Financial Aid Compliance

Consumer Information

The University of Montana is required by the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended, to disclose certain information to enrolled students, prospective students, parents, employees, and others. This information may also be disclosed in other ways by UM (email, mailings, publications, websites, etc.), but is also provided here for convenience. UM employees are available throughout normal working hours, with reasonable notice, to assist enrolled and prospective students in obtaining consumer information. UM can provide a paper copy of any information listed below upon request; contact faid@mso.umt.edu or call (406) 243-5373.

The U.S. Department of Education also discloses consumer information about the University of Montana on the College Navigator website. 

General Institutional Information

Privacy of Student Records – Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords eligible students certain rights with respect to their education records. Each year, UM notifies enrolled students of their rights to: review their education records; request amendment of records they believe to be inaccurate; consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information; and file complaints with the U.S. Department of Education. More information, including UM's full FERPA policy, is available through the Office of the Registrar. Students may also print and submit the Release of Confidential Information form to authorize UM to discuss their student account with a third party. For questions, contact the Registrar's Office at (406) 243-5466 or registrar@umontana.edu.

Facilities and Services for Students with Disabilities

The Office for Disability Equity (ODE) coordinates academic accommodations and support services for students with disabilities, including testing accommodations, captioning and interpreting services, assistive technology, and note-taking support. Students seeking accommodations should contact ODE at (406) 243-2243 or disability@umontana.edu.

Student Body Diversity

Information about student body diversity — including the percentage of enrolled, full-time students by gender, race or ethnicity, and Federal Pell Grant receipt — is published by the Office of Institutional Research. For questions, contact Institutional Research at ir@umontana.edu.

Cost of Attendance

The Cost of Attendance reflects the estimated expenses a typical student is expected to incur during an academic year, including tuition and fees, housing and food, books and supplies, transportation, and personal expenses. Actual costs vary based on residency, enrollment level, housing arrangements, and other factors. For questions, contact Student Financial Services at (406) 243-5373 or faid@mso.umt.edu.

Net Price Calculator

Net price is the amount a student pays to attend UM in a single academic year after subtracting grants and scholarships received. UM's Net Price Calculator allows prospective students to estimate their net cost based on their individual circumstances. Results are estimates only and are not final or binding. For questions, contact Student Financial Services at (406) 243-5373 or faid@mso.umt.edu.

Program Information Website

Beginning July 1, 2026, the U.S. Department of Education maintains a Program Information Website providing standardized consumer information on institutions and their educational programs, including program length, enrollment, costs, borrowing, debt, earnings outcomes, and accreditation status. UM provides a link to this resource on its academic, cost, financial aid, and admissions webpages. Prospective students are encouraged to review this information prior to enrollment and will receive instructions on how to access the site before any financial commitment. Enrolled Title IV recipients will receive access instructions before the start of each subsequent award year. For questions, contact Student Financial Services at (406) 243-5373 or faid@mso.umt.edu.

Refund Policy

UM's refund schedule is based on the date a student officially drops a course or withdraws, not the date of last attendance. Refund schedules and tuition/fee deadlines are published by the Office of the Registrar. For questions about your student account, contact Student Accounts at (406) 243-2223 or StudentAccounts@umontana.edu.

Requirements for Withdrawal

Students wishing to withdraw from all courses must follow the official withdrawal process through the Office of the Registrar. Withdrawal may affect your financial aid eligibility (see Return of Federal Financial Aid below). For questions, contact the Registrar's Office at (406) 243-5466 or registrar@umontana.edu.

Return of Federal Financial Aid

If you withdraw from UM and have received federal financial aid, a portion of those funds may need to be returned, which could create a balance owed on your student account. Federal aid is “earned” in proportion to the days of enrollment completed. UM's Return of Title IV Funds policy addresses the following:

  • When the Return of Title IV funds provisions apply
  • Which Title IV funds are subject to the provisions
  • How UM determines a student’s withdrawal date
  • The effect of a leave of absence on Title IV fund calculations
  • How UM determines the amount of Title IV funds a student has earned
  • The treatment of Title IV funds that remain undisbursed at the time of withdrawal
  • How UM determines the amount of Title IV funds that must be returned
  • The responsibilities of UM and the student for returning funds
  • The order in which Title IV funds are returned
  • Applicable deadlines

More information about UM's Return of Title IV Funds policy is available on our website. For questions, contact Student Financial Services at (406) 243-5373 or faid@mso.umt.edu.

