Skip to main content

Retirement Benefits

Santa Clara University's retirement benefits help employees build long-term savings and a source of income during retirement. In addition to SCU's defined contributions, eligible employees are able to make voluntary contributions on a pre-tax and post-tax basis.

401(a)- SCU's Defined Contribution Plan

The University will contribute an amount equal to 10% of benefit-eligible employees' base compensation. The IRS limits compensation that can be taken into account when determining how much can be contributed; for 2024 the annual compensation limit is $345,000. Employees become eligible on the first day of the month following or coinciding with their date of hire.  Eligible employees are 100% vested after they have worked in a benefits-eligible position for a minimum of 1,000 hours in each of two calendar years. 

403(b)- Employee's Voluntary Contribution Plan

Eligible employees, as defined in the 403(b) Summary Plan Description, are able to enroll in the 403b plan and make contributions as either a flat amount or a percentage of their salary. Contributions can be made on a pre-tax or post-tax basis. Employees are 100% vested as of the date of the first contribution. 

IRS Maximums

  • $23,000
  • Catch Up Contribution (Age 50 and over): $7,500
Navigate here to Accessing The Portal

Access the portal to enroll in or make changes to your 403(b) contributions and select an investment provider for your 401(a) and/or 403(b) plans.


Navigate here to Plan Enhancement Guide

The Retirement Enhancement Guide provides details about the new Retirement Plans Portal and the new services and features.


Navigate here to Fidelity
  • Communications Regarding Upcoming Retirement Plan Changes 
Navigate here to TIAA
  • Communications Regarding Upcoming Retirement Plan Changes