The University of Delaware wants to bolster a program that aims to aid students from families with lower incomes.
The Newark Post reported that UD is seeking state funding for its First State Promise program, based on a presentation by President Dennis Assanis to the Delaware General Assembly’s Joint Finance Committee. UD is seeking $47 million for the program.
The program, briefly outlined on UD’s financial aid site, aims to assist students from families with an annual income of less than $75,000
Assanis and UD have come under fire from legislators and others over tuition costs and lagging minority enrollment. There have also been decades-long claims that UD favors out of state residents who will pay higher. tuition.
Minority enrollment was also affected by the end of an MBNA scholarship program following its takeover by Bank of America.
In response, the UD president has pointed to ongoing financial assistance that sharply lowers in-state tuition costs.
UD, like many of its peers has continued to raise tuition, even during periods of little or no inflation, citing the quality of its offerings, boosts in financial aid packages, and a declining level of state support over the decades.
Families with incomes higher than $75,000 or who have assets over $50,000 may also benefit from UD’s First State Promise by receiving grant funding as part of their financial aid award, the financial aid website noted.
Grants that are part of the First State promise may be affected by household size and family assets, minus the home, in excess of $50,000. Students living at home may be eligible for need-based aid less than tuition due to the lower cost of attendance.
The assistance does not cover room and board.
