Financial Aid Application Process

  1. Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) every year. The FAFSA becomes available in October.   The USD priority filing date is March 1st.  
  2. Make sure to sign your FAFSA with your FSA ID (Federal Student Aid Username and Password) and include the USD School of Law school code: G06976.  USD Law does not require that you provide parental information on your FAFSA and it will not be considered should you do so.
  3. USD Law usually begins sending Financial Aid Notices to new students in early March.
  4. Monitor your email. Requests for additional information and/or supplemental documentation will be emailed to you.
  5. 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.
  6. Once any requested documentation is processed, a Financial Aid Notice letter will be emailed to you.
  7. You can view your Financial Aid at any time in the MySanDiego portal.
  8. Read the Financial Aid Notice and linked instructions carefully to make sure you complete all the steps required to apply for the aid that has been offered to you.
    • 'Accept' your 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 you are borrowing federal Direct Loans at USD Law, you will also be required to complete a Master Promissory Note for each loan and federal Entrance Loan Counseling online at the Federal Student Aid website.
    • 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.
  9. Sign up for Direct Deposit; view your billing statement and track your financial aid disbursements in the MySanDiego web portal in the "My Student Account" box.