Biola University

Applying for Aid

At some point, nearly every student has questions about the financial aid process. If that sounds like you, read on for more information on applying for financial aid! For more extensive resources, visit the official Biola University Financial Aid Website.

Steps to Apply for Financial Aid

  1. Familiarize yourself with the financial aid deadlines at Biola. Note that some scholarships, grants, and loans require you to apply to Biola and file your FAFSA before applying for aid.

  2. File the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) soon after January 1 of the year you plan to attend. This form determines your eligibility for federal and state aid, including loans and need-based institutional aid. Be sure to list Biola University (code 001122) on the FAFSA when prompted.

  3. Submit applications for relevant scholarships, grants, and / or loans prior to their respective deadlines. If you are a California resident, file your FAFSA and Cal Grant GPA Verification form prior to March 2.

  4. Receive your Estimated Financial Aid Award Letter from Biola and return any requested items to the Financial Aid Office.

    Note: The financial aid offer in your Estimated Financial Aid Award Letter is subject to change if:

    • Information on your FAFSA was incorrect or incomplete
    • Your housing, attendance, or enrollment status was incorrect or changed
    • Aid that you have or will receive was not listed on your letter
    • Your financial aid needed to be coordinated to fit into your federally determined financial need

  5. Receive your Confirmed Financial Aid Award Letter from Biola.

    Note: The financial aid offer in your Confirmed Financial Aid Award Letter is subject to change if:

    • Your housing, attendance, or enrollment status changes
    • You receive other awards not previously accounted for
    • Any of your family members' enrollment in college changes

  6. Register for classes and pay your down payment. If necessary, review your payment plan and prepare to make additional payments.

Financial Aid Office Hours

Monday – Thursday

8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Friday

10:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Counseling Available:

Monday – Thursday

10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Friday

1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Summer Hours:

Monday – Thursday

8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Friday

10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

The FA office is closed at noon on Fridays during the summer.

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Questions about a particular financial aid term? Chances are, that word or form may be listed on this page. If you still have questions, feel free to contact the Financial Aid Office.

Important Terms

Award - Financial aid, such as a scholarship, grant, or loan.

CAR - California Aid Report.

Deferment - Official postponement of loan repayment.

Dependent Student - Any student who does not qualify as an independent student.

Disbursement - When financial aid awards are credited to the student's account.

Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) - An electronic process by which loan proceeds are transferred directly to a student's account. No check signing is necessary.

E-signature - An electronic signature used to authorize the processing of loan documents and other personal information on the internet.

Essential Need - The total cost of education minus the expected family

Estimated Family Contribution (EFC) - a measure of your family’s financial strength and is calculated according to a formula established by law.

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) - The financial aid application used to determine a student's eligibility for federal and state grants and loans as well as need-based institutional aid.

Graduate - A student who has completed a prior bachelor's degree and is currently working toward a master's or doctorate degree.

Grant - Money that does not need to be repaid.

Independent Student - A student that meets one or more of these qualifications:

  • was born before January 1, 1982
  • is a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces
  • is a graduate student
  • is married
  • is an orphan or ward of the court
  • has legal dependents other than a spouse
  • Lender - An institution from which a student loan is borrowed.

Loan - Money that must be repaid with interest.

Master Promissory Note (MPN) - A form used by all schools and borrowers to simplify and streamline the loan application process for students.

Scholarship - Merit award or money given on the basis of achievement.

Undergraduate - A student working toward a bachelor's degree, certificate, or credential.

Work Study - An approved campus or community service job from which the money earned is taxable, but is considered financial aid and may be deducted on the following year's FAFSA.

Important Forms

GPA Verification Form

Verification Information Form (VIF)

Business Farm Supplement - You must complete and return this form to verify the net worth of your family's business or farm. One form is needed for each business or farm.

Document INS Status - You must submit a copy of your alien registration card (green card).

Document US Citizenship - You must submit a copy of a valid passport, birth certificate, or naturalization papers.

Income vs. Expenses Statement - This form helps determine how a family was able to live on its reported income figures.

Non-taxable Housing Allowance - You must provide information indicating how much your family received for housing allowance benefits. If no money was received, but housing was provided, you must submit a signed statement informing us of how much it would have cost your family to rent a similar home.

