Financial Aid
Affording USD
At USD, we’re committed to doing everything we can to get you the best financial aid available. While a college education may still take an investment, the success of our graduates shows that a USD education truly pays off in the end.
More than 75% of our undergraduates receive some form of financial assistance, including scholarships and need-based financial aid
By the Numbers
81%
of current students receive financial assistance
$160M
grants and scholarships awarded
$26,165
average student loan debt upon graduation
Cost of Attendance
$64,100
Tuition
Tuition is an annual fee that applies to full-time students. To be considered a full-time student, you must take between 12-18 units per semester, which is typically 4-6 classes. If you take more than 18 units in one semester, you will be charged tuition plus an additional $2,115 per extra unit. Taking fewer than 12 units per semester will classify you as a part-time student, and you will be charged a rate of $2,115 per unit in lieu of tuition. Part-time students are not eligible for financial assistance.
$14,200
Estimated Housing & Food
Estimated room and board is the combined annual cost for on-campus housing and meal plans. Room and board varies per student and is determined by several factors, including where you choose to live, how many roommates you may have and which meal plan you select. Please note that you are required to live on campus for at least two years unless your primary residence is in San Diego County. Transfer students may be exempt from this policy and should review the residential life website for details.
Career Outcomes
Investing in a USD education means investing in a lifetime of success. USD alumni go on to pursue their passions, using their USD education as a foundation for finding fulfillment. Whether it's furthering their education, establishing a nonprofit or community-focused organization, living and serving abroad, or exploring the "beyond" with NASA, Toreros are ready take on any venture that comes their way.
94%
of students are employed or in graduate school within six months of graduating
91%
of students receive their first job offer within three months of graduating
$77,620
average starting salary of recent graduates
Frequently Asked Questions:
Yes, the University of San Diego offers financial aid to many students. More than 75% of undergraduates receive some form of financial assistance, including scholarships and need-based aid. Each year, USD awards over $160 million in grants and scholarships to help make a college education more accessible.
Tuition at the University of San Diego is $64,100 per year for full-time undergraduate students for the 2026-27 academic year. Estimated housing and food costs are about $14,200 annually, though total costs vary depending on housing and meal plan choices. More than 75% of students receive financial aid to help offset these costs.
A degree from the University of San Diego is a strong investment in your future. Within six months of graduation, 89% of USD students are employed or enrolled in graduate school, and the average starting salary for recent graduates is $71,145. Many students also find their first job or next step within just a few months of graduating.
Many USD alumni go on to build meaningful careers in a wide range of fields, using their education as a foundation for long-term success. Many work in business, nonprofits, education, healthcare, government and global organizations, while others choose to continue their education or start mission-driven work of their own.
USD offers both merit-based and need-based scholarships to help make college more affordable. Merit-based scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership and talents. Most students are automatically considered during the admission process, and no separate application is required.
Need-based scholarships are based on financial need, as determined by the FAFSA or USD Dream Act Application. We also offer scholarship opportunities through academic programs, athletics and external scholarship resources.
To be considered for need-based financial aid at USD, you’ll need to complete the appropriate application by the priority deadline.
If you are a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen, you should complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).
If you are an undocumented student, you may complete either the California Dream Act Application (if you meet California AB540 criteria) or the USD Dream Act Application (if you attended high school for at least three years outside California and graduated or earned a GED in that state).
These applications help determine your eligibility for grants, scholarships and other financial aid opportunities.