How much does the nursing online program cost?

You will be billed per term based on the number of credits for which you are registered. The 2023–2024 tuition rate for the nursing program is $1,094 per credit hour.

Tuition does not include costs related to travel and housing for immersions and additional fees. Students can expect a moderate increase in tuition every year they are in the program. Annual tuition increases typically go into effect in May, at the beginning of the summer term.

Are there fees assessed in addition to tuition?

Yes, for the 2023–2024 aid year, there is a Comprehensive Fee of $20 per credit hour. Fees are reviewed annually, and increases go into effect in May, at the beginning of the summer term. As well, individual course fees or a program fee may be assessed.

Individual course fees cover the cost of training seminars; supplies; and resources including the secure assessment software, clinical document system, and clinical placement system. Individual course fees will be applied to your bill for the term in which you are enrolled in the course.

How much is the enrollment deposit, and when is it due?

There is a $100 non-refundable enrollment deposit due once admitted.

Can I use financial aid to cover the deposit?

No, student aid cannot be used to pay the deposit.

Will I be able to view my award package before submitting the deposit?

Yes, if you have completed a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the aid year, you will be able to review your award prior to submitting your deposit on Fish ‘R’ Net > Financial Aid Menu > My Award Information.  

How do I view my bill? When will I receive a bill, and when is payment due?

When you register for courses at Fisher, charges are assessed to your student account. Student bills are available online only; you will not be mailed a bill. You will receive an email when the semester bill has been generated. Payment deadlines are listed on the top right side of your bill, which can be viewed on Fish ‘R’ Net > Payment & Billing Information > FisherPay.

What are the accepted forms of payment?

Students may pay online via electronic check on Fish ‘R’ Net > FisherPay. Students may also pay via paper check, cash, money order, or wire transfer. Please note that St. John Fisher University does not accept credit card payments for tuition and fees. Visit the Student Accounts website for additional information on payment options.  

What if my employer is paying my tuition? 

If your employer will pay your tuition charges upon completion of the semester, you may use the Payment/Reimbursement From Employer Plan (PREP) form to defer your balance. A completed PREP form must be submitted to Student Financial Services by the due date on your bill to avoid a late fee. The PREP form is available on the Student Accounts Documents and Forms website. Note: Only the portion of your bill that your employer agrees to pay will be deferred. All other amounts should be paid by the due date on your bill. For more information, visit Employer Payments on the Student Accounts website.

Are payment plan options available for online students?

St. John Fisher University has an affiliation with Nelnet Business Solutions. Nelnet offers easy online enrollment for interest-free payment plans, which allow families to finance their balance over the course of the semester. For more information on the payment plan, visit Payment Options on the Student Accounts website.

What are the consequences if my tuition bill is not paid when classes begin?

Any student whose bill is past due may receive a late fee of $200. A hold may also be placed on your account, which will prevent you from viewing grades and registering for future classes.

How are credit balances handled?

Credit balances are paid to the student no later than 14 days after:

You will receive an email from Student Financial Services when a refund has been processed for you. We strongly encourage the use of direct deposit for student refunds, as it is the quickest, simplest, safest way for us to get your funds into your hands. The Student Refund Direct Deposit form can be completed electronically through Fish ‘R’ Net.

Who can I contact at St. John Fisher University for billing and payment questions?

Contact Student Financial Services at (585) 385-8042 or sfs@sjf.edu.

What is the St. John Fisher University student portal?

mySJF is your one-stop shop for academic information, campus services, and student life. Log in once and gain access to BlackBoard, Gmail, HOOUNIT, Fish ‘R’ Net, and student life resources. View the New User information on the OIT website to access mySJF.

When can I get access to mySJF?

You will be able to access mySJF once you have made your admissions deposit to the University.

What is Fish ‘R’ Net?