1040 / W-2 (Parent) - You must submit a signed copy of your parents' federal 1040 tax form, including all pages, schedules, and W-2 form(s) and / or 1099 form(s). If no tax form was filed, your parents must send a signed and dated statement of non-filing. If they don't have a copy of their tax form, they may request a transcript by filing form 4506 with the IRS. This form is available at online at irs.gov.

1040 / W-2 (Student) - You must submit a signed copy of your federal 1040 tax form, including all pages, schedules, and W-2 form(s) and / or 1099 form(s). If no tax form was filed, you must send a signed and dated statement of non-filing. If you don't have a copy of your tax form, you may request a transcript by filing form 4506 with the IRS. This form is available at online at irs.gov.

One of the ways many students choose to help fund their Biola education is by working on campus. From the Biola Bookstore to the Admissions Office, last year over 800 students were employed in a variety of on-campus jobs.

Off-campus job opportunities are also available, and local businesses often post new positions through the Office of Career Development in Student Services.

Student Employment Questions

How do I get a job at Biola?

Our On-Campus Student Employment office handles on-campus jobs. On-Campus Student Employment is located in Metzger Hall, the main administration building for the University, and is open from 8:30 a.m.- 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. When you know your class schedule for the semester and the hours you will be available to work, you can check the On-Campus jobs folder in Firstclass to see if any of the open positions interest you, or come to the office to look at the job postings board. There, you will be assisted in identifying positions that will best match your skills, interests and time frame. Completed applications should be taken to the department you are applying to. It is each department's responsibility to conduct interviews and make job offers. A downloadable version of the application can be found in the On-Campus jobs folder in FirstClass or you can pick one up in the On-Campus Student Employment office.

Note: If you plan to apply for an on-campus job at Biola, make sure you bring from home proof of eligibility to work in the United States in order to complete the required paperwork. All documents must be originals. Some common types of identification we see are:

  • A U.S. Passport, expired or unexpired (when providing a U.S. Passport is the only document required)
  • A driver's license and a Social Security Card
  • A school ID and a Social Security Card
  • A driver's license and a birth certificate
  • A school ID and a birth certificate

After being hired at Biola what's the next step?

When you have been offered a job on campus you will return to the On-Campus Student Employment office to complete the following necessary hiring forms:

  • Biola University Student Payroll Approval form (provided and signed by your supervisor)
  • W-4 Federal Government form
  • I-9 employment verification form that satisfies federal immigration requirements. All hires are required to complete the form.

Be sure to bring proof of eligibility to work such as Social Security card, valid Driver's License, passport, or visa documentation as listed above. International students (F-1 visa) must bring their I-20, passport, and Social Security card.

Once these forms have been completed, On-Campus Student Employments will issue your first time card, color-coded in blue, which signifies your readiness to begin work on campus. You will also be given instructions on how to access and complete future web timecards. At this time you may also complete paperwork for the direct deposit of your paycheck or to have part or all of your paycheck applied to your school bill.

How can I locate off-campus work?

Biola Career Development has relationships with hundreds of employers offering a variety of jobs and internships. Opportunities are listed on BiolaLINK. Career Development is located in the Student Development Building across from the gym, open 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

How many hours can I expect to work?

It is recommended that all undergraduate student limit their work to 20 hours per week on campus when classes are in session, and 40 hours per week when classes are not in session. However, this guideline is a federal requirement for non-immigrant students attending on F-1 visas.

How do I get paid?

Student employees at Biola complete time cards. Paychecks are issued biweekly from the Accounting Department in Metzger. You may choose to have a portion of your paycheck applied directly to your student bill. This is accomplished by completing a voluntary payroll deduction form which is available in the On-Campus Student Employment office. Both the On-Campus Student Employment and Accounting departments are ready to assist you.

Are there breaks?

You are allowed a paid rest period of 10 minutes in each of the morning and afternoon work periods if the work period is four or more hours. Rest periods may not be skipped to reduce time from regular hours of work in order to leave work early.

