Financial Aid and Scholarships

Samuel Merritt University participates in a variety of financial aid programs. Our office will help you explore options and determine what’s best for your academic needs and career goals.   

We've Got You Covered

In 2019-2020, 81 percent of SMU students received some type of financial aid to help cover tuition, fees, and living expenses. Financial aid awards can be based on need or merit, and they usually include a combination of grants, low-interest loans, scholarships, work-study opportunities, and payment plans.

To determine your eligibility for various financial aid programs, you’ll first complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as well as additional forms from our office. From there, we’ll work with you to develop a financial aid package based on your demonstrated need.

FAFSA APPLICATION  Tuition Calculator

SMU has offered emergency scholarships for the last few years. We are fortunate to have alumni and staff that donate to the emergency fund.  An emergency is a sudden, urgent usually unexpected occurrence requiring immediate action. Tuition and other expected expenses that are covered by existing financial aid and loan programs are generally not eligible. The scholarships that we are currently offering students are:

  •  Emergency scholarships for unexpected costs that impede your ability to be successful as a student. This includes funds to help with temporary housing, food, home repairs, car repairs that will assist a student in getting to a job or clinical site, out-of-pocket medical expenses, child care, etc. We don’t have enough money to pay for all of these expenses for every student every month but can help on a case-by-case basis with some funds in most cases.
  • Technology assistance for helping students transition to online. We are repairing or replacing laptops and funding internet access options as needed. Also, we are providing assistance for students who need accommodations as determined by the Disabilities office
  • Scholarship funds to assist displaced students from preceptor and clinical sites that prevent or delay graduation

Please note that new students cannot be awarded funds prior to the start of the program. 

SMU also applied for emergency student money from the CARES Act and was approved. We will use that money to continue to fund our emergency scholarships. These awards are reviewed on a case-by-case basis and awarded depending on individual circumstances and fund availability.

To apply, log into:  https://mysmu.samuelmerritt.edu  - click on the box “CL Scholarship Applications website”. Complete the application under SMU Emergency Scholarships. 

Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) - 2022 - Q4 Institutional / Student

Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) - 2022 - Q3 Institutional / Student

Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) - 2022 - Q2 Institutional / Student

Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) - 2022 - Q1 Institutional / Student

Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) - Q4 - 2021 Institutional [Revised] / Student

Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) - Q3 - 2021 Institutional / Student

Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) - Q2 2021 Institutional / Student

Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) - Q1 2021 Institutional / Student April 2021 Quarterly Report

Cares Act Report

CARES Act Update - Sept 2020

CARES Act Update - Dec 2020

How to Apply for Financial Aid

The financial aid application process is detailed in the steps below.

1. Complete the FAFSA online.

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is used to determine your student aid eligibility based on your personal and family situation. If you are a first-time user, you will be required to create an FSA ID. It allows users to access personal information on federal student aid websites as well as to sign a FAFSA.

There are two ways to complete the FAFSA form:

  1. Visit the fafsa.gov website.
  2. Use the myStudentAid app, which you can download from both the Apple App Store (iOS) and Google Play (Android).

Once SMU receives the FAFSA application (3–5 business days), you can complete the following financial aid application steps through the MySMU Student Portal in the My Finances section.

When you complete the FAFSA, be sure to list SMU’s school code. Code: 007012

Start your FAFSA today

2. Complete entrance counseling.

If you plan to use federal student loans, access studentaid.gov to complete entrance counseling. This step is required to ensure you understand your borrower rights and responsibilities.

3. Complete the Master Promissory Note (MPN).

If you plan to use federal student loans, you will need to electronically complete and sign the MPN—a legal document that creates a contract between you and the lender to repay the loans. You will find the MPN at studentaid.gov. If you are a graduate student then also do the GradPLUS MPN.

4. Complete any other financial aid documentation as required.

You may be required to complete or supply additional documentation before your financial aid can be awarded. Any required documents will be listed in the Financial Services section of your MySMU Student Portal.

5. Complete the financial aid process.

After completing the FAFSA, you will receive your personal Award Notice on the Financial Aid page in your student portal. After reviewing your Financial Aid Award, you will be prompted to accept a recommended loan amount or request a custom loan amount not to exceed the maximum loan eligibility. An award letter displaying your requested, or otherwise eligible, loan and grant amounts will be sent to your SMU email address. An sms text message will also be sent if your mobile phone number is on file.  

Financial Aid Office Contacts

Kimya Williams - Schedule an appointment with Kimyakwilliams@samuelmerritt.edu / 916.646.2792
Financial Aid Counselor - ABSN and Online FNP; Online FNPDNP, Federal Work-Study;

Binh Hua -Schedule an appointment with Binh;  bhua@samuelmerritt.edu / 510.879.9200 Ext. 7311
Financial Aid Counselor - BSN; DNP, CRNA, PodiatryOccupational TherapyRN-BSN ;

Christina Gray - Schedule an appointment with Christinacgray@samuelmerritt.edu / 510.879.9200 Ext. 
Financial Aid Counselor - FNPDNP; ELMSN-FNP; ELMSN-CMPhysical Therapy; Physician Assistant;

Shavonna Fox - Schedule an appointment with Shavonnasshoemake@samuelmerritt.edu / 510.879.9200 Ext. 7315
Financial Aid Counselor - BSN, ;

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Saeng Saephanh - 510.879.9200 Ext. 7313
Financial Aid Technician
ssaephanh@samuelmerritt.edu

Kristi Kindberg - 510.879.9200 Ext. 7312
Loan Administrator - Direct Loan Processing, Emergency Loan Processing, Loan Returns
kkindberg@samuelmerritt.edu

Tyler Pruett - 510.879.9200
Director of Financial Aid
tpruett@samuelmerritt.edu

The Financial Aid Office may require certain forms to confirm your Federal Financial Aid eligibility. Click on the form you must submit below, print and complete the form, then submit the form to the Financial Aid Office. Please submit any forms requested ASAP.

