One Stop FAQs

FINANCIAL AID OFFICE FAQ

REGISTRAR FAQ

STUDENT ACCOUNTS FAQ

MILITARY & VET SERVICES FAQ

STUDENT EMPLOYMENT FAQ

How do I view my bill?

Log-in to Workday → Go to "Finances" under Menu → Click on "Welcome to the Online Student Account Center!" → Click "here" - this will open a separate window with the Billing Center → Click on "On Demand Statement" to generate the most current billing statement.

How do I pay my bill online?

Log-in to Workday → Go to "Finances" under Menu → Click on "Welcome to the Online Student Account Center!" → Click "here" - this will open a separate window with the Billing Center → To make a payment click the blue button that says "Make Payment".

How do I add an authorized user to view my account and make payments?

Log-in to Workday → Go to "Finances" under Menu → Click on "Welcome to the Online Student Account Center!" → Authorized Users.

The authorized user will receive an email from [email protected] with their temporary password that expires in 24 hours. If attempting to use the password after 24 hours, the student will need to re-authorize the user. 

Log-in to the Authorized User Online Student Account Center.

How can an authorized user view my bill or make a payment?

Log-in to the Authorized User Online Student Account Center.

When is my payment due?

For all on-campus programs (or non @Simmons Online programs), the payment deadlines are:

• Fall Semester - August 15th
• Spring Semester - December 15th
• Summer Semester - May 5th

For all @Simmons Online programs, payment is due 7 days prior to the start of each term. Learn more about Payment Policies and Deadlines.

What are the Cashier’s Office hours?

Regular hours for the Cashier’s Office are Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

What is the penalty for late or non-payment?

Currently up to $200 in late fees per term and a financial hold. Learn more about Payment Policies and Deadlines.

What forms of payment does the Cashier’s Office accept?

The Cashier’s Office accepts cash and check payments.

Please contact the Cashier’s Office to schedule an appointment to make a cash or check payment. Additionally, Student Financial Services can also assist with check payments.

Do you mail paper bills?

Simmons University does not mail paper bills. Students and authorized users receive an email notification when billing statements are posted online and can view their on-demand statement at any time. Learn more about Billing and Payment.

What transactions can be carried out at the Cashier’s Office?

The following transactions can be carried out at the Cashier’s Office.

What methods of payment can I use to pay my bill?

Online e-check, online credit card, check, money order and wire. Learn more about Payment Methods.

What is the process for getting a replacement student ID?

If you require a replacement student ID, a $10 fee should first be paid at the Cashier Window.  Once the fee is paid, a receipt will be provided to you by the cashier.  This receipt should then be taken to the Campus Card office, located in the Palace Road Building, First Floor, Room P-107 where a new ID will be created for you.

Is there a fee for online payment?

There is no fee for online e-checks. There is a 3% fee for credit card payments collected by the payment processing company, not Simmons. Learn more about Payment Methods.

What is the process for receiving an emergency loan?

The Emergency Fund Loan is available to all undergraduate students who need to borrow money in an emergency situation. Please email Student Affairs to meet with a member of the Student Affairs staff to start the loan process.

How quickly after I make a payment will it reflect on my account?

Electronic payments made to student accounts are posted immediately and will reflect on your account after the transaction is complete. Please allow 3-5 business days for a mailed check to be received and posted to student accounts. 

Please be in touch with Student Financial Services if you do not see that a student account payment has been posted to your account within this timeframe.

What is the process for receiving an expense reimbursement?

For reimbursements of $100 or less, the Simmons University Expense Report must be filled out and any receipts attached.  The expense report must then be signed by the department budget manager.  Once the form is completed and signed, it should be taken to the Cashier’s Window a cash reimbursement will be provided.  For reimbursements greater than $100, the Simmons University Expense Report should also be completed and signed by the department budget manager.  Once signed the form and any receipts should be brought to the Accounts Payable department.  Accounts Payable can be reached via email at [email protected].

What is the process for receiving a cash advance?

Cash advances can be obtained by students for Events associated with student organizations.  Students should work directly with the Office of Student Leadership and Activities (OSLA) for approval of cash advances.  Once approved, cash advance forms (provided by OSLA) can be brought to the Cashier’s Window to receive the approved amount.  Within five business days of receiving a cash advance, all receipts and any unused funds must be returned to the Cashier’s Window in order to close the advance. Individuals with outstanding cash advances will not have new cash advance requests fulfilled.

How do I sign up for a payment plan?

Student: Log-in to Workday → Go to "Finances" under Menu → Click on "Welcome to the Online Student Account Center!" → Click "here" - this will open a separate window with the Billing Center → Payment Plans.

Authorized User: The student must first set you up as an authorized user. To be set up as an authorized user, the student must log-in to Workday → Go to "Finances" under Menu → Click on "Welcome to the Online Student Account Center!” → Authorized Users.

The authorized user will then receive an email from [email protected] with their temporary password that expires in 24 hours. If attempting to use the password after 24 hours, the student will need to re-authorize the user.
Once the authorized user account is created, log-in to the Authorized User Online Student Account Center and go to the Payment Plans tab.

