Federal financial aid (Pell grants, Stafford loans, etc.) is available to students who can demonstrate need. In 2007-2008 the maximum total of subsidized and unsubsidized Stafford loans for juniors was $5,500. State grants (from such states as Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont and the District of Columbia) may also be available to qualified students.
Because of the tax code, parents who have equity in a home may find a home equity loan an attractive financial option. Students are also encouraged to explore other sources of funding.
In 2007-2008 a total of $130,000 in direct grants, ranging from $500 to $18,000 was available to well-qualified students with demonstrated needs. This aid came from funds supported by alumni, alumnae, friends of the Junior Year in France and matching grants from corporations: the R. John Matthew Scholarship Fund, the Robert G. Marshall 25th Anniversary Fund, the Bates Memorial Fund, the Phillip Frost Endowed Scholarship Fund, as well as contributions to the Financial Aid Operating Budget.
Application for Financial Aid
The student's home college will normally process the federal financial aid application. Students should therefore first contact their own Financial Aid Office. Many colleges allow their institutional aid to be applied to the Junior Year in France.
Students who need assistance but cannot get it from their college should request the special information sheet from the Junior Year in France. In order to qualify for direct grants from the Junior Year in France, students should file a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or a "Renewal" FAFSA as soon as possible after January 1st and send a photocopy to the Junior Year in France. Both the home college and Sweet Briar College should be designated as recipients of the Student Aid Report (SAR).
Students must also submit copies of parent and student income tax forms and a copy of their College financial aid offer. These should reach the office by March 15th at the latest for the full year and fall semester, and October 15th for spring students. Since our grant money is limited, late applicants may be denied a grant, although they may still be eligible for federal and state grants and loans.
