Financial Aid LMU.edu
Apply Visit Give
Apply Visit Give
Financial Aid LMU.edu
Apply Visit Give
Apply Visit Give

Frequently Asked Questions

For students who are applying for undergraduate enrollment in 2024-2025, we have a separate Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page to address questions for prospective students. 

Your questions are very important to us. If you have a question that is not addressed below, please email our office at finaid@lmu.edu or call us at 310-338-2753. 

  • Q. What if I am unable to meet the deadlines for applying for financial aid?

    Although LMU indicates a priority funding deadline to apply for financial aid, students can continue to apply for financial aid throughout the academic year. Because funding for certain aid programs is limited, it is advantageous for students to apply by the priority funding deadlines in order to ensure they are considered for the maximum amount of financial aid that is available.

    Q. In order to receive financial aid do I have to apply every year?

    Yes, you have to reapply for financial aid every year. Application procedures to apply for the academic year are posted on our website during each Spring semester.

    Q. What documents and information do I need to complete my FAFSA?

    You will need your taxes from two years prior to the year that you are applying for. For example, if you are applying for aid for the 2024-2025 academic year, you will be asked for information from your 2022 federal taxes. If you have not filed taxes when you are completing your FAFSA, you can indicate “will file” on the FAFSA and provide estimated income information.

    Q. What is LMU’s Federal School Code?

    001234

    Q. What is a Student Aid Report (SAR) or FAFSA Submission Summary?

    The Student Aid Report (SAR) or FAFSA Submission Summary lists the information you reported on your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The schools you list on your FAFSA will receive copies of your FAFSA record and use the information to determine if you are eligible for federal student aid.

    Q. What is the income cutoff for financial aid eligibility?

    There is no income cutoff for financial aid. All the information reported on the FAFSA, included family size and assets are used in a formula to determine eligibility for financial aid programs based on need. However, any student who completes a FAFSA, meets the basic federal eligibility requirements and who has not previously defaulted on a federal student loan, will be eligible for a Federal Direct Loan.

    Q. If my parents are divorced or separated, which parent should complete the FAFSA?

    For the 2023-2024 academic year: If the divorce agreement specified a custody arrangement, your custodial parent should complete the FAFSA. If your parents share custody, the parent who you lived with the most in the past 12 months should complete the FAFSA. If you live with both parents equally throughout the year, the parent who provides the most financial support during the past 12 months should complete the FAFSA.

    Beginning with the 2024-2025 academic year: If your parents are divorced, separated, or never married, and don’t live together, the parent who provided more financial support during the last 12 months is the contributor and must provide their information. If both parents provided an exact equal amount of financial support or if they don’t support you financially, the parent with the greater income and assets is the contributor and must provide their information.  If your parents are not married to each other and live together, both of your parents are contributors and their information must be included on the FAFSA form, regardless of whether your parents are of the same or opposite sex.  Click the link for more details about reporting parent information on the FAFSA.

    Q. I do not think I will qualify for financial aid. Should I bother applying?

    There are no income limitations on aid. Although not every student will qualify for need-based grants or scholarships (gift aid), every student is at least eligible for participation in the Federal student loan program (self-help aid). Income is only one aspect of the criteria on which financial aid is based. Other factors include: number of family members in college, home mortgage costs, household size, age of older parent, etc.

    Q. Can I be considered an Independent Student?

    You are considered an independent student and do not need to provide parent information on the 2024-2025 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) if:

    • You were born before January 1, 1999.

    • You are married as of the date of the application (answer “Yes” if you are separated but not divorced).

    • At the beginning of the 2024-2025 school year, you will be enrolled in a master’s or doctoral degree program (such as MA, MBA, MD, JD, PhD, EdD, or graduate certificate, etc.).

    • You are currently serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces, or is a National Guard or Reserves enlistee called into federal active duty for purposes other than training.

    • You are a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces.

    • You now have or will have children who will receive more than half of their support from you between July 1, 2024 and June 30, 2025.

    • You have dependents (other than children or spouse) who live with the you and who receive more than half of their support from the student, now and through June 30, 2025.

    • At any time when you were age 13 or older, both of your parents were deceased, you were in foster care, or you were a dependent/ward of the court.

    • You were or are an emancipated minor as determined by a court in your state of legal residence.

    • You were or are in legal guardianship as determined by a court in your state of legal residence.

    • You were determined to be an unaccompanied youth who was homeless by a high school or school district homeless liaison on or after July 1, 2023.

    • You were determined to be an unaccompanied youth who was homeless by an emergency shelter or transitional housing program funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development on or after July 1, 2023.

    • You were determined to be an unaccompanied youth who was homeless or was self supporting and at risk of being homeless by a director of a runaway or homeless youth basic center or transitional living program on or after July 1, 2023.

    If you cannot answer yes to any of the above questions, you are a dependent student and you must provide parent information on your financial aid applications. However, if there are special circumstances in your family, you may submit an appeal to LMU Financial Aid requesting a dependency override. Please visit the Appeals section of our website to review the information and forms required to appeal for a “dependency override”.

    Q. Can I be considered a California Resident?

    Cal Grants and other state financial aid programs are for California residents only.

    If you're an unmarried student who will not be 18 one year immediately prior to the application cycle deadline, your residency status is based on the residency of a parent or non-parent adult responsible for your direct care and control. To qualify, a non-parent adult must have had continuous direct care and control of you for at least two years prior to the application cycle deadline.

    If you're an unmarried student under age 18, then you will be considered a legal California resident if:

    • A parent has been a legal California resident for one year immediately prior to the application cycle deadline; or
    • You have lived for two years with a responsible non-parent adult and that adult has been a legal California resident for at least one year immediately prior to the application cycle deadline; or
    • A parent is in the U.S. armed forces, stationed in California, and on active duty as of the first day of class

    If your parents are living overseas, you're considered a California resident if you're a minor and have been living under the direct care and control of a California resident for at least two years prior to the application cycle deadline, or if your parents have maintained their California residency during their absence from the state.