Students are not required to work more than five hours without a meal break of 30 minutes. If the total work period for the day is not more than six hours, then the meal period may be waived by mutual consent between the student and the supervisor. If your shift is longer than six hours, a 30-minute, unpaid meal break is required. Meal time is unpaid and may be 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the department's schedule.

What about overtime and Holiday pay?

Students paid an hourly wage are eligible for overtime pay. Overtime is paid at 1 1/2 times the regular hourly rate after 8 hours of work in one day or 40 straight time hours worked in a week.

Student workers are not awarded paid holidays. However, if a supervisor requires work on a holiday, the students will receive double time for working on Biola holidays. If the date of a Biola-observed holiday does not match the date of the nationally observed holiday, the holiday bonus will be paid to student employees who work on either day. However, if a student works on both days, only one day will be payable as a holiday.

What are my responsibilities as a student worker?

When you are hired for a position at Biola, you are making a serious commitment. The department that has hired you will depend on you to perform specific duties. Notify your supervisor promptly if you have a change of schedule, if you are sick, or if you are going to be late. When you are unable to work, it is important to let your supervisor know at the beginning of the work day. Just as in any job, you will be expected to be prompt, reliable, dependable, and willing to perform the work required. Should you decide to terminate your position, it will be important to give your supervisor a reasonable notice of termination.

Who is responsible for safety?

At Biola, we are very concerned about the occupational safety of faculty, staff, and students. A hazard-free environment is not only safer, but also more enjoyable to work in; therefore, our desire is the prevention of work-related injuries and illness.

After you are hired for an on-campus job, your supervisor will go over the Student Employee Safety Agreement Form with you. They will identify the potential hazards specific to your job and instruct you in how to safely operate any machinery your job may require. Consult your supervisor regarding safety expectations, as discipline for unsafe acts varies by department. Student workers are expected to refrain from horseplay and dangerous behavior on the job, and to consider their safety and the safety of others at all times.

It is the policy of Biola University that the workplace be free of illicit drugs and alcoholic beverages, and free of their use. The University wishes to provide a drug-free work place for its employees. The on-campus manufacturing, distribution, dispensing, possession, or use of a controlled substance is unlawful, violates the University "Standard of Conduct," and is therefore prohibited.

What about taxes?

FICA (Social Security and Medicare) and DI (Disability Insurance) are not deducted from on-campus student employees who are enrolled in 12 or more units at Biola University and do not regularly work more than 20 hours per week. However, if a student works on campus when school is not in session, and is not enrolled in a class at Biola, the law requires that the FICA and DI be deducted from the student paychecks.

Students attending Biola on non-immigrant (F1) visas are FICA and DI exempt.

Is there a grievance procedure?

If a problem arises, first talk it over with your supervisor. Discussion usually leads to a better working relationship as well as a better working environment. If you fail to reach a satisfactory understanding with your supervisor, you may take the matter up with that person's immediate supervisor. You should notify your supervisor of your intent beforehand. If you are still unable to come to a satisfactory solution, you may take your concern to the Student Employment Administrator in Human Resources. Supervisors and department heads have a joint responsibility to be aware of and to resolve such employee-supervisor matters in a cooperative, mutually beneficial fashion. In almost all cases a solution is reached at this level.

What if I experience harassment on the job?

If any student believes that he or she is the victim of any type of harassment, including sexual or racial harassment, the student should immediately report the incident to an immediate supervisor. If that supervisor is involved in the problem, the report should be made to Human Resources. The University will fully and effectively investigate any such report and will take whatever corrective action is deemed necessary. The University will also take action to protect the reporting student to prevent further harassment or retaliation.

Is there a dress code?

The University expects employees to be well-groomed and dressed in a manner appropriate for their work. In general your appearance should be modest, in good taste, safe and suitable for the work to be done.

You'll find that the appropriate dress will vary by department. In Facilities Services or in food services, you will be required to wear a uniform. There may also be protective equipment such as safety goggles that will be required in some jobs. In other positions appropriate office attire could be important. It is helpful to check with your supervisor to learn exactly what is expected.

A good rule to follow is to wear clothing that generally matches that of non-student employees doing similar jobs in the department. This is especially important in positions that "meet the public."

What happens if I am injured on the job?