Textbook Information

Required course materials, including titles, authors, ISBNs, and retail prices, are available through the UM Bookstore. Students may also find course materials through Moodle or by contacting their course instructor. For questions, contact the UM Bookstore at (406) 243-5631.

Academic Programs (Educational Program, Instructional Facilities, and Faculty)

Information about UM's degree programs, majors, and certificates is available through the UM Course Catalog. Information about instructional facilities is available through Facilities Services. Information about faculty and academic departments can be found through the Colleges, Schools, and Departments directory. For general inquiries, contact UM at (406) 243-0211.

Contact information for filing complaints about UM with accrediting agencies or state licensing bodies is provided under Complaints below.

Student Activities

Information about student activities, organizations, and extracurricular opportunities available at UM is maintained by the Associated Students of the University of Montana (ASUM) and the Division of Student Affairs. For questions, contact ASUM at asum@umontana.edu or Student Affairs at (406) 243-5022.

Transfer of Credit Policies and Articulation Agreements

UM evaluates transfer credits from regionally accredited institutions on a course-by-course basis. Transfer credit policies, equivalencies, and articulation agreements are administered by the Office of the Registrar. For questions, contact the Registrar's Office at (406) 243-5466 or registrar@umontana.edu.

Accreditation of Institution

The University of Montana is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). Accreditation indicates that UM meets or exceeds criteria for institutional quality as evaluated through a peer review process. Information about UM's accreditation status, including accreditation of individual programs, is available through the Office of the Provost. For questions, contact the Provost's Office at (406) 243-2311.

Teach-Out Plan Information

If UM's accrediting agency, the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), requires that a teach-out plan be maintained, UM will disclose that requirement and the reason it is necessary. At present, UM has not been required to maintain a teach-out plan. Enrolled and prospective students may request copies of UM's accreditation, licensing, or approval documents by contacting the Office of the Provost at (406) 243-2311.

Unauthorized distribution of copyrighted material — including peer-to-peer file sharing — violates federal law and UM policy. Violations of federal copyright law can result in civil damages of up to $30,000 per infringed work, or up to $150,000 per work if willful infringement is proven. UM's policies on acceptable use of computing resources and sanctions for violations are described in the IT Policies section of the UM website. Students found in violation are also subject to disciplinary action under the Student Conduct Code. For questions, contact UM Information Technology at (406) 243-4357 or help@umontana.edu.

Complaints

UM is committed to addressing student complaints in a timely and effective manner. Students are encouraged to first work through internal UM processes. External complaints may be filed with the following agencies:

For questions about internal grievance procedures, contact Student Financial Services at (406) 243-5373 or faid@mso.umt.edu.

Enforcement Actions or Prosecutions

UM is required to disclose any enforcement action or prosecution brought against the institution by a state or federal law enforcement agency where a final judgment could result in an adverse action by an accrediting agency — including revocation of state authorization or limitation, suspension, or termination of Title IV eligibility. At present, UM is not subject to any such pending enforcement action or prosecution. For questions, contact Student Financial Services at (406) 243-5373 or faid@mso.umt.edu.

Pre-Dispute Arbitration Agreements and Class Action Waivers

UM does not require enrolled or prospective students to enter into pre-dispute arbitration agreements or to waive their right to participate in class action lawsuits as a condition of enrollment or receipt of financial aid. If this practice changes, UM will disclose the terms of any such agreement to enrolled and prospective students. For questions, contact Student Financial Services at (406) 243-5373 or faid@mso.umt.edu.

Constitution Day

Each institution receiving federal funds is required to hold an educational program on the United States Constitution on September 17 each year, commemorating the signing of the Constitution on September 17, 1787. When September 17 falls on a weekend or holiday, the program is held during the preceding or following week. UM fulfills this requirement annually. For information, contact Student Financial Services at faid@mso.umt.edu.

Teacher Preparation Program Report

Each year the Phyllis J. Washington College of Education submits a report to the state of Montana and the U.S. Department of Education on teacher preparation programs, including goals, assurances, pass rates, and program information for initial state certification or licensure candidates. The Title II report is available on the ED website. For more information, contact the College of Education at (406) 243-6145.

Student Financial Assistance

Student Financial Aid Information

A number of disclosures are required pertaining to student financial aid. Many are available on the Student Financial Services website and the UM Catalog, including:

Certain loan disclosures are also made when a student completes their Master Promissory Note (MPN) for Direct Loans, including loan terms, conditions, and repayment schedules. For additional information, contact Student Financial Services at (406) 243-5373 or faid@mso.umt.edu.