    All married students, regardless of their age, and all unmarried students 18 or older, must establish their own residency. If you'll be 18 on or before the application cycle deadline, you must have lived in California for at least one year immediately before this date to be considered a California resident. You also must be in the United States legally and be able to establish U.S. residency based on your status with the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service.

  • Q. How do I notify LMU Financial Aid of special circumstances that I would like considered with my financial aid application?

    If you have special circumstances, visit the Appeals section of the Financial Aid website for guidance on filing an appeal. This page indicates the types of appeals accepted, what documentation may be required, the appeal processing timeline, and potential outcomes of filing an appeal.

    Q. According to the dependency questions on the FAFSA I am a dependent student and must submit parent information. However, due to my special circumstances, I feel I should be considered as an independent student and not be required to provide parent information. What do I do? 

    If there are special circumstances in your family, you may submit an appeal to LMU Financial Aid requesting a dependency override.   Your appeal must show that your relationship with your parents is such that it would be impossible or unreasonable for them to assist you in applying for financial aid.  NOTE: You are able to complete the FAFSA with student only information pending the results of a dependency override appeal.

    A dependency override will not be approved simply because your parents are unwilling or unable to assist you with your college expenses.

    Examples of cases where a dependency override would be considered are:

        • Child abuse 
        • The location of the parent or parents is unknown 
        • The student has been removed from the family home by the state 

    To appeal for a dependency override you must submit the following:

    • A signed and dated statement (approximately 1 page) detailing your current relationship with your parents.  This letter must include if your parent claimed you on their prior year's federal tax returns, your last contact with your parents and whether you have requested your parent to assist you in applying for financial aid. Make sure to include your LMU Student ID and the academic year for which you are submitting the appeal.
    • Three Dependency Override Letters of Support.  These letters should be from an adult familiar with your case. A relative or family friend can provide letters of support but at least one letter should be from a professional familiar with your case such as a social worker, therapist, teacher, professor or pastor.
    • Any other documents that support your appeal, e.g. police reports etc…

    If your appeal is approved, you may be considered independent for federal sources of financial aid.  In some cases, you may also be considered independent for federal and LMU funded sources of financial aid.


    Q. Can I appeal my financial aid offer?

    LMU’s appeal process allows you to request a revision of your financial aid award. However, due to funding limitations, we can only consider appeals for very specific circumstances. You may appeal your financial aid award when there is a change in your family situation, such as a divorce, a death, or a change in employment or income status. 

    Review the LMU Financial Aid Appeal page and Instructions for details on the types of appeals that will be considered and the required documentation.  For appeals requesting an adjustment to the LMU Estimated Cost of Attendance (COA), review LMU Cost of Attendance Appeal Form.  All appeals submitted without the required documentation will not be reviewed. 

    There is no guarantee that an appeal will result in additional financial aid.

  • In July (for the Fall semester) and December (for the Spring semester), the LMU Student Accounts Department sends billing statements for the upcoming semester. More information about billing, payments, and waivers may be found on the Student Accounts website. Students and families often have questions about the charges reflected on their bill, how to make payment arrangements or their financial aid award. The information below is intended to guide you to the correct office to contact, as well as provide information that addresses many of the questions we receive each year.

    Q. When should I contact Student Accounts, and when should I contact Financial Aid?

    The first question many students and families have is, "Which office should I contact if I have a question?" Here is a quick guide to help direct your questions:

    Contact Student Accounts (at studacct@lmu.edu, or 310.338.2711) if you have questions about:

    • Setting up a payment plan.
    • Charges related to housing and/or meal plans.
    • Waiving out of parking, sickness insurance, or tuition insurance charges.
    • Applying funds from a 529 account to your account.
    • Applying Tuition Exchange funds to your account.
    • Requesting a refund when your financial aid award exceeds billed charges. 

    Contact LMU Financial Aid (at finaid@lmu.edu, or 310.338.2753) if you still have questions about your financial aid award after you have reviewed the common Financial Aid questions below:


    Q. Why isn't my financial aid award reflected on my bill?

    There are several reasons why your financial aid award may not appear on your bill:

    • Have you completed a 2024-2025 FAFSA? All need-based federal, state and institutional aid (and some merit-based institutional aid) requires the completion of the FAFSA each year in order to be eligible for award renewal. If you believe you have completed a 2024-2025 FAFSA, please check your PROWL account to ensure that your FAFSA was not rejected (if it was, it will show as "Missing" on your account). If you have not completed your 2024-2025 FAFSA, do so as soon as possible at fafsa.ed.gov. Once LMU Financial Aid receives and processes a valid FAFSA, your financial aid offer will appear in PROWL. 
    • Have you accepted your Terms and Conditions? In your PROWL account, you must accept the Terms and Conditions of your financial aid offer before you can accept or decline each element of your award and before those awards can be credited to your account. To accept your terms and conditions, log into PROWL, click on the Financial Aid tab and select My Financial Aid Award and then Award by Aid Year. Select "2024-2025" as the Aid Year and then choose the Terms and Conditions tab. Once you have read the Terms and Conditions and selected "Accept" at the bottom of the page, you will be able to accept your awards. 
    • Have you accepted all the offers that you intend to use? Your financial aid package may contain a number of different grants, scholarships, and loan awards. These offers must be accepted in PROWL before they will appear on your billing statement. Follow the steps above to accept your Terms and Conditions, and then accept or decline each element of your aid offer. For federal and institutional loan programs, accepting your award will trigger requirements for the completion of Master Promissory Notes and Entrance Loan Counseling.
    • Have you completed your verification requirements? Students selected for Federal Verification receive notification from LMU Financial Aid of documents that must be submitted and evaluated before your financial aid offer can be applied to your bill. These missing requirements are also noted in your PROWL account.  

