1. I’m a current freshman with a housing grant. If I choose to live off-campus next year (2009-2010) can my grant be applied to a meal plan only?

-Yes, your grant can be applied to a meal plan only, but will only be issued up to the value of your meal plan (e.g. if your grant is $5000 and you select a meal plan that costs $4860, your grant amount would be reduced to $4860).

2. I’m a current sophomore with a housing grant. If I choose to live off-campus next year (2009-2010) can my grant be applied to a meal plan only?

-Yes, your grant can be applied to a meal plan only, but will only be issued up to the value of your meal plan (e.g. if your grant is $5000 and you select a meal plan that costs $4860, your grant amount would be reduced to $4860).

3. I have a housing grant and recently received an offer for a Resident Assistant position. Will I receive the full amount of the grant in addition to my Residence Life staff scholarship?

-Yes, providing the total of your room and board is equal to or greater than the total amount of the two awards. If your room and board total is less than the amount of your two awards, the amount of your housing grant will be reduced to match the total of the two charges.

4. If I am participating in an Institute sanctioned study abroad or formal exchange program, can I apply my grant to my housing in my host country?

-No, you cannot use the grant money for housing costs while abroad. However, Financial Aid can convert the grant to a tuition scholarship up to the amount of tuition owed during the semester you will be away. You should contact Financial Aid to make this arrangement.

5. If I choose to live in my fraternity or sorority, can my housing grant be applied to those housing charges?

-Possibly, if your Greek organization meets the necessary standards set forth by Student Life. If you are unsure if your Greek organization qualifies, you should contact the Dean of Students Office or Residence Life for clarification.

6. If I choose to live off campus and do not wish to have a meal plan, can my grant be converted to a scholarship?

-No, you forfeit the grant if you voluntarily elect to live off campus and do not participate in a meal plan.

7. Can I receive my grant back if I decide to return to campus housing after living off campus?

-You may follow the upper class Financial Aid appeal process to attempt to have your grant reinstated.

8. If I take a leave of absence or participate in an off-campus internship or co-op, will I still have my grant when I return to housing?

-Yes, providing you did not elect to live off-campus while enrolled full time in classes at Rensselaer, your grant will be reinstated upon your return.