Federal Student Financial Aid Penalties for Drug Law Violations

Note: Beginning June 17, 2021, drug convictions are no longer a federal student aid eligibility disqualifier for the 2021–22 award year and beyond.

Prior to that change, a federal or state drug conviction occurring during a period of enrollment for which a student was receiving federal student aid could disqualify the student from FSA funds. Students with questions about this historical requirement can visit the Federal Student Aid website or contact Student Financial Services at (406) 243-5373.

Disbursement for Books and Supplies

Federal regulations require UM to provide a way for students with a projected credit balance (refund) on their account to obtain books and supplies by the 7th day of the term, provided conditions are met. UM disburses eligible funds up to 10 days before the beginning of each term; refunds are typically available to students at or before the start of the term. For questions, contact Student Financial Services at (406) 243-5373 or faid@mso.umt.edu.

Credits Earned Through Study Abroad

Study abroad programs approved for academic credit may be considered enrollment at UM for financial aid purposes. More information is available through UM International Programs at (406) 243-4288. For financial aid questions related to study abroad, contact Student Financial Services at (406) 243-5373 or faid@mso.umt.edu.

Written Arrangements with Other Institutions

Some of UM's educational programs may be provided in part through written arrangements (consortium or contractual agreements) with other eligible or ineligible institutions. Where such arrangements exist, UM discloses pertinent details including the portion of the program provided by the host institution, the name and location of the host institution, the method of program delivery, and any estimated additional costs resulting from the arrangement. Information about specific written arrangements is available through the relevant academic department or by contacting Student Financial Services at (406) 243-5373 or faid@mso.umt.edu.

Code of Conduct

Student Financial Services adheres to a code of conduct governing relationships with lenders and other entities in the administration of student financial aid programs. UM does not participate in a preferred lender arrangement. For questions, contact Student Financial Services at (406) 243-5373 or faid@mso.umt.edu.

College Financing Plan

In carrying out the Principles of Excellence for Educational Institutions Serving Service Members, Veterans, Spouses, and Other Family Members (Executive Order 13607), UM provides a personalized College Financing Plan to admitted students, including service members, veterans, spouses, and other family members. The College Financing Plan is available to students through their GrizPortal account under Financial Aid. For additional information for veterans and service members, visit the Veterans’ Services office or contact Student Financial Services at (406) 243-5373.

Student Loan Information

National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS)

UM submits student and parent federal loan information to the National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS). This data is accessible by guaranty agencies, lenders, and schools authorized to use the system. Students can view a full history of their federal loans at StudentAid.gov. For questions, contact Student Financial Services at (406) 243-5373 or faid@mso.umt.edu.

Student Loan Default Rates

A cohort default rate (CDR) is the percentage of a school's borrowers who enter repayment on certain federal student loans during a federal fiscal year and default prior to the end of the second following fiscal year. UM's most recent official CDRs:

For questions, contact Student Financial Services at (406) 243-5373 or faid@mso.umt.edu.

Entrance Loan Counseling

First-time Direct Loan borrowers at UM must complete entrance counseling before their first loan disbursement. Entrance counseling is completed online at StudentAid.gov and covers loan terms, conditions, and borrower responsibilities. For questions, contact Student Financial Services at (406) 243-5373 or faid@mso.umt.edu.

Exit Counseling

All federal student loan borrowers who graduate, withdraw, or drop below half-time enrollment are required to complete exit counseling. Exit counseling is completed online at StudentAid.gov. UM will notify borrowers when exit counseling is required. For questions, contact Student Financial Services at (406) 243-5373 or faid@mso.umt.edu.

Private Education Loan Disclosures (Including Self-Certification Form)

Students considering a private (alternative) education loan should be aware that federal loan terms are generally more favorable. UM recommends exhausting federal loan eligibility before pursuing private loans. Information about private loan options and the required Private Education Loan Applicant Self-Certification Form is available through Student Financial Services. Note: UM does not participate in a preferred lender arrangement. For questions, contact Student Financial Services at (406) 243-5373 or faid@mso.umt.edu.