    Q. Why is my financial aid offer different from last year?

    For continuing students, there are a number of different reasons why your financial aid award for 2024-2025 may be different than the award you received in the prior year. Those include:

    • Academic requirements for merit scholarships: If you did not meet GPA requirements for the renewal of certain merit scholarship programs, you may have lost eligibility. Students who have not met GPA requirements for merit scholarships will see a message posted to their account. 
    • Changes to your FAFSA data: Need-based aid awards (including grants and loans) require filing the FAFSA each year. If the information provided on the FAFSA (including information related to income, assets, and the number of children in college) results in a change to your Student Aid Index (formerly the Expected Family Contribution), your eligibility for need-based grants and/or loans may be affected. If you have questions about changes to grant or loan awards because of a SAI change, please contact LMU Financial Aid. 
    • Filing the FAFSA: If you have received merit-based and need-based aid in a prior year, but have not yet filed the 2024-2025 FAFSA, you may see your merit-based scholarships in your aid award, but not your need-based grants or loans. File your 2024-2025 FAFSA as soon as possible to ensure that you are eligible for all elements of your financial aid offer.  
    • Aid Eligibility: Your eligibility for most grants, scholarships and loan programs is limited to a certain number of semesters (typically, 8 for students who entered as freshmen, and 6 for students who entered as transfers). If you have exceeded the maximum number of semesters, you may see certain elements of your aid award not renewed.

    Q. How is the Parent PLUS Loan applied to my bill?

    The Parent PLUS Loan is disbursed 50% in the Fall semester and 50% in the Spring semester. If you have been approved for a Parent PLUS Loan, it may take 3-5 business days for it to be processed and applied to your student account. For more information on Parent PLUS loans, visit the Federal Student Aid website.

    Q. How do I change the housing preference indicated in PROWL?

    To change your housing preference from on-campus to off-campus, submit an Undergraduate Financial Aid Revision Request form to LMU Financial Aid. Your request will be processed within 5-7 business days. Note that changes in housing preferences may not result in a change to your financial aid offer, as the on-campus and off-campus cost of attendance figures are different by less than $1,000.

    Q. What if I am receiving an outside scholarship?

    If you expect to receive outside scholarships or other resources not already reflected in your aid offer, follow these to ensure that these resources are accurately reflected in your bill:

    • Notify LMU Financial Aid by phone (310.338.2753) or email (finaid@lmu.edu)
    • Notify the agency or organization providing the scholarship and:
      • Request that they send your scholarship check(s) as soon as possible. Check(s) should be payable to Loyola Marymount University. Please ensure that your full name and LMU student ID is written on the check. Mail the check to: LMU Financial Aid, Loyola Marymount University. 1 LMU Drive, Suite 270. Los Angeles, California 90045-2659.
      • If you received the check directly from the agency and it is payable to LMU, ensure that your full name and LMU Student ID appears on the check. Deliver the check-in person to LMU Financial Aid or mail to: Financial Aid, 
Loyola Marymount University. 
1 LMU Drive, Suite 200. 
Los Angeles, California 90045-2659.

    Q. Why aren't my Tuition Remission benefits appearing on my bill? 

    Please contact LMU Human Resources to make sure all requirements are complete. Tuition Remission benefits are considered a "Resource" when determining eligibility for federal, state and other university-funded sources of financial aid. If you are a participant in a tuition program that will cover part of your LMU tuition, you must notify LMU Financial Aid to ensure this resource is coordinated with other financial aid according to federal, state, and university policies.

    Q. Can I appeal my 2024-2025 financial aid offer? 

    Students always have the option to appeal one or more elements of their financial aid offer. More information on forms, requirements, and timelines for appeals can be found at the Appeals section of the Financial Aid website. 

  • Q. If I enroll less than full-time (11 units or less) how will my Cal Grant award be adjusted?

    In order to receive the full semester amount of your Cal Grant, you must be enrolled in a total of 12 units. If you are enrolled in fewer than 12 units, your Cal Grant will be prorated:

    • 9-11 Units = 75%
    • 6-8 Units = 50%
    • less than 6 units = 0%, not eligible to receive a cal grant award

    Q. I am a high school senior, how can I apply for a Cal Grant?

    Please click link here to apply.

    Q. I received a Cal Grant at LMU last year. Is there anything I need to do to make sure I receive it next year?

    Yes, you should submit the FAFSA by LMU's priority deadline of March 2nd to be automatically renewed for your Cal Grant.

    Your Cal Grant will be automatically renewed as long as you continue to demonstrate financial need, you are making satisfactory academic progress, you have remaining eligibility according to the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) and you meet CSAC's income and asset ceilings.

    To ensure you have remaining eligibility for your Cal Grant, please log into Web grants for Students to check on the renewal status of your Cal Grant award.

    Q. I received a Cal Grant at LMU in 2023-2024. Do I need to file a GPA Verification form to receive a Cal Grant next year?

    No, you will NOT need to submit a GPA Verification Form if you received a Cal Grant award for the 2023-2024 school year. As a service to our students, LMU annually submits your GPA to CSAC so that you can have continued eligibility for your Cal Grant.

    Your Cal Grant will be automatically renewed as long as you continue to demonstrate financial need, you are making satisfactory academic progress and you have remaining eligibility according to the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC).

    To ensure you have remaining eligibility for your Cal Grant, please log into Webgrants for Students to check on the renewal status of your Cal Grant award.

    Q. I did not receive a Cal Grant during my first year at LMU, can I be considered for a Cal Grant for next year?

    If you have completed fewer than 24 units at LMU and graduated from a California high school within the past year, you may still be considered for a Cal Grant award. In order to apply for a Cal Grant, you will need to go back to your high school and request that they submit your GPA to CSAC. In addition, you must submit the FAFSA by March 2.

    If you have completed more than 24 units, LMU will automatically submit your GPA to CSAC for consideration for a Competitive Cal Grant Award. Once your GPA has been submitted to CSAC, an email notification will be sent to your Lion email address.

    You can also verify that your GPA has been submitted by creating an account for Webgrants for Students and logging in.

    Please note that LMU automatically submits GPA’s as a service to its students, but it is ultimately the student’s responsibility for ensuring that his or her GPA is submitted to CSAC if they wish to be considered for a Competitive Cal Grant Award.

