Understanding UAFS Order of Aid

Starting Fall 2025, UAFS is introducing a new order in which financial aid will apply to student accounts. This change is designed to distribute institutional aid more equitably and ensure it directly supports tuition, fees, books, and on-campus housing.

While most students won’t see major changes, some may notice differences in their refund amounts due to the restructuring. This page answers your questions and helps you understand how the new process works.

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FAQ: New Order of Aid at UAFS

What is the new order of aid, and how does it affect me?

Under the new order of aid structure, university funds will be applied after most federal, state, and certain outside aid sources. Additionally, because university aid is not refundable, some students who previously received refunds might see a change in the amount.  

The order in which Aid is now applied to student accounts is as follows:

 

Why is UAFS making this change?

Adjusting the order aid is applied helps ensure the long-term sustainability of the university and that university funds are being used as intended —directly supporting the educational expenses of UAFS students.

What IS University Aid?

University aid is any scholarship or resource that is funded by the university’s Education & General funds. This includes merit scholarships, transfer scholarships, department scholarships, etc. For more examples, see the order of aid chart.

How does this impact existing students?

Existing students may notice a reduction in their refund amounts compared to previous semesters, particularly if they were used to receiving refunds.  
We encourage these students to email OrderofAidFREEuafs with questions.

Why might this change impact my refund?

If you have received refunds in the past, you might notice a decrease in your refund amount due to university aid (which is not refundable) being applied later in the order of aid. The amount you receive in refunds will depend on the type of aid you qualify for.

Why doesn't UAFS refund university aid?

University aid is intended to directly support tuition, fees, and other educational expenses owed directly to the university. By not refunding university aid, UAFS ensures these funds are used for their intended purpose and can be reinvested into institutional support for all students. UAFS has not historically refunded university aid.

Will this change reduce my overall financial aid package?

Maybe. Because aid will be applied to student accounts in a different order, your final university scholarship disbursement may be reduced to ensure university aid does not pay more than the total owed to the university.  This may affect the amount of refunds some students receive after university charges are paid.

Will I be able to use University Aid to purchase meal plans or housing?

Yes, university aid will now pay towards on-campus housing and meal plans.

Will I be able to use University Aid to purchase books?

Yes, university aid will now pay towards required books purchased in the UAFS on-campus bookstore. Typically, students are able to purchase books using financial aid 3 weeks prior from the start of semester through 2 weeks after the semester begins.

What other aid options might be available?

UAFS provides a running list of outside scholarships that are open for UAFS students to review and apply to. Learn more by visiting UAFS's Outside Scholarship page. 

Arkansas residents are encouraged to apply to the Arkansas Challenge Scholarship:

• Steps to apply to the Arkansas Challenge (AR Residents Only):
  • Visit the ADHE YOUniversal Portal
  • Go to the YOUniversal Scholarship Application website
  • Complete the application
    • Fill out the YOUniversal Scholarship Application. This application covers multiple Arkansas scholarships, including the Arkansas Challenge Scholarship.
  • Submit your FAFSA
    • Complete and submit the FAFSA at studentaid.gov, listing UAFS as one of your schools (001110)
  • Check your Application Status
    • Log back into your YOUniversal Scholarship portal account to track your application status and follow any additional instructions

What happens if my tuition and fees are fully covered by state and federal aid sources?

If your federal and state aid fully covers your tuition and fees, the university aid you may have otherwise received will not be applied to your account or refunded. Other aid sources including private scholarships and grants, as well as student loans, will still be refundable.

Will this change affect my eligibility for future scholarship awards or grants?

No, this policy only affects the order in which aid is applied to institutional charges and whether university funds are refundable. It does not change the eligibility criteria for other scholarships or grants you may receive in the future.

Will there still be payment plans available if I can't cover my charges upfront?

Yes, UAFS will continue to offer payment plans to help students manage their tuition and fees over time. The Cashiers Office can help guide you through this process.

What should I do if I budgeted a large refund to pay for off-campus expenses?

We encourage you to utilize resources offered by StudentAid.gov to help you plan for your college expenses and prepare a budget. You can find their advice by visiting the Federal Student Aid Budgeting webpage. 

Can I appeal this change if I am negatively affected?

No. This is a university-wide policy and cannot be appealed on an individual basis. However, if you are facing an emergency, we encourage you to contact the Dean of Students office, which may be able to connect you with resources and short-term assistance.

Where can I find help with my personal financial aid and how this impacts me?

 For personalized guidance, please contact OrderofAidFREEuafs. You can also attend upcoming panels and workshops that will help you navigate the new process.