FAQs - Strategic Enrollment Management and Student Success

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Richmond Talent Pathway
FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Which high schools in RPS are part of the Richmond Talent Pathway Program?

Armstrong High School
Huguenot High School
John Marshall High School
Richmond High School For the Arts
Thomas Jefferson High School

What are the available majors for the Richmond Pathway Scholarship program?

Students must have a major in Science, Technology, Mathematics, Engineering, Education, Healthcare or public service. If you are not sure if your major qualifies, please contact us.

Why will I forfeit eligibility for this program if I change my major to an unapproved major?

To help promote interest within STEM or high-need career fields for students from select Richmond Public Schools, VCU received federal earmarked funds that must be specifically used for STEM, Education, Healthcare, or public service. The earmarked federal funds are not allowed to be used with majors outside of the prescribed parameters.

If I receive other financial aid, would this impact my scholarship through the Richmond Talent Pathway?

It depends. The combination of all financial aid awards should not exceed the student’s cost of attendance. Some financial aid programs have specific eligibility criteria such as need-based or tuition specific use only. In some instances, previously offered financial aid within the award package of a student may need to be adjusted to meet regulatory requirements. Contact your financial counselor within the Student Financial Management Center to discuss options.

What if I decline my offer of VCU admission or withdrawal from the university?

A recipient would forfeit eligibility to participate within this program.

I would like to take advantage of majoring in more than one undergraduate degree program while I am enrolled. How will this impact my eligibility for this program?

This scholarship program will only provide financial aid consideration up to eight semesters or 120 credit hours. If you decide to enroll in more than one major, you will likely exhaust your eligibility before your degree requirements are met. If you require more time to graduate, you are responsible for your educational expenses. Contact your financial counselor within the Student Financial Management Center to discuss options.

What if I do not graduate within eight semesters or 120 credit hours?

This program will only provide financial aid consideration up to eight semesters or 120 credit hours. If you require more time to graduate, you are responsible for your educational expenses. Students who change their major, drop a class or need to retake a class may likely exhaust eligibility before your degree requirements are met. Students are highly encouraged to meet with their academic advisor and financial counselor within the Student Financial Management Center to discuss options.

What if I do not use all my semesters of eligibility and can graduate early? May I request the unused value be refunded to me?

No. Congratulations for being able to graduate within a shorter time frame. It is possible an entering freshman could bring college credit earned while in high school, advanced placement scores or can receive college level examination program (CLEP) credit. However, VCU will not refund any unused scholarship portion to you.

If you think you will graduate significantly early, discuss a double major option with your academic advisor. If you can graduate with two undergraduate degrees within eight semesters or 120 credit hours of VCU enrollment, this could be an option for you.

Do I need to complete the FAFSA every year to be considered again for program funds?

Yes. Students must annually complete the FAFSA each year by the VCU priority deadline. An annual FAFSA submission is necessary to determine if you remain eligible for the federal Pell grant program.