    Q. What is the maximum Cal Grant award amount that I can receive per semester at LMU?

    The maximum Cal Grant award amount varies by the Cal Grant Program and will be based on the approval of the annual state budget. The estimated Cal Grant for 2024-2025 is:

    • Cal Grant A maximum for full-time enrollment (12 or more units) is $4,679 per semester.
    • Cal Grant B maximum for full-time enrollment (12 or more units) is $4,679 per semester (The Cal Grant B Tuition/Fee award is not offered during a student's first year of enrollment).
    • Cal Grant B Access Award for full-time enrollment (12 or more units) is $824 per semester


    Q. What is the difference between an Entitlement and Competitive Cal Grant?

    Cal Grant Awards are broken into two categories: Entitlement and Competitive.

    Entitlement Cal Grants are awarded to all high school seniors (and some college freshmen) who meet all eligibility requirements, demonstrate financial need, have family income and assets below-established ceilings and have a high school GPA of 3.0 (Cal Grant A) or 2.0 (Cal Grant B). There is no limit to the number of Entitlement Cal Grants that can be awarded by the state.

    Competitive Cal Grants are awarded to students who were not eligible to receive an Entitlement Cal Grant. The selection process for Competitive Cal Grants is geared towards non-traditional students – students who did not attend college directly after high school or who are returning to college. When awarding a Competitive Cal Grant, the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) considers not only GPA but also time out of high school, family income, and parents’ education levels.

    While there is no limit to the number of Entitlement Cal Grants that can be awarded each year, there are only 11,250 Competitive Cal Grant Awards available to continuing students attending four-year universities in the State of California.

    Q. How can I find out if my GPA was automatically submitted to CSAC for consideration for a Competitive Cal Grant?

    You can verify that your GPA has been submitted by creating an account for Webgrants for Students and logging in.

    Please note that LMU automatically submits GPA’s as a service to its students, but it is ultimately the student’s responsibility for ensuring that his or her GPA is submitted to CSAC if they wish to be considered for a Competitive Cal Grant Award.

    Q. How will I find out if I am awarded a Cal Grant?

    The California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) will notify you by mail as to your eligibility. You can also track the status of your Cal Grant application online by creating an account for Webgrants for Students and logging in.

    If you are being considered for an Entitlement Cal Grant (high school seniors or college freshmen), you should receive an award letter, also known as a California Aid Report (CAR) by mid-March or early April.

    If you are being considered for a Competitive Cal Grant Award, you should receive your California Aid Report (CAR) by the end of May. If you are not notified by this time, you may contact the California Student Aid Commission at 888-224-7268 or by email at studentsupport@csac.ca.gov to check on the status of your application.

    If you’re applying to renew your Cal Grant, you should receive your notification for renewal by mid-July. If you are a renewal Cal Grant student and you have not heard from the Commission by August 1, please call toll free 888.224.7268 or e-mail studentsupport@csac.ca.gov.

    Q. I was awarded a Cal Grant by CSAC, but LMU Financial Aid has not included this grant in my Financial Aid offer.

    This can happen if you have not assigned your student record to Loyola Marymount University’s roster in Webgrants for Students. Your Cal Grant will not be awarded to you until you are assigned to Loyola Marymount University’s roster.

    Please log into Webgrants for Students immediately to submit a “school change.” It can take up to two weeks for your award to be processed after you notify CSAC of your school change to LMU.

    If you have assigned your student record to LMU in Web grants for Students and it has been two weeks, you can submit a copy of your California Aid Report (CAR) from the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) to LMU Financial Aid. If it is determined that you are eligible for the Cal Grant, your award will be revised and a message will be posted to your PROWL and MyAid account.

    Q. My original financial aid award included a Cal Grant, but it has been removed. Why did this happen?

    The California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) determines your eligibility for the Cal Grant award using the information provided on the GPA Verification Form and the FAFSA.

    However, Loyola Marymount University is responsible for verifying your eligibility for this program before paying these funds to your student account. If changes have been made to the financial data provided on your FAFSA, you may no longer qualify for the Cal Grant. This may occur if you or your parent(s) provided estimated data on your FAFSA that was later updated based on information on you or your parents’ Federal Income Tax Returns. LMU is required to notify CSAC if you become ineligible for a Cal Grant, and your award will be withdrawn.

    Q. I received a Cal Grant B award. Can I receive a refund for the Access ($1,648) portion of my award?

    LMU will automatically accept and disburse your Cal Grant B Access Award to your student account at the start of each semester. Your Cal Grant B Access award will be applied towards the outstanding balance on your student account.

    However, you have the right to request that your Cal Grant B Access Award be refunded to you instead of being applied to the balance on your student account. To request a refund for the amount of your Cal Grant B Access award, located in the Forms section of our website. Please make sure to select the form for the appropriate aid year.

    Please note that you will be responsible for any unpaid bills in your student account that your Cal Grant B Access award would otherwise have reduced or cleared. In addition, you cannot receive a refund for this amount until after your Cal Grant B Access award has been disbursed to your student account and no earlier than the first day of the semester.

    Q. I am planning to take a leave of absence or withdraw from all of my classes for the semester. Will I still be eligible for my Cal Grant Award?

    If you take a leave of absence or withdraw for the semester your Cal Grant will be canceled. When you take a leave of absence, your ‘leave of absence’ status will be sent to the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) and you will be able to reinstate your Cal Grant award upon your return to school.

     Q. What are the Cal Grant Income and Asset Ceilings?

    The income and asset ceilings are published on the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) website.

    Q. Other than the GPA and income and asset ceilings, what are the other eligibility requirements for the Cal Grant programs?

    In addition to the GPA and income and asset requirements, you must also meet the following criteria in order to be eligible for a Cal Grant Award.

