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Academic dismissal is when a student is asked to leave a school due to continued poor academic performance. It typically follows a period of probation, which occurs when a student is given a warning and a set amount of time in which they can try to improve their grades and avoid dismissal.

While academic dismissal may seem like the end of the world, it doesn’t mean that the student can never go to college again. It simply means they have to stop attending their current school, at least for a certain period of time. In addition, there are a number of ways to get back on track after a dismissal and either overturn the decision and return to school, or start on a new path that’s a better fit.

Reasons for Academic Dismissal

Everyone’s academic journey is different, and for some, the transition to college-level work can be more challenging than for others. A student may struggle with grades because they chose a major that’s not compatible with their specific skill set. Or perhaps they faced too many distractions, from personal events or hardships to an overwhelming list of extracurriculars.

When teachers and administrators notice a pattern of poor academic performance, including a GPA below 2.0 or a failure to attain enough credits (as a result of dropping or failing to complete enough courses in a semester), they may put a student on academic probation.

If a student fails to bring up their GPA by the end of their probation period, they may face academic dismissal. Academic probation is not meant to serve as a kind of punishment, but more as a wake-up call to students who are falling seriously behind.

Depending on the school, academic probation may make students ineligible for certain university activities. This makes sense, as probation is meant to be a time to focus seriously on grades in an effort to avoid eventual academic dismissal.

Academic probation or dismissal can also affect a student’s financial aid. The U.S. Department of Education requires students to maintain satisfactory academic progress toward their degrees to receive financial aid — which may include federal, state, and institutional grants and scholarships; work-study; and federal student and parent loans.

There are still options for students who lose their financial aid due to poor academic standing, including some private student loans. Keep in mind, though, that your GPA can also impact your ability to get a private student loan. Each private loan is different, so there’s no one magic number for a student’s GPA. It can be worth shopping around and comparing options from different lenders.

Recommended: How Grades Affect Your Student Loans

How to Appeal Academic Dismissal

If a student ultimately faces the prospect of academic dismissal, there are multiple routes they can take to try and handle the situation. First, it can be wise to take a moment to reflect on what may have caused the decision to dismiss and reassess one’s priorities. Perhaps a student was up against too much pressure, was pursuing a subject area that didn’t suit them, or had a personal crisis.

If a student decides to appeal the decision, they should be prepared to present a strong and sincere case. Luckily, most schools will allow students to appeal academic dismissal. Most school authorities are receptive to select reasoning or excuses for a poor academic performance. These usually include extenuating circumstances like financial issues, psychological or mental issues, or a family crisis, including an unexpected death in the family.

Approach the case with understanding and humility instead of anger, and try to fight the battle without parents. Students may want to prove that they can handle the stress and academic rigor of college on their own, which involves a certain degree of maturity and independence.

Bouncing Back After Being Dismissed

There’s a lot you can learn from an academic incident like probation or dismissal, and ultimately, it can help you become a better and more dedicated student.

Applying to college after academic dismissal can be a good idea, but only if a student has taken the time to reflect and is ready to make a fresh start. This is especially true if a student is re-applying to the same school.

Some schools will require that students wait at least a year before re-applying, and some will have students show that they’ve received a certain number of credits from community college while on hiatus from the institution. Research each school’s particular policy on reapplying before taking any specific measures.

It can be helpful to talk to professors and academic counselors to determine if going back to college is the right decision and if so, if a student should re-apply to the same school.

It can also be helpful to research schools that have lenient policies around past dismissals when looking to re-apply to school.

College is not for everyone. Other options may include getting a job, pursuing a trade at trade school, or completing an apprenticeship. There’s not one route to a career, so bouncing back may look a little different for everyone.

The Takeaway

It’s important to handle academic probation and dismissal thoughtfully and methodically, assessing all available options and identifying the issues that may have caused a student to fall behind in the first place. If college is still on the table, set a goal to improve grades, whether through tutoring, time management strategies, or a peer study group. Also look into what’s required in terms of getting or regaining financial aid.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

FAQ

What is academic dismissal?

Academic dismissal occurs when a student is required to leave a college due to continued poor academic performance.

