courses, either during the semester or retroactively, are not making satisfactory progress if they complete less than three (3) course units per semester. Students will not receive credit for incomplete courses until all work has been completed and a final grade posted by the Registrar. Credit for repeated courses is granted only if the student previously received a grade of F, NC, or NP, or if a course is defined in the catalog as repeatable for credit.

3. Maximum Time-Frame Allowance

Complete the Bachelor of Arts degree within a specified time frame. Students are expected to complete their degrees within eight total full-time semesters while maintaining SAP each semester. SAP semesters are calculated based on the number of units a student attempted during the semester. Full-time SAP semesters require at least 3 units to be attempted. Semesters where a student attempts 1.5-2.9 units count as 0.5 SAP semesters. Semesters in which students attempt less than 1.5 units do not count as SAP semesters. A student cannot receive federal aid beyond 150% of the SAP semesters required for the Bachelor of Arts degree (12 semesters or 48 attempted units). Students cannot receive more than 8 semesters of institutional aid without an approved 9th Semester of Aid appeal.

Students who do not satisfy any one of these three criteria will be subject to the terms below for failing to maintain SAP. Students filing SAP appeals must have a financial aid contract approved before any additional aid can be disbursed as described below.

Financial Aid Warning, SAP Appeals, and Regaining Eligibility for Financial Aid

The OFA monitors SAP for each student receiving financial aid at the end of each semester after grades are posted. Students who fall out of compliance will be notified in writing by the OFA, typically by CMC email. Students will be placed on financial aid warning if they have  failed to maintain SAP. Financial aid warnings alert students to their situation and advise them of the steps required to return to SAP compliance.

Students who have received an SAP warning and do not return to SAP compliance in the following semester must file an SAP appeal to receive further aid. If approved, the student will be subject to a financial aid contract in order to have future aid disbursed. Financial aid will not be disbursed, under any circumstances, for students participating in the SAP appeal process until they acknowledge the terms of their financial aid contract for the subsequent semester and through graduation. Without exception, students on financial aid warning, those filing SAP appeals, and those on a financial aid contract must have all grades finalized for the previous semester before aid can be disbursed for a subsequent semester.

Financial Aid Warning

Students who do not meet the GPA or Pace of Progression requirement to remain in SAP compliance are issued a one-time, one-semester financial aid warning that allows them to recoup any GPA or credit deficits by the end of the subsequent semester. CMC will disburse aid for the subsequent semester for these students without requiring an SAP appeal or a financial aid contract. Students who regain compliance with SAP at the conclusion of their one-time, one semester warning are removed from warning. Students may receive a financial aid warning only once during their pursuit of their CMC degree, though students who are removed from warning due to a grade correction will retain access to one warning period in the future. Students are responsible for informing the OFA of any grade corrections as soon as they are recorded.

SAP Appeals

Students who fail to remove themselves from financial aid warning after one semester, who fall out of SAP compliance two or more times, or who have reached the maximum time-frame allowance will be ineligible for further financial aid unless they file an SAP appeal and have a financial aid contract approved. SAP appeals must be filed at least ten business days prior to the start of a semester. If students are enrolled while an appeal is pending and the appeal is ultimately denied, they will be responsible for all charges incurred during that semester without the benefit of any financial aid. Financial aid cannot be reinstated for a previous semester.

This policy applies equally to currently enrolled students and students seeking to re-enroll at CMC after a period of time away. Appeals from re-enrolling students will be evaluated only after re-enrollment decisions have been confirmed and any account holds are lifted. Note that re-enrollment decisions are independent from financial aid funding decisions.

SAP appeals must include the following components and should be emailed to the OFA:

1. A written statement that describes why the student has failed to maintain SAP and details the corrective action the student has taken (or will take) to return to SAP, and
2. A formal degree plan developed in conjunction with the Registrar or Associate Registrar that outlines how the student will return to SAP and satisfy all outstanding degree requirements.

