Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be accepted before I can apply for Financial Aid?

No. You do not have to be accepted to any school before you apply for Financial Aid. We recommend that you apply for Financial Aid as soon you decide that you might go to college.

How do I apply for Financial Aid?

Complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at www.fafsa.gov. SPS students and graduate students must also complete a VU Financial Aid Application.

What is VU’s school code for the FAFSA?

001293

Can I complete the FAFSA if I haven’t yet completed my taxes?

Yes. You may estimate income information in order to complete the FAFSA. Be sure to update this information after your taxes have been completed.

What is the deadline to apply for Financial Aid?

The Priority Deadline to apply for Financial Aid is March 2. Students who apply by this deadline will be considered for all aid programs. Students who apply after this deadline will be awarded based upon available funding.

I’m a credential student, how do I answer questions, 28, 29 and 50 on the FAFSA?

If you are working on a Teaching Credential, please indicate “Teaching Credential Program” for #29, “5th year/other undergraduate” for #28, and “no” for #50. Even if you are planning on participating in the MA program, you are still considered a 5th Year Undergraduate while completing your credential.

When will I receive a Financial Aid award?

Students who are accepted, and who have completed the required applications and forms, will receive a notification from the Financial Aid Office that you are able to login to MyVU Portal to view your awards..

I only get loans, do I still need to complete a FAFSA?

Yes. We recommend that all students complete a FAFSA. In order to receive a Stafford Loan, you must file a FAFSA. If you are a dependent student and your parent is applying for a PLUS Loan, you need to file the FAFSA before we can process the loan request.

How will I know if the Financial Aid Office needs something from me?

The Financial Aid Office will send a written request for any documents needed to complete the student’s Financial Aid file after we have received a FAFSA for the student. Many times the documents we request will be available for download under the “forms” link on the Financial Aid Home Page. Traditional Undergraduate students should check their permanent address during summer and Christmas break, and check their campus mailbox while school is in session. SPS and Graduate students will be sent notifications to their permanent address.

How much does it cost to attend Vanguard University?

Costs for the 2012-2013 school year can be found by clicking the “Costs” link on the Financial Aid Home Page.

Can my parent or friend call on my behalf?

Financial Aid Staff can discuss general Financial Aid information with your family and friends, but we may only discuss your confidential information if you submit your written consent on a Secondary Party Access Form.

Why is my Financial Aid not posted to my account yet?

The top five (5) reasons why aid is delayed are: 1. The FAFSA is filed after March 2nd. 2. The most recent FAFSA is incomplete, inaccurate, or does not list VU’s school code. 3. Requested paperwork is not submitted in a timely manner. 4. Documents submitted are incomplete or have a discrepancy. 5. Student has not completed Financial Registration with the Business Services Office.

Will I be able to purchase books with my Financial Aid?

Aid will NOT be available to students early enough to be used for the purchase of books. However, students can use any excess amount of Financial Aid by submitting a Check Request Form to the Business Services Office for any educational purpose, including the purchase of books.

How can I request more information?

If you are a current student, please email Financial Aid at financialaid@vanguard.edu. If you are a prospective student, please email Admissions at admissions@vanguard.edu. If you have specific questiosn regarding the FAFSA, you should call 1-800-4-FED-AID or visit the website www.fafsa.gov. You may also contact the California Student Aid Commission regarding questions about the Cal Grant at 1-888-224-7268 or at www.csac.ca.gov.