Learn more about Payment Plans.

Can I schedule payments to be deducted automatically?

Yes, you can schedule payments to be deducted automatically by e-check or credit card each month on the due date.

How much is the enrollment fee?

There is a $40 enrollment fee per term. You must set up a separate plan for each term of enrollment.

What happens if I miss a payment?

If an installment is late or missed, the account is subject to a $25 late fee. Two consecutive missed payments will result in the termination of the payment plan. The account balance will be due immediately in full directly to Simmons.

How do I change my payment plan budget amount?

You can login to your payment plan account and adjust the payment plan budget amount as needed.

How do I close my payment plan if needed?

Contact the Payment Plan Support Line at 1-833-269-3675.

What is a 1098-T?

The 1098-T Tuition Statement is an IRS tax form that lists the amount of Qualified Tuition and Related Expenses (QTRE) that you paid during the calendar year. You may be able to deduct some or all of this amount from the income you report on your federal tax return. You should speak to your accountant or qualified tax professional for the most accurate information regarding the use of Form 1098-T.

Note: The 1098-T reports activity for the CALENDAR year and not the ACADEMIC year.

How do I view my 1098-T?

Students WITH Workday access: Your 1098-T is available in Workday. To access this, log-in to Workday → Finances → View My 1098-T. Alternatively, you can also print this form by typing 'Print My 1098-T' in the search bar on Workday.

Students WITHOUT Workday access: You may find your 1098-T through ECSI, the University's tax processor. Go to 'I need my 1098-T tuition tax statement' on the left → enter in school name → either sign-in to your existing account or register and create a new profile.

Please note that you will need a Heartland Key to access this information. This code should have been emailed to you previously from ECSI prior to 1098-T's being released. If you did not receive this information, your next step is to call ECSI customer service to get your key at 866-428-1098.

Will a paper form be mailed and/or what is the electronic consent?

Forms are only mailed to students without an electronic consent on file. Students are prompted to accept or deny the electronic consent to receive the form only online the first time they log into the Online Student Account Center.

To confirm an electronic consent is on file, log-in to Workday → Go to "Finances" under Menu → Click on "Welcome to the Online Student Account Center!" → Consents and Agreements → Paperless 1098-T. If you have a consent on file, it will say: "You have switched to paperless 1098-T." To cancel this consent, email your request to Student Financial Services.

How can an authorized user access my 1098-T?

You can forward a copy of the form to them or they can view the form on the website of our 1098-T processor, ECSI.

Will I get a 1098-T if tuition and related expenses are paid entirely with grants or scholarships?

No, in accordance with IRS instructions, Universities are not required to issue a 1098-T to students "whose qualified tuition and related expenses are entirely waived or paid entirely with scholarships".

Why is Box 2 on the 1098-T blank?

In previous years, IRS Form 1098-T included a figure in Box 2 that represented Qualified Tuition and Related Expenses (QTRE) the University billed to the student account for the calendar (tax) year. Due to a change to institutional reporting requirements under federal law, beginning with tax year 2018, the University will report in Box 1 the amount of QTRE paid during the year.

Am I eligible for a tax credit?

Student Financial Services staff members cannot provide tax advice regarding form 1098-T. Please consult a tax professional or refer to IRS publication 970, Tax Benefits for Education.

What if my address on the form is incorrect?

The address printed on the 1098-T is your current home address listed in Workday. If it is incorrect or has recently changed, please log-in to Workday to update your address. If you no longer have access to Workday, please contact the Registrar's Office. As long as the SSN/TIN and financial information on the form are correct, Simmons University is not required to submit change of address information to the IRS.

What if the dollar amount is incorrect?

If you feel that the 1098-T is incorrect please contact Student Financial Services immediately so that a staff member may review your record.

Do I need this form to file my taxes?

No, you do not need the form in order to file taxes.

Note: Additional information regarding Form 1098-T is included in IRS Publication 970. Students and parents are encouraged to consult IRS publications and the IRS website to obtain answers to 1098-T related questions. Student Financial Services staff members are not tax professionals and are not permitted to provide tax advice.

Please visit the IRS website for more information.

What if my SSN is incorrect?

If the SSN or TIN on your 1098-T is not correct please contact Student Financial Services immediately. You will be required to complete a W-9 so that Student Financial Service can proceed with correcting your record.

What are federal Title IV funds?

Title IV funds are federal student aid funds, which are from federal student aid programs administered by the U.S. Department of Education. The U.S. Department of Education regulations only allow schools to use your Federal Student Aid to pay for current academic year institutional charges, unless you have granted permission to apply these funds to non-allowable charges as well. Federal Title IV funds do not include scholarships from the University or other private organizations.

What do Title IV funds include?

• Direct Subsidized/Unsubsidized Loans
• Direct Graduate PLUS Loans
• Direct Parent PLUS Loans
• Federal Pell Grants
• Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (SEOGs)
• TEACH Grant

Allowable charges: Tuition, Mandatory fees, and Residence

Non-Allowable charges include: Student Health Insurance Plan, Late Fees, Returned Check Fees, Book Advances, Health Center Service Fees, and Other Miscellaneous Fees

I am not a Title IV aid recipient. Do I still have to sign?

