Understanding Financial Aid at Saint John's University

I'm a bit lost with my financial situation and thinking about Saint John's University. How difficult is it to get financial aid there? Is there any tips or insider info about applying for financial aid at St. John's that I should know?

Applying for financial aid at Saint John's University (or any university) can seem daunting, but breaking it down into steps can simplify the process.

Start by filling out and submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as possible after it opens on October 1. This is the primary resource to determine your eligibility for federal, state, and institutional aid. It will calculate your Student Aid Index (SAI), which is an estimate of your family's financial strength and its ability to contribute to your education. This SAI is an essential number that universities, including Saint John's, will use when crafting your financial aid package.

When applying for aid at Saint John's specifically, you should know that students are automatically considered for merit scholarships as part of the admission process—so there's no additional application there. These scholarships are based on your academic record and they do not need to be repaid. Ideally, having a robust academic record, including strong GPA, could increase your chances of receiving academic scholarships.

Furthermore, aside from merit-based scholarships, the university offers need-based grants, federal work-study opportunities, and student loan programs. Make sure to check these out on their financial aid webpage.

Also important to note, Saint John's University encourages students and families to review and appeal financial aid awards if they feel that the award does not accurately reflect their financial circumstances. So, if your financial situation changes or you think that the financial aid package does not reflect your need, appealing the financial aid decision is something worth considering.

Finally, remember that the steps to securing financial aid extend beyond just submitting applications and forms. Be proactive in scheduling an appointment with the financial aid office at Saint John's University—they can provide more personalized advice and clarify any questions or concerns you may have about the process.