    • Submit the FAFSA by March 2 annually (deadline extended to May 2, 2024 for the 2024-2025 academic year)
    • Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
    • Be a California resident Graduated from a California high school
    • Have a Social Security number
    • Attend a qualifying California college
    • Not have a bachelor’s or professional degree
    • Have financial need based on your college costs
    • Have family income and assets below the established ceilings
    • Meet minimum GPA requirements
    • Be in a program leading to an undergraduate degree or certificate
    • Be enrolled at least half time
    • Not owe a refund on a state or federal grant, or be in default on a student loan

    Q. How does the school determine my family's total income?

    An applicant’s family income includes the total taxable and non-taxable income, as reported on the FAFSA/Dream Act. Non-taxed income includes the payment to tax-deferred pension and savings plans such as 401(k), IRA deductions and payment to self-employed SEP and Keogh, child support received, tax-exempt interest income, and housing, food and other living allowance paid to members of the military and clergy.

  • Q. How can I contact the financial aid department?

    Email: finaid@lmu.edu (no forms may be submitted to this email address)

    Secure Upload portal (for all form submissions): financialaid.lmu.edu/generalinformation/securedocumentupload/

    Phone: 310.338.2753

    Fax: 310.338.2793

    Mail:

    Financial Aid
    Loyola Marymount University
    1 LMU Drive, Suite 270
    Los Angeles, CA 90045-2659

    Q. When is the LMU Financial Aid office open?

    Monday - Friday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

    Q. Can I schedule an appointment to meet with a financial aid counselor?

    It is not necessary to make an appointment to meet with a financial aid counselor. Walk-in appointments can be made with a counselor during our office hours, if a counselor is available.  You can call our office to set up an appointment if you wish to have one established.
    Questions can also be submitted via e-mail, to finaid@lmu.edu.  Please allow a minimum of one business day for a response to your email.

    We look forward to assisting you!

  • Q. What is Cost of Attendance?

    The Cost of Attendance (COA) is not the bill that you may get from your college; it is the total amount it may cost you to go to college each year. The COA includes tuition and fees; on-campus housing and food/meal plan (or a housing and a food allowance for off-campus students); and allowances for books, supplies, transportation, loan fees, and, if applicable, dependent care. It can also include other expenses like an allowance for the rental or purchase of a personal computer, costs related to a disability, or costs for eligible study-abroad programs. Please review the cost of attendance page here for your program's COA. 

    Q. Can I receive more aid than this ceiling?

    Except in rare occasions (student-athletes receiving full scholarships, students receiving veterans’ education benefits), you cannot receive more aid than the COA.

    Q. How do I increase my COA?

    Log into the Appeal eForm and select an "Appeal to Adjust the Cost of Attendance"  Make sure to submit any additional information asked for with your appeal form or your request will be delayed.

    Q. Can my Cost of Attendance include how much I pay for rent off-campus? Other bills I have?

    The Cost of Attendance considers the cost of rent in the “Housing and Food” estimate, for off-campus students, which is based on the amount from the California Student Aid Commission’s Student Expenses and Resources Survey (SEARS).

    Q. How is the Housing/Food determined?

    For on-campus students, the estimate is the average cost of housing plus the default meal plan (O plan).  For off-campus students, the estimate is based on the California Student Aid Commission’s Student Expenses and Resources Survey (SEARS).

    Q. Why isn't Health Insurance included in my COA?

    Because Health Insurance is a waivable fee and is not a mandatory fee for all students.

    Q. Why isn’t the Parking Pass included in my COA?

    Similar to Health Insurance, it is not a mandatory fee for all students.

    Q. What are direct expenses vs indirect expenses?

    Direct expenses are items that are charged to students from the universal, such as tuition, fees and on-campus housing.  Indirect expenses are items that are not directly charged from the university but are associated with the costs of attending a college.

    Q. Does the financial aid increase each year if tuition, housing and meal plan costs increase?

    No, however if financial circumstances change for yourself and/or your parents, you may submit an appeal for additional funding.

  • Q. Where can I find a Work-Study job?
    Work-Study positions can be found at Workday or through Student Employment Services.

    Q. How many hours can I work?
    A student may work up to 20 hours per week while school is in session and 40 hours during break.

    Q. What happens if I exceed the amount I have been awarded?
    The work-study amount awarded is the maximum amount students can earn for the fall and spring semester. Exceeding your work-study allowance may result in the loss of other forms of financial aid. In addition, you may be denied federal work-study or LMU Work opportunities in the future.

    Q. Can I use my federal work-study for the summer?
    No, federal work-study may be used during the academic year and students may apply for LMU Work during the summer. Submit the Summer Financial Aid Application to apply for summer employment.

    Q. Are my earnings taxable?
    Earnings from work are considered taxable income. You will need to determine whether you are required to file a federal or state tax return based on your total earnings from all sources. For more information regarding federal tax returns, visit www.irs.gov/individuals/students. California tax information can be found here, www.ftb.ca.gov/individuals, or visit the appropriate website for your state of residency.

    Q. What happens if I don’t use my work award? Do I owe that money?
    If you do not plan to use your work award, decline it on your PROWL account. The amount of your work award represents the maximum you are able to earn during the year. You are only paid for the hours you work. You are not required to earn the amount of your award and there is no penalty if you earn less.

    Q. What if I do not earn the amount that was awarded to me?
    The amount of your work award represents the maximum you are able to earn during the year. You are only paid for the hours you work. You are not required to earn the amount of your award and there is no penalty if you earn less.

    Q. Do my work earnings go directly towards my school bill?
    Students have the option to have their paycheck credited directly to their student account to help with costs acquired during the school year. However, this is not required. Students may use their earnings for expenses that are not billed through their student accounts, such as for books and supplies, laundry and dry cleaning etc.

    Q. I am having trouble finding a job on campus. Can LMU Financial Aid help me with this?
    If you are having problems finding a job, make an appointment with Student Employment Services who will assist you to locate available positions. However, having a work award does not guarantee you will be able to find a job for which you are qualified and that meets your schedule. 

  • Q. Where can I find information about who services my other federal loans? 

    You can find information about the servicers of your other federal loans at the Federal Student Aid website . You will need your FSA ID from the FAFSA to access this site.

