Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for Financial Aid?

If you plan to attend SJSU during the Fall - Spring academic year and would like to apply for financial aid, go to the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) website to learn about the FAFSA process and complete the application on-line. March 2, is the priority filing date for the FAFSA.

How do I get a tuition fee deferral?

Provided you have turned in and completed all items posted on your Financial Aid to-do list, a fee deferral is temporarily assigned to your record. Fee deferrals protect classes and delay the payment of tuition fees until after the semester begins. The financial aid fee deferral does not cover housing charges.

How do I know if I have a tuition fee deferral on my account?

You may view your tuition fee deferrals on your MYSJSU account on the right-hand side of your student center page under Other Indicators. Select Details to view the semester that corresponds to your tuition fee deferral.

I will be a new student to SJSU in the Fall term. Can I receive aid for summer classes before the fall term begins?

No. New students who are admitted for fall are not eligible to receive aid for the previous summer term.

Who is eligible to receive summer aid and how do I apply?

Continuing SJSU students who have been awarded financial aid for the current academic year are eligible for summer aid. To be considered for summer aid, you must be registered in at least half-time units at San Jose State University (6 units for undergrad/post-baccalaureate/credential students, 4 units for graduate students). Once you have registered for summer courses, go to the Financial Aid & Scholarship Office to speak with a Financial Aid representative.

When will my summer financial aid disburse?

Aid is disbursed after the second week of the summer session, for eligible students.

I would like to take 3 units at SJSU and another 3 units at a community college or university. Does this count as half-time enrollment?

No. You must be registered in 6 units at San Jose State University. Inquire with the Office of the Registrar for more information on cross-enrollment requirements.

Will my financial aid pay my tuition fees and housing?

Financial aid will automatically be applied towards tuition fees, then housing (in that order). If your aid does not cover the full balance of your fees, you must pay the balance shown on MYSJSU by the scheduled due date.

What if I receive additional funds from another source?

Students are required to report any outside aid such as scholarships, stipends, or vocational rehabilitation benefits to the Financial Aid Office. It may be necessary to revise your financial aid award.

Can I have my check directly deposited into my bank account?

Yes. Enroll in Direct Deposit (formerly known as eRefunds) located under the Finance section of MySJSU.

Will I receive my financial aid all at once?

Financial aid is awarded based on an academic year, unless otherwise specified (i.e. attending SJSU for only one semester) and is equally divided into two semesters (Fall & Spring). Disbursement of funds starts the first week of the semester and continues on a weekly basis. Remaining funds, if any, are refunded to students by the Bursar's Office after all fees are paid.

What if I change the number of units enrolled after receiving my financial aid award?

Your award was calculated based on the number of units enrolled. You must notify the Financial Aid & Scholarship Office if you enroll less than full-time. You will be required to repay any overpayment.

Can I receive financial aid at more than one college?

No. You can only receive financial aid at one college during the same enrollment period.

What if I am not eligible for financial aid?

If a financial aid representative determines that you are not eligible for financial aid, you will be responsible for paying your tuition fees by the fee due date or you will be subject to enrollment cancellation. You may contact the Bursar's Office for payment arrangements.

Am I eligible for aid if I am enrolled in Open University?

No, students are not eligible for federal or state aid if they are enrolled in open university.