Completed forms should be uploaded in the Financial Aid Portal of MySMU. [Video Instructions]

Scholarship Forms

Verification Forms

General Forms

Loan Forms

Federal Work Study

 

SMU's Financial Aid Office encourages all students to research grants and scholarship opportunities. Grants and scholarships are financial aid awards that you do not have to pay back, and they are based on financial need, merit, or other criteria.

Cal Grant Program
Students who are legal California residents and do not have a bachelor's degree are eligible to apply for the Cal Grant program. Applicants must submit a completed FAFSA to the federal processor and a Cal Grant GPA Verification Form to the California Student Aid Commission by the March 2nd postmark deadline.

Scholarship Forms

Resources:


Scholarship Resources for Graduate and Post-Graduate Nursing Students
American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) offers Continuing Professional Development Scholarships to help members enrich their careers and acquire knowledge and skills beyond traditional academic nursing education. A limited number of scholarships for specific academic courses are awarded.

American Indian Graduate Center (AIGC) announces the availability of graduate fellowships for American Indian and Alaska Native students from federally recognized U.S. tribes.

American Assembly for Men in Nursing Foundation and Johnson & Johnson’s Campaign for Nursing’s Future are offering a new $1,000 scholarship program for male students pursuing professional nursing education programs.

California East Bay Oncology Nursing Society offers a $1,000 scholarship program for an undergraduate nursing student who has an interest in oncology nursing.

Council of Graduate Schools maintains a list of graduate fellowship opportunities for those entering graduate programs. Read eligibility requirements carefully to see how best to market your nursing graduate study.

Disadvantaged Faculty Loan Repayment Program (FLRP) provides for repayment of education loans for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds who agree to serve for at least two years as faculty members at eligible health professions and nursing schools.

DiversityNursing.com, a niche website for nurses from student nurses up to CNO's, is offering a $5,000 education award.  You must be enrolled as a full-time or part-time student in an accredited school of nursing in a professional registered nurse program (baccalaureate, graduate, associate degree or diploma) OR work full-time, part-time or per diem as a registered nurse, LPN, nurse practitioner or nurse leader/administrator at a U.S.-based organization.

ExceptionalNurse.com awards a $500 Anna May Rolando scholarship to a qualified student with a disability. Preference is given to graduate students.

Giva Corporate Outstanding Nursing Student Scholarship offers scholarships to students currently enrolled in an accredited nursing program in the United States or Canada. A scholarship in the amount of $1000 each will be awarded based on their 600- to 1000-word essay on "How will you use your talents and education to make the world a better place for future generations? What are your career and personal goals and why?"

Healthcare Leaders Scholarship offers a scholarship for students entering or currently pursuing an educational program related to nursing or medicine. Students must be at least 17 years of age and have a GPA of 3.0 or higher.

Hispanic Association of Colleges & Universities offers scholarships for graduate and undergraduate students attending an HACU member or partner college or university.

Indian Health Service (IHS) administers a program to help repay undergraduate and graduate loans of health professionals in return for full-time clinical service in Indian health programs.

March of Dimes awards scholarships to registered nurses enrolled in graduate programs of maternal-child nursing.

Maryland State Nursing Scholarship is available to Maryland residents seeking an undergraduate or graduate degree in nursing.

MinuteClinic awards up to 30 nurse practitioner scholarships at $2,500 each and up to five doctor of nursing practice scholarships at $5,000 each.

National Association of Neonatal Nurses (NANN) offers scholarships for members pursuing a BSN or graduate degree in neonatal nursing or nursing administration.

National Black Nurses Association (NBNA) offers a Student Nurse of the Year award to an NBNA member in pursuit of a baccalaureate or other advanced nursing degree.

National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS)/AcademyHealth Health Policy Fellowship is designed for two selected scholars to work collaboratively with NCHS staff on a wide range of projects. Over the course of this 13-month program, fellows will conduct new and innovative analyses as well as participate in developmental and health policy activities related to the design and content of future NCHS surveys. All applicants are strongly encouraged to complete the online "Statement of Interest" form prior to applying. Once the form has been submitted, AcademyHealth and NCHS staff will follow up to provide both guidance on the proposal and assistance on the application process.  To learn more about the Health Policy Fellowship, please visit www.academyhealth.org/nchs.