Yes. All students are required to sign the Title IV Authorization. The Title IV Authorization is valid for the duration of your academic career at Simmons University and will apply should you become a Title IV aid recipient at any point. It can be canceled by emailing a written request to Student Financial Services.

How are Title IV funds applied to my account?

The U.S. Department of Education requires that Title IV funds be applied to specific allowable charges. Allowable charges include: Tuition, Mandatory fees, and Residence charges billed by Simmons University. If your total Title IV funds exceed the total of these allowable charges, the University must refund that excess to you unless you give permission to do otherwise.

Why do I have an excess of Title IV funds?

Excess Title IV funds occur when the total amount of Title IV aid funds disbursed to your student account exceeds charges for Tuition, Mandatory fees, and Residence billed by the University.

What is the purpose of the Title IV authorization form?

Simmons University, in compliance with federal regulations, must obtain permission from the student or parent borrower to apply federal financial aid proceeds to pay for non-allowable charges related to a prior term, future term, or charges other than Tuition, Mandatory fees, and Residence. Without your authorization, Title IV funds cannot be applied to non-allowable charges. This may result in a refund being issued to you that creates a balance on your student account. You are responsible for paying that balance.

Does having an excess of Title IV funds mean that I have a credit balance on my student account?

Not necessarily. An excess of Title IV funds means that the total amount of Title IV aid funds disbursed to your student account exceeds charges for Tuition, Mandatory fees, and Residence billed by the University. You may have non-allowable charges such as the Student Health Insurance Plan charge that must be paid.

Will signing the authorization form help me?

Yes. By signing the form, any excess Title IV funds will be permitted to be applied to all non-allowable charges including a prior balance as well as any future non‐allowable charges during the loan period. Furthermore, signing the form will help prevent an "account hold" "for unpaid charges, which would prohibit you from registering and enrolling for future semesters and receiving your diploma.

What if I don't grant the authorization?

If you do not grant authorization, your Title IV aid cannot be used to pay for charges other than current Tuition, Mandatory fees, and Residence and any excess aid will be refunded to you. Therefore, you may receive a refund and simultaneously be sent a bill for any charges that could not be paid with your Title IV aid. Receiving a refund does not indicate that there are no charges on your account.

Does the authorization form need to be signed each year?

No. The authorization remains in effect while you are a student at Simmons University. It may be rescinded by sending a written request to Student Financial Services. Please keep in mind that if you cancel the Title IV Authorization, you, the student, will become liable for all charges not covered by financial aid.

Where can I sign the Title IV Authorization?

Log in to Workday and go to your inbox in the top right hand corner. You will be prompted to e-sign during new student onboarding.

Where do I add my bank account information for direct deposit?

Log-in to Workday → Click on the Finances > Set Up Payment Elections (under My Account on the right hand side) → Click Add.

Enter your bank account information and click OK . Make sure you enter your checking or savings account number and not your debit card number.

Your payment elections should be saved and viewable in Finances → Set Up Payment Elections for pay type "student refund.”

It is essential that you enter your checking account information accurately. If not, you will not receive your direct deposit and a check will be issued to the address listed in Workday instead.

How long will it take for the direct deposit to show in my bank account?

2-3 business days.

What if my refund is payable to a third party? Will it be refunded via direct deposit?

No. All refunds payable to anyone other than the student will be issued via paper check.

What happens if my direct deposit doesn't come through? How will I be notified?

If Simmons University was unable to successfully deliver your refund via direct deposit, you will receive an email from Student Financial Services informing you of the issue and a paper check will be mailed to the home address on file within 10 business days.

If you have not seen your direct deposit reflected in your bank account after 5 business days, and you have not received a notification that a paper check is being issued instead, please contact Student Financial Services.

When do loans typically disburse to my student account?

Typically 3-4 weeks into the semester (if all your loan requirements have been met).

When do you start to issue financial aid or credit balance refunds?

Typically 3-4 weeks into the start of the semester.

What happens to my financial aid if I take a leave of absence or withdraw?

Please visit the Financial Aid & Credit Balance Refunds webpage and review the information under the "Financial Aid and Withdrawals/Leaves" header for more detailed information.

My parents pay the bill. To whom is the refund issued if there is a credit on my account?

All refunds are payable to the student (except if the refund is due from a Direct Parent Plus loan and the parent borrower has opted to receive the credit balance).

How do I cancel my federal student loan if I have already received my semester refund from Simmons?

Please complete the "Loan Adjustment Request Form" found on our forms webpage.

Are tuition deposits refundable?

No. Tuition deposits are non-refundable. Please visit the Tuition and Housing Refund Information webpage and expand the appropriate header for detailed refund schedules.

I am about to drop a course or withdraw for the semester. What is the University’s policy on tuition course refunds?

Please visit the Tuition and Housing Refund Information webpage and expand the appropriate header for detailed refund schedules.

What is the Student Health Insurance Plan?

The Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) is a comprehensive health insurance plan provided on behalf of Simmons University by Blue Cross Blue Shield of MA. Massachusetts state regulations require Massachusetts colleges and universities to provide health insurance to all students registered ¾ time or more (as defined by the University). Students may waive the student health insurance plan if they have sufficient alternative insurance.

Are online only students eligible for SHIP?

No. Only traditional, on campus students are eligible for the Student Health Insurance Plan.

How do I waive or enroll in SHIP?

Waiver and enrollment forms are completed on the website of our broker University Health Plans. If you experience problems while trying to file your waiver or enrollment please contact Student Financial Services.

Is Masshealth sufficient to waive SHIP?

Yes. Masshealth plans meet the requirements needed to waive SHIP.

Can I enroll in SHIP after waiving coverage if I lose my insurance?

Yes. You may enroll in SHIP if you lose coverage on a prorated basis as a qualifying event. Please contact Student Financial Services for additional information.

I didn’t file the waiver in time, but have alternative insurance. Can I still waive?

Waivers must be filed by the published waiver deadline each semester. Student Financial Services will be able to assist with questions on filing the waiver.

How does Simmons decide the insurance premium?

The insurance premiums are set by Blue Cross Blue Shield of MA each year. Questions concerning premiums can be addressed to our broker University Health Plans.

I’m a new student starting in the Spring semester. Will I be charged insurance?

New students in the Spring will be charged for insurance if registered at least ¾ time. The charge will be for Spring only with a policy period of January 1st through August 15th.

I’m enrolling for the first time this Summer semester. Do I need to waive the insurance?

No. New students for the Summer semester are not charged for SHIP. If you would like to enroll for summer insurance, please contact Student Financial Services.

I had enrolled in the insurance last year and will again this coming year. Do I need to do anything or will I be automatically enrolled?

You should file an enrollment form on the University Health Plans website prior to the insurance start date to ensure no delay in processing your re-enrollment. If no waiver is filed you will be automatically enrolled, but this may not occur until the semester is in process.

If I graduate in the Fall, do I lose my insurance?

No. Coverage under the plan runs for the year from August 15th to August 14th. If you graduate after the Fall semester, but before Spring, you will remain enrolled in the plan.

Does SHIP cover dental care?

No. SHIP does not cover dental care. However, our broker University Health Plans can assist you in finding dental insurance.

Veteran Services & Active Duty Military

Simmons University partners with the VA and all branches of the military regarding Veteran educational benefits and Active Duty tuition assistance. If you have questions on how these benefits are invoiced and/or applied to your student account, please contact Student Financial Services.

For questions regarding benefit eligibility and/or certification of Veteran’s benefits, please contact the office of Military and Veteran Services.

What is the financial responsibility agreement?

The financial financial agreement (FRA) is a document that all students e-sign through Workday at or prior to registration each term. The FRA is your agreement to pay the balance on your student account as a result of attending Simmons University in accordance with the payment policies as outlined on the University's website.

Do I sign this once or each term?

You will be prompted to e-sign the FRA at registration each term.

What is a book voucher?

Book vouchers are funds from excess financial aid (which would normally result in a refund) that can be advanced to a student in order to purchase books and supplies from the Simmons Bookstore. These funds cannot be used anywhere except the Simmons Bookstore.

What is a parking voucher?

Parking vouchers are funds from excess financial aid (which would normally result in a refund) that can be advanced to a student in order to pay for a semester permit to park at the Simmons garage. These funds cannot be used to park anywhere except the Simmons garage. For more information about parking at Simmons, please visit the Parking Office website.

Am I eligible for a book or parking voucher?

How do I get a book voucher?

Students can complete the online book advance request form up until the end of the second week of the semester to request a voucher. Please allow 3-5 business days for funds to be available on your ID card.

How do I get a parking voucher?

Students can complete the online parking advance request form up until the end of the second week of the semester to request a voucher. Please allow 3-5 business days for the funds to be available on your ID card.

How do I complete federal Verification?

All undergraduate and graduate students who are selected by the Department of Education to have their FAFSA data verified must complete the Verification Worksheet. You may also need to provide tax information but you should be notified by SFS as to what further documents are required.

Some students are required to verify identity and sign a statement of educational purpose as part of the Verification process. This form requires either a notary or to arrive in person for SFS to verify.

Some students must verify high school completion as part of the Verification process. This form requires uploading supporting documents.

What is tuition protection insurance?

Simmons offers tuition protection insurance through GradGuard. This coverage supplements the University's existing refund policies in case you need to withdraw at any point in the semester due to an illness, injury, or mental health condition.

What is the deadline to enroll?

The deadline to enroll in tuition protection insurance with GradGuard is prior to the start of your term of enrollment.

How do I apply or get more information about tuition protection insurance?

Visit the GradGuard website or call 1-866-724-4384.

I am an undergraduate student, can I appeal the financial aid decision?

If your family has experienced significant and/or unforeseen changes in your financial circumstances that affect your family’s ability to contribute to college costs, you may request an appeal of your need based financial aid. Complete the “Undergraduate Need Based Appeal Form” found on the Financial Aid Forms webpage.

