Must I be accepted to Santa Clara University before I can apply for financial aid?
No, you do not have to be accepted to any college before you complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). It is recommended that you apply for financial aid as soon as you decide you might attend college. However, you cannot receive a financial aid offer from us until you have been accepted for admission.
How do I apply for financial aid?
You can apply for financial aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), and we suggest that you review our application process.
My parents are divorced. My father claims me on his taxes, but I live with my mother. Whose information should I use when completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)?
The custodial parent's information is used when completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The custodial parent is the one with whom you reside more than 50% of the time. It does not matter which parent claims you on their tax return (e.g.; If your father claims you on his taxes, but you live with your mother most of the time, your mother is your custodial parent).
Can I complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) if I have not filed my taxes? Or my parent(s) filed their taxes?
Yes. It is recommended that you complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as possible each year. In order to do so, you may estimate income information. You can then update this information after your taxes have been completed.
What if I do not want to complete the CSS PROFILE?
Students who choose not to complete the CSS PROFILE will only be considered for University merit-based aid; and will not be considered for any other Santa Clara University aid. Early Decision and Early Action students cannot be considered during the regular applicant pool. CSS is not required but highly encouraged.
What is the deadline for CSS PROFILE?
Early Decision I and Early Action must be submitted by November 15
Early Decision II must be submitted by January 15
Regular Decision must be submitted by February 1
I realized that I made an error on the CSS Aid PROFILE. How do I update the application, and re-submit it to Santa Clara University?
After you submit your CSS PROFILE, it is not possible to change the information that you have provided. If your information is not accurate, print a copy of your submitted application, make the correction and mail us the copy.
Do I need to submit noncustodial parent information?
Santa Clara University does not require you to complete the CSS Noncustodial PROFILE (NCP).
What if I need more financial aid than what I am awarded?
If your awarded aid does not meet your educational costs, there are additional options you can explore.
- Private Scholarships
- Federal Direct PLUS Loan
- Private Educational Loans
- Payment Plan
NOTE: Santa Clara University does not hold University funds in reserve for appeals. All available funds are offered at the time of your initial offer.
Does Santa Clara University have a payment plan that allows me to make monthly installments to pay my bill?
Yes. Santa Clara University offers a monthly payment plan through CashNet. An alternative to a large payment each quarter, this plan allows you to make three monthly installments. There is no interest charged for this service, and there is an enrollment fee of $40.
Do I have to apply for financial aid each year?
Yes. You have to re-apply for financial aid every year; we suggest that you review our application process.
My question is not addressed here. How can I get an answer?
Contact us:
Telephone 1-408-551-1000
E-mail onestop@scu.edu
Visit us at the Enrollment Service Center (One Stop).