Hey there, I'm interested in applying to the University of San Francisco...however, cost is a big factor for me. Can any current or past students give me some insight on the financial aid at USFCA? What's the process like and how generous are they typically?
USFCA, like many universities, does offer a considerable amount of financial assistance to its students – 71% of their students receive financial aid awards. They use a combination of merit-based scholarships and need-based grants to help students meet the cost of education.
For merit-based scholarships, the school will automatically consider incoming freshmen and transfer students for a range of merit scholarships based on their academic records. No separate application is required for these scholarships, which can range from $11,000 to $25,000 per year depending on the student's grades and test scores.
On the flip side, USFCA provides need-based grants as well. These are administered based on the information you provide in your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the CSS Profile. Calculate your expected family contribution (EFC) using the FAFSA's EFC Calculator to estimate the amount your family will be expected to contribute.
It's also worth considering work-study opportunities. Work-study at USFCA can be part of your financial aid package, dependent on your FAFSA application. If you're eligible for work-study and find a job on campus, earnings from this position can go directly toward your education costs, reducing the amount you need to borrow.
Regarding the process, you'll need to submit both the FAFSA and the CSS Profile to be considered for need-based financial aid. Make sure to pay attention to these deadlines: January 15th for FAFSA and February 1st for the CSS Profile.
As always, be sure to confirm the financial aid package before choosing to enroll. If you find the aid offered to be insufficient, you can reach out to the financial aid office to have your package reviewed.
In a nutshell, USFCA does make efforts to assist students, but the exact amount of aid varies considerably depending on individual circumstances. Given the price tag, it's essential to have a clear understanding of what you might ultimately pay. The Net Price Calculator on USFCA's website might be a handy tool for you in this process.
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