Please be in touch with Student Financial Services if you have any questions.

I am an undergraduate student who lost their Merit scholarship, can I appeal that decision?

If there were unusual circumstances that affected your studies, or you have lost your merit scholarship due to taking a leave of absence, you can appeal the loss of your scholarship. Complete the “Undergraduate Merit Scholarship Reinstatement Appeal” found on the Financial Aid Forms webpage.

Please be in touch with Student Financial Services if you have any questions.

I am a graduate student who lost their Merit scholarship, can I appeal that decision?

Please complete the Graduate Merit Scholarship Petition in the event you have lost your scholarship or anticipate a change in your circumstances that could result in the cancellation of funding based on the terms of your award. Note these requests are reviewed by the student’s program first.

Please be in touch with Student Financial Services if you have any questions.

I have lost my financial aid eligibility due to SAP, can I appeal?

Undergraduate students who are on financial aid suspension and have extenuating circumstances that may warrant an exception can appeal the SAP suspension. To do so, the student should submit a completed "Undergraduate Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) Financial Aid Appeal Form" found on the Financial Aid Forms webpage">Financial Aid Forms webpage along with supporting documentation of the extenuating circumstances.

Graduate students who are on financial aid suspension and have extenuating circumstances that may warrant an exception can appeal the SAP suspension by submitting the appropriate “Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) Appeal Form” found on the Financial Aid Forms webpage.

Please be in touch with Student Financial Services if you have any questions.

When will my loan disburse?

Loans are typically the last form of aid to come in, and they generally disburse 3-4 weeks into the semester.

For any federal loan funding, please ensure you complete and submit your Entrance Counseling and Master Promissory Note (MPN) on studentaid.gov for your loans to disburse properly.

What is Entrance Counseling? How do I complete it?

Entrance Counseling ensures you understand the terms and conditions of your loan and your rights and responsibilities. In this counseling, you'll learn what a loan is, how interest works, your options for repayment, and how to avoid delinquency and default.

This is required before you can receive your first Direct Subsidized Loan, or Direct Unsubsidized Loan as an undergraduate, or your first Direct PLUS Loan as a graduate/professional student.

This can be completed on studentaid.gov, and once submitted will be sent to our office directly within 2-3 business days.

What is a Master Promissory Note (MPN)? How do I complete it?

An MPN is a legal document that contains the Borrower's Rights and Responsibilities and Terms and Conditions for repayment. An MPN can also be good for up to 10 years if certain enrollment requirements are met.

If you are an undergraduate student taking out a Subsidized and/or Unsubsidized loan, complete the MPN for "Direct Subsidized/Unsubsidized Loans".

If you are a parent taking out a Parent PLUS loan for your child, complete the MPN for Parent PLUS loans.

If you are a graduate or professional student taking out an Unsubsidized loan or a Graduate PLUS loan, complete the MPN appropriate for the particular loan you're borrowing.

This can be completed on studentaid.gov, and once submitted will be sent to our office directly within 2-3 business days.

How do I complete Exit Loan Counseling?

Students who have received a subsidized, unsubsidized or PLUS loan(s) under the Direct Loan Program, must complete exit counseling each time they drop below half-time enrollment, graduate, or leave school.

I would like to adjust or cancel my loan.

If you would like to reduce or cancel the federal direct loan that was offered to you, please complete the "Loan Adjustment Request Form" found on our Forms webpage.

Why is the amount of my loan less than what was on my award letter?

Federal student loans have an origination fee; therefore, the amount you may receive as a disbursement may be slightly lower than the amount you accept. An origination fee is a percentage of your loan amount charged by the lender for the processing of your loan.

My PLUS loan was denied what options exist?

If your PLUS loan was denied, you can contest the credit decision on your PLUS Loan application by appealing directly to the Direct Loan program or you can choose to add an endorser to your PLUS Loan application in order to get credit approved. More information is available by logging into the studentaid.gov or by calling Applicant Services at 800.557.7394 (8 AM- 8 PM ET, Mon-Fri).

My Federal Loans do not cover my bill, what other options exist?

If you are a dependent undergraduate student, your parent(s) may borrow a Federal Parent PLUS Loan or you may borrow a private education loan (with a co-signer). Elmselect is a website where you can begin researching private education loans that we know many of our students have borrowed from.

If you are a graduate student, you may borrow a Federal Graduate PLUS Loan or you may borrow a private education loan. Elmselect is a website where you can begin researching private education loans that we know many of our students have borrowed from.

How do I apply for financial aid?

If you wish to apply for financial aid for the academic year, please complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the academic year that you are applying for.

How do I apply for financial aid for summer?

Traditional on-campus students who plan to enroll in the Summer semester and wish to apply for financial aid for the term should complete the "Summer Enrollment Form"that is sent out to students in the Spring ahead of the Summer semester, then posted to our Forms webpage.

If you are eligible for financial aid we will communicate that with you. Please note that if you used all of your loan eligibility during the Fall and Spring semesters you will not have federal student loan eligibility for Summer.

I am applying as an undergraduate student, what scholarships are available to me? 

