We know that as your family begins to embark on the college selection process, it is vitally important for you, as parents, to understand the financial aid process.
Apply for Financial Aid
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
To be considered for federal and state aid programs, you and your family will need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) annually.
- Santa Clara University FAFSA School Code is 001326.
CSS/Financial Aid PROFILE (First-Year Students Only)
To be considered for Santa Clara University need-based programs, we ask first-year undergraduate students to complete the CSS/Financial Aid PROFILE along with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
- Santa Clara University CSS/Financial Aid Service Code is 4851.
NOTE: Santa Clara University does not require the Noncustodial PROFILE.
Financial Aid at SCU - How is financial aid offered?
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Important Dates
| November 15 |
Early Decision CSS/Financial Aid PROFILE due Early Action CSS/Financial Aid PROFILE due |
| January 7 | Early Decision Enrollment Deposit deadline |
| February 1 |
Regular Decision CSS/Financial Aid PROFILE due Early Decision, Early Action & Regular Decision FAFSA priority deadline |
| March 2 |
Cal Grant GPA Verification form due to California Student Aid Commission Current Undergraduate priority deadline for FAFSA |
| May 1 | Early Action and Regular Decision Enrollment Deposit deadline |
| July 1 | Federal Direct PLUS Loan application |
Transfer Students
| January 7 | FAFSA Priority Deadline |
| March 2 | Cal Grant GPA Verification form due to California Student Aid Commission |
| June 15 | Transfer Student Enrollment Deposit deadline |
| July 1 | Federal Direct PLUS Loan application |
Net Price Calculator
The Net Price Calculator is designed to provide students and their families with an estimated net cost after considering estimated financial aid. It is important that you understand that the results are a broad estimate, and that many factors are considered when financial aid awarded.
NOTE: Santa Clara University does not, and cannot, guarantee that any actual financial aid award made will match the results of the Net Price Calculator.
Financial Aid Programs for Parents
Federal Direct PLUS Loan
The William D. Ford Federal Direct PLUS Loan provides additional borrowing to qualified parents of dependent undergraduate students.
- Non need-based
- FAFSA required as well as a credit check
- Must be enrolled at least half-time
- 7.54% interest rate for 2022-2023
- 8.05% interest rate for 2023-2024
- 4.228% origination fee for loans with a first disbursement date on or after October 1, 2020 and before October 1, 2023
- Unsubsidized
- Must complete a Master Promissory Note (MPN)
After you and your family have completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), and received a Financial Aid award from the Financial Aid Office, you then apply for a Federal Direct PLUS Loan at StudentAid.gov.
NOTE: If you are denied a Federal Direct PLUS Loan due to credit issues, you have the following options:
- You may be approved with an endorser (co-signer)
- You may appeal the credit decision directly with the Direct Loan Department at StudentAid.gov or by calling 1-800-557-7394
Billing and Payments
The Bursar's Office is responsible for collection and billing at Santa Clara University. They work with families on such things as setting up payment plans, health insurance waivers, tuition insurance and refunds. We suggest that you visit their website to become familiar with all of the things they can help you including how to pay for charges not covered by financial aid.
Special Circumstances
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) results are based on the prior-prior year's tax information. Although the FAFSA is submitted each year, the information submitted may not be able to keep up with your current financial situation. We, at Santa Clara University, recognize that financial circumstances can change greatly in a year. If you experience special circumstances that affect your ability to pay college costs, we urge you to contact our office by using the appropriate SCU Appeal Request Form.
Examples of acceptable Special Circumstances:
- Loss of income (wages, benefits, etc.) due to unemployment
- Extensive medical bills not covered by insurance
- Death of a parent
- Divorce or separation
NOTE: Santa Clara University does not hold University funds in reserve for appeals. All available funds are offered at the time of your child's initial award.
Questions & Answers
Here are some questions we frequently are asked, if you do not find the answers to your question please feel free to contact us.
Renewal of Financial Aid
Financial Aid is offered on an annual basis. Students who wish to be considered for federal and state aid programs must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).