Disputing a Federal Student Loan / Contacting the FSA Ombudsman

The FSA Ombudsman is a resource for borrowers when other approaches to resolving student loan problems have failed. Borrowers should first contact the school, loan servicer, or agency directly involved. If those efforts are unsuccessful, contact the FSA Ombudsman:

U.S. Department of Education
FSA Ombudsman Group
P.O. Box 1854
Monticello, KY 42633
Phone (toll-free): 1-877-557-2575
StudentAid.gov FSA Ombudsman

Health and Safety

Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Program

Each year UM distributes to all students and employees information about its drug and alcohol abuse prevention program, including: standards of conduct; applicable legal sanctions under local, state, and federal law; health risks associated with drug and alcohol use; available counseling, treatment, and rehabilitation programs; and sanctions UM will impose for violations. A biennial review of the program is also conducted. For information distributed to students, contact the Office of Health and Wellness Promotion at (406) 243-4711. For information distributed to employees, contact Human Resource Services at (406) 243-6766.

Vaccination Policies

UM's vaccination and immunization requirements for students are administered by Curry Health Center. For information about required immunizations and health clearance procedures, contact Curry Health Center at (406) 243-4330 or visit curry.umt.edu.

Campus Security Policies, Crime Statistics, and Crime Log

By October 1 each year, UM distributes notice of its Annual Security Report to all current students and employees and notifies prospective students and employees of its availability. The report includes crime statistics, campus security policies, information about registered sex offenders, emergency response procedures, programs to prevent dating violence and sexual assault, and other required disclosures. A copy of the Annual Security Report is available on the UM Campus Safety website. For questions, contact the UM Campus Safety office at (406) 243-6131.

Fire Safety Policies, Fire Statistics, and Fire Log (On-Campus Housing Facilities)

UM's Fire Safety Report is published in conjunction with the Annual Security Report (see above) and includes fire statistics, fire safety policies and procedures, and fire log information for on-campus student housing facilities. A copy of the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report is available on the UM Campus Safety website. For questions, contact the UM Campus Safety office at (406) 243-6131.

Student Outcomes

Note: UM does not guarantee job placement upon graduation. Visit the Career Success office for career services information, or contact them at (406) 243-2022.

Retention Rate

The retention rate is the percentage of first-time, full-time undergraduate students who continue at UM the following year. UM's latest retention rate is reported to the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and is available through the Office of Institutional Research and on the College Navigator website. For questions, contact Institutional Research at ir@umontana.edu.

Graduation Rates (Student Right-to-Know Act)

UM's graduation rate is the percentage of first-time, full-time undergraduate students who complete their program within 150% of the published time for the program (e.g., within six years for a four-year degree). The latest graduation rates, including rates disaggregated by gender, race/ethnicity, and financial aid type, are available through the Office of Institutional Research and on the College Navigator website. For questions, contact Institutional Research at ir@umontana.edu.

Graduation Rates for Students Receiving Athletically Related Student Aid (Student Right-to-Know Act)

UM annually publishes data on completion and graduation rates for students receiving athletically related aid, categorized by race, gender, and sport. This information is available through the UM Athletics Compliance Office and reported to the NCAA. For additional information, contact the UM Athletics Compliance Office at (406) 243-5331.

Placement Rates and Types of Employment

UM makes available information regarding the placement of, and types of employment obtained by, graduates of its degree and certificate programs. This information is gathered from state data systems, alumni surveys, and other relevant sources; the source, time frame, and methodology associated with the data are identified where applicable. Placement data is available through the Career Success office or the Office of Institutional Research. For questions, contact Institutional Research at ir@umontana.edu or Career Success at (406) 243-2022.

Types of Graduate and Professional Education Programs in Which UM Graduates Enroll

Information about the types of graduate and professional programs in which UM graduates enroll is available through the Office of Institutional Research or the Office of the Registrar at (406) 243-5466 or registrar@umontana.edu.

Intercollegiate Athletic Program Participation Rates and Financial Support Data (Equity in Athletics Disclosure Act)

The Equity in Athletics Disclosure Act (EADA) requires co-educational institutions with intercollegiate athletic programs to report annually on athletic participation rates, financial support, staffing, and other data for men's and women's programs. UM prepares this report annually and submits it to the U.S. Department of Education. You can review UM's data on the Equity in Athletics Data Analysis website by searching for University of Montana. For additional information, contact the UM Athletics Compliance Office at (406) 243-5331.

Voter Registration

As part of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended, UM makes a good-faith effort to distribute voter registration information to its students. Montana residents can register to vote or update their registration through the Montana Secretary of State's office. Voter registration forms are also available at the Associated Students of the University of Montana (ASUM) office in the UC. Students from other states should visit their home state's Secretary of State website or use the National Mail Voter Registration Form from the U.S. Election Assistance Commission. For questions, contact ASUM at asum@umontana.edu.