If while on the job a student employee suffers an injury the student should report to the Biola Health Center immediately to obtain treatment. If it is a life threatening injury, the student should seek treatment at the closest ER.The Health Center is open Monday - Friday, 8 am - 5 p.m. The center will either treat the injury or direct the student to our primary facility for occupational injuries. The student will need to go to the Human Resources department to receive the appropriate worker's compensation paperwork.

The contracted emergency medical facility that we use is St. Jude Heritage Medical Group at 2720 N. Harbor Blvd, Suite 130, Fullerton at 714-449-6200. Our secondary facility is Healthfirst Medical Group Ð North at 11817 E. Telegraph Rd, Santa Fe Springs at 562-949-9328. Within three days, after the student has received emergency treatment for his or her injury, the student must return the paperwork to the Human Resources office. On-the-job safety is included in the performance evaluation of all Biola employees.

Will my work performance be evaluated?

Biola encourages supervisors to evaluate student employees. This proves to be a valuable tool in helping student employees find out how they are doing on their jobs and provides an excellent means of communication and development.

Am I a part of Biola's Commuter Incentive Program?

If you are hired on campus and start on or more of your workdays between the hours of 6 a.m. and 10 a.m., Monday through Friday, you may qualify in our commuter program. It could mean payment of a "dollar a day" by walking, biking, using transit, or carpooling to work. Biola's contribution to the cause for cleaner air is contained within the provisions of the Commuter Incentive Program. Enrolling in the program will be done by the information you provide on your Hiring Authorization form. Please pick up a Commuter Incentive claim form from Human Resources or University Employment on campus if you are eligible for any part of each month.

The Biola University Financial Aid office asks that both incoming and current students complete the online Financial Literacy Module. You can find the Financial Literacy Module Instructions on Biola University's Financial Aid Website.

Tuition and Costs

The total expense of a Biola education includes tuition, room and board (housing and a meal plan), books, and miscellaneous fees or expenses. All underclassmen not living at home are required to live in on-campus housing and have a meal plan.

2012–2013 Expected Costs

Tuition

Unit Amount Semester Annual
Flat fee for 12-18 units $15,502 $31,004

Each unit above 18 or below 12 is $1,292 per unit. The fee to audit a class is $50 per unit.

Meal Plan

Meal Plan Semester Annual
20 Flex Meal Plan ($125 flex) $2,120 $4,240
15 Flex Meal Plan ($100 flex) $2,005 $4,010
12 Flex Meal Plan ($100 flex) $1,900 $3,800
10 Flex Meal Plan ($125 flex) $1,590 $3,180
Block Plan 175 (175 anytime with $100 Flex) $1,855 $3,710
10 Meal Plan $1,480 $2,960
5 Flex Meal Plan ($25 flex)* $655 $1,310
Block Plan 40 (40 anytime meals with $75 flex)* $470 $940

* Commuters and Biola apartment residents only.

Miscellaneous

Expense Semester
Late Pre-Registration* $20
Late Registration* $120
Parking Permit* $120
Biola Health Insurance** $628
Class Fees Varies
Books $200 - $500
Personal Varies

* If applicable.

** All students must have health insurance. If student is not insured elsewhere, they may purchase health insurance through Biola at this cost.

Housing

Residence Hall or Apartment Semester Annual
Alpha Chi $2,298 $4,596
Emerson $2,298 $4,596
Hart $2,298 $4,596
Hope $2,538 $5,076
Horton $2,538 $5,076
Horton - 1 person room $2,954 $5,908
Sigma $2,334 $4,668
Stewart Quad $2,267 $4,534
Stewart Suite $2,298 $4,596
Thompson $2,334 $4,668
Beachcomber Apt. - 1 BR / 2 occ $2,746 $5,492
Beachcomber Apt. - 1 BR / 3 occ $2330 $4,660
Beachcomber Apt. - 2 BR / 4 occ $2,366 $4,732
Li Apt. - 2 BR / 4 occ $2,538 $5,076
Lido Apt. - 1 BR / 2 occ $2,746 $5,492
Lido Apt. - 1 BR / 3 occ $2,330 $4,660
Lido Apt. - 2 BR / 4 occ $2,366 $4,732
Tradewinds Apt. - 1 BR / 2 occ $2,746 $5,492
Tradewinds Apt. - 1 BR / 3 occ $2,330 $4,660
Tradewinds Apt. - 2 BR / 4 occ $2,366 $4,732
Tropicana Apt. - 2 BR / 4 occ $2,366 $4,732
Welch Apt. - 1 BR / 3 occ $2,366 $4,732

Single occupancy in traditional housing is 130% of the regular rate.

