How Financial Aid is Determined
Eligibility
In order to be eligible for financial aid you must meet the following criteria:
- Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non citizen enrolled or accepted for enrollment in a degree or certificate program of study at least half time
- Make satisfactory academic progress
- Not be in default on a federal student loan
- Not owe a refund on any federal financial aid grant
- Have a valid Social Security number
- Be registered with Selective Service (if required)
Determining Financial Need
Your need-based financial aid is determined from the information gathered from the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The Financial Aid Office takes the total cost for attending Santa Clara University for an academic year (including room & board, books & supplies, local transportation and personal expenses) and subtracts your Expected Family Contribution (EFC). The result is your demonstrated need. NOTE: While Santa Clara University would like to fund all students demonstrating need, this is not always possible. The demand for grants and scholarships based on need often exceeds available resources.
| Cost of Attendance |
| minus Expected Family Contribution (EFC) |
| equals Financial Need |
Cost of Attendance
Cost of Attendance is the estimated amount it will cost to attend Santa Clara University for one academic year.
Expected Family Contribution
The Expected Family Contribution (EFC) is the amount that you (and your spouse if married) and your parents are expected to contribute toward your education. This amount is determined according to a standardized formula established by the federal government known as Federal Methodology and is based on the information reported on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Awarding Aid
The Financial Aid Office awards financial aid packages for eligible students, which may consist of a combination of grants, work study, and loan assistance. Packages and award amounts from each program vary depending on the financial need of the applicant, the limitations imposed by the various programs, and the availability of funds. Students should apply by the our priority deadlines. Once a financial aid package has been awarded, the applicant will be directed to view their award letter via ecampus.
Disbursing Financial Aid
Financial Aid is disbursed at the beginning of each term. These funds are used to pay all Santa Clara University charges including tuition, housing and other miscellaneous expenses. Once these funds have paid your entire student account, any remaining balance is refunded to the student.