For the OFA to consider an appeal, the Registrar’s Office must confirm that the student’s formal degree plan will lead to graduation within eight total full-time semesters (for institutional aid) or within 150% of the standard time expected for degree completion (for federal aid). Once filed, the OFA will review appeals and develop a financial aid contract to which the student would be subject if the appeal is approved. The Office of Financial Aid may approve appeals on its own authority when the appeal includes all required elements and a reasonable plan for returning to SAP. If the OFA cannot approve the appeal because a required element is missing or the plan presented is not reasonable, it will be remanded back to the student for revision and resubmission within five business days. If the OFA determines that the re-submitted appeal still lacks all required elements and/or a reasonable plan for returning to SAP, the student’s appeal will be denied.

While institutional aid is generally approved only for eight total semesters, students may file a 9th Semester of Aid appeal to request an additional semester of institutional aid if their progress has been delayed by a documented circumstance beyond their control. In such cases, students must submit a 9th Semester of Aid appeal form explaining the reason and supplement their appeals with documentation of the circumstance at issue. The appeal form also requires students to meet with the Office of the Registrar to create an academic plan towards graduation. Appeals for an additional semester of institutional aid is reviewed by the Office of Financial Aid, and   if approved, CMC may increase the maximum time frame criterion as part of the student’s financial aid contract. CMC will make no adjustments for students seeking additional academic credentials beyond those required to complete the Bachelor of Arts degree, and no appeals will be approved for federal aid beyond 150 percent of the standard eight semesters expected for degree completion.

All appeal decisions are final. Students whose appeals are approved receive a financial aid contract and remain bound to its terms until they return to SAP. Students whose appeals are denied remain ineligible for financial aid. All appeal decisions are issued to students in writing, typically via CMC email. Students whose aid eligibility is reinstated through an appeal must be aware that aid is awarded on a funds-available basis.

Financial Aid Contracts

The financial aid contract is a written agreement in which the student commits to following a specific academic plan that leads to timely completion of the degree. Contracts may alter the type and amount of financial aid for which the student may be eligible. Terms of the contract may be stricter than the standard SAP regulations. Acceptance of the approved contract supersedes all other SAP regulations. Any deviation by the student from the terms of the contract may result in the forfeiture of future financial aid eligibility.

Students who are on a financial aid contract as a result of an approved appeal and fail to meet the terms of the accepted contract may submit a subsequent SAP appeal. Second appeals are approved only due to exceptional circumstances beyond the student’s control. Students must document specifically the exceptional circumstances that prevented meeting the terms of their contract and verify that the circumstances have been resolved. All SAP appeals must be submitted to the OFA as soon as possible. Financial aid funds will not be disbursed without an approved SAP appeal. Funds cannot be retroactively disbursed once an enrollment period has ended.

Forfeiture of Financial Aid

State financial aid funds may be terminated, rescinded, or denied as follows:

California Education Code Section 69810 provides:

“Any recipient of this state financial aid who, on the campus of the university, college, or other institution of higher education, willfully and knowingly commits any act likely to disrupt the peaceful conduct of the activities of the campus, and is arrested and convicted of a public offense arising from the act, may be determined to be ineligible for any state financial aid for a period not to exceed the ensuing two academic years.

“Any recipient of this state financial aid who, after a hearing, is found to have willfully and knowingly disrupted the orderly operation of the campus, but has not been arrested and convicted, may be determined to be ineligible for any state financial aid for the period as the hearing board may determine, not to exceed the ensuing two academic years.

“Any recipient who is suspended from an institution of higher education for these acts shall be ineligible for state financial aid for a period not less than the time of the suspension.”

Federal law no longer rescinds federal student aid due to drug convictions that occur while a student is enrolled and receiving federal aid. A student may not be eligible to receive certain types of federal aid if incarcerated or subject to an involuntary civil commitment following incarceration for a sexual offense. Please contact the OFA for more information.

