Financial Aid FAQ

Financial Aid FAQ

What's GCU's school code for the FAFSA? 002608.

When should I file my FAFSA? GCU's priority filing deadline is April 15 each year for incoming students. Returning students should file their Renewal FAFSA as soon after October 1 as possible, with a January 15 priority deadline — and April 15 specifically if you're renewing an NJ Tuition Aid Grant (TAG) award.

Do I need to apply separately for GCU merit scholarships? No. If you're an incoming first-year or transfer student attending the Lakewood campus, you're automatically considered for merit scholarships upon acceptance — there's no separate application.

How long do merit scholarships last? Merit aid is renewable for up to 4 academic years or 8 semesters, as long as you maintain the required GPA and stay continuously enrolled full-time.

What's the difference between a scholarship, a grant, and a loan? Scholarships are merit-based and never repaid. Grants are need-based and never repaid. Loans — need-based or credit-based, depending on the type — do need to be repaid, typically with interest.

Are graduate students eligible for the Pell Grant or NJ TAG? No. Graduate students aren't eligible for Pell Grants or NJ TAG, but may qualify for the federal TEACH Grant, federal Stafford Loans, and Graduate Assistantships.

What is Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP), and why does it matter? SAP is a federally required standard you must maintain to keep receiving financial aid — measured by your GPA and by successfully completing at least two-thirds (66%) of the credits you attempt. If you fall short, you may be placed on a warning semester and then, if it continues, on financial aid suspension. You can appeal a suspension within 14 days of your SAP letter. Learn more about SAP & Appeals

I heard federal loan rules changed recently — is that true? Yes. As of July 1, 2026, the Grad PLUS Loan program was discontinued for new borrowers, and Parent PLUS Loans are now capped at $20,000 per year and $65,000 lifetime per child, under the federal One Big Beautiful Bill Act. If you already had a federal Direct Loan disbursed for your current program before that date, you may be grandfathered under the previous rules for a limited time. Learn more about Student Loans

Can I still get financial aid for summer classes? Yes — both undergraduate and graduate students may be eligible for summer session aid. Graduate students need to be enrolled in at least 5 matriculating credits during the summer term to qualify for summer loans. Learn more about Summer Financial Aid

I'm a veteran or a military dependent — where do I start? Contact Military and Veterans Services, located within the Office of Financial Aid. You'll complete VA Form 22-1990 to establish eligibility, and certify your enrollment with our office every semester. Learn more about Benefits for Veterans

What if my family's financial situation changes after I've already received an aid offer? Contact the Office of Financial Aid directly — significant changes in circumstances (job loss, a change in household size, etc.) can sometimes be considered through a professional judgment review, even outside the standard SAP appeal process.

Where can I find every financial aid form I might need? Visit Forms & Resources for the complete list — appeals, HESAA state-aid documents, and GCU institutional aid forms all in one place.