National Hartford Center of Gerontological Nursing Excellence (NHCGNE) (formerly known as Building Academic Geriatric Nursing Capacity or BAGNC). NHCGNE will be accepting applications for a single scholar/fellow award in 2015. If a scholar candidate is successful, the award will total $100,000 ($50,000 per annum) with the requirement that 10% of that amount be contributed by the institution where the scholar is located. This contribution may be in the form of tuition waivers, research assistantships, teaching assistantships, grants-in-aid or scholarships. Neither in-kind support nor student loans are acceptable as matching funds. No indirect costs are allowed to the school and waivers of these indirect costs cannot be considered matching funds.

National Health Service Corps, a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, has information about scholarships and loan repayment programs for health care professionals who practice in a medically underserved area.

NURSE Corps Loan Repayment Program, formerly the Nursing Education Loan Repayment Program (NELRP), helps alleviate the shortage of nurses across the country by offering loan repayment assistance to registered nurses and advance practice nurses, such as nurse practitioners, working at Critical Shortage facilities and nurse faculty employed at accredited schools of nursing. Program participants receive up to 60 percent of their qualifying student loans in exchange for a 2-year service commitment – and an additional 25 percent of their original loan balance for an optional third year.

NURSE Corps Scholarship Program (NCSP), formerly the Nursing Scholarship Program, helps students complete their nursing education by paying tuition, fees, other education costs while providing a monthly living stipend. The program is open to full-time nursing students accepted or enrolled in a diploma, associate, baccalaureate or graduate nursing programs at accredited schools located in the U.S. Upon graduation, scholarship program members fulfill a service commitment at a Critical Shortage Facility.

Nurse Practitioner Health Association offers a variety of scholarships ($1,000 to $5,000 awards) to students in nurse practitioner programs for outstanding research, leadership, and academic achievements. 

Nurses' Educational Funds, Inc. offers a scholarship for nurses enrolled in an accredited master's or doctoral level nursing program.

Nursing Economic$ Foundation awards up to four $5,000 scholarships to registered nurses in a masters or doctoral nursing program with an emphasis on administration or management for the upcoming school year. 

Nursing Home Abuse awards a $5,000 scholarship, exclusively for US students pursuing a degree that will help combat nursing home abuse. The scholarship will cover non-tuition related expenses such as rent, childcare, textbooks, utilities, and groceries for the academic year.

Online Nursing Programs awards $500 to a student currently enrolled in a nursing or related health care administration degree program.

Promise of Nursing Regional Faculty Fellowship awards $1,000 to $7,500 to students committed to the nurse educator role. This scholarship is offered through The Foundation of the National Student Nurses' Association.

Senior Advice Senior Caregiver Scholarship awards $1,000 to an eligible student who has been a caregiver for an adult relative. This scholarship is offered through the SeniorAdvice.com. The scholarship is for a student attending college or university in the spring of 2017. The application deadline is January 15, 2017.

Senior Advice Senior Volunteer Scholarship award of $1,000 to an eligible student who has served as a volunteer in a senior living community within the past year. This scholarship is offered through the SeniorAdvice.com. The scholarship is for a student attending college or university in the spring of 2017. The application deadline is January 15, 2017.

Sigma Theta Tau International/The Council for the Advancement of Nursing Science awards one $5,000 research grant to encourage qualified nurses to improve the health of the world’s people through research. Eligible candidates must be a member in good standing of both STTI and CANS and hold at minimum a master's degree or equivalent.

Tillman Military Scholars program supports our nation’s active and veteran servicemembers and their spouses by removing financial barriers to completing a degree program of choice. The scholarships cover not only direct study-related expenses such as tuition and fees but also other needs, including housing and child care.

The Oncology Nursing Society Foundation awards academic scholarships specifically for students pursuing a master's or doctoral degree or a post-master's certificate.

TYLENOL® Future Care Scholarship Program awards a total of $250,000 in scholarship funds to 40 undergraduate and graduate students pursuing an education in health care. 

Respiratory Health Association of Metropolitan Chicago is currently accepting applications for a $2,500 advance practice nursing scholarship for Illinois resident specializing in acute and/or critical care. 

The Senior Care Scholarship is available to students enrolled in a bachelor's degree or graduate level program in any field related to gerontology, medicine, nursing, social work, or sociology at an accredited four-year university. A scholarship in the amount of $1000 each will be awarded based on their letter of introduction and a 500-word essay on why they have chosen to go into a field that will serve our aging population.

The State Nursing Assumption Program of Loans for Education (SNAPLE) program offers up to $25,000 in loan repayments for nurses serving as faculty at a regionally accredited colleges or universities in California.


Resources for Undergraduate Nursing Students
A Nurse I am Scholarship by Cherokee Uniforms awards up to 10 $2,000 scholarships to nursing students. Scholarship details, rules and requirements, instructions, the essay question, and helpful tools and resources can be found at www.ANurseIAm.com.

Army Nurse Corps Benefits provides full scholarships for students interested in becoming a nurse anesthetist as well as the Health Professions Loan Repayment Program in exchange for active duty service in the U.S. Army.

American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) offers continuing professional development scholarships to help members enrich their careers and acquire knowledge and skills beyond traditional academic nursing education. A limited number of scholarships for specific academic courses will continue to be awarded.

American Assembly for Men in Nursing Foundation and Johnson & Johnson’s Campaign for Nursing’s Future are offering a $1,000 scholarship program for male students pursuing professional nursing education programs.

Army ROTC Nurse Officer Program provides scholarship, leadership, and job opportunities to prospective undergraduate college nursing students.