Fish ‘R’ Net lets you access and manage various academic and administrative aspects of your university account, including academic records, your course schedule, billing, financial aid, direct deposit setup, payments, and more. Your user ID will be your student ID number provided in your enrollment deposit instructions. The password for first-time users will be your date of birth (MMDDYY). 

When can I get access to Fish ‘R’ Net?

You will be able to access Fish ‘R’ Net once you have received your instructions to submit your enrollment deposit.

Does St. John Fisher University offer scholarships to online nursing students?

Students are encouraged to research outside scholarships and other financing options that may be available through your employer, local agencies, or private organizations.

Among the federal financing options is funding through the National Health Service Corps, which provides both scholarship assistance and loan repayment assistance.  Students pursuing primary care health professions training may be eligible to apply to the National Health Service Corps Scholarship Program (NHSC SP). Awarded scholars provide primary care health services in Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs).

What federal student aid is available to nursing students?

Students may be eligible to receive up to $20,500 with the Federal Direct Unsubsidized Student Loan and apply for additional loan funds up to the cost of attendance with the Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan.

Are there academic requirements I must meet to receive federal student aid?

Yes, all students are required to meet Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) requirements to receive federal student aid. For more information, please review the Graduate Catalog.

What is the minimum number of credits required to receive federal student aid?

Federal financial aid is available to matriculated students who are taking at least six credit hours per semester. In order to be given full consideration for all types of financial aid programs available, students must file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Students should file the FAFSA at least one month prior to the beginning of the academic term for which they wish to receive financial assistance.

When will I receive my financial aid award?

Financial aid award letters will begin to be mailed in March for students that have been accepted for admission for a summer or fall semester start and have submitted a FAFSA. Financial aid award letters will begin to be mailed in October for students that have been accepted for admission for a spring semester start and have submitted a FAFSA. Award letters are mailed weekly as student admission information is updated and FAFSAs are received. Once you’ve received and reviewed your financial aid package, contact Student Financial Services with any questions or concerns.

How do I accept my financial aid award?

To accept your award, go to Fish ‘R’ Net > Financial Aid > My Award Information > Award for Aid Year. Fish ‘R’ Net first-time users, your PIN will be your birth date: MMDDYY. You will then be prompted to complete security questions and change your PIN. 

Select the Terms and Conditions tab to review and accept the financial aid terms. Once accepted, the Accept Award Offer tab will be available to decline or accept for each fund. To accept partial amounts, click Accept and type in the amount you wish to receive. Submit your decision.

Are there any additional requirements to process my financial aid?

You can view any outstanding requirements by going to Fish ‘R’ Net > Financial Aid > Eligibility > Student Requirements. Federal Direct Student Loans will require new borrowers to complete Loan Entrance Counseling, an Annual Student Loan Acknowledgement, and a Master Promissory Note (MPN) at Studentaid.gov. Sign in using your FSA ID.

Am I required to accept the full amount that I am offered on my award letter?

No, you do not have to accept the full amount offered. Students are encouraged to borrow only what is needed.You can choose to accept all, part, or none of your financial aid award. Contact Student Financial Services if you wish to change your award amounts.

Does my Direct Loan eligibility cover the entire cost of the program?

Assuming you are eligible for both the Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan and the Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan, the aid will cover the current academic year in which you are enrolled.

How soon will loans disburse to my student account?

Federal student loans will disburse no earlier than 10 days prior to the start of classes. Refunds are generated for students with credit balances on their account 14 days after classes begin. Students will be emailed when their refund is available.

Can I use loans to cover additional expenses such as living expenses, books, and supplies? And what about travel and housing for immersions?

The total cost of attendance (COA) for the academic year includes tuition and mandatory fees, a living allowance, personal expenses, transportation, and books. If there is eligibility for additional loan funds based on the COA, you are able to use those resources to cover other expenses. There is no additional charge for immersions, but travel, housing, and meal expenses are covered by the student. Student Financial Services can assist with estimating these costs.

There are clinical rotations required for this program. Can I use the loan funds to cover these expenses?

