FAQ
We've included a list of commonly asked questions and answers. If you need further assistance, you may call 812-464-1842 or email bursar@usi.edu
When is tuition due?
Tuition due dates vary based on the student’s enrollment date. See the billing and payment page for this academic years dates.
What is the difference between resident and nonresident tuition rates?
Students determined to be in-state residents by the Admissions Office will receive resident tuition. This includes Indiana residents and students living in Henderson, Union, Hancock, and Daviess County Kentucky. Students who live outside of Indiana or one of the reciprocity counties, but enrolled in all online courses will also be assessed resident tuition rates. Current tuition rates are posted on the Tuition and Fees page.
Why am I being charged resident tuition if I live off-campus?
Students who are residents of Indiana or one of the reciprocity counties within Kentucky are assessed resident tuition. Also, students who do not live in Indiana or one of the reciprocity counties in Kentucky but are enrolled in all online classes are also assessed resident tuition rates.
Why am I being charged nonresident tuition if I am receiving an out-of-state scholarship?
Students who are receiving one of the out-of-state scholarships that reduces the tuition will still be assessed nonresident tuition since they are not a resident of Indiana or one of the reciprocity counties in Kentucky. Instead, the scholarship will appear as financial aid on your awards, billing statement, and current activity in TouchNet.
Will my tuition adjust if I add or drop classes?
The Registrar’s Office publishes the add/drop schedule for each term. During the refund period, students may receive a tuition credit that is prorated based on the date of the drop. Students who add and drop the same number of credit hours at the same time will not see an adjustment on their account. However, if the student drops a class during the refund period and then later adds a class, they will be assessed the full tuition amount.
Why am I assessed the transportation and parking fee if I do not have a car on-campus?
The transportation and parking fee not only supports the maintenance of the parking lots, but also the sidewalks and bike paths. In addition, this fee also helps off-set the cost of the University shuttle system.
Can I opt out of the Student Activity fee?
No, students may not opt out of the student activity fee. However, students who are not assessed the student activity fee may opt-in if the student would like to utilize the various student oriented activities and resources the University provides. Through the student activity, the University provides a number of activities including, but not limited to, Welcome Week, Spring Fest, Homecoming, Cinema USI, Eagle Perks, Intramural sports, USI Theater, and the Recreation, Fitness, and Wellness Center.
When is tuition due?
Tuition due dates vary based on the student’s enrollment date. See the billing and payment page for this academic years dates.
When will I receive my billing statement?
Billing statements are produced on or after the first of every month. Students and authorized users will receive an email that will direct them to TouchNet to view the actual statement. See the billing and payment page for this academic years dates of when you can expect your first billing statement and the due date.
I received a billing statement that has a negative balance. Does this mean I owe the University?
If you received a billing statement that shows a negative balance, that means you do not owe the University and will receive a refund if your charges and aid remain the same. Keep in mind, the billing statement is a snapshot of your account and could change if the student adds/drops, receives additional aid, or aid adjusts. For up to date information, students may view their account activity within TouchNet.
What types of payments do you accept?
Students or authorized users may pay online anytime by logging into their TouchNet account using an eCheck (ACH) or debit/credit card. There is a 2.95% processing fee for using a card. We also accept payment in person with cash, check, or cashier check/money order.
Can I pay with a credit card in person?
The Bursar’s Office only accepts checks, cashier check/money order, or cash in person. To pay with a debit/credit card, the student or authorized user must pay online through TouchNet. Please note there is a 2.95% processing fee when using a card.
Can I pay online?
Yes, to pay online the student will pay through TouchNet. TouchNet is the billing and payment portal for students within MyUSI. Students can pay using an e-check (ACH) or credit/debit card. There is a 2.95% processing fee for using a card. Students can create authorized users to have access to their billing and payment information in TouchNet. Authorized users have their own login username and password and can view billing statements, pay on a bill, enroll in a payment plan, or see the student’s 1098T information. This access can be given and removed only by the student.
Can check payments be mailed in, and if so, where?
Yes, checks and cashier checks/money orders should be mailed to the following address:
University of Southern Indiana
Bursar’s Office
PO Box 1226
Evansville, IN 47706
How can International students pay?
International students may pay online through TouchNet using a credit card or a US bank account or pay in person. If paying from an international account, students may use Flywire to wire funds directly to the University. It is the student’s responsibility to understand the fees and currency exchange rate when making payments using international accounts.
Can payments be accepted over the phone?
No, the Bursar’s Office does not accept any payments over the phone. Students can pay online with an e-check or credit/debit card (there is a 2.95% processing fee for using a card), by mail, or in person.
Are there payment plan options?