Will I be warned before academic dismissal?

Yes, typically a student is put on academic probation prior to academic dismissal. This is a warning period during which grades must be improved to continue as a student at the school.

Does academic dismissal mean I can’t go back to my school?

When academic dismissal occurs, some colleges may allow you to reapply after a specific period of time and by showing why you are now qualified to return to your studies. It’s worthwhile to check with a school about their policy if you are at risk of academic dismissal.

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SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.

Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 4/22/2025 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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College can be expensive, and beyond tuition and room and board, you’ll also need to buy quite a few things to set up your dorm room. This can include everything from fun bedding and artwork to mundane items like power strips and bath caddies. Fortunately, there are ways to save money on dorm room essentials without sacrificing on style, function, or comfort.

What follows are smart college shopping tips and tricks that will help you set up your room without breaking the bank.

Tips to Save Money Shopping for Dorm Room Essentials

If you are looking to save when it comes to college dorm shopping, here are some helpful tips.

1. Research Your Dorm

Before going dorm room shopping, look into how big your dorm room is and what furnishings are provided by the university. Then, you’ll have an idea of what you need to buy and can avoid spending money on things that you’ll have when you get to the dorm.

2. Check Out the Dorm Room Rules

It’s also important to find out the rules for your dorm room. For instance, perhaps your college won’t allow you to have candles or incense burning in your room, or it won’t let you bring a microwave. You’ll know not to purchase these items because they are forbidden.

3. Don’t Buy Too Much

Dorm rooms are (often) tiny. When looking into how to shop for your college dorm, less is generally more. Avoid buying oversized items and don’t feel like you need to get every single item on those “college dorm essentials” lists.

Think of the things you already use in your daily life and use that as a guide for what you’ll need in college. If you find there is something you’re missing when you arrive, you can always pick it up after move-in day.

4. Create a College Dorm Checklist

Make a comprehensive list of what you need before you start shopping. When you’re in the store, don’t be tempted to spend just because something is cute or it seems like you’ll absolutely need it. You typically need much less than you think.

5. Take Inventory of What You Have

You may already own a bunch of things you need for your dorm room, such as a shower caddy or a small fan. Go around your room at home and take inventory of what you have so you can decide what to buy.

6. Assess the Laundry Situation

Before you purchase a laundry basket or bag, you may want to find out where the washing machines are located — are they in your dorm or across the quad? Based on the answer, you might choose a laundry bag over a basket or vice versa, and can avoid buying the wrong thing (and wasting money).

7. Use Coupons

Look for coupons in your local circulars as well as online when determining what to buy for college dorms. Check out coupon websites like RetailMeNot and Coupons.com, or use a browser extension like Honey to snag the best deals.

8. Shop at Discount Stores

Why pay full price when you can go to a discount store and find exactly what you need for less? Check out places like Ross, HomeGoods, Marshalls, or Dollar Stores for deals on college shopping needs.

9. Look for All-in-One Sets

Complete sets — such as bed-in-a-bag, towel, dish, and toiletry sets — are often an excellent value compared to buying each item individually. Sets also make packing easier, since everything is essentially already packed. Just make sure you actually need everything (or most) of the items included in the set.

10. Sign Up for Target Circle

Another retailer that has a wide selection of items for dorm rooms is Target. People who sign up for their rewards program, Target Circle, can receive exclusive access to special discounts and promotions.

Recommended: How to Save Money in College – 20 Ways

11. Use Amazon Prime

Students can get a significant discount on an Amazon Prime membership, plus possibly discounts on flights and free food delivery. You’ll also receive fast, free delivery on all your college dorm essentials.

12. Use a Cash-Back Credit Card

If shopping with a credit card, use one that offers cash back. If you are searching for a credit card, try to find one that has no annual fee and a welcome bonus.

13. Don’t Buy the Cheapest Stuff

While it may be tempting to buy the cheapest dorm room items possible, buying flimsy things that will need to be replaced may not be cost-effective. Items will need to be sturdy enough to last you over the next four years or so. Even if you have to pay a little more up front, it’s going to be worth it if your stuff actually lasts until graduation.