Student eligibility for institutional financial aid is contingent on full-time enrollment as a CMC student.

Length of Institutional Financial Aid

First-time, new students may receive institutional financial aid for up to eight (8) semesters. Only under special circumstances, as described above, may a student petition for a ninth (9th) semester of aid. The College rarely approves appeals for institutional grants for students requesting to enroll in a 10th semester. However, if a student has a compelling circumstance and wishes to submit an appeal for a 10th semester of aid, they must submit an appeal to the Office of Financial Aid.

Transfers

Eligibility for transfer students is determined by their academic classification at entry and their expected graduation date. The Registrar determines the transfer courses accepted toward the degree, which determines the number of remaining semesters for which aid may be offered.

A transfer student’s eligibility depends on the number of semesters remaining for normal completion of the degree based on the chart below at the time of their matriculation to CMC.

Student Rights and Responsibilities

It is the student’s right to:

• Know what financial aid programs are available at CMC.
• Know the deadlines for submitting applications.
• Expect fair treatment in the awarding of financial aid.
• Have full information on the requirements for various types of aid available at CMC.
• Know what portion of the financial aid must be repaid and what portion is grant or gift aid.
• Know if the student must apply for a particular type of aid, such as financing offered by CMC.
• Reject any particular type of financial aid or other assistance.
• Appeal the financial aid award or any other decisions of the OFA pertaining to the student which do not fall under the jurisdiction of federal or state regulations. The right includes answers to questions, explanations of OFA policies and decisions, and the request for reconsideration.

It is the student’s responsibility to:

• Read and respond timely to all communications from the OFA.
• Apply for financial aid on a yearly and timely basis. Students who do not file on time or fail to supply the OFA with requested documentation will seriously jeopardize their chances of receiving financial aid.
• Access the financial aid portal, Net Partner, for a list of missing applications and documents, financial aid award updates and current status.
• Accept or decline the components of a financial aid award via Net Partner.
• Be aware of and comply with all financial aid application deadlines.
• Provide correct information. Please be aware that misrepresenting information on the financial aid application is a violation of College policy and federal law and is subject to fine, imprisonment, or both.
• Read, understand, and accept the responsibility for all agreements signed. Students should keep copies of all documents for record-keeping purposes.
• Report all new or increased resources if they were not known by the OFA at the time of first acceptance of an aid offer. Failing to report all resources could jeopardize future eligibility for financial aid and result in repayment of funds previously awarded.
• Complete and return the Outside Scholarship Form to the OFA. All new students must return this form whether or not they are receiving outside scholarships. Returning students are required to return the form ONLY if they are receiving an outside scholarship.
• Keep records as a matter of good practice, and receipts of expenses incurred during the academic year. If a student applies for additional funds, they must provide receipts and records to substantiate their additional need.
• Notify the OFA if any of the following changes occur:
  • Legal name changes
  • Change of permanent address
  • Drop below full-time enrollment
  • Leave of absence
  • Withdrawal from CMC
  • Transfer to another school
• Be aware of possible tax liability for grants and scholarships received that exceed tuition, fees, books, and supplies. Please consult a tax advisor or the IRS for further information.
• Complete an Entrance Counseling Session prior to receiving the first loan disbursement.
• Complete an Exit Interview before withdrawing, transferring, or graduation from CMC. Exit interviews are required for all federal and college loans.

Repay any loans, regardless of whether the student is successful in completing the program and obtaining employment.

Credit Balance

Students may have credit balances on their account. These balances are not disbursed until funds creating the balance (a student grant, for example) are received and processed.

Types of Financial Aid

Grants

CMC Grants

CMC uses gifts given to the College by individuals and organizations to fund college grants to help students with their college costs. Grants are usually available to students who demonstrate financial need and apply for financial aid.

Cal Grants

The California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) awards Cal Grants on the basis of academic ability and financial need. CMC requires all aid recipients, who are California residents, to submit a GPA Verification Form to CSAC by the March 2 deadline in order to determine Cal Grant eligibility.

