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Questions about the financial aid process at UH? Check here for answers. If your question isn't addressed here, feel free to contact the Financial Aid Office.

When will my financial aid disburse to my student financial account?

Financial aid funds begin disbursing to students on the first day of classes.

After my university debts are paid, when will I receive any remaining financial aid funds?

Once financial aid funds are disbursed to a student's account, and all university debts are paid, UH will release any remaining funds (refund) to Higher One.  All UH student refunds are then distributed by Higher One*.  These funds will be sent to Higher One within 24 hours of appearing on a student's account.  Thereafter, refund processing times are determined by a student's refund preference in Higher One.

*Please note:  Effective January 1, 2010, the University of Houston and Higher One will be "Going Green" with the Student Refund Process.  This means that all UH students will need to login to Higher One by December 1, 2009, and select a refund preference of either ACH (refund deposited by Higher One to a bank account of student’s choice) or direct deposit to a Higher One Account.  Information regarding this change in the student refund process (Go Green…See Green! Campaign) will be going out to all students at the beginning of the Fall Semester.  Students who have already selected paper check, or who currently have no refund preference selected, will automatically receive their refunds via paper check through the Fall Semester.

How do I apply for a scholarship at the University of Houston?

For most UH-funded scholarships, your application for admission serves as your scholarship application as well. Others require that you submit the FAFSA and provide additional documentation. Check our Scholarships page for details.

I'm not eligible for a Stafford or Perkins loan. What are my options?

Many banks and other private lenders offer educational loans to help you pay for your education. Interest rates may not be as low as the federal programs can offer, but some lenders are able to offerattractive loan options.

What is the difference between subsidized and unsubsidized Stafford loans?

Subsidized Stafford Loans are based on financial need, and the government pays the interest to the lender while you are in school at least half-time, as well as during any deferment periods. Unsubsidized Stafford Loans, on the other hand, are not based on need, and borrowers are responsible for all interest accrued on the loan. Interest payments can be deferred until graduation and then will be capitalized and added the to principal of the loan. You also can make payments on the interest while in school by contacting your lender.

What is the interest rate on my Stafford loan(s)?

The interest rate for Stafford Loans is a variable rate that can change annually. The current cap is 8.25 percent during repayment.

How will I receive my loan?

Your funds will be received electronically and will be applied to your student account. Any remaining funds will be credited to your Cougar One Card. Visit
www.uh.edu/cougar1card to set up a Cougar One Card account.

When will I have to repay my loan(s)?

Repayment of your loan(s) begins six months after you:

• graduate,
• withdraw from school, or
• drop below half-time status.

What is an incentive repayment plan?

Most lenders offer an incentive plan for borrowers who make timely payments (i.e. interest rate and/or fee reductions for borrowers who make 48 consecutive on-time payments). Check with your lender for available options.