14. Leave the Printer at Home

Some colleges offer free printing services as part of tuition. If that’s the case at your school, don’t worry about buying a printer.

15. Shop the Sales

Consider shopping when stores are running sales. This could be on shopping holidays like Labor Day and the Fourth of July, or in August when college kids are getting ready to head back to school.

16. Don’t Fall for the “Great for Dorms” Tags

Be wary of items labeled as ideal for dorms. These may be marked up, and it may be possible to find a less expensive counterpart that isn’t necessarily marketed for college dorm rooms.

17. Do Price Matching

Look into the prices of products at different stores to make sure you’re getting the best deal. If you find a lower price at another store, ask your preferred store if they will match the other deal. Many will.

18. Use Your College ID for Discounts

If you already have your student ID, you may be able to snag some bargains on college dorm essentials from some local stores. Keep your ID on you at all times when you’re out and about and shopping for the school year.

Recommended: 10 Money Management Tips for College Students

19. Create a Budget

Come up with a budget for your college dorm checklist and then stick to it. When you go shopping without a set college shopping budget, you could end up spending way too much.

20. Look for Hand-Me-Downs

Did your siblings go to college? How about your friends? They may have dorm room essentials they’re no longer using and would be happy to give them to you. Ask around and see if they have anything they’re willing to pass on before you spend money.

21. Check In With Your Roommate

If you coordinate with your roommate on things you need to buy, you can save money. For instance, maybe they’re willing to buy some cleaning supplies if you provide snacks or bring a vacuum.

Recommended: College Freshman Checklist for the Upcoming School Year

22. Try Thrift Stores

Check out your local thrift stores and hunt down bargains on dorm room essentials.

23. Buy on Facebook Marketplace

You can also find deals on Facebook Marketplace. Log on and search for deals near your home or college, or find sellers who are willing to ship your dorm room essentials to you. Proceed with caution, however, to avoid scams like the overpayment ploy.

24. Use Craigslist

When figuring out what to buy for college dorms, you might also check out Craigslist for local items for sale. Don’t be afraid to haggle to pay the prices you can actually afford for your college dorm stuff.

25. Shop With Cash Back Websites

Take a look at sites like Rakuten or Upromise that allow account holders to earn rewards on purchases. You can shop for dorm room items and earn cashback or other rewards on the items you were already planning to buy.

26. Use Gift Cards

Did you receive gift cards from family members and friends when you graduated from high school? Then put them towards your college dorm checklist so you don’t have to spend your own money on items.

27. Start a Registry

Your family and friends may want to contribute and purchase some of your dorm room essentials for you. Stores like Walmart and Target make it easy to start a college dorm registry or wish list you can share with your loved ones.

28. Look for Free Shipping

Look for free shipping to avoid expensive shipping costs. If you’re going to college far away from home, double check that the stores you are ordering from offer free shipping to that location.

29. Wait to Shop

If you’re on the fence about some purchases, wait until you move into the dorm. This way you can avoid spending money on something you won’t actually use.

30. Rent Instead of Buying

Sometimes, colleges will offer you the chance to rent bigger ticket items, like a minifridge, for your dorm room. If you price it out, you may find this is cheaper than buying the item, especially if you split the rental cost with your roommate.

31. Shop With Friends

You might want to get a group of friends together to go shopping together. You can share tips and possibly get better deals by purchasing in bulk and splitting up what you buy.

32. Sign Up for Stores’ Email Lists

Stores send coupons, sale alerts, and more out to their mailing lists. Consider signing up for the mailing list for stores at which you plan to do a considerable amount of dorm room shopping.

33. Set Up Price Alerts

You can set up price alerts through tools like CamelCamelCamel, an Amazon price tracker, to find out when college dorm stuff is going on sale so you know when to purchase it.

Bonus Tip: Best Places to Buy College Stuff

When shopping for college dorm stuff, where you shop can have a big impact on how much you spend, whether you’re shopping online or in person. Here are a few stores that offer a variety of dorm room essentials, typically at competitive prices:

• Amazon

• Target

• Walmart

• Overstock

• Wayfair

• HomeGoods

• Marshalls

• TJ Maxx

• Ross

• The Container Store

• The Dollar Tree

• IKEA

Paying for College

Shopping for college dorm room essentials can feel overwhelming, but things like making a list, creating a budget, shopping online with free shipping, and taking advantage of student discounts can help make it more manageable, and more affordable.