One-Time Deposits

After you have been admitted to Biola, the following deposits are required by May 1st to secure space for you in the incoming class:

  • $300 Enrollment Deposit (non-refundable after May 1)
  • $250 Housing Deposit (non-refundable after July 1)

Payment Information

Biola offers three payment plans to choose from in paying for your expenses. You can select one of these plans during enrollment, when the down payment for your first semester is due.

Pay in Full

Pay in full at enrollment. With this plan, all outstanding charges for the semester are paid on or before enrollment.

60% Down Payment + 1 Installment

60% down payment at enrollment with balance paid by September 15 for the fall semester and February 15 for the spring semester.

Down payment includes 60% of tuition, room and board, class fees, vehicle registration and insurance, less confirmed (authorized) financial aid.

60% Down Payment + 3 Installments

60% down payment at enrollment with balance paid in three equal monthly installments. The payment dates are the 15th of September, October, and November for the fall semester and the 15th of February, March, and April for the spring semester.

Down payment includes 60% of tuition, room and board, class fees, vehicle registration and insurance, less confirmed (authorized) financial aid. A monthly finance charge of 1.35% of the outstanding balance will be assessed.

Types of Aid

Scholarships

A scholarship is a financial aid award that does not need to be repaid. Scholarships are a form of merit-based aid, meaning they are offered based on merit or achievement in a specific area.* Financial aid for students enrolling in the Spring 2011 semester is limited. Below is a list of the scholarships available at Biola University.

View Scholarships

Grants

A grant is a financial aid award that does not need to be repaid. Grants are a form of need-based aid, meaning they are distributed based on financial need as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Financial aid for students enrolling in the Fall 2010 semester is limited. Below is a list of the grants available at Biola University.

View Grants

Loans

A loan is a financial aid award that must be repaid with interest. Loans are a form of need-based aid, meaning they are offered based on financial need as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Below is a list of the loans available at Biola University.

View Loans

Are you an international student? Check out the Financial Aid for International Students page.

Academic Scholarship

Freshman Students

Amount for 2012 - 2013 School Year
  • President's - $10,000
  • Provost's - $8,000
  • Dean's - $6,000
Eligibility
Eligibility requirements based on the student's unweighted final high school GPA and scores received on the SAT or ACT. Transfer students see below.
Deadline
Updated GPA, SAT/ACT scores, and class rank are due by May 1.
Renewal
Annually renewable when a minimum GPA is maintained.
Application
No separate application required. See note below.
Funding
Biola University

Note: The Office of Admissions automatically awards the Academic Scholarship at the time the student is admitted to Biola University. The Academic Scholarship cannot be combined with the Community Service Scholarship.

Academic Scholarship

Transfer Students

College GPA Award Amount
3.75 + $7,500
3.35 - 3.749 $4,500
3.0 - 3.349 $2,500
Amount for 2012-2013 School Year
$2,500 - $7,500 per year.
Eligibility
The student is eligible if he/she is transferring 15 or more credit units, based on a college transcript. If the student is transferring 14 credit units or less, he/she is only eligible for the traditional academic scholarship based on the student's high school transcript.
Deadline
Updated college transcripts are due at the end of the student's spring semester.
Renewal
Annually renewable when a minimum GPA is maintained.
Application
No separate application required. See note below.
Funding
Biola University

Alumni Dependent Scholarship

Amount
$500 per year.
Eligibility
The student is eligible if he/she is the dependent of someone who has completed 30 units of coursework at Biola University (including Talbot School of Theology, Rosemead School of Psychology, or the School of Intercultural Studies) at the time the student enters Biola.
Deadline
No deadline. Priority given to early applicants.
Renewal
Annually renewable.
Application
No separate application required. The eligible student should indicate "alumni" on the Biola University Application for Admission.
Funding
Biola University

Note: The Office of Admissions automatically awards the Alumni Dependent Scholarship at the time the student is admitted to Biola University.

