Alpert Medical School Financial Aid Policy

While the medical school tries to assist students with documented financial need, the primary responsibility for paying for one's medical education must rest with each student and his or her family. When the amount that a student and his or her family can contribute is not sufficient to meet all of the costs of attending medical school, financial aid is available from several sources. Actual awards depend on federal funding levels as well as on institutional resources, as determined annually in the medical school budget approved by the University Corporation.

Although medical students are considered independent for most types of federal aid, the medical school does not recognize the status of the independent student in the awarding of institutional funds, regardless of the student's age, marital status, or number of years which he or she has been self-supporting. This policy ensures that institutional funds are allocated to students who have demonstrated limited family resources.

The basis for awards is financial need. Academic performance and class rank, however measured, are not factors in the amount or type of financial aid, provided that the student meets the academic requirements for continuation in the medical school. Exceptions to this policy are certain scholarships or prizes based on academic excellence by the expressed intent of the donor, such as clinical year scholarships for MD/PhD students.

In accordance with federal laws and applicable regulations, Brown University does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, color, religion, age, handicap, status as a veteran, sexual orientation, or national or ethnic origin in the awarding of financial assistance.