Another way to help with college expenses is to take advantage of any financial aid you are eligible for. You apply for aid simply by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year. Your financial aid package may include grants, scholarships, work-study, and federal loans, which can be used for tuition as well as other college expenses.

If you still have gaps in funding, you might also look into private student loans. These are available through banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Rates may be higher than federal loans, but you can often borrow up to the full cost of attendance. Just keep in mind that private loans may not offer the borrower protections — like income-based repayment and deferment or forbearance — that automatically come with federal student loans.

The Takeaway

To make setting up your dorm room as affordable as possible, understand room dimensions, forbidden items, and what your roommate is bringing in advance. Then try tactics like renting items, bringing furnishings from home, splitting bulk items with roommates and friends, and using coupon codes and cash-back tools to minimize the cost.

College can be expensive, so looking into grants, scholarships, and federal and private student loans can help you fund your education.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

FAQ

How much should you spend on dorm room supplies?

The amount spent on dorm room supplies can vary tremendously from student to student and campus to campus. However, U.S. News & World Report recently cited a study saying the average is around $750.

How much is too much stuff to bring to college?

While there’s no definitive answer to how much stuff is too much to bring to college, conventional wisdom says that most students can get by with one-third of the amount of clothing and furnishings they actually bring. Remember, dorm rooms tend to be very small.

What to do if you overpack for college?

If you overpack for college, you might consider sending some items home, renting a small storage unit near campus to hold the excess, or selling or donating things you don’t need.

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SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.

Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 4/22/2025 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.
Third Party Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®

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Taking college classes at night can be a convenient option for students, especially those who are balancing work and school. However, doing your coursework in the evenings can be a big adjustment, especially if you’re used to taking classes during the day. Staying focused after a long day of work and excelling at learning at night can be challenging.

Whether you’re gearing up for a degree’s worth of night school or a one-off evening class, take a look at these tips to survive night classes.

What Are Night Classes?

Generally speaking, night classes take place between 5pm and 10pm. College night classes typically follow the traditional semester schedule, though there may be shorter timelines for special-interest topics or certificate programs.

Because night classes are geared toward nontraditional students with family and work obligations, they typically occur once a week for two to four hours, but it depends on the course credits and subject matter.

Although this condensed format may mean fewer trips to campus, it can also make for much longer days. Students may want to keep the following issues in mind.

Controlling Caffeine Cravings

When feeling tired, it may be a natural inclination to grab a cup of coffee or other caffeinated beverage to get a boost of energy and keep going. While this may help a student get through a night class or hammer out an assignment at the last minute, it can disrupt sleeping patterns, creating further fatigue the next day and inhibiting your ability to study in college.

Caffeine can last up to 12 hours in the system after consumption. Even for night owls, a coffee (or energy drink) after lunch could keep them awake well beyond when you want to go to bed.

If cold turkey seems like too drastic a change, you might want to try experimenting with less-caffeinated beverages, such as some types of coffee substitutes such as tea. Everyone is different, and the goal is finding the sweet spot between staying awake and engaged during night classes and not losing precious sleep later on.

Staying Nourished and Hydrated

Staying focused during night classes can take practice and preparation. Packing healthy snacks and water is one way to maintain energy and feel comfortable as class discussions and lectures progress into the later evening hours.

If a professor doesn’t permit eating in the classroom, a student can likely squeeze in a quick bite beforehand or during break time.

Remaining Active

Between work, studying, class time, and other obligations, exercising may seem like a luxury that there isn’t enough time for. This can feel especially true on days when a full day at work is followed by a three-hour night class.

The Department of Health and Human Services recommends that adults complete at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise a week. Broken down over the whole week, that’s about 20 minutes of exercise a day.

If you’re really in a pinch, fitting in a brisk walk before night classes start or during the midway break in a three-hour seminar can help with your energy and work toward meeting the 150-minute goal.