While we offer a range of need-based financial aid options, we also offer competitive merit-based scholarships, which are determined without regard to your financial circumstances. These scholarships range from $2,000 to full tuition and are renewable for up to four years. Find out more about our merit scholarships on our website.

I am a graduate student, are there scholarships available to me?

Most graduate programs offer scholarships, but not all, so it is important to check with your graduate program Admission Office during your application process. Scholarships do not typically require a separate application unless noted. Decisions are based on your academic performance, achievement in leadership, community service, work experience, and other talents. Scholarships are often awarded for the duration of the program, but require enrollment in a specified number of credits, as well as a minimum GPA.

Do you have information on outside scholarships?

We have compiled a list of free outside scholarship searches that may help you find additional resources to apply to. Additionally, we maintain an External Scholarship Database of undergraduate, graduate, military, and study abroad scholarship opportunities. Please note that this database is updated when scholarships opportunities are shared with us.

Do outside scholarships affect my financial aid eligibility?

Simmons University is required to follow federal regulations and include outside scholarships as part of your financial aid package. If you receive an outside scholarship, we will first use it to fill any unmet financial need you may have.

If your need is already met, your financial aid package may need to be adjusted to avoid exceeding your total cost of attendance. This could include reducing work-study, subsidized loans, or, in some cases, need-based grants.

Each student's situation is different — we will review your full financial aid package before making any changes. Please ensure you complete the "Outside Scholarship Reporting Form" on our Forms webpage if you plan to receive an outside scholarship.

How does financial aid for study abroad work?

Simmons has a Home School Tuition model for study abroad. This model allows Simmons grant and scholarship aid to be used for approved semester abroad programs and is reflective of the university's commitment to accessibility and inclusion.

The financial aid process closely mirrors a semester on campus where students will pay Simmons tuition, housing, as well as a study abroad fee. In addition, there are a select number of Simmons scholarships designated for students planning to study overseas.

I am an undergraduate student, will less than full time enrollment affect my financial aid?

In order to be eligible for financial aid, students must meet particular enrollment requirements. All students need to be enrolled at half-time status or more to receive financial aid. Half-time status for undergraduates is at least 6 credits per semester.

If your enrollment status drops below full-time, your financial aid package and charges on your account will change. Reach out to Student Financial Services to discuss any enrollment status changes you may be thinking of making and how that will affect your account.

I am a graduate student, how many credits are required to be eligible for financial aid?

You must be enrolled at least half-time per semester, which means taking a minimum of 5 credits per term. Reach out to Student Financial Services to discuss any enrollment status changes you may be thinking of making and how that will affect your account.

What emergency funds are available to enrolled Simmons University students?

Since March 2020, Simmons has offered the The SOS (Supporting Our Students) Fund to students experiencing gaps in basic needs as a result of an acute emergency. The Simmons Emergency Fund is not able to cover Simmons payments related to housing or tuition. For questions, please reach out to [email protected] or visit the REEF Center’s webpage.

How do I apply for federal work-study?

To apply for Federal Work-Study, an undergraduate student must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and indicate their interest in the program.

Federal Work-Study is available to undergraduate students who have answered ‘yes’ to the question “interested in work-study?”on their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form and have financial aid eligibility.

Does work-study get applied to my bill?

Work-Study is not directly applied to your bill like other aid you may receive. Once you have secured a work-study job, you will receive a bi-weekly paycheck. Many students will use this money to help pay for their personal expenses during the year.

What jobs are available to students?

Student employment is available to all enrolled, degree-seeking students. All students can find information on the job application process and a listing of on-campus and community service opportunities on the internal Student Job Board on Workday. Visit the Student Employment page to learn more.

Are there forms that I need to complete in order to begin working?

All students must complete an I-9 and a W-4 form with the Student Employment Office before they can begin working at the University. For more information on these forms, please contact the Student Employment Office.

How do I get proof of enrollment to defer my loans?

An enrollment verification can be provided by contacting the Registrar's Office.

I’ve completed all my credits and have my final grades, but am waiting for my degree to be conferred. Can I get a letter that states this?

Yes. After your department confirms you've satisfied all degree requirements, we can provide a signed Anticipated Degree Verification letter on Simmons letterhead that states that you are just waiting on your conferral date for your degree to actually go through.

If you're unsure about your conferral date, please be in touch with the Registrar's Office.

Where do I get a copy of my transcript?

Unofficial transcripts can be requested by emailing the Registrar's Office. Unofficial transcripts do not have the school name and are generally not accepted by most other schools or prospective employers.

Official transcripts must be requested through Parchment. Official transcripts come in sealed envelopes or in a secure email with an encrypted PDF. Be sure to create your Parchment account with your personal email address, NOT your Simmons email.

My electronic official transcript hasn’t been received by me or the institution I wanted to send it to. What happened?

First, check your confirmation email from Parchment to make sure that you sent it to the right place. On Parchment, when you're prompted to select the destination, right below the text box, there is a link that says "Send to a Third Party." If you click this, you will be able to directly put in the email address of whoever needs to receive the transcript.

