Please see the costs page for more information.
Our goal is to try to keep these processes as simple as possible. Students seeking financial aid can complete the Free Application for Financial Student Aid (FAFSA) beginning October 1st the year prior to enrollment. Indicate on the FAFSA that you want the results sent to Seattle University, School Code 003790, for the following academic year. The academic year begins with summer and ends with spring.
The processor will send us this information only if you use this code. Please print clearly. To maximize your financial aid opportunities, be certain your FAFSA is received by the processor no later than February 1 and your completed application by Admissions no later than January 15.
Students are encouraged to apply early. Do not wait until you are admitted. Complete the FAFSA right away.
The amount of your award is determined by the amount of your financial need and available funding. The greater your need, the more aid we can offer you. The kind of aid you are awarded depends on your eligibility for the various aid programs. Each program has its own requirements. Most students are offered a combination of gift assistance (grants and scholarships that don't have to be repaid) and self-help aid (loans and/or work-study opportunities).
In general, need is defined as the difference between the amount it costs you to attend college for one year and the amount you and your family can afford to pay according to the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Costs vary from college to college, but for the most part, your ability to contribute is the same no matter where you apply. You might be eligible for financial aid from Seattle University even if you are not eligible at other colleges.
Seattle University uses the federal methodology to determine a family's expected contribution. If using this methodology for college does not provide a family with enough assistance, students may submit letters explaining extenuating financial circumstances, after they have received their initial award letters.
All students are awarded assistance based on the data they provide on the FAFSA. Special circumstances are reviewed after all students have received financial aid offers.
The expenses for books and housing are included in the calculation as part of your costs, as is a moderate allowance for personal expenses like clothing and health insurance. The 2018-19 average undergraduate budget for a student living on campus is $61,608 for the nine-month academic year. This includes full-time tuition, room and board, and an allowance for books, transportation, and personal expenses.
These figures are re-examined and adjusted each year for inflation and other factors. Students with extra expenses (such as unusual medical or day-care costs) can have their budgets adjusted to include these expenses as well.
The Student Financial Services Office posts employment opportunities for students choosing to work part-time. The PLUS and unsubsidized loan programs are available and are not based on need.
Remember: don't decide ahead of time that we can't help. File a FAFSA. You may be pleasantly surprised by what is available to you.