Financial Aid at FPU: Your Questions Answered

What types of financial aid are available at FPU?

FPU offers a wide range of financial aid opportunities, including federal and state grants, institutional scholarships, need-based aid, loans and work-study opportunities. Aid can come from the federal government, the State of California or directly from Fresno Pacific University.

How do I apply for financial aid?

To be considered for most types of aid, students must complete either the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or, for qualifying undocumented students, the California Dream Act Application at dream.csac.ca.gov.

FPU’s school code for the FAFSA is 001253, or simply select “Fresno Pacific University” from the search function.

What federal and state grants might I qualify for?

• Federal Pell Grant: Based on financial need; awards range from $740 to $7,395 per year.
• Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG): For students with the highest need; up to $1,000 per year (limited funds).
• Cal Grant: For California residents who meet GPA and income criteria, providing between $1,648 and $11,006 per year for current first-year recipients. Be sure to submit your FAFSA and GPA verification form by March 2.

What loans are available for students and families?

• Federal Direct Student Loans are available for undergraduates, with annual limits that increase by year:

  • Freshmen: up to $5,500
  • Sophomores: up to $6,500
  • Juniors and seniors: up to $7,500

  Independent students may qualify for additional funds.

• Direct Subsidized Loans: Based on financial need; the government pays your interest while you’re in school.
• Direct Unsubsidized Loans: Accrue interest while you study and are not based on need.
• Parent PLUS Loans: Available to parents of dependent students with a fixed 8.94% interest rate; repayment typically begins within 60 days of disbursement.

Does FPU offer scholarships for academic achievement?

Absolutely! FPU celebrates academic excellence with a variety of academic scholarships for freshmen and transfer students.

Freshmen Scholarships:

• Paragon Scholarship: Full tuition; separate application required by January 2.
• President’s Scholarship: $18,000 (4.0 GPA and above)
• Dean’s Scholarship: $16,000 (3.75–3.99 GPA)
• Heritage Scholarship: $14,000 (3.50–3.74 GPA)
• Faculty Scholarship: $12,000 (3.25–3.49 GPA)
• Director’s Scholarship: $10,000 (3.00–3.24 GPA)
• Founder’s Grant: $8,000 (below 3.0 GPA)

Transfer Scholarships:

• Transfer Scholar: $14,000 (3.50 GPA and above)
• Transfer Achievement: $12,000 (3.0–3.49 GPA)
• Transfer Academic: $9,000 (2.40–2.99 GPA)
• Transfer Partnership: $6,000 (below 2.4 GPA)

Is there additional aid for students with financial need?

Yes! The Fresno Pacific Grant provides institutional aid based on individual financial circumstances. The award amount varies per student.

Are there other special scholarships or awards I can apply for?

FPU also offers a range of mission- and community-based awards, including:

• Church Match Scholarship: FPU matches your church’s contribution up to $500 per semester (2:1 match for Pacific District Conference churches).
• Mennonite Brethren Award: $4,000 per year for students attending a Mennonite Brethren Church.
• Out-of-State Scholarship: $4,000 per year for non-Cal Grant-eligible students from outside California.
• Pacific Ministerial Scholarship: $1,000 per year for students whose parent works full-time in ministry.
• Private Donor Scholarships: Provided through the generosity of alumni, friends and foundations (award amounts vary).
• Departmental Scholarships: Available in athletics and music, based on tryout or audition.

What do students say about their experience with financial aid at FPU?

Students often share how supportive and approachable the financial aid advisors at FPU are. Many appreciate the personal guidance they receive throughout the process—from understanding eligibility to securing scholarships and grants that make their education more affordable.