The transcript can only be opened with a password sent in a separate email. Make sure you check your spam folder to make sure it didn't go there accidentally. If you're certain the correct destination email address was used, allow the institution a few weeks as some institutions take a while to go through all the transcripts they receive. If they still haven't received it, go ahead and place another order.

I am receiving an error message when I try to register, what does it mean?

The most common cause of error messages are holds. Please ensure you have completed all of the assigned tasks to you in your Workday Inbox to resolve your Student Onboarding Hold. Bursar's Holds need to be lifted by reaching out to Student Financial Services. Immunization holds need to be lifted by reaching out to the Simmons Health Center.

If you're still getting an error message, make sure there are no time conflicts with any of your other courses, that you have completed all the necessary prerequisites, and make sure you're registering at your assigned time.

Some courses may require instructor consent. If that's the case, the instructor needs to email [email protected] with their consent for you to join the class.

If you see an error and you're not sure what it is, please take a screenshot and email the Registrar's Office.

How do I transfer credits from my high school/another college?

To transfer high school Dual Enrollment/college credit courses, please have the school where you took the course send an official transcript to Admissions at [email protected]. To transfer credits from another institution over the summer or Fall/Spring semesters, please fill out the appropriate "Petition to Transfer Credit" form on the Registrar Forms webpage. If you have any further questions, please contact [email protected].

How can I change my name or address in WorkDay?

Students who wish to update their personal information, such as their legal name, must request the change on Workday. For a legal name change, the student must upload official documentation with the new name clearly printed on it. Government-issued IDs such as driver's licenses and passports, as well as court documentation, are among the acceptable documents.

Current students can change their addresses at any time on Workday. To change your address:

Log into Workday with your Simmons username and password → From the Menu on the left-hand sidebar, select "Personal Information." → Under Addresses, you can edit or remove an existing address by clicking Edit at the top.

If you want to change your Simmons email, you'll need to reach out to the Technology Service Desk.

How can I take a Leave of Absence (LOA)?

Students seeking to take a leave of absence need to complete a Leave of Absence form found on the Leaving Simmons webpage.

How can I withdraw from Simmons?

Students seeking to withdraw need to complete the Withdrawal form found on the Leaving Simmons webpage.

I was withdrawn from Simmons and want to return to finish my degree. What is the readmission process?

For readmission, an undergraduate student must complete an "Application for Readmission" found on the Registrar Forms webpage and send it to the Registrar's Office.

Approval must be granted by Student Financial Services, the Health Center, Student Affairs, and the Department of Interest/Major. Please start this at least one month prior to the start of the term of intended return. Some students may need to be approved by the Administrative Board if they were withdrawn due to their academic standing.

How can I declare my Major or Minor?

To declare your major or minor, please complete the "Declaration of Major" or "Declaration of Minor" form found on the Registrar Forms webpage and send it to the Registrar's Office.

For a Declaration of Major form, you need to have the Department Chair sign off on the form and whoever they appoint as your major advisor. For a Declaration of Minor form, you just need the Department Chair's signature.

When will I receive my diploma?

Diplomas are mailed out 4-6 weeks after a student's conferral date. Please make sure your address is correct on Workday.

I haven’t received my diploma yet, what happened?

Diplomas are mailed out 4-6 weeks after a student's conferral date. If the 4-6 week mark has passed, please email the Registrar's Office. We will ask you to confirm your address. If the address was correct and you should have received it, we will be able to send you a replacement.

What is a conferral date?

We have set dates through the year that we confer graduates' degrees in batches. Your degree is not completed as soon as you finish your courses. Most students must wait a few weeks after they've finished their last course for their degree to be officially conferred.

If you're unsure about your conferral date, please be in touch with the Registrar's Office.

What is the Administrative Board and how do I petition?

Undergraduate students seeking exceptions to College Policy must petition the Administrative Board. The Administrative Board is for undergraduate students only.

Common types of petitions to the Administrative Board include: Petition for a Late Withdrawal; Petition for an Incomplete Grade; Petition to take an overload of more than 21 credits during a semester; and Petition to take a course at another institution while taking courses at Simmons during the Fall or Spring semester.

All petitions must be accompanied with appropriate forms, a personal statement, and faculty support. These forms can be found on the Registrar Forms webpage.

Undergraduate students can email their documents or any questions about petitioning to [email protected]. Students will be sent an email confirming if the Board approved or denied their petition.

Graduate students seeking exceptions should contact their Program Director and/or Academic Advisor.

It's past the 8th week of classes and I would like to withdraw from a course. Can I do this?

Undergraduate students must petition the Administrative Board for a late withdrawal. To submit a petition, you will need to complete the following forms found on the Registrar Forms webpage:

The semester is almost over and I may need longer to complete final assignments due to extenuating circumstances. How can I do this?

Prior to the last day of classes in a semester, undergraduate students can petition for an incomplete grade by completing the "Incomplete Grade Agreement" found on the Registrar Forms webpage. The completed form can be submitted to the Registrar's Office.

