Other Resources

Merit-Based Scholarships

Merit-based scholarships are not awarded by the Financial Aid Services Office.  The Office for Merit-Based Scholarships, located on the 4th floor of the Campus Center, provides information about scholarships administered by the University. All scholarships are based on merit or a combination of merit and need.  Merit usually measures academic performance.

Scholarships at the University fall into two categories:

• Scholarships awarded to new students who apply before they enroll
• Scholarships awarded to students with a proven record of success at UMass Boston.  This is defined in part by 24 or more credits earned in residence.

Scholarships open to students already enrolled at the University are considered retention programs.  Funds are meant to help students complete each academic year and thus their degree. Keeping with this, funds are disbursed to students during each spring semester.  This occurs after the add/drop period.  Students should view these awards as potential reimbursements or as the opportunity to reduce loan indebtedness later in the semester.   In addition, merit funding can, in some cases, impact financial aid packages.   When this happens, every effort is made to make adjustments that will most benefit the student.

The application period for continuing students is September 1 through October 29.  For new students, deadlines vary according to the first semester of enrollment.  Please call 617-287-6026 for details or visit www.umb.edu/students/scholarship.

Students may also wish to visit the scholarship information database on-line at the UMass President's Office web site. Go to www.massachusetts.edu, click on "admissions"; next "match your skills, interests, and needs to a UMass scholarship"; then indicate the Boston Campus.

The awarding of scholarships is always a competition.  Scholarships awarded and funded by entities outside of the university are not managed by the scholarship office.

Student Assistance Service Centers

• The Higher Education Center, located at the Boston Public Library in Copley Square, provides one-on-one assistance to help you complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).  Their telephone number is 1-800-422-1171.
• The Federal Student Aid Information Center will assist you in completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and help you to understand federal student financial aid eligibility requirements.  Their toll-free is 1-800-4FED-AID (1-800-433-3243).
• Please contact these resource centers for further information and assistance in identifying the various financial assistance opportunities available to you.  Complete all forms accurately and completely.  Be sure to respond to information requests in a timely manner and keep copies of all documents for your records.