Financial Aid- Help Needed!

Colleges and Universities A-Z University of California - Riverside
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Before I get into my questions, I apologize if any of these are silly or simple questions. I’m getting no help from my parents or gc on this process so it’s a bit daunting and almost seems like a different lamgage. I really appreciate anyone taking time to help me- thanks guys!

  1. For those who already attend UCR, how has the school been about renewing Grant Aid? I received 13k in UCR grants and I'd like to make sure there is a sure chance I will get the same amount for the next 4 years of my EFC doesn't change.
  2. I received the regents scholarship (yay!!!) but I am a bit confused about the terms. I got an email about joining their honors program, but I don't want to apply (it requires you like in the most expensive dorms and then the most expensive apartments adding ~3k/year $ I don't have). Will I still get the regents scholarship if I don't apply for the honors program?
  3. I am covered on my parents health insurance plan. Because of this, I want to waive the $1400 health insurance plan that is a part of UCR tuition and fees. If I waive this, will they decrease my grant aid by the same amount or will it reduce the amount I am required to pay by $1400?
  4. I don't want to work freshman year. I have had a job for the past 2 years of high school, and I have enough saved to pay for this year's ~8k cost+books but I may not have enough to completely cover next year even though I will work during the summer. The reason I don't want to work is that I feel like I am going to need time to adjust and adapt to the school work and college life. I am the type of person that gets very overwhelmed easily, so I feel like it will be best for me to not put too much on my plate starting out and give myself time to acclamate so I can keep my grades up for the regents recs. Is this a bad idea? Should I work freshman year?

Again, thank you so much for the help. I’d be so lost without this great community.

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Bump

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1/ Always check the financial aid office if the grant is renewable and will be the same amount for the 4 years as long as your EFC does not change. Also check to see if you are required to maintain a minimum GPA for renewal.

  1. Regents Scholarship The most prestigious scholarship awarded to incoming UCR freshmen – Regent Scholars are notified of the award at the time of admission. Students are selected based on a review of their academic record by the faculty Committee on Scholarships and Honors. The Regents Scholarship is a renewable award and will be awarded to students for up to four years if all renewal criteria are met.

According to the website, there is no stipulation that you have to be in the Honors program and I always recommend calling the financial aid office with any questions and do not take my or any other poster’s word.

The Honors program is by invitation only and selective, so not everyone invited will be selected.

  1. Regarding question #3, Health insurance is a requirement for the UC's but I believe this would fall under additional/misc expenses in the Cost of attendance, so if you waive it, it should not reduce your grant. Again double check with the financial aid office.
  2. Only you know your limitations and coming in as a first time Freshman to a quarter system, it is recommended to take a lighter course load to get acclimated. If you find after a quarter or two that you want to take on a job, then I would recommend something on-campus since they will work around your school schedule.