Finance FAQ

How much does it cost to attend Seattle University?

Please see the undergraduate costs page or the graduate costs page for more information.

Does Seattle University offer Tuition Insurance?

Yes! Seattle University has partnered with GradGuard to provide an option for students and their supporters to purchase tuition insurance. We believe you should have an easy an affordable way to protect the investment your and/or your family has made in higher education. GradGuard can provide reimbursement for tuition, room, board, and other fees if you are forced to withdraw due to a covered illness, injury, mental health condition, or other covered reason at any time during the covered term. Students have the option to purchase the plan as-is or choose a coverage amount that makes sense for their circumstances. Tuition insurance must be purchased before the first day of classes each term and is offered as a voluntary benefit to our families. Your participation is not required but highly recommended. Seattle University is not compensated for this program. Learn more by calling GradGuard at 877-794-6603 or visiting http://gradguard.com/tuition

Learn More about GradGuard's Tuition Insurance

How do I apply for financial aid?

Our goal is to try to keep these processes as simple as possible. Students seeking financial aid for can complete the Free Application for Financial Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA is available each year by December 1st. Indicate on the FAFSA that you want the results sent to Seattle University (School Code 003790). The academic year begins with summer and ends with spring.

The processor will send us this information only if you use this code. 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.

Do I have to be admitted before I can apply?

Students are encouraged to apply early. Do not wait until you are admitted. Complete the FAFSA right ​​away. Once you are admitted, Student Financial Services will prepare a financial offer.

What determines how much I'll be offered and whether I get loans, grants or work-study?

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).

What is financial need?

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 the Student Aid Index (SAI). 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.

How can I buy books or pay for housing?

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.

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.

What if I'm not eligible for aid, but I still need help with college expenses?

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.