Graduate Application Process
To ensure that you receive email notification of your Financial Aid eligibility, complete steps 1 as early as possible. Respond to any additional requests from Cal Lutheran as soon as possible. Please note, all loan steps must be completed at least 30 days prior to the start of any academic term you would like to receive financial aid to prevent delays.
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File Your FAFSA
Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as possible. Make sure to list Cal Lutheran’s school code 001133. This application determines your eligibility for low-interest Federal Direct Loans and enables you to be considered for certain scholarships and grants depending on your program. The FAFSA is required each year.
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Graduate Financial Aid Offer
The Graduate Financial Aid Application will no longer be required beginning with the 2023-2024 academic year. Review the Self-Service > Financial Aid Checklist for any additional documents that may be needed.
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Accept or Decline Your Award
It is CLU policy that students must Accept or Decline each Federal Loan listed on their award letter via the Financial Aid Self Service Tool. Scholarships and Grants are automatically accepted. If you would like to change your decision at a later date on a particular loan or adjust the amount you wish to receive please use the Graduate Loan Change Request Form.
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Federal Direct Loan Process
If you accept a Federal Direct Loan, you must submit Entrance Counseling, a Master Promissory Note. The Annual Student Loan Acknowledgment is recommended but not required to complete the loan process.
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Federal Graduate PLUS Loan Application
If you need additional funds beyond the Unsubsidized loan and would like to borrow a Federal Graduate PLUS Loan, you must complete a loan application which includes a credit check. If the loan is approved, you must complete the loan process by completing Graduate Plus Entrance Counseling, a Plus Master Promissory Note. The Annual Student Loan Acknowledgment is recommended but not required.