Applying for Financial Aid

Step 1: FAFSA

Complete your FAFSA online. APU’s federal code is 001117.
For the best chance for the most aid, complete it before March 2. But we strongly recommend submitting it as soon as you can after January 1.
If you don’t need grants or loans and don’t want to fill out a FAFSA, no problem. We’ll automatically award you any institutional aid for which you may qualify.

Step 2: GPA Verification Form (required for the Cal Grant, which is for California residents only)

Before you fill out this form, check with your high school or college. Most schools can send GPA information electronically.
The GPA Verification Form is available online at www.csac.ca.gov/doc.asp?id=1177.
The GPA Verification Form must be submitted by the firm deadline of March 2.
If you received a Cal Grant last year, you don’t need to complete another GPA Verification Form.

Good news! For the 2008-09 academic year and beyond, we’ve eliminated the Institutional Aid Application (IAA). If you are applying for 2008-09 or later, please ignore any references to the IAA you come across, as this document is no longer required for financial aid processing.

A Few Important Tips for Financial Aid

Apply early! We really can’t stress this enough!
Use your legal name on all documents (e.g., the name on your social security card).
Keep a copy of everything you submit.
Ask questions. We know this process can be pretty confusing. That’s why we’re here:
- New students: Check in with your admissions counselor.
- Returning students: Contact the Office of Undergraduate Student Financial Services.