FAQs

Who is eligible for financial aid?
If you are a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident of the United States, you are eligible to apply for financial assistance at Fairfield University. There are no absolute income cutoffs that disqualify a family from applying since family size, the number of children in college, total assets, and other circumstances bear on the determination of eligibility. International citizens are not eligible for need-based aid, but may be considered for the Fairfield University Scholarship Program.

How is financial aid need determined?
Once the processing center receives your completed FAFSA, the federal agency follows established guidelines to calculate the contribution you and your family can be expected to make toward the cost of your education. They then share this information with the colleges you have listed. The difference between that figure and what Fairfield estimates it will cost you to attend the University is called your "demonstrated financial need."

If I have "demonstrated financial need," what happens next?
The Financial Aid Office evaluates the need of all eligible applicants and distributes funds to as many students as possible. Due to the University's own limited resources and in order to give some aid to the maximum number of individuals who qualify, not every demonstrated need will be met in full. All applicants are considered individually and adjustments are made for unusual family circumstances.

What if I am not eligible for need-based financial aid?
For families who do not qualify for need-based financial aid, additional plans are available to help you finance a Fairfield education. These include the AMS Payment Plan, the various loan programs supported by the Federal and State governments, and loan programs offered by banks and other agencies.

Does Fairfield University have preferred lenders?
Yes. Fairfield University carefully monitors the student lending market and strives to ensure that our students are receiving the best education financing products and services possible. For more information, read our statement regarding preferred lenders.

Will my application for financial aid affect my application for admission?
No, applications for admission are evaluated separately from requests for financial aid. If you believe you need financial assistance, be sure to apply before the deadline. Assistance is not usually available to late applicants.

What if there are any special circumstances that should arise during that academic year which may interfere with the ability to finance my educational costs? A student who experienced extenuating circumstances beyond his/her control may appeal in writing to the Office of Financial Aid.  Reasons for the appeal must be documented, i.e., sickness, accident, death, etc. Official documentation must be attached to the letter of appeal when it is turned into the Office of Financial Aid. Appeals must be written by the student and submitted to the Office of Financial Aid, Kelley Center, 1073 N. Benson Road, Fairfield, CT 06824

Is my financial aid automatically renewed every year?
No. Because family circumstances change from year to year, you must reapply for financial aid every year. Students receiving University grants or scholarships may receive such assistance for a limit of eight semesters provided they maintain eligibility.

If I do not qualify for federal work-study, can I still get a campus job?
Several offices and facilities on campus hire students outside the Work-Study program. These include the Library, Recreation Complex, and dining services. Jobs are also available in the community.

Fairfield's catalog lists many special scholarships. Can I apply for them?
There is no need to apply for scholarships administered by the University. Your financial aid "package" may, in fact, include one of these. In that case, you will be notified. The Financial Aid Office identifies the specific sources of your aid package.

When will I learn about my financial aid award?
Early Action candidates learn of their awards in January; other entering freshmen in April; and upperclassmen also in April. Transfer students are notified on a rolling basis.