Federal Pell Grants

Federal Pell Grants are a direct grant from the federal government to students.

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG)

FSEOG are awarded to CMC by the government to aid exceptionally needy students. Individual FSEOG grants vary in amount and are awarded based on a student’s need.

Veterans Benefits/ Post-9/11 Yellow Ribbon Program

Eligible CMC students may receive education benefits from the U. S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Up to 10 students at CMC are eligible to receive Yellow Ribbon funding. Only veterans entitled to the maximum benefit rate, as determined by service requirements, or their designated transferees, may receive this funding. The maximum CMC contribution per student per year for Yellow Ribbon recipients is $15,000, which is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

Loans

​Federal Direct Loans

The William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program offers a variety of low-interest federal loans to help students pay for college. These loans are made and insured by the federal government. These loans bear an origination fee and have a fixed interest rate that is determined on July 1 each year. Borrowers begin repayment in quarterly installments six months after they graduate, drop below half-time enrollment, or withdraw from the College. Postponement of repayment is available for graduate studies, military service, and other federally-approved circumstances. ​

Federal Direct PLUS Loans

Federal Direct Parent PLUS Loans are available regardless of demonstrated financial need to parent borrowers (biological parents, adoptive parents, and stepparents). More than one eligible parent may apply. Eligible borrowers must be U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizens. The borrower must not have an adverse credit history as determined by the U.S. Department of Education federal loan processor. Parent borrowers, who fail to meet the established credit criteria, may appeal the decision on studentaid.gov or apply with an endorser (co-borrower) who does meet the credit criteria. Parents who establish eligibility by virtue of an appeal or an endorser must complete online counseling at www.studentaid.gov. If a parent is ineligible to borrow under the Federal Parent PLUS Loan program, the student may be eligible to borrow an additional Unsubsidized Federal Direct Loan.

Each July 1st, the federal government establishes a new interest rate for loans made that academic year. Once established, the interest rate is fixed for the life of the loan. Interest on the Federal Direct PLUS Loan begins to accrue at disbursement. Federal Parent PLUS Loans bear an origination fee, which is retained by the federal government to offset the cost of the program. Loans are disbursed in two equal installments not earlier than 10 days before the start of each semester for eligible students. The first scheduled payment is due 60 days after the full disbursement. These loans have a 10-year repayment term, with no prepayment penalty, and may be deferred while the student is enrolled at least half-time. Repayment periods may be extended by the government based on amounts borrowed.

Subsidized and Unsubsidized Federal Direct Loans

These loans are made directly by the U.S. Department of Education to students. Subsidized Federal Direct Loans are awarded based on need. Unsubsidized Federal Direct Loans are available regardless of need and may be used to replace a portion of the family contribution. The federal government pays the interest on the Subsidized Federal Direct Loan while the student is in school, grace, or deferment periods. The student is responsible for interest that accrues on the Unsubsidized Loan, which starts accruing at the time of disbursement.

Each July 1st the federal government establishes a new interest rate for all loans made that academic year. Once established, the interest rate is fixed for the life of the loan. Federal Direct Loans bear an origination fee, which is retained by the Department of Education to offset costs of the program. The origination fee varies annually and is set on October 1st each year. Federal Direct Loans have a 6-month grace period after the student graduates, withdraws, or drops below half-time status. During the in-school and grace periods, payments are not expected, but interest will accrue on the Unsubsidized Loan. Repayment generally lasts 10 years, but may be extended by the government based on amounts borrowed. Loans may be deferred for at least half-time enrollment in an approved program of study.

More information on federal annual student loan limits, interest rates, and loan fees can be found on the OFA website.

College Student Loans

College student loans are also available. CMC uses these funds when needed to supplement federal loan programs. College student loan funds may carry interest, and monthly repayment of the principal usually begins six months after students leave CMC, graduate, or cease enrollment on at least a half-time basis. CMC may postpone repayment for full-time graduate study.