Chi Eta Phi Sorority Inc. awards $50,000 annually in scholarships at the national, regional, and local levels to minority nursing students.

DiversityNursing.com, a niche website for Nurses from student Nurses up to CNO's, is offering it's 6th Annual $5,000 Education Award.  You must be enrolled as a full-time or part-time student in an accredited School of Nursing in a professional registered nurse program (baccalaureate, graduate, associate degree or diploma) OR work Full-Time, Part-Time or Per Diem as a Registered Nurse, LPN, Nurse Practitioner or Nurse Leader/Administrator at a U.S. based organization.

ExceptionalNurse.com awards a $250 scholarship to a qualified student with a disability. Preference is given to undergraduates.

Giva Corporate Outstanding Nursing Student Scholarship 
Giva awards scholarships to students currently enrolled in an accredited nursing program in the United States or Canada. A scholarship in the amount of $1000 each will be awarded based on their 600-1000-word essay on 'How will you use your talents and education to make the world a better place for future generations? What are your career and personal goals and why?'

Hispanic Association of Colleges & Universities offers scholarships for graduate and undergraduate students attending a HACU Member or Partner college or university.

The Indian Health Service (IHS) administers a program to help repay undergraduate and graduate loans of health professionals in return for full-time clinical service in Indian health programs.

Maryland State Nursing Scholarship is available to Maryland residents seeking an undergraduate or graduate degree in nursing.

National Association of Hispanic Nurses (NAHN) awards $2,000 annually to students earning a master's degree in a maternal-child nursing program and $1,000 to student members enrolled in any level nursing program, including baccalaureate.

National Black Nurses Association, Inc (NBNA) provides annual scholarships for students who are a NBNA member or local chapter member, currently enrolled in an undergraduate nursing program, and have at least one full year of school remaining. These scholarship funds range from $1,000-$5,000.

National Health Service Corps, a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, has information about scholarships and loan repayment programs for health care professionals who practice in a medically underserved area.

National Student Nurses' Association offers a scholarship program for students enrolled in baccalaureate, generic doctorate, generic master's, diploma, or associate degree programs.

Nurse Loan Repayment and Scholarship Program administered by The Division of Nursing at HRSA, is available for registered nurses. Participants must serve at a health facility in an underserved area to receive loan repayments.

Nurses' Educational Funds, Inc. offers a scholarship for nurses enrolled in an accredited master's or doctoral level nursing program.

Nursing Home Abuse awards a $5,000 scholarship, exclusively for US students pursuing a degree that will help combat nursing home abuse. The scholarship will cover non-tuition related expenses such as rent, childcare, textbooks, utilities and groceries for the academic year.

Oncology Nursing Society Foundation awards academic scholarships specifically for students pursuing bachelor's degrees.

Online Nursing Programs awards $500 to a student currently enrolled in a nursing or related health care administration degree program.

Promise of Nursing Undergraduate Education Scholarship awards $1,000 to $5,000. This scholarship is offered through The Foundation of the National Student Nurses' Association.

Student-Caregiver Scholarship is offering three $1,500 scholarships to university students attending an accredited U.S. college or university who care for aging relatives.

The Senior Care Scholarship is available to students enrolled in a bachelor's degree or graduate level program in any field related to gerontology, medicine, nursing, social work, or sociology at an accredited four-year university. A scholarship in the amount of $1000 each will be awarded based on their letter of introduction and a 500-word essay on why they have chosen to go into a field that will serve our aging population.

The State Nursing Assumption Program of Loans for Education (SNAPLE) program offers up to $25,000 in loan repayments for nurses serving as faculty at a regionally accredited college or university in California.

Tafford Uniforms is doing its part to support the development of this critical profession. Tafford will award two $1,000 scholarships each semester to nursing students in accredited US nursing programs.

Tillman Military Scholars program supports our nation’s active and veteran servicemembers and their spouses by removing financial barriers to completing a degree program of choice. The scholarships cover not only direct study-related expenses such as tuition and fees, but also other needs, including housing and child care.

TYLENOL® Future Care Scholarship Program awards a total of $250,000 in scholarship funds to 40 undergraduate and graduate students pursuing an education in health care. 


Loan Repayment or Forgiveness Programs
Army Nurse Corps Benefits provides full scholarships for students intereseted in becoming a nurse anesthetist as well as the Health Professions Loan Repayment Program in exchange for active duty service in the U.S. Army.

Disadvantaged Faculty Loan Repayment Program (FLRP) provides for repayment of education loans for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds who agree to serve for at least two years as faculty members at eligible health professions and nursing schools.

Indian Health Service (IHS) administers a program to help repay undergraduate and graduate loans of health professionals in return for full-time clinical service in Indian health programs.

National Health Service Corps, a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, has information about scholarships and loan repayment programs for health care professionals who practice in a medically underserved area.

NURSE Corps Loan Repayment Program, formerly the Nursing Education Loan Repayment Program (NELRP), helps alleviate the shortage of nurses across the country by offering loan repayment assistance to registered nurses and advance practice nurses, such as nurse practitioners, working at Critical Shortage facilities and nurse faculty employed at accredited schools of nursing. Program participants receive up to 60 percent of their qualifying student loans in exchange for a 2-year service commitment – and an additional 25 percent of their original loan balance for an optional third year.

