Financing Your Education

We recognize that a college education is a significant investment—and also know it's one of the best possible investments for a student's future. We are committed to helping as many students as possible realize the benefits of that goal. More than 80% of Cal Lutheran students receive financial aid each year.

For current tuition costs and fees, please visit the Financial Aid Web site.

Cal Lutheran Scholarships

The University awards a variety of scholarships to students based solely on merit and talent, ranging from $400 annually to full tuition for four years.

Presidential Scholarships:

Up to full tuition for four years. Open to the top tier of our incoming class. Call the Office of Admission or visit our Presidential Scholarship web site for further information about the application process and deadlines.

Academic Scholarships:

Up to $10,000 per year based on GPA and test scores. Awarded to qualified students automatically upon admission.

Visual and Performing Arts Scholarships:

Up to $2,000 per year. Students planning to participate in drama, music or art can arrange auditions and portfolio reviews with departments before the February 1 deadline. Apply online »

Congregational Partners in Education Program:

Up to $2,500 per year. Students sponsored by a church congregation should contact the Office of Admission for information about this matching program.

Federal and State Aid

To apply, students must file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon after January 1 as possible, and no later than March 2. Submitted by mail or electronically at www.fafsa.ed.gov, the results will tell us if you’re eligible for the following programs.

Grants:

Gift awards that do not require repayment such as the Federal Pell Grant and the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant. California residents may be eligible for almost $10,000 annually through the Cal Grant, which is based on academic and family income requirements.

Student Loans:

Generally interest-free while in school, low interest repayment plans begin six to nine months after graduation for loans such as the Stafford Subsidized Loan and the Perkins Loan. Other loans with less favorable terms, such as the Stafford Unsubsidized Loan, are available to those without financial need.

Work-Study:

An on-campus job to assist with college costs.

To have the results of your FAFSA analysis sent to CLU, use code #001133 or fill in our name and address on "Step Six" of the form. We can then assess your eligibility for Cal Lutheran scholarships, federal and state grants, loans, and work-study programs. To receive full benefit of your aid eligibility, you must submit the FAFSA and the GPA Verification Form for the Cal Grant (California residents only) by March 2, 2006.

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