Ohio.edu/finance/bursar - Financial Window

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Ohio University’s Office of the Bursar, found at ohio.edu/finance/bursar, serves as the central billing and payment hub for student accounts. It’s the go-to resource for students and families navigating the financial aspects of their education at OU.

The Bursar’s Office is primarily responsible for generating and distributing student bills, which encompass tuition, fees, housing, meal plans, and other university charges. They also handle the collection and processing of payments made towards these bills. Students can access their billing statements and make payments online through their My OHIO Student Center account.

A key function of the Bursar’s Office is managing payment options. They accept a variety of payment methods, including online payments via credit card or e-check, payments made by mail, and in-person payments at their office. They also administer the University’s payment plan, allowing students to break down their tuition and fees into smaller, more manageable installments. This can be a valuable tool for students who need flexibility in budgeting for their education.

Understanding tuition and fees is crucial, and the Bursar’s Office provides resources to help students understand these costs. Their website often includes a breakdown of tuition rates, mandatory fees, and explanations of various charges. They also work closely with other university departments, such as Student Financial Aid and Housing and Residence Life, to ensure accurate billing and address any discrepancies that may arise.

Refunds are another important area handled by the Bursar’s Office. If a student’s account has a credit balance due to overpayment, financial aid disbursement, or dropped courses, the Bursar’s Office processes refunds. These refunds are typically issued electronically through direct deposit, making the process efficient and secure. Students are encouraged to enroll in direct deposit through their My OHIO Student Center account to expedite the refund process.

Beyond billing and payments, the Bursar’s Office also handles specialized functions like third-party payments, such as those from scholarship organizations or employers. They work with these external entities to ensure that payments are correctly applied to student accounts. They can also provide documentation, such as tuition statements, that students may need for tax purposes or employer reimbursement programs.

Customer service is a priority for the Bursar’s Office. They offer support through phone, email, and in-person consultations to assist students and families with their questions and concerns. Their website includes a comprehensive FAQ section addressing common billing, payment, and refund inquiries. The team strives to provide clear and concise information to help students navigate the financial aspects of their education at Ohio University.

In essence, the Office of the Bursar plays a critical role in the financial well-being of students at Ohio University. By managing billing, payments, and refunds efficiently and providing excellent customer service, they contribute to a positive student experience, allowing students to focus on their academic pursuits without unnecessary financial stress.