Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. If a student is a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen attending Fairfield University, he/she is eligible to apply for federal student aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Federal student aid is available for graduate and part-time students Direct Loan Program, and varying grant programs, depending on eligibility.

It is strongly recommended that the FAFSA be submitted by June 1 of each academic year, and/or at least four weeks prior to the beginning semester that the financial aid is needed. FAFSAs will be accepted on a rolling basis and used to determine eligibility for students who may start in the spring or summer semesters.

Yes. There are a limited number of graduate assistantships available through various departments on campus. In addition, graduate students can apply for alternative student loans.

Yes. Student loans can cover a student's direct costs (tuition and fees) and indirect costs (books and supplies, personal, travel, and living expenses). The amount a student is eligible to borrow is limited to the amount Fairfield University has determined the cost of attendance (COA) for all undergraduate and graduate degree programs.

Generally, approved student loan proceeds will be credited to a student's account on the first day of the semester. This is for students who have met all financial aid and loan requirements and have aid approved by both the Office of Financial Aid and the Department of Education. The Office of the Bursar will utilize what is necessary from the loan proceeds to cover an account balance. If applicable, a student may be refunded excess loan proceeds shortly thereafter.

No. Students must submit the FAFSA every year in order to qualify for student loans. However, both the Entrance Counseling and Direct Loan Master Promissory Note (MPN) only need to be completed once.

Once the federal processing center receives a completed FAFSA, it follows established guidelines to calculate the contribution a student can be expected to make toward the cost of his/her education. The information provided on the FAFSA will be shared with all colleges as listed on the FAFSA. A student's financial need is the difference between the expected family contribution (EFC) and the cost of attendance (COA). Effective July 1, 2012: Federal loans for graduate students are unsubsidized (non-need based).

Yes. Graduate assistantship benefits are counted as a source of financial assistance and will be used when determining a student's eligibility for financial aid.

No. Admission applications are evaluated separately from requests for financial aid.

Please contact the Office of Financial Aid. Our contact information, hours of operation, and counselor listing are online. We look forward to working with you as you finance your education at Fairfield University.