Yes. Payment plans are available for the fall and spring semester once the billing statement is provided. Payment plans are a great way to divide the cost into monthly, interest-free installments. Deadlines to enroll for each semester vary. See Payment Plans for more information.
Can someone else (parents, spouse, or other relative) pay for my classes?
Yes. Students can create authorized users to have access to their billing and payment information in TouchNet. Authorized users have their own login username and password and can view billing statements, pay on a bill, enroll in a payment plan, or see the student’s 1098T information. This access can be given and removed only by the student.
How can both parents enroll in the payment plan?
Only one person can set up a payment for one student. If both parents need to pay on the student’s account and both parents need to enroll in a payment plan, the student must set up both parents as authorized users in TouchNet and contact the Bursar’s Office.
Why did my payment plan adjust after I enrolled?
Payment plan installments can adjust based on a couple different reasons. The first reason could be that the student’s charges increased. You can check the account activity to see if there are any new charges since the date of the enrollment in the payment plan. Secondly, the aid could have been adjusted. After October 1 in fall and March 1 in the spring, the SFA Office will remove all memo aid, which is aid that still requires action from the student to receive the aid. If the charges and aid both remain the same, often times your enrollment was processed during automated processes that could result in a temporary miscalculation. Your payments should adjust within the next 24 hours.
What if I have a returned check?
There is a $15 returned check fee for checks that are returned. Sometimes checks are returned due to incorrect bank account information. Please be sure to enter the correct account type and routing and account number when paying by e-check. A student with a returned check will also have a hold placed on their account until the returned payment is paid with cash or money order/cashier check. If the returned check was an e-check through TouchNet, a restriction will also be placed on that specific account in TouchNet until the returned payment is resolved. After two returned checks, a permanent ACH restriction will be placed on the student and the student may no longer pay using ACH or paper check.
What is Archie's Book Bundle?
Archie's Book Bundle is a course material and textbook rental program for undergraduate students that lowers the cost of course materials and ensures students have their required course materials on the first day of class. The cost is $24 per credit hour, which can equal to an average savings between 35-50% on the cost of required course materials throughout your academic career. The fee will appear on your student account.
How does Archie's Book Bundle work?
- Register for your classes, and the USI Campus Store will start preparing your course materials.
- One month before classes start, you will receive an email instructing you to review your courses. At this time, you may choose how to receive your materials (in-store pickup or shipped directly to you for a nominal shipping fee).
- An email notification will be sent when your order is ready for pickup or when it ships.
- Your digital materials will be delivered for your course(s) via Blackboard.
What is included in Archie's Book Bundle?
Course materials and the delivery format are selected by the course instructor. Based on these adoptions, the program provides all required textbooks, laboratory manuals and access codes to undergraduate students.
How can I learn more about Archie's Book Bundle?
Please visit the Archie's Book Bundle FAQ page to learn more about the benefits and features of Archie's Book Bundle or to opt out of the program.
How can I charge my Campus Store purchases to my student account?
Any student can charge up to $1,000 of books and supplies, $500 in technology purchases, and $100 in logo wear at the Campus Store. The charges are placed on the student’s account and may be paid by various financial aid sources. However, if the student’s charges are more than the student’s financial aid, the student is responsible for the outstanding charges. Bookstore charges can be included in the student’s payment plan. To learn more about payment plans, please click on Payment Plan.
The Campus Store will post the available dates to charge each semester. Please note, students may not charge technology purchases or logo wear during the summer terms. If your program requires books, supplies, or technology items that exceed the maximum charge limits, you may submit a exception request form to be reviewed by a Bursar's Office representative.
What is the Campus Store Inclusive Access Charge?
The Campus Store Inclusive Access charge (formally known as the First Day Access Program) is for an eBook associated with one or more of your courses. The USI Campus Store and your instructor have worked together to ensure this is the lowest cost way to receive the course materials. All students enrolled in that class acquire an access code for their digital content once the instructor opens the class on Blackboard. The instructor of the course should also provide you with additional information about the course textbook materials as well as the deadline to opt out of this option, if you choose to do so. If you would like to opt out of this eBook, you must opt out before the end of the 100% refund. If you have questions about your eBook, please visit the Campus Store website.
I have an outside scholarship. How does the scholarship apply to my account?
If you have a scholarship from your high school, local community, etc., please mail or deliver the check to the Bursar's Office, located on the lower level of the Orr Center or to the following address:
University of Southern Indiana
Bursar's Office
8600 University Blvd
Evansville, IN 47712
Processing time can take between two to four weeks to apply to your account during fall and spring opening.
I am expecting financial aid, but it does not show on my bill, why?