Befriending Classmates

Night classes can draw a diverse student body. For discussion-oriented classes, this can enrich the conversation with more perspectives.

It is also an opportunity to network and find a study buddy or two. Because night classes usually meet only once a week for a 15-week semester, even one absence could lead to falling behind or missing out on critical information. Classmates can be a resource for sharing notes and staying in the loop on what happened in class.

Also, becoming friends with classmates could make lengthy night classes more fun and add motivation to keep up strong attendance.

Recommended: Should I Go to Community College?

Creating a More Flexible Work Schedule

Even full-time students can expect to have at least one or two nights free from scheduled classes. If you have a flexible work schedule, you’re already in a position to craft an ideal balance of work, school, and social life.

However, if you’re working some version of the standard 9-5 schedule five days a week, the days with back-to-back work and class can feel like a marathon. Getting an education takes work, but you may not get the most out of it if it becomes something you dread.

Redistributing work hours to accommodate your night class schedule might prevent burnout. For instance, being able to come in an hour later on mornings after night classes and make them up later in the week can spread out the workload and help in catching up on sleep.

Talking to supervisors may feel intimidating, but if your college night classes are providing skills and knowledge to perform better at your job, you can make a case for getting some wiggle room at work while you finish school.

Recommended: Is it Possible to Take Online Classes While Working?

Avoiding Procrastination

As school traditionally runs from morning to early afternoon, conventional wisdom dictates completing homework and assignments the night before, at the latest. With night classes, the window to procrastinate can be extended later in the day.

Planning can help a student avoid a situation that requires picking between going to work or completing an assignment for class. Mapping out assignment due dates at the onset of the semester is one method to stay on track.

Managing Time

Between exams and papers, college classes often have a steady stream of readings and assignments to keep up with from week to week. Setting aside specific time frames to study for each class may counteract an urge to slack off between major assignments. Repetition can also improve knowledge retention, compared with cramming at the last minute.

After taking care of other responsibilities, such as an internship, job, or team practice, it may be difficult to recall readings and information at the end of a long day. Finding a moment before night class to review your notes could better prepare you to participate in discussion or ace a quiz. Creating a brief study guide covering key themes and topics for each week could help if you’re pressed for time.

Pacing Yourself

Before going full steam ahead with a full course load, you can consider testing the waters with one or two night classes. Education is a financial and career investment, and figuring out what’s right for your work-life balance could be the difference between burning out and graduating.

Keep in mind that whether you study full time or part time could affect financial aid or scholarships.

Exploring Night Class Options

Night classes are offered at community colleges and four-year universities alike. Researching multiple options could help a student find an ideal balance of cost, reputation, student body demographics, and campus environment.

Online courses are another option to consider. Synchronous courses may still have online lectures and discussions but allow students to participate from the comfort of home.

Paying for Night Classes

Education comes at a cost. Beyond tuition, taking night classes may require buying textbooks, paying for a parking pass, and other associated fees.

Work-study programs, scholarships, and grants could cover all or part of these qualifying expenses, but some students take out loans to pay the remaining cost for their degree or night classes.

Filling out the FAFSA form can be an important first step to see what kind of federal aid you may qualify for.

Federal loans may be subsidized or unsubsidized and come with protections, such as income-driven repayment and forbearance in certain cases.

When federal loans and other aid aren’t enough, private student loans are an option to consider. These loans are available through private lenders, including banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Rates and terms vary, depending on the lender. Generally, borrowers (or cosigners) who have strong credit qualify for the lowest rates.

The Takeaway

Taking night classes can be a way for students to manage their college courses, especially if they work during the day. However, taking these classes, which typically meet once a week for two to four hours, can cut into free time and be challenging to stay alert for. Good time management and self-care habits can be critical to success. If you are feeling overloaded by night classes plus a job you have taken to help pay for school, you might consider student loans to help with funding.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

FAQ

How to succeed at night classes?

When taking night classes, it can be helpful to focus on time management, preparation, and self-care. Also, remembering that taking night classes is a temporary situation can ease the stress some students experience.

When are night classes scheduled?