After the last day of classes in a semester, undergraduate students must petition the Administrative Board for an incomplete grade. To submit a petition, the student will need to complete the following forms found on the Registrar Forms webpage:

How do I, a Simmons student, register for a course at a COF institution?

Undergraduate students may take up to two cross-registered courses per term. Graduate students are not permitted to cross-register.

To get started, first search the Online Course Directory for available courses. When you have identified the courses you wish to register for, you will need to submit an application. If you intend the course to fulfill a major or minor requirement, you must complete the "Major/Minor Exemption Form" found on the Registrar Forms webpage and submit it to the Registrar's Office. You can also note on your application if you need the class to fulfill a KCA. The application will be reviewed by both Simmons and the host institution.

Upon approval by both institutions, you will be sent information from the host institution regarding important dates and policies, as well as how to access your accounts at the host school.

The course will appear on your schedule as CR-101 (or CR-102, if you cross-register for two courses). After the grades at the host institution are calculated, they will be sent to the Simmons Registrar's Office to be added to your record.

Students in their first semester of study at Simmons are not permitted to cross-register. If you are in your final semester before graduation, your application may be denied if final grades from your host institution will not be available before final degree audit.

How do I, a COF student, take a course at Simmons?

Search the Online Course Directory for available courses. You may take two cross-registered courses per term.

You will need to submit an application. The application will be reviewed by both Simmons and your home institution.

Upon approval by both institutions, you will be sent a success memo outlining important dates as well as the information on how to access your Simmons accounts.

Once Simmons grades have been posted, the Office of the Registrar will send the grades to your home institution's Office of the Registrar.

What programs are approved for use of DoD and VA education benefits?

For an up-to-date listing of approved programs, please visit the VA WEAMS Institution Search and enter "Simmons University" for Institution Name. Make sure the Program Type is listed as "Institution of Higher Learning".

What do I need to do to get started using my Post-9/11 benefits?

Visit the VA website and scroll to the blue button labeled "Apply for Education Benefits". If this is your first time, select "Applying for a New Benefit". If you have used your benefit before, select "Updating my Program of Study or Place of Training". From there you will complete the application.

Approximately 30 days later the VA will make their determination and send you a copy of your Certificate of Eligibility (COE). Please forward a copy of your COE to Stephen Pusateri in the Office of Military & Veteran Services who will then schedule an appointment with you to review your costs and coverage.

How does the annual cap on Post-9/11 benefits work?

The annual cap on benefits for private institutions like Simmons is currently $29,920.25 for those who qualify at 100%. If you are eligible at 90% then your annual cap is 90% of this figure, or $26,928.85 (and so on down to 60%). Your tuition and fees are deducted from this amount as you progress through the year. If your tuition costs exceed the annual cap, then the remainder is your out-of-pocket expense. The VA's year runs from Fall to Spring to Summer. As Summer is the final term in the VA's year, out-of-pocket tuition expenses are most likely to happen here. The annual cap resets each Fall. See rate tables.

What do I need to do to get started using my Veterans Readiness & Employment (VR&E) benefits?

Follow instructions on the VA's website. You can also navigate directly to your eBenefits account.

If you haven't yet received your service rating, please see the instructions at the first link. Once you have been approved to use this benefit, please reach out to Stephen Pusateri to provide the name of your VR&E rep.

I am using Veterans Readiness & Employment (VR&E) benefits, how do I purchase my books?

In order to get started on the Book (and/or Parking Voucher process), you will first need your Campus Card. For instructions on how to apply for a Campus Card, please visit this page here. You should begin this process as soon as you are able, because the Voucher request cannot be submitted until after you receive your Campus Card. Then, each semester, follow these instructions:

When will you certify my enrollment to the VA?

Starting three weeks prior to the semester we submit an initial certification to the VA to list the length of your semester and your intended credit-load, but we list $0 for tuition and fees. This allows the VA to generate your book stipend (for those using Ch. 33) and to ensure that you are queued up for your BAH (if applicable). At the conclusion of the add/drop period, we submit a second certification to invoice the VA for your tuition and fees.

What is the Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) at Simmons University (on-ground)?

Find the latest BAH rates on the VA website.

I see my veteran benefits reflected on my billing statement which is good but how will I know if the money will be paid before the billing due date?

We list VA benefits as pending aid, so they offset the relevant portion of your bill for the semester, and so that if you have 100% coverage, you do not need to pay up-front. If you have a remaining balance not covered by your VA benefits, please arrange with your Student Account Coordinator, to set up a payment plan.

When do you start to issue financial aid or credit balance refunds?

Typically 3-4 weeks into the start of the semester. Please note that if you are using Chapter 33 or Chapter 31 benefits in conjunction with your student loans, the refund will not generate in full until the VA funding has paid into the school.

Will the VA cover licensing fees?

Learn more about what fees are covered and how to take advantage of this benefit.

What is the process for getting a replacement student ID?

The Campus Card Office issues the Simmons ID card, known as a Fenway Card. You may visit the office during business hours to obtain a Fenway Card. There is no charge for your first Fenway Card, but if you need to replace a lost or stolen card, there is a replacement fee. Contact the Card Office or visit their webpage if you need further assistance.

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