What is financial aid?

Financial aid is a variety of federal programs including grants, loans, and work-study.  These programs are available to assist students in funding education beyond high-school.  The funds may be used for educational expenses including tuition, fees, room, board, books, supplies, transportation, and personal expenses.   

Who is eligible for financial aid?

In general, you must meet the following criteria to be eligible to participate in the federal financial aid programs:
 

• Properly admitted or currently enrolled in a degree-granting or certificate program.

• Enrolled at least half-time to receive aid for most programs.

• U.S. citizen or an eligible non-citizen.*

• Making Satisfactory Academic Progress.

• Sign a statement of educational purpose.

• Registered with Selective Service if required to do so.

• Have a valid social security number.

• Not be in default on any educational loan.

• Not owe a refund on a Federal Pell Grant or on a Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant.
  
  *Eligible non-citizens are those who have a U.S. citizen application co-signer. Undergraduate international students who are interested in scholarship information can contact the Undergraduate Admissions Office (intrntladm@lsu.edu) or the International Services Office (isograd@lsu.edu).

How do I apply for financial aid?

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the application for all federal student aid programs. 

When do I apply?

The FAFSA is available each January 1 for the next academic year.  File as early as possible!  Filing a FAFSA is only the first step in the financial aid process. Make sure you know how you will pay for the upcoming academic year by allowing ample time for the process.

How do I know what I’m eligible to receive?

The Office of Undergraduate Admissions and Student Aid uses information provided by the Department of Education from your FAFSA, your Cost of Attendance, and information we have about other resources (such as scholarships, veterans benefits, etc.) that you may receive to determine your eligibility for federal aid programs.  For more information on how your eligibility is determined, click here. Many programs require students to have financial need to be eligible.  Students who are determined to have no financial need are eligible for student loans provided all other eligibility requirements are met.  For an estimated financial aid award package, click here.

How do I use financial aid to pay for my educational expenses?

All federal aid funds are applied directly to your student account in the Office of Bursar Operations.  If the amount of your financial aid is greater than the amount you owe to the University, you will be issued a refund for the credit balance.    

How do I get more information?