Night classes are typically scheduled between 5pm and 10pm. They may meet once or more per week.

How long is a night class?

The length of a night class can depend on how many times it meets and for how long. Typically, however, a student can expect a night class to last between two and four hours if it meets once a week.

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SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.

Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 4/22/2025 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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While applying to college, students and parents may consider a variety of factors before enrolling. Those factors could include a school’s academic programs, location, sports programs, tuition, and potential financial aid.

But there is one more thing families may want to think about: A college or university’s endowment. Not familiar with the term?

Here’s helpful information about university endowments, how they work, how they are managed, which schools have the largest ones, and how those university endowments could potentially benefit students.

What Is an Endowment?

A university endowment refers to the amount of money a college or university receives via donations from its alumni or other interested parties. This money is then invested by the academic institution to help grow its savings and to provide funding for the future.

Some schools can have endowments well into the billions made up of potentially hundreds or thousands of individual gifts.


💡 Quick Tip: When shopping for a private student loan lender, look for benefits that help lower your monthly payment.

Types of Endowments

Not every university uses the same endowment system. Typically, a university has one of four types of endowments. Those include unrestricted endowments as well as term, quasi, and restricted endowments.

An unrestricted endowment means the university may choose to spend or distribute the donations it receives however it wishes. With a restricted endowment, the academic institution must hold the principal of the invested donation in perpetuity.

With a restricted endowment, the academic institution must hold the principal of the invested donation in perpetuity. The earnings from the invested assets can be used, but only at the donor’s specifications at the time of giving. For example, if a donor gives a $25,000 donation specifically earmarked for a scholarship, any principal earnings must be used on the scholarship.

A term endowment means a university can use the principal after a period of time has passed or if a specific event occurs. With a quasi endowment, the university (rather than a donor) decides to retain, invest, and use earnings for a specific purpose.

Recommended: Finding Free Money for College

How Does University Endowment Giving Work?

If a person wants to donate to their alma mater, or just give to the academic institution of their choice, they can do so at any time. With a standard donation, however, the donor typically does not have much, if any, control over how the funds are spent.

If a donor wants control over how their donation will be used, they may prefer to give via endowment. Colleges and universities typically set a minimum when it comes to endowment gifts, and those minimums can be quite hefty.

For example, Michigan State University’s law program endowments begin at $50,000. Other universities set different minimum funding levels for different types of endowments.

At the University of Illinois Springfield, for instance, you can create an “endowed” scholarship for $25,000. You can even name the scholarship fund, perhaps in honor of a family member or someone you admire.

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Who Manages a University Endowment?

Every school decides how to best manage its own endowment. Some colleges and universities hire internal staff to manage their endowments while others hire outside firms and professional investors to oversee the money.

There may be an endowment manager or a committee or team that works to manage the funds. They will generally work with the university to decide its goals for the endowment, such as making as much income as quickly as possible, or going for more long-term sustainable growth. Then, decisions about how and where to invest the money are made to help the endowment meet its goals.


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Which Universities Have the Largest Endowments?

According to US News and World Report, Harvard University has the largest endowment at around $50.7 billion. Yale University comes in a distant second with roughly $40.7 billion, and Stanford University comes in third with approximately $36.5 billion.

Princeton University comes in at number four with $33.4 billion and Massachusetts Institute of Technology rounds out the top five with $23.5 billion.

University of Pennsylvania, Texas A&M University, University of Michigan–Ann Arbor, University of Notre Dame, and Columbia University make up the remaining top 10 with endowments ranging from around $13.6 to $21 billion.

However, these schools can be considered major outliers on the endowment scale. According to a 2024 survey of 658 U.S. colleges by the National Association of College and University Business Officers, the majority of university endowments are $250 million or less; nearly a third of schools reported endowments of less than $100 million.

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How Are University Endowments Used and Why do They Matter?

University endowments can be used for a variety of financial needs, including hiring new professors, building new buildings or upgrading old ones, offering students fellowships or scholarships, and distributing financial aid.

Beyond these uses, endowments also allow colleges and universities to look ahead into the future. It helps schools plan for faculty hiring, stave off tuition increases, plan for new facilities, and more.

