Over 70% of SEMO students qualify for the University's Copper Dome scholarship program which can be combined with other endowed and participation scholarships. The full financial aid offer includes scholarships as well as federal, state, and other aid, to allow Southeast to make a quality education affordable and attainable.

"Our commitment is to put together competitive financial aid offers to open doors for students and help them pursue their goals," said Dr. Matthew Kearney, director of Student Financial Services. "Even with the new FAFSA delays slowing things down, it is all hands-on deck now that we have the information to get packages out as soon as possible and give families as much time as possible to consider their options."

The changes made to the FAFSA form and online application system presented challenges for universities nationwide, including delays in the processing of financial aid information. As a result, financial aid offices have only recently begun receiving official data on students' financial aid eligibility for the upcoming academic year. However, Southeast's Student Financial Services office has worked closely with technology teams to update awarding systems with the latest data as soon as it becomes available.

"Our goal was to deliver financial aid offers to admitted students the first week of May and we are getting those offers out this week," Kearney said. "Families need this information to fully understand costs and make the best choices for their education."

To provide extra time as families dealt with FAFSA issues, Southeast extended its scholarship deadline to June 1 and housing contract deadline to July 1 this year.

Prospective students can expect to receive detailed information about their financial aid offers via email and through the University's online portal, mySEMO. New, first-time freshmen will also have a financial aid offer mailed to their home address. Once packages are sent, SEMO's admissions and student financial services teams are available to answer any questions and provide guidance throughout the process.

"We know the FAFSA delays have been stressful for prospective students and their families. We want them to understand every component of their award and have all their questions answered," Kearney said. "Total college cost is a major consideration in choosing, and we're here to support families through that process."

Kearney said there is still time for students to complete their FAFSA and urges prospective students to do so to take advantage of potential financial aid.

With most students qualifying for SEMO's generous scholarship program, the University is committed to making a high-quality education accessible. For more information about financial aid opportunities at SEMO, visit semo.edu/sfs.

Applying To SEMO
Eligible new Missouri undergraduate students with a 2.75 high school GPA and who are eligible for Pell Grants won’t pay any tuition or fees at Southeast Missouri State with the Will To Do Award. SEMO also offers one tuition rate nationwide for domestic students. Apply at semo.edu/apply.

Prospective students are encouraged to visit campus. For more information or to visit campus, visit the Southeast Admissions page or admissions@semo.edu.