More information on CMC loan interest rates and loan fees can be found on the OFA website.

Student Employment

Many students contribute part of their college expenses through student school year employment, which is funded by both the College and Federal Work-Study programs. On-campus jobs are available in such places as the Athenaeum, Information Technology Services, Roberts Pavilion, and in a number of academic or administrative offices, as well as our research institutes. The work-study program enables CMC to place eligible students in all on-campus or off-campus (community service) jobs funded by both the federal program and CMC. Students must apply for financial assistance each year and meet federal or institutional eligibility requirements.

Not all campus employment is paid out of the federal or institutional work-study funding programs. Some departments that have already filled their work-study student allocation are able to pay a student out of their department’s budget.

Non-work-study employment is also available on campus. Non-work-study employment is funded through individual departmental budgets. These positions are filled directly through the department. Jobs are also available off campus in Claremont and nearby communities. On-campus and off-campus jobs are posted through the Handshake portal. This portal is maintained by Career Services at the Soll Center for Student Opportunity.

Outside Scholarships and Additional Resources

If a student receives financial aid or additional financial resources from any other source after the FAFSA and/or CSS Profile has been filed, or after CMC has made a financial aid offer, the student must notify the OFA. An adjustment will be made in the College’s financial aid offer so that it will not exceed the financial eligibility of the student (as required by federal and state regulations). Institutional policy states that outside scholarships will first replace the student’s self-help (work study and/or loans) awards where available, thus reducing the amount a student may need to work or borrow. If the total of a student’s outside scholarship(s) exceeds the self-help awards, the OFA will allow the outside scholarship to replace the student contribution before reducing other forms of aid, including CMC college grants.

Financial Aid and Global Education

Students who receive financial aid and participate in semester-length or year-long global education programs will continue to receive their financial aid eligibility for state and federal aid, as well as private and merit scholarships. Students with CMC grants-in-aid continue to receive their grants.

Disbursement of Financial Aid Funds

Grants, scholarships, and loans are generally disbursed annually in two installments and are credited directly to individual student billing accounts. Work-study funding is paid bi-weekly directly to the student as earned.

Financial Aid Refund Policies

If a student who receives federal aid withdraws before the end of the semester, the College uses the formula mandated by the U.S. Department of Education to return these funds. Federal funds must be returned in the following order:

• Unsubsidized Direct Loan
• Subsidized Direct Loan
• PLUS Loan
• Pell Grant
• Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
• Other Federal Title IV Programs

Work-study is not included in the calculation of a refund.

A proration of institutional aid is also calculated and returned to the College based on the student’s last day of enrollment.

Scholarships

Scholarship Programs for Undergraduate Students

Frank Seaver Leadership Scholarship

The Frank Seaver Leadership Scholarship is a renewable full-tuition scholarship awarded to a very select group of first-year students every year. This scholarship is awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional promise to become leaders, intent on making a positive impact on the world. Students who wish to be considered must apply for admission by December 1.

Students selected will receive a merit scholarship equal to full tuition. (Students and their families are responsible for indirect costs such as room and board, transportation as well as individual personal expenses.) Additionally, two monetary stipends of up to $5,000 each will be granted to each Seaver Scholar to use in the pursuit of summer leadership development opportunities such as internships, community service, or academic travel. Throughout their time at CMC, Seaver Scholars will be expected to participate in various small group enrichment programs, provided with the intention to further developing their leadership potential.

Recipients of the McKenna Achievement Award Merit Scholarship will be invited to an on-campus interview in mid-April to be considered for the Frank Seaver Leadership Scholarship. Candidates who are selected will be notified by the Office of Admission and Financial Aid in mid-April.

Academic scholarships are awarded with the expectation that recipients will perform academically at a level commensurate with their ability. To remain eligible for the Frank Seaver Leadership Scholarship, students must at least maintain a GPA of B (3.00) and make satisfactory progress towards the degree. The two most recent consecutive semesters are used to determine if a student has met these standards. If a student fails to meet these requirements, the scholarship may be suspended until the requirements are met. Students should meet with the OFA if they anticipate they will not meet these requirements to discuss the future of their scholarship.

