Why is Fresno Pacific University making this change?
The costs associated with processing credit and debit cards for tuition and fees continue to grow each year. Unfortunately, Fresno Pacific can no longer continue to absorb these costs. Therefore, rather than discontinuing to accept credit and debit cards altogether, Fresno Pacific has contracted with TouchNet PayPath, a third-party company, to provide fee-based online credit and debit card processing services for tuition and fees charged to the student account. In making this decision, Fresno Pacific joins a growing list of colleges and universities that have introduced this type of payment option due to the rising costs of accepting credit and debit cards for payment.
Please note, however, that Colorado students cannot use this service for credit card payments due to state law.
How much is the Service Fee?
TouchNet PayPath charges a 2.85% non-refundable Service Fee, with the minimum fee being $3.00, for processing credit and debit card transactions.
Where does the Service Fee go?
The service fee goes directly to the card processor. Fresno Pacific receives none of this money.
When does the Service Fee take effect?
The Service Fee takes effect on July 21, 2021.
How will I see the Service Fee on my credit card statement?
The amount paid to Fresno Pacific for tuition and fees on your student account, and the Service Fee, are processed as separate transactions and will show as two separate items on your credit card bill or bank statement.
Will I see the Service Fee on my student account?
No. TouchNet PayPath is charging and receiving the Service Fee, not Fresno Pacific. Therefore, the fee will not appear on your student account or Fresno Pacific billing statements.
What are the payment options available?
Fresno Pacific accepts student account payments by cash, e-checks (ACH), paper checks, and money orders, as well as international money transfers, at no charge. Security measures require that all credit card, debit card, and e-check transactions be made online, including those conducted by a third party; phone and in-person payments are no longer accepted.
What credit cards does Fresno Pacific accept?
Visa, MasterCard, Discover (including JCB, Diners Pay & China Union Network), and American Express are accepted through the TouchNet PayPath service for student account payments.
Can I still use my debit card and will that be charged the Service Fee?
Yes, you can use your debit card with a Visa or MasterCard logo on it. This payment will be subject to the 2.85% nonrefundable Service Fee with the minimum fee being $3.00.
Can you take credit card or debit card payments in the office or over the phone?
No, we are not able to take card payments in person or over the phone. Security measures require that all credit card, debit card, and e-check transactions be made online, including those conducted by a third party; phone and in-person card payments are not accepted.
Can I still pay online?
Yes, please log into the Online Payment Center to make payments by credit card, debit card or e-check (ACH).
I have an Authorized User who makes payments on my account. Will they also be charged the 2.85% Service Fee?
If your Authorized User chooses to pay by credit or debit card, then they will be charged the 2.85% nonrefundable Service Fee. There is no charge for paying by e-check (ACH).
Does the 2.85% Service Fee apply to credit or debit card payments made to other Fresno Pacific departments?
No, the Service fee ONLY applies to payments made to the student account.
What payment options do international students have?
In addition to bank ACH, debit cards, credit cards, cash and checks, international students may also make payments by wire transfer.
I’m not able to pay in full for my registration. What can I do?
Payments are due by the 1st of the month in which the semester begins. If you are unable to make your full payment by that time, you can sign up for a Fresno Pacific tuition payment plan in the Online Payment Center. Please be sure to select the correct plan from the payment plan drop-down menu.
Why doesn’t Fresno Pacific negotiate a better deal with the credit card companies?
Fresno Pacific has already negotiated the best deal it can with the credit card companies.
I’m a Colorado student. Why can’t I use a credit card?
Colorado state law does not allow processors to charge a Service Fee for credit card payments to Colorado residents. Consequently, effective July 21, 2021, Colorado residents may not use credit cards to make payments on their student account.
Can a Colorado student still use a debit card?
Yes, but all payments will be subject to the nonrefundable 2.85% Service Fee with a $3.00 minimum fee.
Who should I call if I have questions?
Please call Student Financial Services at 559-453-2041.