Students whose financial aid is complete and all outstanding requirements are met with the SFA Office will have authorized aid appear on their billing statement and TouchNet account. If your aid does not appear on TouchNet or your billing statement, you still have outstanding requirements with the SFA Office. Students can check MyUSI, self-service to view their financial aid information.
How do I use my financial aid to buy my books?
Any student can charge up to $1,000 of books and supplies, $500 in technology purchases, and $100 in logo wear at the Campus Bookstore. The charges are placed on the student’s account and may be paid by various financial aid sources. However, if the student’s charges are more than the student’s financial aid, the student is responsible for the outstanding charges. Bookstore charges can be included in the student’s payment plan. To learn more about payment plans, please click on Payment Plan.
The Campus Bookstore will post the available dates to charge each semester. Please note, students may not charge technology purchases or logo wear during the summer terms. If your program requires books, supplies, or technology items that exceed the maximum charge limits, you may submit a exception request form to be reviewed by a Bursar's Office representative.
When are financial aid refunds available?
The SFA Office generally disburses financial aid the second week of classes for those students who have completed all their financial aid requirements. The Bursar’s Office will process the refund with 10 to 14 days of the credit being established. To expedite your refund, please enroll in eRefunds through TouchNet. The Bursar’s Office processes eRefunds every two to three days, however refund checks are only mailed once a week.
Can parents set up eRefunds for Parent PLUS Loans?
Yes. Parents who are authorized users on TouchNet may opt-in to eRefunds on TouchNet. As with students, refunds are processed within 10 to 14 days once the Parent PLUS loan reflects a credit balance on the student account.
Why did I receive a refund, but still owe USI money?
The University cannot withhold your current financial aid to pay for a prior award year balance. Fall is the beginning of a new award year. Therefore, if you owe for a semester before the fall semester, the Bursar’s Office will refund based on the amount of your fall only charges. You will still be responsible for paying the prior balance.
I have a 529 Plan. How do I begin that process?
Depending on the state and what agency holds the 529 Plan, there may be different procedures. In the State of Indiana, the account owner must notify CollegeChoice 529 how much to withdrawal and to send to the University of Southern Indiana. Generally, CollegeChoice 529 pays for any expenses on the student’s account. Other states may operate differently.
What is TouchNet?
TouchNet is the portal that provides students with direct access to view and pay their billing statement. Students may view their student billing statement, sign up for eRefunds (direct deposit), pay their bill, enroll in the payment plan, set up authorized users, and more.
Who are authorized users in TouchNet?
Students may allow other individuals (parents, guardians, spouse, or other relatives) access to their TouchNet account to view and pay their bill, enroll in the payment plan, or access their 1098T form. Assigning authorized users also allows the Bursar’s Office to talk to those individuals about your student billing and payment information. The Bursar’s Office cannot share any account information with anyone who is not an authorized user.
How can I set up an authorized user?
To set up an authorized user, the student must initiate this process in TouchNet. Once the student logs into MyUSI and clicks on the TouchNet icon, he or she can click on "Authorized Users" under My Profile Setup. The student will enter the authorized user’s email address. Multiple authorized users can be set up. The authorized user remains an authorized user until the student removes him or her from their TouchNet profile.
My student made me an authorized user. How do I access TouchNet?
Once your student adds you as an authorized user, you will receive two emails from TouchNet. One with your temporary password and login link and the second with your username. Once you log in with the temporary password, you will be asked to complete the profile information and change your password. Please complete the information so the Bursar’s Office staff will have your complete name. The login link is https://secure.touchnet.net/C21706_tsa/web.
How do I sign up for eRefunds (direct deposit)?
To enroll in eRefunds (direct deposit), the student must initiate this process in TouchNet. The student can click on "Electronic Refunds" on the homepage of their TouchNet account and enter their bank account information including routing and account number. Also, by saving a payment method, you can also choose to make that account your preferred refund account.
What is the difference between the billing statement and the account activity in TouchNet?
The billing statement is a snapshot of the student’s account at the time the billing statement is produced. If the student adds/drops, charges books or technology purchases at the Campus Bookstore, or aid changes, the updates will reflect on the account activity. The account activity is up to date with the information provided to the Bursar’s Office.
How do I opt-in for electronic delivery of my 1098T form?
Students may opt into receiving their 1098T form electronically through TouchNet. To enroll, log into MyUSI and TouchNet then click on Consents and Agreements link. Changes in delivery options can be made later if the student wishes to withdraw their electronic delivery consent in the future.
Why are my scholarships, grants, or loans not on TouchNet?
