Lori Meadows
Non-degree students are those who are not enrolled in a degree program at a college or university but take courses for credit. At most institutions, non-degree students are charged tuition and fees on a per-credit basis. While mandatory student activity fees are common at many universities, non-degree students may or may not be required to pay these fees depending on the specific policies of the institution. These fees often fund student organizations, campus events, and other resources to enhance the overall student experience. However, the applicability of such fees to non-degree students can vary, and it is important for individuals in such programs to understand the specific financial requirements of their institution.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Who has to pay the fee? | This varies depending on the institution. Some universities charge the fee to all undergraduate, graduate and professional students. Others charge students enrolled in 6 or more credits (3 or more in the summer). |
| What is the fee used for? | Funding student organizations, student governments, the Discount Ticket program, alternative breaks program, local community service initiatives, student publications, intramural sports, etc. |
| Fee amount | This also varies depending on the institution. The fee ranges from $37.50 to $40 per semester at Ohio State University. The maximum allowable annual amount at the State University of New York is $250. |
| Fee payment frequency | Per academic term (autumn, spring, and summer). |
| Fee exemption | Students enrolled in programs annually approved for an exemption. Students receiving the Regents Scholarship or are part of the Senior Citizen Education Program. |
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What You'll Learn
Mandatory fees for non-degree students
Non-degree students may have to pay mandatory fees for certain services and activities, depending on the institution and the specific program they are enrolled in. These fees are typically separate from tuition fees and are charged to cover the costs of specific services, resources, or facilities available to students. While the specific fees and amounts can vary across institutions, here are some common types of mandatory fees for non-degree students:
Student Services Fee: This fee is typically charged to all students, including non-degree students, who are enrolled in a certain number of credits. It covers a range of student services, such as recreational activities, cultural programs, student government, and health and wellness services. The fee may be composed of different categories, such as the Student Activity Fee, Media Fee, and Health and Wellbeing Fee, each supporting specific aspects of student life.
Technology Fees: Some institutions charge technology fees to support instructional technology and enhance online learning experiences. These fees may be specific to certain programs or colleges within the university.
Recreational Facility Fees: Many institutions charge a mandatory fee for the construction, maintenance, and operation of recreational facilities on campus. These facilities may include gyms, pools, sports fields, or other recreational spaces.
International Student Fees: Non-immigrant visa students are often required to pay an additional fee, known as an international student fee. This fee is typically charged per semester or term of enrolment.
Program-specific Fees: Certain academic programs may have mandatory fees associated with them. For example, field trip fees, lab fees, or course-specific material fees. These fees vary depending on the nature of the program and the resources required.
It is important for non-degree students to review the fee structure of their specific institution and program to understand the mandatory fees they may be responsible for. These fees are typically outlined on the institution's website or in the registration materials provided to students.
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Fee exemptions and waivers
Fee Exemptions:
- The University of Texas at Dallas offers exemptions for specific groups, such as current or former foster care students and the surviving spouse and children of certain deceased public servants.
- Texas public institutions provide exemptions for specific Texas residents, allowing them to pay reduced or no tuition and, in some cases, mandatory fees.
- The University of Minnesota offers exemptions for students enrolled in specific programs.
Fee Waivers:
- The National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) provides application fee waivers for undergraduate students with financial needs.
- Texas public institutions offer waivers that allow certain non-residents to pay the Texas resident tuition rate.
- The State University of New York determines whether student activity programs are supported by mandatory or voluntary fees through a referendum.
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Fee allocation and distribution
The allocation and distribution of fees are essential aspects of the higher education funding landscape. While the specific fee structures may vary across different institutions and geographical locations, some common themes and practices can be observed.
In the context of student activity fees, the distribution of funds is often aligned with supporting student organizations, activities, and programs. For example, at the Ohio State University, the student activity fee is charged to undergraduate, graduate, and professional students enrolled at the Columbus campus. The generated revenue is allocated to various beneficiaries, including the Ohio Union Activities Board, Undergraduate Student Government, Council of Graduate Students, and the Discount Ticket Program. The fee structure varies based on tuition groups, with amounts ranging from USD 37.50 to USD 40 per semester.
At other institutions, such as the State University of New York, the determination of whether student activity programs are supported by voluntary or mandatory fees is made through a referendum conducted by the student body. The student government plays a crucial role in preparing and approving budgets that govern expenditures from these fees, adhering to principles of equal opportunity and viewpoint neutrality. The maximum allowable annual fee is set at USD 250, and students are required to pay half of the total fee upon registration.