State-Sponsored Loan Forgiveness Programs

Tenet Healthcare System has introduced a student loan repayment program at participating hospitals. A state-by-state list of eligible facilities is available on their website.

The Health Professions Education Foundation is currently offering the Bachelor of Science Scholarship and Loan Repayment program.

The Kaiser Permanente Student Financial Aid Program awards need-based nursing scholarships and merit-based forgivable loans to students in California. Loans are available in a variety of nursing and professional/technical specialties and may be forgiven through qualifying employment with Kaiser Permanente.

The State Nursing Assumption Program of Loans for Education (SNAPLE) program offers up to $25,000 in loan repayments for nurses serving as faculty at a regionally accredited college or university in California.


Tax Credits
In some cases, educational expenses may be tax-deductible. Costs are deductible if the education is either required for continued employment by law or the individual's employer or maintains or improves the skills required in the individual's current trade or business. If you think this might apply to you, be sure to contact a tax adviser.

In addition, the federal government has enacted the Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997, which provides higher education tax incentives for eligible students:

  • Hope Scholarship Credit - Up to $2,500 credit per student, per year
  • Lifetime Learning Credit- Up to $2,000 credit per family, per year
  • Student Loan Interest Deduction - Up to $2,500 per year
  • Education Individual Retirement Accounts - Up to $500 deposit per year into a tax-free Education IRA account
  • IRA withdrawals to pay higher education expenses - withdrawals of up to 10% without penalty.

Students who believe they are eligible to take advantage of this Relief Act are encouraged to consult a tax adviser.

The Federal Work-Study Program allows students to work on campus or for an approved nonprofit organization for a predetermined number of hours per week during a term. The rate of pay is in accordance with other student pay scales and is in compliance with federal minimum wage standards. Students interested in employment may complete the  new hire packet listed after receiving an approval to work.  Please click on the SMU's Work Study Instructions below to complete the required steps.  The funds earned may go toward tuition, fees, education and living expenses.  

Students interested in part-time employment may qualify for work at the university and Summit Medical Center. Opportunities include the John A. Graziano Memorial Library, the Health Education Center, Studio Three, Audiovisual and various university offices. Additional employment opportunities such as physical therapy clinics, physicians' offices, house sitting, etc., are publicized on the JobBoard.

SMU offers a variety of options to help you meet the cost of your education, such as low-interest federal student loans. Typically, repayment on federal student loans does not begin until six months after you are out of school.  

In 2017-2018, the percentage of SMU students with student loan debt:

  • Bachelor of Science, Nursing (BSN) - 90%
  • Accelerated Bachelor of Science, Nursing (ABSN) - 81%
  • All graduate Students - 86%

The average amount borrowed:

  • Bachelor of Science, Nursing (BSN) - $60,166
  • Accelerated Bachelor of Science, Nursing (ABSN) - $54,268
  • All graduate students - $125,435

Direct Loans
There are two types of Direct Loans: Subsidized and Unsubsidized. You do not have to start repaying the principal of either type of loan until six months after you are out of school (or after you stop attending at least half-time). Read more about Direct Stafford Loans at the Department of Education website.

Direct Subsidized Loans are available to undergraduate students with financial need.

  • SMU determines the amount you can borrow based on the type of program that you are in, and the amount may not exceed your financial need.
  • The U.S. Department of Education pays the interest on a Direct Subsidized Loan:
    • while you’re in school at least half-time,
    • for the first six months after you leave school (referred to as a grace period*), and
    • during a period of deferment (a postponement of loan payments).

*Note: If you received a Direct Subsidized Loan that was first disbursed between July 1, 2012, and July 1, 2014, you will be responsible for paying any interest that accrues during your grace period. If you choose not to pay the interest that accrues during your grace period, the interest will be added to your principal balance.

Direct Unsubsidized Loans are available to undergraduate and graduate students; there is no requirement to demonstrate financial need.

  • SMU determines the amount you can borrow based on the type of program that you are in, the cost of attendance, and other financial aid you receive.
  • You are responsible for paying the interest on a Direct Unsubsidized Loan during all periods.
  • If you choose not to pay the interest while you are in school and during grace periods and deferment or forbearance periods, your interest will accrue (accumulate) and be capitalized (that is, your interest will be added to the principal amount of your loan).

Under the Department of Education, there is also a provision for a Direct Consolidation Loan Program. This program provides borrowers who have multiple types of loans the opportunity to combine those loans for repayment purposes. Since this program is designed to provide a repayment option, it is not detailed here.

When you compare the costs of attending different schools, you should compare the amounts you may have to borrow. If your academic program will take more than one year to complete, try to project the total amount of debt you will have to assume to complete the entire program. Then consider whether you'll be able to repay that debt based on typical starting salaries for the job you're likely to get after you finish school. Each school can help you make projections about total debt and repayment amounts. You can also get information about starting salaries from the school or from library reference books. The Financial Aid Information Page offers a variety of financial aid calculators.

Direct PLUS Loans
Available to parents who do not have an adverse credit history. These loans are not based on financial need. Parents may borrow through this program to obtain money for the cost of college for their dependent children. These loans carry an interest rate that varies annually.