Most scholarships, grants, and loans are processed through the Student Financial Assistance (SFA) Office. There could be many reasons your aid is not appearing in TouchNet. If it is a state grant or 21st Century scholarship and appears as preliminary on your Self-Service awards, then it could be until after classes begin before your awards will renew for the next award year. If your loans do not appear, you may need to complete your entrance counseling and master promissory note. Outside scholarships may take several weeks to process and go through both the SFA Office and Bursar’s Office. To find out what outstanding requirements you have, please log into MyUSI and click on the Self-Service icon.
My employer/outside agency is paying for my tuition. Who do I need to notify?
Employers or outside agencies who are paying the University directly rather than the student, need to contact the Bursar’s Office outlining what costs the entity will pay (i.e. tuition, all fees, books, housing, etc.). Many employers or outside agencies also have annual limits. The Bursar’s Office does not track how much the employee has used but will ensure that the benefits do not exceed the specified amount given. The billing process begins after the 25% refund each semester. Students are still responsible for any amounts not paid by the employer or outside agency by the given due date.
I have tuition reimbursement from my employer. How do I begin that process?
If your employer is reimbursing you directly and not the University, you can complete the Employer Paid Deferment form located on the Forms page. There are three different forms, one for students enrolled in the online MBA Program, one for Nursing Programs, and one for all other programs. Students and their employer must complete the form to its entirety to be processed. Payment due date is 30 days after the semester ends. If your employer cannot reimburse you within 30 days, or if you are no longer eligible for this benefit, the student is responsible to pay within the given timeframe.
I have an out of state 529 Plan that must be billed by the University. How do I begin this process?
Some states require the University to submit an invoice for the tuition and fees assessed each semester. Students should provide the Bursar’s Office the information needed to determine your eligibility and contact information for the holder of the 529 Plan.
I am receiving Post 9/11 (Chapter 33) benefits. How is this benefit applied to my account?
Students receiving this benefit must have completed the required application with the VA and received a letter of eligibility. Each semester, the recipient must complete the Semester VA Education Benefit Request form before the School Certifying Official (SCO) can process and request education benefits. Once the SCO certifies your attendance, the VA will process payment within four to six weeks. If the student has other financial aid, their refund may be delayed until the Post 9/11 payment is posted or receive two refunds.
I am receiving Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VRE-Chapter 31). How is this benefit applied to my account?
Veterans receiving VRE must have established eligibility with their Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC) and completed their enrollment information with the school certifying official (SCO). The SCO will notify the Bursar’s Office of the veteran’s eligibility. The Bursar’s Office will bill VRE after the refund period of each semester and credit the student’s account. It is the veteran’s responsibility to have any additional supply purchases approved with their VRC.
I am receiving GoArmy Ed. How is this benefit applied to my account?
Service members eligible for GoArmy tuition assistance (TA) will need to submit their Army Tuition Assistance Authorization to the Bursar’s Office each semester. This authorization will list the courses for which the student requested TA as well as the Army costs that will cover your tuition. The Bursar’s Office will bill GoArmy after the refund period of each semester and credit the student’s account. The student is responsible for any costs not covered by TA by the semester’s due date. Please note the maximum amount GoArmy will cover per credit hour is $250.
I am receiving Navy Tuition Assistance. How is this benefit applied to my account?
Active duty soldiers using Federal Tuition Assistance (FTA) should submit their SF 182 or Tuition Assistance Authorization/Voucher to the Bursar’s Office each semester. This form will list the course(s) for which the student requested TA as well as the government share or direct costs and appropriation. The Bursar’s Office will invoice the DoD after the refund period of each semester and credit the student’s account. The student is responsible for any costs not covered by FTA by the semester’s due date.
I am receiving Air Force Tuition Assistance (TA). How is this benefit applied to my account?
Service members receiving Air Force TA must complete all necessary requirements within the AI Portal and send their TA authorization to the Bursar’s Office. After the refund period, the Bursar’s Office will invoice the Air Force up to the approved amount. If the student has dropped with a partial refund, the Bursar’s Office will only invoice the amount after the refund (if applicable). The student is responsible for any costs not covered by TA by the semester’s due date.
What is a 1098T?
Eligible educational institutions are required to file a 1098T form for each student enrolled and for whom a reportable transaction is made. Students should consult with their tax preparer regarding any tax credits they may be eligible for and how to file with their taxes. Not every student may be eligible for a 1098T form. Students may opt-in to receive their 1098T form electronically through TouchNet.
Does every student receive a 1098T form?
No, the IRS requires the University to file a 1098T form for each student enrolled for the given calendar year and for whom a reportable transaction is made. However, the University is not required to provide a 1098T form for students who are not enrolled in a degree program, nonresident alien students, or students whose qualified tuition and related expenses are entirely waived or paid entirely with scholarships and/or grants or third-party billing arrangement.
