School of Law

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Financial Aid Application Process

Applying for financial aid is an important step in one’s application process for law school. This step-by-step guide is designed to make the process as accessible as possible. Students and prospective students are encouraged to follow these steps carefully and complete each step thoroughly. Students should contact our team for assistance as needed.

Students and prospective students are also encouraged to familiarize themselves with the USD School of Law Financial Aid Policies and Procedures.

How to Apply for Financial Aid for Law School

Step1

Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

Priority Filing Date: March 1

For financial aid consideration, applicants need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or a Renewal FAFSA. It is important that these steps are followed closely:

  • Log on to the Federal Student Aid website using the FSA ID. If you do not have an FSA ID, you can create one on the Federal Student Aid website.
  • Students must be sure to sign the FAFSA with the FSA ID and include the USD School of Law school code: G06976. USD Law does not require students to provide parental information on the FAFSA. Parent data will not be considered if students provided it.
  • You must complete the FAFSA every year. The FAFSA becomes available annually each October.

How to fill out the FAFSA

Step2

Watch for Financial Aid Notices from USD School of Law

USD Law usually begins sending Financial Aid Notices to new students in early March; however, Financial Aid Notices will likely be released early May. Other documents may be needed to establish eligibility, as required by federal regulations. Students should monitor their email reported on the FAFSA as requests for additional information and/or supplemental documentation will be emailed to this email address.

  • If additional information or documentation is requested, provide it as soon as possible to ensure there is no delay in the processing of your financial aid.
  • Once any requested documentation is processed, a Financial Aid Notice letter will be emailed to you.
  • You can view the status of your Financial Aid application at any time in the MySanDiego portal.
Step3

Read your Financial Aid Notice when Received, and Follow All Linked Instructions

The Financial Aid Office will prepare a tentative financial aid package based on the evaluation received from the Department of Education. The financial aid notice email will detail which programs may help finance a student's education. In addition, students will be asked to complete the loan application process if they wish to borrow. To complete the loan application process:

  • 'Accept' the financial aid in the MySanDiego portal using the drop-down boxes by clicking on the Financial Aid Status link on the Law Student page.
  • If this is the first time borrowing Federal Direct Loans at USD School of Law, students will be required to complete a Master Promissory Note for each loan and the Federal Student Loan Entrance Counseling.
  • The USD Tuition Credit and Law Access Loans require the completion of a separate paper application each year.
  • If awarded Federal Work-Study, you will need to complete additional paperwork and a background check once you secure a position. All paperwork must be completed before you are eligible to work.

Award Letter Policies and Regulations

Step4

Sign up for Direct Deposit

Enroll in direct deposit in the MySanDiego web portal in the "My Student Account" box. Students can view the billing statement and track financial aid disbursements on this page.