    Q. What is the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program?

    There is a loan forgiveness program for public service employees. Under this program, the amount forgiven is the remaining outstanding balance of principal and accrued interest on an eligible Direct Loan for a borrower who is not in default and who makes 120 monthly payments on the loan after October 1, 2007. The borrower must be employed full-time in a public service job during the same period in which the qualifying payments are made and at the time that the cancellation is granted. Full- time employees of LMU may qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness.

    Q. What do I do if I have defaulted on a federal student loan and want to receive financial aid?

    If you defaulted on a federal student loan, you cannot receive further Title IV aid until you resolve the default. You can resolve the default in the following ways:

    • Repay the loan in full or consolidate the loan: If a defaulted loan is successfully consolidated, it is counted as paid in full. However, if the loan holder simply writes off the entire loan, the loan is not paid in full, and you remain ineligible for Title IV funds.
    • Make satisfactory repayment arrangements: After you make six consecutive, full, voluntary payments on time, you may regain eligibility for Title IV funds. Voluntary payments are those made directly and do not include payments obtained by federal offset, garnishment, or income or asset execution. You may regain eligibility under this option only one time.
    • We must have written documentation that you have made satisfactory repayment arrangements from the loan holder.
    • Loan rehabilitation: Although you can regain eligibility for all federal student aid by making satisfactory repayment arrangements, the loan is still in default. A loan is rehabilitated once you make nine full, voluntary payments on time (no later than 20 days after the due date) within 10 consecutive months.
      • After a loan is rehabilitated, you will not be in default anymore, and you will have all the normal loan benefits, such as deferments.  

    For more information on resolving your defaulted federal student loan, click here.

    Q. Am I eligible to receive financial aid if I filed for bankruptcy?

    If you include a non-defaulted federal student loan in an active bankruptcy claim, so that collection on the loan is stayed:

    • You are eligible for aid as long as you have no loans in default (including the stayed loan).

    If you list a defaulted federal student loan or grant overpayment in an active bankruptcy claim:

    • You are eligible for further federal student aid funds if you provide documentation from the holder of the debt stating it is dischargeable.

    If you have had a federal student loan or grant overpayment discharged in bankruptcy:

    • You remain eligible for federal student loans, grants, and work-study.
    • You do not have to reaffirm a loan discharged in bankruptcy in order to be eligible. The Bankruptcy Reform Act of 1994 prohibits denial of aid based solely on filing for, or having a debt discharged in, bankruptcy.

    If you filed Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you may have your loan discharged only if the bankruptcy court finds that repayment would impose undue hardship on you and your dependents.  

    For more information on bankruptcy and receiving federal student aid click here.

    Q. Am I eligible to receive federal student aid if I had a loan discharged due to total and permanent disability?

    If you had a prior loan discharged due to a total and permanent disability and wish to take out another federal student loan or wish to receive a TEACH grant, you must submit the following.

    • A certification from your physician that the borrower has the ability to engage in substantial gainful activity.
    • A signed statement acknowledging that the new federal student loan or TEACH Grant service obligation can’t later be discharged for any present impairment unless it deteriorates so that the borrower is again totally and permanently disabled. (Please contact LMU Financial Aid to obtain a copy of this statement).

    If you are in the three-year post-discharge monitoring period:

    • You must resume payment on the discharged loan before receipt of the new loan or TEACH grant and provide our office with proof from your loan servicer that you have resumed repayment.
    • If you received a discharge based on a determination from the VA, you are not required to resume payment on the discharged loan.

    If a defaulted loan was conditionally discharged and then reinstated:

    • You must make satisfactory repayment arrangements before receiving federal student aid. You must provide our office with proof of your satisfactory repayment arrangements with your lender.

    For more information on Total and Permanent Disability click here.

    Q. Am I eligible for federal aid if I have borrowed over my federal loan limits?

    You are not eligible for new aid until the over-borrowing of loans has been resolved with satisfactory payment arrangements.

    • You can sign an agreement acknowledging the debt and affirming your intention to repay the excess amount as part of the normal repayment process. This is called a reaffirmation.
    • A federal loan consolidation can also be considered a satisfactory repayment arrangement and acts the same as reaffirmation.

    Contact your loan servicer directly for instructions to complete the reaffirmation process.

    The reaffirmation process includes the following steps:

    1. Either the institution or the student contacts the loan servicer and explains that the student has inadvertently over-borrowed and wishes to reaffirm the debt.
    2. The loan servicer sends the student a reaffirmation agreement.
    3. The student reads, signs, and returns to the servicer the reaffirmation agreement.
    4. The loan servicer sends the student confirmation that the reaffirmation agreement has been accepted. The student or loan servicer must provide a copy of the reaffirmation confirmation to the school.
    5. The inadvertent over-borrowing is considered to have been resolved as of the date the loan servicer receives the student’s signed reaffirmation agreement.

  • Q. How do I accept my financial aid offers?

    You are required to accept or decline all aid offered to you via your PROWL account except the Federal Pell Grant, which will be automatically accepted on your behalf.

    Q. What is PROWL?

    PROWL: Personal Records Online Web Link is your gateway to your student records. You can view your student account, financial aid information, register for classes, and more. Please visit your MyLMU account to access PROWL.

    Q. I have been selected for verification, now what?

    Verification is a process used to verify certain information on the FAFSA to ensure its accuracy. Students are selected for verification by the U.S. Department of Education randomly. You are notified that you have been selected for verification on your Student Aid Report (SAR) after filing the FAFSA. If you have been selected for federal verification and you will be required to provide additional information to LMU Financial Aid, such as parent tax information. LMU Financial Aid will post the verification requirements as “missing” requirements on your PROWL account. Additional information on federal verification is available in the Financial Aid Policies.  

    Q. What is Master Promissory Note (MPN)?

    The master promissory note is a document the student signs when borrowing a loan. When the student signs a master promissory note, a binding legal document, he/she promises to repay the student loan. The note also includes important language about rights and responsibilities as a borrower. Click here to complete a Master Promissory note for Federal Direct and PLUS loans.