The University of Minnesota also incorporates a Student Services Fee, which is mandatory for students enrolled in a certain number of credits. This fee encompasses the Student Activity fee, the Media fee, and the Student Life, Health, and Wellbeing fee. While non-degree students at the University of Minnesota are not required to purchase the Student Health Benefit Plan, they may still be subject to other fees depending on their specific enrollment status and credit load.
In recent years, the allocation of higher education funding has been influenced by economic downturns and shifts in state finances. Performance-based funding approaches have emerged as a means to allocate state appropriations based on institutional outcomes. However, critics argue that such approaches can perpetuate inequities in funding, especially for institutions with limited resources.
To ensure equitable distribution and efficient utilization of funds, it is essential for institutions to periodically reassess the varying needs of different groups of students and adapt their funding formulas accordingly. Additionally, defining adequacy thresholds for educational spending can help states allocate appropriations more effectively and meet desired outcomes.
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Student benefits and resources
Health Benefits
Non-degree students at the University of Minnesota, for example, are not required to purchase the Student Health Benefit Plan. However, they can choose to waive this health plan by providing proof of enrollment in an alternative eligible health plan. This flexibility ensures that non-degree students can maintain their health and well-being during their time on campus.
Financial Aid
Financial aid is typically not available to non-degree-seeking students. However, there may be exceptions, and visiting or transient students should check their eligibility with their home school. Additionally, non-degree students may need to budget for course-specific fees and application fees, as these costs can vary.
Campus Resources
Non-degree students at Johns Hopkins University's Bloomberg School of Public Health can access various enrollment and registration resources. They offer detailed instructions on how to apply for regular on-campus courses, online courses, or institutes. Additionally, new international students without a US Social Security Number will be assigned a "988" number to facilitate their enrollment process.
Student Activity Fees
Student activity fees are mandatory at some institutions, and the funds generated are used to support a variety of student organizations and initiatives. For instance, at Ohio State University, the Student Activity Fee funds major campus events, student governments, discount ticket programs, and community service initiatives. While non-degree students may be exempt from paying these fees at certain institutions, they may also voluntarily opt into paying them to access the benefits they provide.
Food and Nutrition Benefits
Non-degree students may also be eligible for food and nutrition benefits through programs like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program). During the COVID-19 emergency, temporary exemptions were made to increase eligibility for students. While these exemptions are no longer available as of July 1, 2023, students can still apply for SNAP and may be eligible if they meet specific requirements, such as working at least 20 hours per week or participating in a work-study program.
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Student government and organisations
Student governments and organisations play a crucial role in allocating and managing student activity fees. These fees are mandatory for all undergraduate, graduate, and professional students at many universities, including Ohio State University and the State University of New York. The fees are used to fund a range of services and resources that enhance student life, such as campus events, student publications, intramural sports, and student government activities.
At Ohio State University, the Student Activity Fee is used to support major campus events, student organisations, student governments, discount ticket programs, alternative break programs, and local community service initiatives. The Council on Student Affairs (CSA), a subcommittee of the University Senate, decides how the fee is allocated. The CSA includes undergraduate, graduate, and professional students, as well as faculty and staff members.
The State University of New York also has a mandatory student activity fee, which is determined by a referendum held every two years. The student government prepares and approves a budget for these fees, ensuring equal opportunity and viewpoint neutrality. The total fee for one academic year must not exceed the maximum allowable amount determined by the chancellor in consultation with the student assembly.
At American University, a mandatory student activity/program fee finances over 160 student-run organisations and programs. This fee is approved by the University Board of Trustees, who encourage initiatives that contribute to the intellectual and social development of the student body and enhance the campus environment.
Additionally, the Student Activity Fee Committee (SAFC) at Georgia State University advises the university administration on allocating student activity fees. The committee consists of 18 voting members, 13 of whom are students. The fees are distributed to hundreds of student organisations across all Georgia State campuses.
While the specific fee structures may vary, it is clear that student activity fees play a significant role in funding student governments and organisations. These fees enable a wide range of services and resources that ultimately enhance the overall student experience.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends on the university. For example, at the University of Minnesota, non-degree students are not required to purchase the Student Health Benefit Plan. However, at the Ohio State University, non-degree students are charged a mandatory Student Activity Fee.
The Student Activity Fee is used to fund student organizations, student governments, and campus events.
The amount of the Student Activity Fee varies by university and tuition group. For example, at Ohio State University, the fee is $40 per semester, while at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, it is $37 per month.
It depends on the university. Some universities, such as the University of Arizona, allow students to get the fee waived, while others, such as American University, do not.
