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The cost of attendance for the 2008-09 year will be $26,305 In-State and $32,205 for Out-of-State students.
Personal
expenses represent discretionary personal living expenses, such as
entertainment, health insurance, and clothing. The student expense budget
governs the total amount of aid (loans or a combination of grants and loans)
that are available to a student in any given year. Students who have federal
loans in their financial aid package may not borrow in excess of the approved
budget. Living on less allows a student to borrow less and save money in
the long run.
We realize that students come to the Law School from varied backgrounds,
experiences, and lifestyles; however, the student expense budget allows only
for the simple lifestyle of a graduate student. Federal regulations direct the
budget construction process, and schools are limited as to the types of budgets
and the items contained in budgets. Consumer debt and bar preparation courses
are not valid budget items. There is a distinct advantage to discharging as
much consumer debt as possible (such as credit cards) before entering law
school.
The Financial Aid Office reserves the right to make adjustments in a student's
aid package, up or down, when institutional resources change, the student's
support from all sources exceeds need, or circumstances change, such as number
of family members in college, or a substantial alteration in reported income.
If you experience a financial hardship, we recommend that you speak to the
Office of Financial Aid. If you have legitimate educational expenses that cause
you to exceed your student budget, our office can consider an adjustment once
appropriate documents is received and approved. Please note that adjustments
will only be made under extraordinary circumstances. Please be advised that
requests for a budget increase will not be accepted until early October.
What Items Are Not Covered by the Student Expense Budget?
Moving/Summer Expenses
Moving expenses incurred during the summer preceding your entry into CUNY Law
are not legitimate for an increase to your student expenses budget. You are
advised to budget accordingly, if you plan to relocate to the tri-state area.
Equally important, expenses incurred during the summer(s) between academic
years are not covered under the student expense budget. \
Consumer Debt
The financial aid budget will not allow for any consumer debt. Students are
advised to pay off all credit card debt(s) before coming to law school. The
Office of Financial Aid cannot make allowances for monthly credit card
payments.
Wardrobe
The cost of a professional wardrobe will not be considered for a budget
adjustment. Students are advised that this cost may be considerable and that
wise comparison shopping is advisable. <
What Items Are Covered by the Student Expense Budget?
Medical and Dental Expenses
Expenses for necessary medical treatment not covered by insurance may be
allowed as an adjustment to the student budget, if you have already borrowed to
the full extent of the budget. Should you have a medical or dental expense that
is not covered by insurance, please contact the Office of Financial Aid. We
will expect a detailed cost of treatment and billing summary for the expenses
along with a letter from your doctor substantiating your request.
Computer Purchase
If you have not borrowed up to the budget, you do not need a budget increase.
On the other hand, if you borrowed up to the budget and require additional loan
funds to cover the computer expense, you may request a budget increase for the
purchase. You will need to complete the “Computer Loan Request Form” and attach
supporting documentation of the computer expense.
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