Billing notices for Fall 2010 semester submitted

Tuesday marked the first Fall 2010 billing notification for West Virginia University students. The last day the University allows on-time payments from students is Aug. 21.

The University offers two tuition payment plans, a semester plan known as the "60/40" plan and a monthly plan.

The "60/40" payment plan allows students to make two installments with 60 percent due the Saturday prior to the start of a semester. The second installment, the remaining 40 percent, is due by the end of the sixth week of classes, said Evelyn Hansen, Financial Aid counselor.

"Sixty percent is the minimum that a student must have paid. Students who do not have that amount paid by that time must pay the difference left over on the University bill," she said.

The TuitionPay spreads the cost of tuition over several monthly payments and is interest-free. This payment option is administered by Sallie Mae.

Paying online through STAR is the easiest way to pay out of pocket. This can be done by electronic check or credit card, said Brandon Twigg, Student Accounts manager.

"Either payment plan will work great, it really just depends on the financial situations of each student, and their family." Twigg said

This year's tuition for out-of-state students has been increased to $16,402 per year while in-state tuition remains at $5,304 per year. Tuition is set every year by the WVU Board of Governors.

"The STAR information system is the best source of information available for students to monitor their accounts," Twigg said. "It's a one-stop information center for students that views their classes, grades, transcripts, charges, balances owed, financial aid, housing information and much more."

Hansen said students could keep track of their financial aid history by visiting the website www.studentloans.gov. She offered advice for students seeking aid.

"Having a FAFSA filed early, staying in contact with the financial aid department and checking your MIX account frequently is the best advice I can give to students,
Hansen said. "Also, students should check with their major department to see what scholarships may be available to them," Hansen said.