What is Financial Aid?

Any form of financial assistance you receive to help you pay for your education is considered financial aid and we are here to guide you through the process!

Admitted students will receive a comprehensive financial aid package that explains each student's financial aid and any scholarships received. We encourage you to have financial planning conversations with our admissions counselors or financial aid team during the college search process to prepare for financing your education.

 

Types of Financial Aid

Grants: A grant is a gift. It does not have to be repaid and it is based on the student's financial need.

Loans: Loans are funds borrowed by the student and/or parent. In most cases, loans must be repaid with an interest charge and have a time limit for repayment.

Scholarships: An academic scholarship is an achievement award based on your academic record. These are awarded automatically for first-year and transfer students. There are also several scholarships that you can apply for if you are an incoming first-year student. 

Work-Study: Work-Study is an on-campus job approved by Financial Aid and Human Resources, often as part of a financial aid package.

Financial Aid Terms Explained

Student Aid Report: The Student Aid Report, or SAR, is generated from the information you submit on your FAFSA. A copy is sent to you and to the colleges that you request through your FAFSA. It will also contain your Expected Family Contribution, which is the number that's used to determine your eligibility for federal student aid.

Expected Family Contribution: The number that's used to determine your eligibility for federal student financial aid. This number results from the financial information you provided in your FAFSA application. Your EFC is reported to you on your Student Aid Report (SAR).

Award Letter: A letter from Duquesne that lists all eligible academic and need-based financial aid  offered to a student.

Catholic High School Student Scholarship: This is a refund of a percentage of basic tuition costs for high school graduates from participating Duquesne or Catholic-affiliated institutions.

Entrance and Exit Interviews: Student loan recipients must complete entrance and exit interviews once each at the beginning and end of their college career. These online interviews consist of a series of questions and answers that explain the responsibilities and consequences of loan repayment and default. Failure to complete these requirements can result in a hold on loan disbursements and/or student records.

FAFSA: Free Application for Federal Student Aid.

You must submit a FAFSA each academic year. As a PA resident, you can also apply for the PA State Grant.