The origination and insurance fees are the same as for the Direct Stafford Loan. The first payment of interest and principal for Direct PLUS borrowers is due 60 days after the loan is fully disbursed and ends no later than 10 years after repayment begins, excluding periods of deferment and forbearance.

A Direct PLUS borrower may qualify for one of the loan deferments listed earlier under the Direct Stafford Loan Program. Parent borrowers who qualify for a deferment may have payment of their loan principal deferred and pay interest only on the loan. Or, they may capitalize the interest, which means it will be added to the loan principal. However, whenever feasible, parent borrowers (like all other borrowers) should try to pay the interest. Otherwise, they will end up paying interest on interest, as well as on loan principal. This can make the cost of borrowing more expensive than necessary.

You can get Direct Stafford and Direct PLUS loan applications and more detailed information about Direct Loans from the our Financial Aid Office.

Nursing Student Loans
Low-interest loans (currently 5 percent) with generous repayment conditions. In order to be offered this loan, a student needs to have financial aid need. Students are not responsible for paying the interest on the loan during in-school, grace, and deferment periods. To inquire about the Federal Nursing Loan program, please contact your financial aid counselor by calling the Campus Service Center at 510.869.1550 to set up an appointment. For questions regarding repayment for this loan, contact the Business Office at 510.869.6728.

Health Professions Student Loans (podiatry only)
Low-interest loans (currently 5 percent) with generous repayment conditions. In order to be offered this loan, a student needs to have an Expected Family Contribution (EFC) of $6000 or below for both the student and the parent. Students are not responsible for paying the interest on the loan during in-school periods. To inquire about the Health Professions Student Loans, please contact your financial aid counselor by calling the Campus Service Center at 510.869.1550 to set up an appointment. This is only available for podiatry students. For questions regarding repayment for this loan, a borrower can contact the Business Office at 510.869.6728.

Private Student Loans (also called Alternative Student Loans)
Available to students who must borrow additional funds to pay for their cost of education.  To assist in choosing a lender for an alternative loan, students can go to ELM Select to compare lenders side by side. ELM Select is a search and comparison tool that allows students to compare and apply for alternative loans with various lenders. Their features allow students to choose lenders that best fit their needs and financial situation. Once the student has chosen a lender, they must follow their lender's instructions to apply for the loan. If you have been awarded an alternative loan on your award letter, take a look at the ELM Select website to choose a lender and apply for the loan. 

Private Alternative Student Loan Comparison Sites  
Credible is a simple, transparent marketplace that allows borrowers to receive and compare personalized offers from vetted lenders in minutes. Furthermore, checking your personalized offers will not affect your credit score.

SimpleTuition offers an interactive tool that allows borrowers to compare multiple private student loan options side-by-side. Prospective borrowers have the ability to compare loan types, rates, and estimated monthly payments.

 

The Department of Education withholds origination (processing) fees from all federal Direct Loans prior to disbursement. Use this calculator to determine the net amount of your loans after the origination fees have been withheld.

Direct Student Loans

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Direct Student Loan Origination Fees

  • Origination Fee before 10/01/20 - 1.059%
  • Origination Fee after 10/01/20 - 1.057%

 

 

Direct PLUS Loans

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Direct PLUS Loan Origination Fees

  • Origination Fee before 10/01/20 - 4.236%
  • Origination Fee after 10/01/20 - 4.228%

 

 

**Calculations are based on the current rates which are subject to change. Actual origination fees may depend on when your loan is processed. **

Food Assistance

We know that about one-third of students are worried about having sufficient quantities of affordable, nutritious food. The food pantries are here so that students have access to healthy and nourishing food that promotes health and well-being so you can successfully focus on your studies.

Who is eligible? 
Any student who needs food can come by the food pantry. 

Where is the Pantry? What are the hours? Who is the contact?

Oakland Campus
Campus Service Center 3100 Telegraph Ave, Suite 110, Oakland, CA

Check-in at the security desk
Hours: Tuesday and Thursday, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Sacramento Campus
Pantry is in Suite 300
Contact
Robyn Heise
Hours: By appointment only

San Francisco Peninsula
Pantry is in Room 306
Contact
Tatiana Tejeda
Hours: By appointment only

How does it work?
The pantry is set up like a mini-grocery store.  With assistance from the Food Pantry Coordinator, you will select the food you want.  Reminder emails are sent each week (for the Oakland Campus), along with a link to the online pantry intake form (required for each visit) for your completion.  To help us plan for your visit, the pantry intake form should be submitted no later than 9:30 a.m. on the scheduled pantry access day.  We recommend that you bring your own bag(s) as our on-hand supply may be limited from time to time. 

What kind of food is available?
We have a wide variety of shelf-stable food. Grains, cereals, canned fruit and vegetables, vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options, stews, soups, seasonings, canned fish and meat, and shelf-stable milk. We do not have refrigerators or freezers so we cannot stock perishable food. The Oakland campus food pantry is operated in partnership with Alameda County Community Food Bank. The San Francisco Peninsula campus food pantry is operated in partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank.

Are non-food items available?

Yes!  In February 2021, personal care items were added as regular inventory to the food pantry.  Available items include:  body wash, toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant, shampoo & conditioner, razors, shaving cream, and feminine hygiene products.