How can I obtain my 1098T form?
Students may opt into receiving their 1098T form electronically through TouchNet. To enroll, log into MyUSI and TouchNet then click on Consents and Agreements link. Changes in delivery options can be made later if the student wishes to withdraw their electronic delivery consent in the future. Students who do not enroll in electronic delivery options for their 1098T form will receive a paper form mailed to the address the University has on file.
What am I supposed to do with the 1098T form?
You will need to keep a copy for your personal records and share it with your tax preparer. The information contained in the 1098T form will help you determine if you may claim various tax credits and/or deductions for qualified educational expenses.
Who can claim an Education Credit?
You may be able to claim an education credit if you, your spouse, or a dependent you claim on your tax return was a student enrolled at or attending an eligible educational institution. For more information about 1098T forms, please refer to the IRS Guide.
What are the due dates to drop a class with a refund?
The Registrar’s Office publishes the refund schedule based on the starting date and length of the course. Your refund will be based on the date you drop the course online or contact the Registrar’s Office. Please note for shorter length courses, the refund period is very quick. To view the refund schedule, please go to the Registrar’s website.
If I stop attending, will I still be responsible for my charges?
Yes, students who begin attendance and then cease attending will still be charged for the charges incurred. Often times students are not withdrawn by their instructors and therefore, less likely to receive a partial refund if they had dropped themselves. This could also have a serious impact on your financial aid or veterans benefits and could result in a larger balance. If you cannot complete your course(s), please contact the appropriate offices before dropping to find out how your withdrawal can affect your ability to receive further aid and continue at the University.
Will I be dropped for nonpayment?
The University does not drop students for nonpayment, however it will prevent you from continuing enrollment. Tuition due dates are published on your billing statement and Bursar’s Bill and Payment page. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure payment arrangements through financial aid, veterans’ benefits, payment plans, 529 plans, etc.
I had to withdrawal from my classes due to medical reasons. Can I appeal this?
A student may request and be considered for a medical withdrawal from courses in a semester/term when a serious medical condition (physical or psychological) prevents the student from continuing his or her classes after the last day to drop without evaluation as outlined in the bulletin of a term, and grades of incompletes or other arrangements with instructors are not feasible. For more information, please see the Registrar’s Office website.
I have a Bursar’s Office hold on my account. Who do I contact for further information?
Students who have a balance after the payment due date will have a hold placed on their account and will be unable to register for classes. To discuss your hold, the student will need to meet with someone in the Bursar’s Office or email the Bursar’s Office at bursar@usi.edu or call 812-464-1842.
I just paid my bill. When will my hold be lifted so I can register?
If your hold is due to a past due balance and has been paid in full, your hold will be removed once the payment is posted. This might take up to 24 hours.
I have financial aid next semester. Can I use those funds to have my hold lifted to register?
No, your balance will need to be resolved before your hold can be lifted. The Bursar’s Office works closely with the SFA Office. If you have secured a private loan for the entire balance, the student will need to ensure both offices are aware of the private loan. If you are already enrolled in the next semester, the Bursar’s Office can withhold up to $200 from your current financial aid to pay on your prior balance.
Can I enroll in a payment plan so I can register for next semester?
The Bursar’s Office offers payment plans at the beginning of the semester. Students are expected to have their financial aid complete prior to the semester and pay their balance in full or enroll in a payment plan before the due date to avoid a hold or delay in future registration. In certain situations, the Bursar’s Office may accommodate other arrangements.
What happens if I cannot pay?
When a student enrolls in courses at the University, the student also acknowledges and agrees to the terms and conditions of paying the costs, whether through financial aid, private resources, 529 plan, or personal finances. If a student is unable to pay, the student is still responsible for those costs incurred and the University may take further action if the account remains unpaid.
I have been sent to a collection agency. Who do I contact about this?
Once a student is sent to a collection agency, the student will be notified by that collection agency of the balance, contact information of the collection agency, and how the student can pay. If you need to know who you have been referred to, you can contact the Bursar’s Office at 812-464-1842.
Why do I have additional collection charges?
When accounts are sent to a collection agency, there are additional costs assessed by the collection agency that the student must pay in addition to the principal balance. The account is not considered paid in full until both the principal balance and collection costs are paid.
I paid the collection agency in full. How can I have the hold lifted to register?
The collection agency notifies the Bursar’s Office each month when students pay in full. Once the payment is received by the collection agency, the payment has been processed successfully, and the account is considered paid in full, your hold will be removed.