McKenna Achievement Award Merit Scholarship

The McKenna Achievement Award is a renewable $15,000 scholarship. There are approximately 12 to 15 first-year students with this award in each CMC class. Students who wish to be considered must apply for admission by December 1.

Candidates who are selected will be notified by the Office of Admission and Financial Aid at the same time they receive their admission notification letter.

Finalists for the McKenna Achievement Awards are chosen from among all candidates for admission who have straight proven academic excellence in high school courses, significant extracurricular activities, and impactful leadership experience.

These awards are made possible through the special assistance of the H.N. & Frances C. Berger Foundation, the Donald C. McKenna Foundation, Harris and Ann Seed, Shirley Smith Peschka, the Alice Tweed Tuohy Foundation, and the Summit Foundation. The awards are:

• Berger Scholarships
• McKenna Achievement Awards
• Seed Scholarships
• Tuohy Honor Scholarships
• Summit Scholarships

Academic scholarships are awarded with the expectation that recipients will perform academically at a level commensurate with their ability. To remain eligible for McKenna Achievement Awards Program scholarships, students must at least maintain a GPA of B (3.00) and make satisfactory progress towards the degree. The two most recent consecutive semesters are used to determine if a student has met these standards. If a student fails to meet these requirements, the scholarship may be suspended until the requirements are met. Students should meet with the OFA if they anticipate they will not meet these requirements to discuss the future of their scholarship.

QuestBridge Scholars

CMC partners with QuestBridge, a nationally recognized leader of programs supporting high-achieving student access to the leading U.S. colleges and universities. Since 1994, QuestBridge has successfully identified and assisted low-income academically accomplished youth with access to elite post-secondary institutions. All QuestBridge finalists enrolled at CMC are encouraged to participate in the QuestBridge Scholar Network Program.

Prospective QuestBridge students may apply using the QuestBridge application if they ranked CMC as part of the match process. All ‘matched’ QuestBridge Scholars are members of the CMC QuestBridge Scholar Community. The award is a renewable full-tuition award based on financial need. CMC QuestBridge Scholars receive funding support for internships, research or academic travel during the summer following the first year.

Interdisciplinary Science Scholarship (ISS)

A grant from The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation funds the Interdisciplinary Science Scholarship (ISS), providing full-tuition scholarships for 8 to 10 entering first-year students. Designed for students interested in pursuing both a science and non-science double or dual major while at CMC, students will be asked to explore the idea of science leadership via a dual or double major such as government-biology, international relations-physics, chemistry-Spanish or one of a host of other possible combinations available within CMC’s extensive curriculum.

Specifically, the scholarship awards will be focused on outstanding students from lower-income households. ISS Scholars will be selected based on financial need, academic excellence, leadership potential, and passion for science. They will be required to graduate with a dual or double major in a science and non-science discipline.

Students who wish to be considered for the ISS scholarship should apply to CMC by December 1 for priority consideration. Students should be sure to indicate intended majors in both a science and non-science discipline. In addition, students should fill out the FAFSA and CSS Profile by published deadlines.

Kravis Scholarship

The establishment of the Kravis Scholars Fund by Henry Kravis ‘67 provides generous need-based financial aid assistance to under-served and first-generation CMC students. Students receive a summer-sponsored internship immediately after their first-year in college. Special mentorship and support is provided throughout their college careers. Applicants must be first generation to college, from underserved backgrounds, and have demonstrated financial need. Funding support is available for an internship, research or academic travel during the summer immediately following the first year. Faculty mentorship is also provided. There are up to 12 entering first-year students awarded yearly.