Are there limits on food I can pick up?
There are limitations on the quantity of food a student may select.  The Food Pantry Coordinator will assist you during your visit.   

Students can visit the pantry once per week.  If have special circumstances, please email Roni Wallace.

What kind of information do I need to give?
We have a short, private intake form we ask students to complete for each visit so that we know how many students we are serving. 

SMU has partnered with the National Endowment for Financial Education to provide a comprehensive online curriculum of financial topics. You can create an account at https://www.cashcourse.org/ The system is self-paced and you can pick and choose what topics you want to explore.

Financial Wellness Coursework

Be Credit Savvy - This course starts with 10 pre-test questions about credit. Then, review the slides of information about how credit works and how to use it responsibly. Following the slides, take a 10-question post-test to measure knowledge gained.

Budgeting Basics - This course starts with 10 pre-test questions about budgeting. Then, review the slides of information about how budgeting works and how to budget your own money. Following the slides, take a 10-question post-test to measure knowledge gained.

Paying Back Student Loans - This course starts with 10 pre-test questions about student loans. Then, review the slides of information about student loans and the options for repayment. Following the slides, take a 10-question post-test to measure knowledge gained.

Getting Started with Saving and Investing - This course starts with 10 pre-test questions about saving and investing. Then, review the slides of information about savings and investment accounts, risk, and other relevant topics. Following the slides, take a 10-question post-test to measure knowledge gained.

Career Planning - This course starts with 10 pre-test questions. Then, review the slides of information about career planning. Following the slides, take a 10-question post-test to measure knowledge gained.

Saving and Goal Setting - This course starts with 10 pre-test questions. Then, review the slides of information about saving and goal setting. Following the slides, take a 10-question post-test to measure knowledge gained.

Prepare for Emergencies - This course starts with 10 pre-test questions. Then, review the slides of information about preparing for emergencies. Following the slides, take a 10-question post-test to measure knowledge gained.

Funding Sources - This course starts with 10 pre-test questions. Then, review the slides of information about funding sources. Following the slides, take a 10-question post-test to measure knowledge gained.

 

Worksheets

 

Monthly Budget - This worksheet provides an outline of common college expenses. Set a budget for each category, and then compare income and expenses to see if the budget needs an adjustment.
Spend: Budgeting
Pay for Education: Predicting Costs

Student Loan Comparison Chart - This worksheet lists costs and factors to consider when evaluating student loan options. This worksheet is helpful when used in conjunction with the loan payoff calculators.
Pay for Education: Costs and Benefits of Student Loans

SMART Goals Worksheet - Use this worksheet to set Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Time-bound (SMART) goals. When goals are too abstract, it can be hard to know how or where to start. SMART goals help you to stay accountable and to be deliberate in your planning.

Save & Invest: Saving and Goal Setting
Earn: Career Planning

On Nov. 17, 2015, the U.S. Department of Education, U.S. Department of Justice, and the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services released a fact sheet on the rights of unaccompanied children to enroll in and participate meaningfully and equally in education programs.

On October 20, 2015, the U.S. Department of Education released a Resource Guide to help schools, colleges, teachers, and other personnel support the college and career success of undocumented and DACA youth in secondary and postsecondary settings.

Higher Education 

  • Qualifying for Student AidMany non-U.S. citizens qualify for federal student aid. Access this website to learn more about the eligibility criteria for that aid.

  • Questions and Answers about Financial Aid and Undocumented Students [PDF]—This questions-and-answers (Q&As) document provides information about student financial aid for undocumented students as well as guidance for a specific subgroup of undocumented students who have received Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). The Q&As include general information, information about eligibility for financial aid, and information about completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

  • WHIEEH Financial Aid Guide for GraduatesThe White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for Hispanics (WHIEEH) created the ¡Gradúate! Financial Aid Guide to Success (Guide) to help students and families navigate the college application process. The Guide, available in both English and Spanish, provides recommended steps for the college enrollment process, helpful tips on filling out the FAFSA and key financial aid resources available to better support Hispanics, including DACA and non-U.S. citizen students, in their efforts to access a postsecondary education.

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) Students

On June 15, 2012, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that certain people who came to the United States as children and meet several key guidelines, including educational guidelines, may request consideration of deferred immigration enforcement action for a period of two years, subject to renewal. Individuals who are granted deferred action would then be eligible for work authorization. Deferred action does not provide an individual with lawful status, but instead is a discretionary determination to defer removal action of an individual as an act of prosecutorial discretion.

Satisfactory Academic Progress

The University is required to establish minimum standards of "satisfactory academic progress" for students receiving financial aid. The University applies these standards to federal, and state funds.

The Financial Aid Office will only disburse financial aid to those students who are in good academic standing and are making satisfactory progress toward completion of their degree. A student is not making satisfactory academic progress if any of the following conditions exist:

The student's cumulative grade point average (GPA) is below 2.0 at the end of their second year of his/her academic program. Some programs have a higher GPA threshold. You must meet your program's minimum standard as outlined in the academic catalog. Grade point averages are reviewed by the Registrar’s Office at the end of each semester.

The student completes (finishes with a passing grade) less than 66% of all attempted coursework, as calculated at the end of the spring semester each year. Grades of "W" (withdrawn) and "I" (incomplete) are not considered passing grades.

