Do RAs lose much financial aid?

Parents Forum
1

<p>I am wondering what happens to the financial aid packages of students who become RAs... My son has been recommended to become an RA at his school and as a result, he would have his room and board fees waived. I think it would be a great opportunity for him, but I don't want him to devote 20 per week and still have the same amount of unmet need if the school is going to cut his aid by the cost of the room and board. IMHO it would be like working or nothing.</p>

<p>Does anyone have any experience with this? I am figuring it varies by school.</p>

2

<p>I would love to hear some thoughts on this as well. </p>

<p>We are in the same position, with a school grant hanging on some information!</p>

3

<p>This our D’s second year as dorm staff. She is on approximately 98% financial aid and does not get any reduction of her aid because of the dorm staff job. Her job basically covers all her books, spending money and she saves money each quarter when she gets her check. She loves her job!</p>

4

<p>I suggest you call the FA office and ask.</p>

5

<p>keep in mind that RA is a great addition to a resume !</p>

6

<p>It likely varies with the school. For D1, her room and partial board was added on to her FA, and she ended up with a surplus that she could either spend or receive as a check at the end of the year.</p>

7

<p>My daughter’s need based financial aid decreased, but her need also decreased, as she was not paying room and board. She came out a tad ahead of the previous year.</p>

8

<p>Has your son gone to the financial aid office and asked them what effect it would have? This is something that might vary by school and it is definitely something he should check in to before he accepts.</p>

9

<p>Thanks for the info… My son has already asked and was told by someone that it should not change. I don’t think I will be certain until I see that in writing, however. His aid package has covered about half of his expenses. With two kids in college, we aren’t able to pay all of the rest, so he has some loans. I am hoping he can do this and not be so burdened by college debt.</p>

<p>While he has been invited to apply and already recommended by a professor, he still has to apply and go through the interview process. He figures that his chances are pretty good, that he will be chosen. I was just wondering what experiences others have had.</p>

10

<p>This is my 3rd year on the job, and my fin aid has never been affected. I have had a couple of jobs in the past 3 yrs in uni, but this job is the best I’ve ever had! It is a wonderful experience!</p>