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Course Program of Study (CPOS)

Beginning in Fall 2026, our institution will fully implement federal regulations related to Course Program of Study (CPOS).

CPOS is a federal requirement that ensures financial aid is only applied to courses that count toward your officially declared degree program. This includes federal aid such as Pell Grants, Direct Loans (Subsidized and Unsubsidized), and Federal Work-Study.

To remain eligible for financial aid, students must enroll only in courses that apply directly to their degree requirements. Courses that do not count toward your program, such as non-required electives, WILL NOT be covered by federal financial aid.

Enrolling in courses that are not part of your program of study may result in:

  • A reduction in financial aid
  • Cancellation of financial aid
  • A balance owed to the college

What You Should Do

To avoid any disruption to your financial aid, we strongly encourage you to:

  • Review your Degree Audit (DegreeWorks)
  • Confirm your declared major/program is correct
  • Meet with your academic advisor before registering
  • Ensure all registered courses apply to your degree plan

If you plan to change your major, the change must be completed before the Census Date of the semester to ensure accurate financial aid eligibilit

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. What is CPOS?

CPOS (Course Program of Study) is a federal regulation that requires financial aid to only cover courses that are required for your declared degree program.

  1. How does CPOS affect my financial aid?

Your financial aid will only pay for courses that apply to your degree. If you register for courses outside your program, your aid may be reduced or canceled.

  1. What happens if I take a class that is not in my degree plan?

You will be responsible for paying out-of-pocket for that course, and it may also impact your overall financial aid eligibility.

  1. How can I make sure my classes count toward my degree?

You should review your Degree Audit in Degree Works and meet with your academic advisor before registering for classes.

  1. What if I want to change my major?

You must update your major before the Census Date of the semester to ensure your financial aid is calculated correctly.

  1. Will electives be covered by financial aid?

Only electives that are required as part of your degree program will be covered. Non-required electives are not eligible for financial aid.

  1. Can CPOS impact my enrollment status?

Yes. If some of your courses are not eligible, your financial aid may be adjusted based on the number of eligible credit hours.

  1. Who should I contact if I have questions?

You should contact the Financial Aid Office for questions about how CPOS affects your aid and your academic advisor for course selection guidance.