The student may not exceed the maximum time frame of attempted credits (150%) of the published length of his/her degree program. Satisfactory academic progress is reviewed at the end of each semester. If a student is not making satisfactory academic progress he or she will be placed on financial aid warning. A student then has one semester to make satisfactory progress. If after one semester on financial aid warning, a student is not making satisfactory academic progress, the student becomes ineligible for aid.

Students who are ineligible for financial aid because they are not making satisfactory academic progress may appeal. Appeals are considered when a student has been able to complete coursework in a fashion that corrects the reason that caused him/her to lose financial aid eligibility, or when extraordinary circumstances (for example, student illness, the illness or death of a family member) have prevented the student from achieving satisfactory academic progress. Students considering a satisfactory academic progress appeal should contact the Financial Aid Office to make an appointment.

Admission Standards:

SMU does not teach the 1st and 2nd years of its bachelor's degree programs. Students are admitted as juniors who have completed 2 years of college-level coursework and/or a 1st bachelor’s degree. As such, SMU admits as regular students only persons who have a high school diploma or its recognized equivalent and are beyond the age of compulsory school attendance in California.

Return of Title IV Financial Aid When a Student Withdraws, is Suspended, or Takes a Leave of Absence

Summary:

The amount of federal student aid that you must repay is determined by the Federal Formula for Return of Title IV funds (Section 484B of the Higher Education Act). This law also specifies the order in which funds are to be returned to the financial aid programs from which they were awarded, starting with federal student aid loan programs (e.g. Direct Loans) and then all federal student aid grant programs (e.g. Federal Pell Grant, SEOG, etc.).

  • The earned amount is determined by multiplying the total federal student aid (other than FWS) for which you were eligible to receive by the percentage of time enrolled for a term up to your official withdrawal date or Last Date of Attendance (LDA) in an academic related activity, whichever comes first.
  • If more aid was disbursed than was earned, the amount of Title IV aid that you must return (i.e. not earned) is determined by subtracting the earned amount from the amount actually disbursed.
  • If less aid was disbursed than was earned, you may submit a request to receive a late disbursement for the difference. Your notice will include instructions on how to arrange for a Post Withdrawal Disbursement (PWD).

In Detail:

The law specifies how SMU must determine the amount of Federal Student Aid (FSA) assistance that you earn if you withdraw (includes all forms of separation from SMU) from school. The federal financial aid programs that are covered by this law are: Federal Pell Grants, Federal Direct Loans, PLUS Loans, Other Federal Loans, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOGs), and in some cases, certain state grant aid.

When you withdraw during your payment period or period of enrollment the amount of federal financial aid program assistance that you have earned up to that point is determined by a specific formula. If you received (or SMU or parent received on your behalf) less assistance than the amount that you earned, you may be able to receive those additional funds. If you received more assistance than you earned, the excess funds must be returned by SMU and/or you.

The amount of assistance that you have earned is determined on a pro rata basis. For example, if you completed 30% of your payment period or period of enrollment, you earn 30% of the assistance you were originally scheduled to receive. Once you have completed more than 60% of the payment period or period of enrollment, you earn all the assistance that you were scheduled to receive for that period.

If you did not receive all of the funds that you earned, you may be due a post withdrawal disbursement. If the post withdrawal disbursement includes loan funds, you may choose to decline the loan funds so that you don't incur additional debt.

SMU may automatically use all or a portion of your post-withdrawal disbursement (including loan funds, if you accept them) for tuition and fees. For all other school charges, the SMU needs your permission to use the post-withdrawal disbursement. If you do not give your permission, you will be offered the funds.

If you receive (or SMU or parent receive on your behalf) excess federal financial aid program funds that must be returned, SMU must return a portion of the excess equal to the lesser of:

  1. your institutional charges multiplied by the unearned percentage of your funds, or
  2. the entire amount of excess funds.

The school must return this amount even if it didn't keep this amount of your federal student aid program funds.

If SMU is not required to return all of the excess funds, you must return the remaining amount. Any loan funds that you must return, you (or your parent for a PLUS Loan) repay in accordance with the terms of the promissory note. That is, you make scheduled payments to the holder of the loan over a period of time.

Any amount of unearned grant funds that you must return is called an overpayment. The amount of a grant overpayment that you must repay is half of the unearned amount. You must make arrangements with your school or the Department of Education to return the unearned grant funds.

The requirements for federal student aid program funds when you withdraw are separate from any refund policy that SMU has. Therefore, you may still owe funds to SMU to cover unpaid institutional charges. SMU will also charge you for any federal financial aid program funds that the SMU was required to return.

If you have questions about your federal financial aid program funds, you can call the Federal Student Aid Information Center at 1-800-4-FEDAID (1-800-433-3243). TTY users may call 1-800-730-8913. Information is also available on Student Aid on the Web at www.studentaid.ed.gov.

 

ADMISSIONS STANDARDS 

SMU does not teach the 1st and 2nd year of its bachelor degree programs. Students are admitted as juniors who have completed 2 years of college level coursework and/or a 1st bachelor’s degree. As such, SMU admits as regular students’ only persons who have a high school diploma or its recognized equivalent and are beyond the age of compulsory school attendance in California.

All students admitted to SMU are beyond the age of compulsory attendance in the State of California.