Student Account Payment FAQs

Why is the university charging a fee for making a payment using my credit or debit card?

Credit card companies charge a fee for each transaction. The university can no longer  absorb this cost. With implementation of the new portal, the university will pass along the 2.85% convenience fee to each individual who uses a credit or debit card to pay a student account balance, a practice that is standard among most universities.

Why is the fee 2.85%?

Our third-party payment processor established the 2.85% amount to cover the transaction fees assessed by credit card companies.

Will I be charged the convenience fee if I use my debit card to pay my student account charges?

Yes, you will be charged a 2.85% convenience fee if you use your debit card to pay your student account charges.

How can I avoid paying the convenience fee?

Bowie State University is committed to providing students with a range of options for paying their educational expenses. You can avoid the convenience fee by using:

• eChecks – An ACH transfer from your bank account can be processed online by using your Bulldog Connect account. Use the same process to pay by eCheck as you would to pay by credit or debit card: Log into Bulldog Connect> Self Service> Student Center> Account Inquiry. Click the green “Make a Payment” link.
• Paper checks, money orders and cashier’s checks – You can make your payment using these methods at the Cashier’s Office. Or mail your payment to: Bowie State University, Office of Student Accounts, 14000 Jericho Park Road, Bowie, MD 20715.

Can I make a credit card payment over the phone?

We no longer accept credit card payments over the phone for tuition-related charges. Credit or debit card payments made online provide added security and confidentiality for our students.

Can I make a credit card payment in person at the Cashier s Office?

We no longer accept credit card payments at the Cashier’s Office. We have computer terminals available in our lobby for students who wish to make credit or debit card payments.

What credit cards are accepted for payment on my student account?

We accept Visa, Mastercard, Discover and American Express for online payments.

If I make a credit or debit card payment in error, will my convenience fee be refunded?

  No, the fee is not refundable, even if your payment is cancelled, refunded, credited, or charged back.

Will the convenience fee be included on my student account statement?

  No, the convenience fee will not be included on your student account statement. It is assessed in addition to the payment for your student account.

How will the convenience fee appear on my credit card statement?

  The payment will appear as one transaction: your student bill plus the 2.85% convenience fee.