Fairfield Tuition Grants (need-based) awards are made after a thorough analysis of a family's ability to pay for college upon completion of the CSS Profile during the student's first-year. A student's need is the difference between the total cost of education and the family's expected family contribution (EFC), as determined by the CSS Profile. Fairfield University invests a substantial portion of its own resources for student aid, but is unable to meet the full demonstrated need of all students. Additionally, Fairfield has over 200 awards in endowed scholarships. Students do not have to apply for these scholarships, as all students who meet the criteria of each scholarship will be automatically considered. Students will be notified via their Fairfield email in late-Fall if they are a recipient of an endowed scholarship.

Students receiving University grants or scholarships are eligible to receive such assistance for eight consecutive semester from the date of enrollment as a first year student. Semesters spent in a study abroad program (whether Fairfield or that of another institution) are included in the eight consecutive semester limit whether or not a student receives University aid during the semesters abroad. The eight consecutive semester limit is pro-rated for transfer students.