Wagener Family Global Scholarship

Trustee Shaw Wagener ‘81, who was an international relations major at CMC and studied abroad in Russia, before becoming a national leader in emerging market investment, supports this scholarship program. The Global Scholars program provides direct financial support for students who qualify for need-based aid, first-year summer internships, and stipends for students on financial aid to go abroad in the spring semester of their sophomore year to non-English speaking countries. For those Wagener Scholars who meet specific benchmarks, additional summer internship and summer savings support is available beyond the first year. Applicants must demonstrate an interest in global affairs, spending time abroad and learning new languages. Recipients receive funding support for an internship, research or academic travel immediately following the first year, and a global education program in the second semester of sophomore year to a non-English speaking country. There are up to six entering first-year students awarded yearly.

Podlich Scholar Award

Funded by CMC Life Trustee Bill Podlich ‘66, this $10,000 merit-based scholarship is renewable for four years, totaling $40,000, and is awarded to entering first-year domestic, middle-income students. Scholarship selection is based on a demonstrated commitment through academic achievements, accolades, and co-curricular and extracurricular achievements to the fields of economics, government, and Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE) and exceptional leadership and ethics. As a Podlich Scholar Award recipient, students receive dedicated summer funding of up to $5,000 to support a qualifying summer internship/experience between their first and second year. To maintain scholarship eligibility, students must maintain good academic standing at CMC. Students who wish to be considered must apply for admission by December 1 and complete the financial aid application process by completing the FAFSA and CSS Profile by published financial aid deadlines.

National Merit Scholarship

Each year, CMC sponsors several National Merit Scholarships in the amount of $1,000. National Merit finalists who select CMC as their first-choice school are eligible for consideration. Students that are selected to receive a National Merit Scholarship, by either the National Merit Scholarship Corporation or by another corporate sponsor, are ineligible to receive a CMC National Merit Scholarship. In some cases, other College need-based aid may be reduced to coordinate with California State Grants and Federal Programs.

Reserve Officer Training Corps Scholarship (ROTC)

Army Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) Scholarships are available to qualified applicants, including entering first-year students.

Students may compete for four-year ROTC scholarships while in their junior and senior year of high school (early and regular decision cycles). The deadline for the online application for ROTC scholarships is December 1. After December 1 and before the start of the College’s fall semester, applicants can still apply directly to the Department of Military Science and Leadership. In addition to the benefits provided by ROTC, CMC will provide scholarship recipients living on campus with a grant to cover the cost of the standard residence hall and 16-meal plan.

Students on campus may also compete for three-and-a-half, three-, and two-year scholarships. Like the high school scholarships, these scholarships provide full tuition, books, the tiered tax-free stipend, and full room and board.

Qualified students can enroll in Army ROTC at any point in their college careers, provided they have at least two full years of full-time academic coursework remaining. Participation in the basic course (first-year/sophomore year) carries no military obligation, except for scholarship students. Students normally sign contracts in the fall of their junior year. Service obligation is four years of active duty or eight years of reserve duty. Students may apply for a guaranteed reserve forces duty, either scholarship or non-scholarship. Graduate students may also participate in ROTC as long as they remain full-time students and have two years remaining at their graduate institutions. Education delays are available to complete advanced schooling, usually in medical, dental, or law school.

Students with prior service time, prior ROTC training, or reserve training may qualify for immediate advanced program placement. Selected students also may participate in a reserve or National Guard unit while in ROTC, drawing pay from both.

All questions about Army ROTC should be directed to the Military Science and Leadership Department, Bauer Center South, Room 101, (909) 621-8102.

Margaret Martin Brock Internship Award (Washington Program)

The Margaret Martin Brock Internship Fund is an endowed fund whose income is available to supplement general expenses each semester for two students who participate in the Washington Program. This scholarship is awarded by the selection committee for the internship program. No application is required.

The CMC Internship Award (Washington Program)

The CMC Internship Award is an endowed scholarship for two students who participate in the Washington Program. The scholarship is awarded by the selection committee for the internship program; no application required.