    Q. How do I obtain a GRE fee reduction voucher?

    ETS offers a limited number of GRE fee reduction vouchers on a first-come, first-served, basis that are available for college seniors and unenrolled college graduates who meet eligibility requirements. A fee reduction voucher may be used for one (1) General Test and/or one (1) Subject Test. Eligibility for participation in the fee reduction program is limited to one (1) time only. Thereafter, the full test fee will be charged for additional tests for which the candidate registers. Individuals meeting the eligibility requirements will be required to pay 50% of the full test fee. The reduced fee is $70 for the General Test and $65 for a Subject Test.

    To be eligible, you must be a U.S. citizen or resident alien who is a college senior or unenrolled college graduate.

    College seniors must be:

    • receiving financial aid through an undergraduate college in the U.S., U.S. Territories, or Puerto Rico, and
    • a dependent, who has an Institutional Student Information Report (ISIR) that shows a parental contribution of not more than $1,400 for the senior year, or
    • self-supporting and have an ISIR that shows a contribution of not more than $1,800 for senior year

    Unenrolled college graduates must:

    • have applied for financial aid, and
    • have an ISIR that indicates self-supporting status and a contribution of not more than $1,800

    To apply for a GRE fee reduction waiver:

    • Contact LMU Financial Aid at (310) 338-2753 or finaid@lmu.edu  to see if you qualify
    • Once your eligibility is established, LMU Financial Aid will issue you a fee reduction voucher.
    • You must visit the Office of the Registrar in the Charles Von Der Ahe Building to obtain the school seal required by the voucher program
    • Follow the rest of the instructions on the voucher. Allow up to three weeks for processing and mail delivery.

    Please note, ETS will not accept letter requests, photocopies or faxes of fee reduction vouchers. Fee reduction vouchers are not retroactive and they cannot be replaced if lost or stolen.

    For more information, contact LMU Financial Aid at (310) 338-2753 or finaid@lmu.edu .

  • Q.  What is an Institutional Loan?

    An Institutional loan is a low interest loan with a fixed rate in which LMU is the lender and financing and payments are handled directly through the school and its subsidiary.

    Q. What are the terms and conditions of an Institutional loan?

    · Must complete FAFSA online and meet general requirements to be eligible for financial aid.

    · Must be a US citizen or eligible non-citizen.

    · Students must be enrolled full-time each semester, and maintain satisfactory academic progress.

    · Meet other eligibility requirements specific to the amount and type of loan.

    Q. What are the differences between each Institutional Loan?

    · The LMU California Student Loan is for California residents only and has a 0% interest rate.

    · The Fritz B. Burns is for non-CA residents and have a 1% interest rate.

    Q. How do I apply?

    Students do not apply for these loans. Funding is limited and eligible students who apply for financial aid are awarded as funding permits.

    Q. How do I accept the loan?

    If you are offered an institutional loan, you must accept it via your PROWL account no later than 30 days after the start of the semester for which the loan was offered.

    Q. Are there other requirements to receive an institutional loan?

    Students are required to complete a promissory note and other private loan disclosures prior to disbursement of an institutional loan. All requirements are posted as missing requirements on your PROWL account. All requirements are completed online via a link provided in an email notification sent to the students’ LMU lion email account by LMU’s contracted servicer (ECSI).

    Q. How long before I receive funding for my loan after I complete the requirements?

    After you complete all loan requirements, the Office of Student Financial Services updates your PROWL account to show that the requirements are completed and your loan funds will disburse to your Student Account. No disbursements are earlier than 10 days prior to the start date of the semester for which you accepted the loan. Delay in completing loan requirements will delay disbursement of these funds to your student account.

    Q. I am an independent student without a co-borrower; can I still qualify for an Institutional loan?

    Independent students are also required to have a co-borrower to qualify for this loan. The co-borrower can be the parent, other relative or friend who agrees to accept responsibility as co-borrower for the loan.

    Q. My loan was not approved due to my/co-signers credit, am I able to appeal?

    Loans offered at $5,000 or more require a credit worthy co-borrower. If your co-borrower does not pass the credit check, the financial aid office will notify your co-borrower of what is required to appeal.

    Q. I no longer need the loan but have already been funded, what are my options?

    You may cancel this loan at any time and the funds will be reversed from your student account.

    Q. Do I need to reapply for the same loan every year?

    To be considered for an institutional loan in future years, you must apply for financial aid by completing the FAFSA by LMU’s priority funding deadlines.

  • Q. How do I use my financial aid when I am living off-campus (not with parents)?

    If you will be living off-campus, you will only be charged direct expenses such as tuition and fees.  You will need to request a refund from Student Accounts to use financial aid that exceeds your charges.  If your financial aid does not exceed your charges and you are not eligible for a refund, you may consider a Parent (PLUS) Loan to help you pay for off-campus expenses or you may choose to borrow through an alternative/private lender. When possible, we encourage all undergraduates to request a parent to assist with a PLUS loan first and consider an alternative loan as a last resort.

    Q. Can I use my Housing and Food (formerly Room and Board) awards towards off campus housing?

    Housing and Food awards can only be used for on-campus housing. Housing and Food awards will be cancelled for recipients living off-campus, unless the award is approved for off-campus usage (for instance, some Athletic scholarships allow for off-campus housing).

    Q. I have a Parent PLUS Loan or Alternative Private Loan, how do I proceed?

    To be eligible for a refund to pay for education related expenses such as off campus housing, you may have to borrow up to your Cost of Attendance. To increase your loan(s), you can submit a Revision Request Form and complete the appropriate Loan Revision section. *Note: If you have a Parent PLUS Loan, your parent borrower will have to complete and sign the Parent PLUS Loan Revision section. If you have an Alternative Private Loan, you will have to contact your lender directly to apply for an increase.

    Q. I have expenses that are not considered in the standard Cost of Attendance, what are my options?

    You may consider submitting a Cost of Attendance Appeal if you have expenses during academic year we can consider, i.e. one-time computer purchase, car repair or emergency medical or dental expenses not covered by insurance. 