The nursing program includes a series of clinical rotations. If you have a credit balance on your account from your student loans, those funds will be refunded to you to use for any expenses associated with your program.  

Who can I contact at St. John Fisher University for financial aid questions?

If you have any questions about tuition and financial aid, please contact Student Financial Services at sfs@sjf.edu or (585) 385-8042.

What is the FAFSA?

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is an online application the Department of Education uses to determine if you are eligible to receive federal student aid.

What is the St. John Fisher University FAFSA school code?

The St. John Fisher University FAFSA school code is 002821.

When should I complete the FAFSA?

The FAFSA is available every October 1st for the upcoming academic year. New students planning to use federal student aid should complete a FAFSA while applying for admission. Continuing students will need to submit a FAFSA each year they plan to apply for federal student aid.

Do I need to complete the FAFSA each year?

Yes. Eligibility for federal student aid does not carry over from one award year to the next. To be offered federal aid, you will need to complete the FAFSA for each award year you will attend.

What constitutes an academic year for federal student aid?

An academic year is the year for which financial aid is used to fund your education. The academic/aid year for St. John Fisher University begins with the summer semester.

What is the Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan?

The Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan is a federal loan offered to students to help with the cost of education. It is not based on income or financial need and begins to accrue interest once the loan is disbursed to the University.

What criteria are used to determine eligibility for federal student aid?

In order to be eligible for federal student aid, you must: 

Learn more about federal student aid eligibility criteria on the Federal Student Aid website.

What if I am currently in default or have defaulted on a prior federal student loan?

Log in at Studentaid.gov to view your federal student loans and contact your loan servicer for details on how to clear the default. Students in default are not eligible for additional federal loans until the default is cleared.

How much am I eligible to borrow for each academic year with a Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan?

As a graduate student, you are eligible for up to $20,500 with a Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan for each academic year.

What is the aggregate loan limit?

The aggregate loan limit is the total lifetime amount that you may borrow in federal student loans for undergraduate and graduate study. The maximum aggregate loan limit for federal loans for students in a graduate nursing program is $138,500. This amount includes subsidized and unsubsidized loans only. It does not include PLUS Loans or private student loans. The Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan program does not have an aggregate limit.

If the total loan amount you receive over the course of your education reaches the aggregate loan limit, you are not eligible to receive additional Federal Direct Unsubsidized Student Loans. However, you can continue to apply for the Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan. If you repay some of your unsubsidized loans to bring your outstanding loan debt below the aggregate loan limit, you could then borrow again, up to the amount of your remaining eligibility under the aggregate loan limit. Learn more about graduate annual loan limits.

How do I find out if I am near my aggregate loan limit?

Log in at StudentAid.gov to view your federal student loan borrowing history and loan servicer details. Please note that private education loans are not listed on this site. Students in default are not eligible for additional federal loans. Contact your loan servicer for default resolution options.

How do I apply for a Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan?

To apply for a Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan, you must complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You will need to review and accept your loan amount on Fish ‘R’ Net. First-time borrowers at St. John Fisher University will also need to complete Loan Entrance Counseling, an Annual Student Loan Acknowledgement, and a Master Promissory Note (MPN) at Studentaid.gov.

What is the current Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan interest rate for graduate/professional students?

The Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan interest rate for graduate/professional students is determined on an annual basis. Learn more about interest rates on the Federal Student Aid website.

Are there any additional loan fees for the Federal Direct Subsidized/Unsubsidized Loans?

There is a loan origination fee that is a percentage of the total loan amount. The loan origination fee is deducted from each loan disbursement prior to the funds being applied to your account. Information on subsidized/unsubsidized loan origination fees can be found on the Interest Rates and Fees page of the Federal Student Aid website.

What is the Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan?

The Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan is a federal loan that graduate or professional degree students can use to help pay education expenses in addition to the Direct Unsubsidized Student Loan. Learn about Direct PLUS Loans.