Dreier Roundtable Scholar Award (Washington Program)

Students who have an interest in public service and governmental studies with the promise of a future career in public policy will be considered for the Dreier Roundtable Scholar Award of $3,000. The scholarship is awarded by the selection committee for the internship program; no application required.

The Mary and Richard Butler Award (Global Education)

Deeply committed to global awareness, CMC Trustee Richard Butler and his wife, Mary Butler, have generously provided funding for CMC students participating in global education abroad. These awards of up to $2,500 each include the named grants of longtime advocates for student learning abroad: CMC faculty emeritus Dr. P. Edward Haley, and current faculty members Dr. Marcos Massoud and Dr. Jonathan Petropoulos. The purpose of these awards is to help students defray global education expenses, to facilitate their semester of study in countries around the world, to take advantage of these rewarding opportunities, and to explore cultural understanding through personal experiences in the host culture. Eligible students apply through the Office of Global Education after they are approved for global education by CMC.

The Wagener Family Awards for Sophomore Study Abroad (Global Education)

Thanks to the generosity of CMC Trustee Mr. Shaw Wagener ‘81, CMC students who receive need-based financial aid and are studying abroad during the second-semester of sophomore year in non-English speaking destinations can apply for $2,500 towards their international experience. Eligible students apply through the Office of Global Education after they are approved for global education by CMC.

Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship (Global Education)

The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship provides grants for U.S. undergraduate students of limited financial means. Students must be a Federal Pell Grant recipient at time of application and during the global education academic term. Contact the Center for Global Education for more information.

Boren Award (Global Education)

Boren Awards provide support to U.S. undergraduate students pursuing the study of languages and cultures currently underrepresented in global education and critical to U.S. national security. These merit scholarships for students with financial need may provide up to $12,500 for a semester of global education abroad through CMC or up to $25,000 for an academic year broad.

In addition to those listed above, CMC has a variety of scholarships and scholar communities available to eligible students. For more information, please visit the Scholar Communities Program website.

National Scholarships and Fellowships

CMC students have been awarded some of the most prestigious scholarships and fellowships in the nation, including the Churchill, Freeman, Fulbright, Goldwater, Marshall, Mellon, National Science Foundation, Rhodes, Rotary, Soros, and Truman awards. Many programs require nomination and/or selection by the College and designated faculty members serve as program advisors to assist students with the application and, where appropriate, interview process. The majority of these programs offer funding for students after graduation but a number provide funding for undergraduates. Applications for these programs are very competitive and the process is time-consuming; interested students must start the application process well before the published program deadline dates.

General information sessions as well as program specific information sessions are held at the beginning of the fall semester and during the spring semester. Further information is available by contacting the Director of Fellowship Advising at the Center for Global Education.

Undergraduate Scholarships and Grant Funds

CMC provides a comprehensive scholarship and grant fund from its own general institutional resources. In addition, numerous donors have established several hundred scholarships to fund CMC grants. These funds are awarded based on specific donor preferences. To learn more about specific awards, contact the OFA. Students must complete the financial aid application process to be considered for these scholarships and grants. 

Funds provided by donor gifts include Alumni Fund Annual Scholarships. Additional scholarships include a number of Endowed Scholarships.

Scholarship Programs for Graduate Students

Significant scholarship funding is available for students participating in the Master of Arts in Finance program. Scholarships are determined as part of the admission process to the program. Students applying for the Master of Arts in Finance program should contact the Robert Day School for details on available financial support.

Federal Regulations and the Academic Year

Federal financial aid regulations state that the academic year consists of two semesters. Classes begin on a Monday in the fall semester and a Tuesday in the spring semester; both semesters end with the last day of final exams. Students are expected to complete an average of four (4) course units per semester, which is the equivalent of 16 semester units per term, in order to maintain their eligibility for financial aid.

The fall semester includes partial weeks at the beginning of the term, fall break, and Thanksgiving. The spring semester begins the third Tuesday in January following winter break.