    Q. My loan is up to my Cost of Attendance, but I still don't have a refund, what can I do?

    You can reduce or cancel your work study by submitting a Revision Request Form to allow you more room to borrow. To be eligible for a refund, your aid must exceed the amount of your charges, this will leave a credit on your account and will allow you to request a refund through Student Financial Services. The refund can be used to pay for living expenses off campus or any other education related expenses.

    Q. Can I use my refund to pay rent before school starts?

    Refunds can be used for housing, however they can’t be requested until the first day of classes. You should not anticipate your refund will be available for your first month’s rent as all aid, including loans, begins to disburse 10 days before the start of the term. Use the Federal Student Aid Budget Calculator as a tool to estimate your expenses.

  • Q. How long can I continue to receive financial aid at LMU?

    LMU funded sources of financial aid are available for a maximum of eight semesters (six semesters for students who enter LMU through Transfer Admission). Please refer to the Academic Degree Requirements and Policies section of the Undergraduate Bulletin for information on the recommended course load to complete degree requirements in the required timeframe listed above.

    Q. What if there is a change to my housing plan?

    Changing your housing plans can affect your financial aid. Contact our office for assistance with determining if your housing plan change will impact your financial aid.

    Q. Will my eligibility for financial aid change if I change my enrollment status?

    In order to receive most forms of federal, state, and institutional awards, you must be enrolled full time (12-18 units). To receive your financial aid as a full-time student, you must be enrolled in at least 12 units by the last day to drop or add coursework for the term. If you are not enrolled in 12-18 units as of this date, your financial aid award will be adjusted to reflect part-time enrollment. Awards that require full-time enrollment, such as LMU scholarships, grants, and the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) will be canceled. Because these funds are limited, they may not be reinstated if you later add units to attain full-time status.

    Q. What happens to my financial aid if I decide to drop one or more courses during the semester but will still be enrolled at least half-time?

    If you drop a course after the last date to drop/add for the term you will receive a “W” in that course and your tuition charges are not reduced. If you still remain enrolled at least half-time (6 units for undergraduates) then your financial aid for the term will also not change.

    However, if you drop a course and remain enrolled less than half-time (5 units or less), your aid award may be revised as most forms of financial aid require at least half-time enrollment.

    Q. What to do should you decide to take a Leave of Absence, Withdraw, or drop all course work?

    If you feel you need to take a leave of absence or withdraw due to medical or other reasons, we encourage you to take advantage of the counseling offered through Student Affairs and your academic advisor, to assist in making your decision. Visit the LMU Student Affairs website, for information regarding the services they provide. Once you have decided to take a leave of absence, or withdraw, you are required to notify the Office of the Registrar. Your leave of absence date will be determined as the earliest date that you stop attending all classes. LMU Financial Aid will be notified and will make the necessary adjustments to your financial aid award. If you have borrowed federal student loans, you will also received exit loan information regarding repayment.

    If you plan to return to LMU, make sure to continue to check your LMU Lion email for important information on applying for financial aid the next year. When you decided to return, contact the Office of the Registrar which will update your status from on a leave to an active student.

    Note: If you stop attending all classes and do not notify the Office of the Registrar and receive Fs for all course work, we must consider the midpoint of the term as your last date of attendance and revise your financial aid funds according to federal, state, and institutional procedures. Detailed information on how funds will be adjusted is available here.

  • If you are selected to participate in the LMU Housing Residential Advisor (RA) program you will be able to receive RA benefits. This will include a room and board grant and stipend. These funds will be treated as an outside scholarship when determining eligibility for need-based financial aid for the following school year. Your RA benefits, in case you are at your Cost of Attendance, will be used to reduce or eliminate your loan or student employment before any adjustment is made.

    Q. What is the Resident Advisor Program?

    • As a member of the Residence Life Staff, the Resident Advisor (RA) is responsible for establishing and maintaining a positive living environment for residents. The RA reports to the Resident Director of the building to which he or she is assigned and to the Assistant Directors for Residence Life.

    • The RA is responsible for community development activities, administrative functions, policy enforcement and crisis intervention, building duty coverage, and group/individual assistance.

    • For more information about the LMU Residential Advisor and how to apply, visit the Student Housing Office website here.

    Q. How does Housing affect a student’s financial aid award?

    • If you are selected to participate in the LMU Housing Residential Advisor (RA) program you will be able to receive RA benefits. This will include a room and board grant and stipend. These funds will be treated as an outside scholarship when determining eligibility for need‐based financial aid for the following school year.

    • Your RA benefits, in case you are at your Cost of Attendance, will be used to reduce or eliminate your loan or student employment before any adjustment is made. You will not be able to receive a work-study award unless authorized by the Residential Life Office.

  • The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) may consider some forms of financial aid taxable. Under current federal law, the amount of a student’s total scholarships/fellowships that exceed the cost of tuition, fees, books, supplies and equipment is generally considered by the IRS to be taxable income. Information about what to report to the IRS and how to report it can be found on the IRS website and in the IRS tax topic #421.

  • For families completing the 2024-2025 FAFSA, Federal Student Aid has a dedicated website for known issues regarding the form and solutions for common issues.

    When completing the FAFSA, make sure to follow these 4 helpful tips to ensure your record is processed correctly:

    1. Fill out your legal first and last name as displayed on your social security card or other government issued identification.
    2. Double check to ensure your social security number has been entered properly.
    3. Make sure to put LMU’s school code in as 001234.
    4. Prospective students must complete their FAFSA no later than the published deadline for your application type.  Continuing students should complete their FAFSA by March 15 for the 2024-2025 academic year.

    If you miss these deadlines, you may still complete the FAFSA for eligibility for federal aid. Missing the priority funding deadline does not mean that students will automatically lose their institutional aid. It means that LMU cannot guarantee institutional scholarships and grants. You are advised to complete the FAFSA as soon as possible to avoid any potential loss of eligibility.