Do Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loans affect my aggregate loan limit?

Only Direct Subsidized/Unsubsidized Student Loans count toward your aggregate loan limit.

What are the eligibility criteria to apply for the Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan?

A credit check will be conducted when applying for the Direct Graduate PLUS Loan. In addition to the federal student aid eligibility criteria, applicants cannot have an adverse credit history.

What are the credit criteria to receive the Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan?

One of the eligibility requirements to receive a Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan is that you must not have an adverse credit history. A credit check is performed to determine whether a Graduate PLUS Loan applicant meets this requirement. Learn more about Graduate PLUS Loans.

How much can I borrow from the Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan?

If approved for the Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan, you can borrow up to the cost of attendance minus any other financial aid you receive (including Direct Unsubsidized Student Loans and scholarships). St. John Fisher University will determine your eligibility. There are no set annual or aggregate limits. Learn more about the borrowing amounts of the Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan at St. John Fisher University.

How do I apply for the Direct Graduate PLUS Loan?

More information on the Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan can be found on St. John Fisher University’s Financial Aid website.

When can I apply for the Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan?

Once you have determined the amount that you will need for the aid year, complete the Grad PLUS application at Studentaid.gov.

What are my options if I’m denied the Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan?

If you are denied the Direct Graduate PLUS Loan, you may reapply with an endorser or appeal the credit decision.

What is the Direct Graduate PLUS Loan current interest rate?

The Direct Graduate PLUS Loan interest rate is determined at the beginning of each academic year, and is available on the Federal Student Aid website’s Interest Rates and Fees page.

Are there any additional loan fees for the Direct Graduate PLUS Loan?

There is a loan origination fee that is a percentage of the total loan amount. The loan origination fee is deducted proportionately from each loan disbursement you receive. Information on Direct Graduate PLUS Loan origination fees can be found on the Interest Rates and Fees page of the Federal Student Aid website.

What are private student loans?

Private student loans are loans offered by private lending institutions and are not a part of the federal government’s loan program. Lenders offer private educational loans with different rates, fees, repayment terms, and approval requirements.

Are private student loans offered at St. John Fisher University?

Private loan programs are student loans available through a lending institution, and the student applies directly with the lender. They are not a part of the federal government’s loan program, nor offered by the University. It is recommended that a student apply with a credit-worthy co-signer. Please review all the terms and conditions of a loan. Students can use a private lender of their choice. For more information, visit the Financing Options website.

Do I have to repay my student loans while I’m in school?

New federal student loans borrowed will automatically be deferred while you are enrolled at least half-time. You should be aware that although you can defer payments while you are in school, interest will still accrue on your loan(s). To defer loans toward which you are currently making payments, contact your loan servicer for information.  

When do I have to repay my loan?

After you graduate, leave school, or drop below half-time enrollment, you will have a six-month grace period before you are required to begin repayment. During this period, you’ll receive repayment information from your loan servicer and you will be notified of your first payment due date. Payments are usually due monthly. You are not required to pay while in school; however, if you choose to, there is no penalty to prepay. More information on repaying your federal student loans is available on the Federal Student Aid website.

What are the repayment plan options, and how do I select one?

The Department of Education offers multiple options for repayment. Details on repayment options and a repayment estimator are available on the Federal Student Aid website.

Can I consolidate my graduate loans and my undergraduate loans?

A Direct Consolidation Loan allows you to consolidate (combine) multiple federal education loans into one loan including both graduate and undergraduate loans. Learn more about loan consolidation on the Federal Student Aid website.

Are there any loan forgiveness options available?

In certain circumstances, all or a portion of a borrower’s federal student loans may be forgiven under the federal government’s loan forgiveness program. Please review the Federal Student Aid website for more information on federal loan forgiveness, cancellation, and discharge.

