The minimum qualifications for financial aid are:
You Must...
- be accepted for admission
- be in good academic standing
- for most programs, demonstrate financial need
- be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen (permanent resident)
- certify compliance with Selective Service Registration requirements
- not be in default on any education loan or owe a refund on any grant made under any Title IV program
- have a valid social security number
- have a high school diploma or recognized equivalent.
Priority for financial aid funding is given to students who demonstrate the highest need. If your application was filed by March 2nd, it will be considered first priority and aid will be awarded in order of financial need.
If your application was filed after March 2nd, it will be considered second priority and aid will be awarded according to need, based on the remaining funds that are available.
What is my eligibility?
The evaluation of your financial aid eligibility begins with a determination of the expected family contribution (EFC) based on your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). See “How to Apply.” The federal processor analyzes your family’s relative financial strength or ability to contribute toward your education costs by applying a federal formula to determine your EFC. When we receive your FAFSA, a financial aid staff member reviews the results of the analysis and makes appropriate corrections or adjustments for your personal circumstances.
You don’t have to be “poor” to qualify for financial aid but you do have to show financial need. Need is the difference between what it costs to attend a particular college and what you and your family are expected to contribute toward those costs.
THE BASIC FINANCIAL NEED FORMULA
Cost of Attendance
- Expected Family Contribution
__________________________
= Need
You may obtain an estimate of your EFC on the CSU Mentor PAIS system. For students with no demonstrated need or limited need, there are federal student loan and parent loan programs to assist in meeting the expected family contribution.