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Taking Advantage of Endowments

While students will never have direct access to a college or university’s endowment, they could still reap the benefits of any and all donations. Those benefits could come in the form of having access to newer facilities and equipment, through research opportunities, or via learning from the highest skilled professors.

Of course, students can also take advantage of a university’s endowment by applying for specific scholarships funded by donors, or by applying for any and all available financial aid to help them pay for college.

The Takeaway

University endowments are donated funds that schools invest to support long-term goals like scholarships, faculty hiring, research, and campus improvements. They come in different types, each with rules on how the money can be used, and are often managed by professional investors or dedicated staff. While the largest endowments belong to a handful of wealthy universities, even smaller ones can enhance student opportunities, from upgraded facilities and academic programs to more general financial aid packages.

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FAQ

How do universities use endowments?

Universities use endowments as long-term investment funds to support their mission. The principal (original donation) is typically preserved, while investment earnings are spent on specific purposes, such as scholarships, faculty salaries, research, campus maintenance, and academic programs. Many endowments are restricted by donor intent, meaning funds must be used for designated projects.

Why does Harvard have a $50 billion endowment?

Harvard’s endowment has grown to over $50 billion due to centuries of donations, strong investment returns, and careful financial management. Alumni and philanthropists contribute large gifts, often earmarked for specific purposes, while Harvard’s investment team diversifies across stocks, bonds, private equity, and real estate. Over time, compounding returns significantly increase the fund’s value.

How is an endowment paid out?

Colleges and universities generally distribute a fixed percentage — often 4% to 5% — of their endowment’s value each year. This payout policy helps ensure consistent funding without depleting the principal investment. The distributed funds are typically used for donor-designated purposes, such as student aid, faculty support, or program funding.

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Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 4/22/2025 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

SoFi Bank, N.A. and its lending products are not endorsed by or directly affiliated with any college or university unless otherwise disclosed.

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Choosing a major in college is no small decision, but that doesn’t mean you can’t change your mind at some point down the road. Indeed, roughly one-third of undergraduates actually change majors during their college careers, and around 10% change majors more than once.

While the decision to change your major can be stressful, actually making the switch doesn’t have to be. The key to a smooth transition is to do some strategic planning and to keep up communications with your university.

Here’s what you need to know to successfully change your major.

First, Declaring a Major

Many colleges and universities ask undeclared students to choose a major by the end of their sophomore year. This gives students time to earn general education credits and try different types of classes to see what interests them.

Once you’re ready to declare a major, the official process varies by school. Generally, you need to schedule a meeting with your assigned academic advisor. You might also need to meet with a department advisor for your chosen major.

In a department or advisor meeting, you will typically review your academic progress and roughly outline the rest of the required courses you need in order to complete your major.

These courses and their timing aren’t set in stone, but it can help give students an idea of how heavy their course load will be until graduation, and set expectations for how long it’ll take them to complete the degree.

From there, the request to declare a major needs to be approved by that specific department or college. That might be as informal as a meeting or as formal as an application.


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Possible Reasons to Change a Major

Deciding to change majors is a personal choice. There’s no one sign for all students. In fact, a combination of factors may inspire a switch.

While not an exhaustive list, here are a few reasons why you might feel it’s a good idea to change majors:

•  More excitement about a different area of study: Maybe you’re a computer science student but feel more excited by an art history elective than anything else on your schedule. That could be a reason to think about changing majors. Of course, a major isn’t only about passion for the subject, but that does come into play. When nearly every class is boring, it might be time for a change.

•  Poor grades: College courses should be challenging, but if you’re regularly failing, or just barely passing required courses, it might be time to consider a different major. Not only does it indicate that the area of study might be outside your talents, but bad grades can also jeopardize graduation and completing the degree on time. If you’re giving a course your all and still coming up short, it might be time to consider alternatives.

•  Really, really good grades: This might sound counterintuitive, but if courses aren’t challenging, then the major might not be the best fit. If you feel bored in class but continue to ace the coursework, it might be a good idea to look at other majors or consider a double major or adding a minor.