Licensed primary care clinicians in eligible disciplines can receive loan repayment assistance through the National Health Service Corps Loan Repayment Program (NHSC LRP). In exchange for loan repayment, you serve at least two years at an NHSC-approved site in a Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA). Information is available at the NHSC Loan Repayment Programs page.

How do I apply for veterans education benefits?

To begin the process of applying for military education benefits for which you are eligible, visit the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs website. Questions regarding eligibility should be directed to the VA at (888) 442-4551.

What documents are required to process veterans education benefits?

Visit VA.gov to access and manage your VA education benefits. If you are applying for Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits, complete the Education Benefits Application, which generates a request for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE). The COE is mailed to you within six to eight weeks of submitting the application. Once received, submit a copy of the COE to St. John Fisher University Veterans Affairs Office at veteransservices@sjf.edu.

What are the eligibility factors for Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits?

You are potentially eligible for this VA-administered program if you have at least 90 days of aggregate active-duty service after Sept.10, 2001, and are still on active duty, or if you are an honorably discharged veteran or were discharged with a service-connected disability after 30 days. Learn more about the Post-9/11 GI Bill.

What is the current payment rate of benefits, including the Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA)?

The tuition and fee payment rate and MHA are determined at the beginning of each military academic year on Aug. 1. The current rate table is located on the Education and Training page of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs site. 

What is the deadline to apply for veterans education benefits?

If you are eligible to receive veterans education benefits, please email the St. John Fisher University Veterans Affairs Office at veteransservices@sjf.edu. The University can assist you with the process of applying for your benefits.

Students that transfer in less than 90 earned credit hours will be required to file the FAFSA before benefits can be applied to their account.

What is the Yellow Ribbon Program (YRP)?

St. John Fisher University is a proud participant in the Yellow Ribbon Program and awards all students who meet the criteria. The Yellow Ribbon Program allows degree-granting colleges and universities in the United States to voluntarily enter into an agreement with the VA to fund tuition expenses that exceed the annual national maximum cap per military academic year. Participating institutions choose their contribution amount, and the VA matches that amount and issues payment directly to the school.

Veterans who are utilizing Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits and who are entitled to 100% of their benefit may be eligible. To participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program, you must be using Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits at 100% eligibility, not be on active duty, and not be a military spouse. Please note that Yellow Ribbon Program benefits cannot be combined with other St. John Fisher University tuition discounts. Eligibility in the program is automatically applied to your account. For additional information on the Yellow Ribbon Program, visit the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs website.

Am I eligible for Veterans Tuition Awards as a New York resident?

Veterans Tuition Awards are awards for New York state (NYS) residents who are eligible veterans matriculated in an approved full-time or part-time program of study at an undergraduate or graduate degree-granting institution or in an approved vocational training program in NYS. More information on NYS Veterans Tuition Awards is available on the HESC website.

Who can I contact at St. John Fisher University for questions about using veterans education benefits?

For questions about military education benefits, visit the St. John Fisher University Resources for Veterans, Military Students, and Their Families website, email the Veterans Affairs Office at veteransservices@sjf.edu, or call (585) 385-8031.

How do I qualify for a tuition tax credit?

For detailed information on tax benefits for education, see IRS Publication 970: Tax Benefits for Education. St. John Fisher University is unable to provide tax advice. We urge you to contact your tax advisor or the IRS [at (800) 829-1040 or www.irs.gov] if you have any questions regarding the HOPE or Lifetime Learning Tax Credits.

What is the 1098-T Form?

The 1098-T Form displays the information that St. John Fisher University sent to the Internal Revenue Service. Box 1 is the amount of qualified tuition and related expenses (QTRE) you paid during the year. It is important to know that Box 1 cannot exceed the amount of qualified tuition and related expenses that were billed during the year. More information is available on the Student Accounts website.

How do I obtain my 1098-T Form?

Your Tuition Statement, Form 1098-T, may be accessed online through Fish ‘R’ Net under the Payment & Billing section. More information is available on the Student Accounts website.

Updated: February 2021