Frequently Asked Questions
Financial Aid Process
How do I apply for financial aid?
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at: www.fafsa.ed.gov as soon as possible after January 1. For fast service, submit the FAFSA electronically by obtaining a personal identification number (PIN). The FAFSA assesses your eligibility for grants, loans, work-study, and some scholarships. UCD school code: 006740
- Complete the University Application (UAPP) at www.cudenver.edu/finaid. Two weeks after applying, and after acceptance to the University, log on to S.M.A.R.T., UCD’s online student information system at www.cudenver.edu, using your designated University PIN, and determine if you need to submit additional documents. You will be mailed a PIN number from the Admissions Office approximately 1-2 weeks after being admitted.
- Colorado resident, undergraduate students are eligible for the Colorado Opportunity Fund (COF) stipend from the State of Colorado to help pay their tuition. Apply at: https://cofweb.cslp.org/cofapp/
What is the deadline for applying?
The priority deadline for UCD is April 1. After April 1, we continue to offer aid based on fund availability. The priority deadline does not affect eligibility for the Pell Grant or student loans.
How is my financial aid award determined?
The Cost of Attendance is determined by a survey of regional and local costs and includes tuition, fees, books, room and board, insurance and travel. Your eligibility for financial aid is based on the following formula:
Cost of Attendance
- Expected Family Contribution (from FAFSA)
= Financial Need
The Expected Family Contribution (EFC) is determined by the federal government through an analysis of the information reported on your FAFSA. The lower your EFC, the greater your financial need. Financial need is the gap between the cost of attending school and your resources. Financial aid will help fill this gap.
How do I learn what my award is?
We will send you an email, to your official University email address, directing you to S.M.A.R.T. where you will see your Award Status. Your grants and scholarships are automatically accepted, but if you are offered a loan or work-study, you must formally accept them.You may accept them online, by phone, or visit the office. You may choose to accept the full or a lesser amount of the loans that we offer.
Stafford Loan borrowers must complete the Master Promissory Note (MPN) online at: www.studentloanonline.com. In addition, all first-time borrowers must complete the Loan Entrance Counseling, which is available on the same web site.
Where/when do I get my money?
Aid is applied to your bill approximately one week before classes start. If there is a credit balance on your bill, the refund amount is deposited electronically into your bank account if you have completed a Direct Deposit Form (www.cudenver.edu/finaid). If you prefer to not use direct deposit, a check will be mailed to you.
Scholarship Application Process
How do I apply for scholarships?
Usually, scholarship applications are available 6 to 8 weeks before the deadline. The application process should take place a semester to a year prior to the academic year/semester you hope to receive the money. If you find out about a scholarship after the deadline, do not worry! Just remember the deadline, and plan to apply the following year.
Each scholarship has a different process. Usually, you must fill out an application form, which includes biographical information, provide references, supply financial aid information (if requested), and write an essay. The essay topics vary, but it is a critical part of the application. This is your chance to set yourself apart from the other candidates.
Keep a copy of any scholarship application paperwork to utilize in the ongoing application process such as.
- Any essays you write, including an educational goal statement
- Income tax forms
- Information from the Financial Aid Office, such as the Student Aid Report (SAR) and award letters
- College and/or high school transcripts
- Your resume
- Letters of recommendation (from teachers, professors, employers)