•  Money: Selecting a major is often a delicate balance between finding something you love and something that leads to a career post-graduation. Picking a major solely because it could mean big bucks after college could lead to regrets down the line. Remember that post-grad life should feel fulfilling, too.

•  An awful internship: Now this can be a little tricky. If you end up hating a summer internship related to your major, you should try to evaluate if it was the work or the management that you disliked. It might have been a poor fit culture-wise but a good fit workwise.

If any or all of the above sound familiar, it might be time to think about changing majors. Additionally, it might just be helpful along the way to evaluate satisfaction with a major, even if you decide to continue in that area of study.

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Considerations Before Changing a Major

If it feels like it may be time to change majors, here are a few considerations to keep in mind before crossing the t’s and dotting the i’s:

•  What courses transfer? If your desired new major is far outside your current area of study, you might have to basically restart college. For example, a psychology major who changes tack to engineering might not have much overlap on course curriculum. Just like mapping out courses when declaring a major the first time, you’ll want to consider doing the same before changing majors. It can show you how much work or courses will be required.

•  Will it cost more? Depending on tuition pricing or area of study, changing majors might end up costing you more in the long run. That could be from additional course fees or taking more classes to catch up over the summer. Once you map out the course load for a major change, crunching the numbers is a good idea.

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•  Will it take longer? It may not be possible to graduate in four years if the new major is vastly different or the change comes late in an academic career. More time at school could mean more taking out more student loans. (Then again, less than half of bachelor’s degree earners graduate within four years.)

•  Will it line up with post-graduate goals? It’s important to enjoy an area of study, but it’s also important to ensure it aligns with jobs you want after graduating. If you enjoy classes in international relations but don’t like the job prospects, that might be a poor choice of major.

Time, money, or heavy course loads don’t have to squelch a change in major, but they should be factors to be aware of before making the switch.

💡 Quick Tip: Even if you don’t think you qualify for financial aid, you should fill out the FAFSA form. Many schools require it for merit-based scholarships, too. You can submit it as early as Oct. 1.

How to Change a Major

The reality is, deciding to change majors is likely harder than the actual process of doing so. Changing majors won’t be so different than declaring a major in the first place.

First, you’ll want to schedule a meeting with your current academic advisor to talk through the choice. Your advisor may be able to offer insight or even provide course recommendations in your new major.

Typically, students are required to fill out a short form and have their current as well as new academic advisor sign it to make the major change official.

Depending on the college or area of study, you might have to apply to the specialty school on campus you wish to transfer to as well.

The Takeaway

How to change your major? It requires thought and a talk with your academic advisor. Changing majors can alter a lot about the college experience, from course load to post-grad plans. It can also impact how many years you’ll spend in school and the total cost of your education.

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FAQ

Is switching your major easy?

Switching your major can be relatively straightforward, but the ease depends on your school’s policies, the timing, and your intended new major. Generally, the earlier in your college career you change majors, the easier it will be. Some majors have competitive entry requirements or limited spots, which can make switching harder. Your academic advisor can guide you through the prerequisites, paperwork, and deadlines.

How can you change your major?

Changing your major typically involves meeting with an academic advisor to discuss your goals, reviewing degree requirements, and completing a formal change-of-major form. Some schools allow changes online, while others require department approval, especially for competitive programs. You may need to meet minimum GPA requirements or complete certain prerequisite courses before switching.

What year is too late to switch majors?

While there is no absolute “too late,” switching majors becomes more complicated the further you progress in your degree. Changing during your first or second year usually causes minimal disruption, but doing so in your third or fourth year may require additional semesters to meet new requirements.

How common is it to change majors?

Changing majors is actually fairly common. Studies show that around one third of students switch at least once during their college career. Many students enter college unsure of their long-term goals, and discovering new interests through coursework often leads to a change. Some switch for better career prospects, while others change to follow passions they hadn’t considered before. While changing majors can extend graduation for some, it’s a normal part of the academic journey and not a sign of failure.

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Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.

Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 4/22/2025 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

SoFi Bank, N.A. and its lending products are not endorsed by or directly affiliated with any college or university unless otherwise disclosed.

SoFi Loan Products
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