Church Matching Scholarship

Amount for 2012-2013 School Year
Up to $1000 per year.
Eligibility
The student is eligible if he/she has demonstrated financial need and is at least a half-time student. To qualify, the eligible student must receive financial sponsorship from a church. Biola University will match up to $1000 of support per year.
Deadline
October 1 for full-year or fall-only students; March 2 for spring-only students.
Renewal
Non-renewable. Student must reapply annually based on financial need and additional church sponsorship.
Application
Completed FAFSA (Biola listed) and Church Matching Scholarship Application. Church sponsorship check should be written out to Biola University and attached to the Church Matching Scholarship Application.
Funding
Biola University

Note: The Office of Financial Aid awards the Church Matching Scholarship. BOLD students are not eligible for the Church Matching Scholarship. ELSP students should see the ELSP office for additional eligibility details.

Community Service Scholarship (CSS)

Amount for 2012-2013 School Year
Freshman - $3,000 per year
Transfer - $2,000 per year
Eligibility
The student is eligible if he/she is a new undergraduate student and has demonstrated outstanding leadership and community service. This information is evaluated through the activities section of the Biola Application. Please be as thurough as possible when filling this section out, listing all positions held including length of time. To qualify, the student must also live on campus when enrolled and be a full-time student.
*** The Community Service Scholarship cannot be combined with the Academic or LEAD Scholarship and is awarded by the Office of Admissions. ***
Deadline
Student must complete the Biola University admissions process by January 15.
Renewal
Annually renewable with demonstrated leadership involvement on campus.
Funding
Biola University

Departmental Scholarships

Amount
Varies.
Eligibility
The student is eligible on the basis of his/her achievement or potential in a certain field.
Deadline
Contact appropriate department.
Renewal
Contact appropriate department.
Application
Contact appropriate department.
Funding
Biola University

Note: Departmental scholarships are available for the following programs: Athletics, Music, Art, Science, and Communications (Journalism and Speech & Debate). For information regarding specific departments, contact the Office of Admissions.

LEAD Scholarship (formerly SURGE)

Amount
$4,000 - $6,500 per year.
Eligibility
Any student who has developed a personal understanding of their own ethnic background and has engaged in activities that promote multi-ethnic awareness, learning, and celebration within the context of the United States. In addition, students applying should have a cumulative high school GPA of a 3.0 or above, and/or cumulative transfer GPA of a 2.5 or higher.
Deadline
February 22. To be considered for this scholarship, a student must complete the Biola University admissions process by February 15.
Renewal
Annually renewable with participation in the Cultural Encounters leadership program and when a minimum GPA is maintained. Please download this form for LEAD program renewal requirements.
Application
LEAD Scholarship Application
Funding
Biola University

Note: The Office of Admissions awards the LEAD Scholarship.

Please mail applications to the Office of Undergraduate Admission Attn: Multi-ethnic Outreach 13800 Biola Ave La Mirada, CA 90636

Direct Stafford Loan

Eligibility:
  1. Minimum half-time enrollment
  2. Subsidized: financial need
Deadline:
June 15th for the upcoming academic year is recommended for all items requested by the Financial Aid Office (including but not limited to the Stafford Application) to be submitted in order to be processed in time for the beginning of the school year. All loan requests must be received no later than the last day of the semester in which the funds are being requested in order to be processed.
Application:
  1. Direct Stafford Loan Master Promissory Note & Entrance Counseling (online)
Amount:
Stafford Loan Level Limits
Grade Level Base Stafford Dependent Undergrads Unsubsidized Stafford Independent Undergrads and Grads Unsubsidized Stafford
Freshman (0-26 units) $3500 $2000 $6000
Sophomore (27-56 units) $4500 $2000 $6000
Junior (57-87 units) $5500 $2000 $7000
Senior (88+ units) $5500 $2000 $7000
Teaching Credential $5500 $2000 $7000
Graduates $8500 $12000
Rosemead $8500   $12000 - $12500
Renewable:
Yes, once you sign your Direct Loan Master Promissory Note (MPN) and receive your loan funds, your MPN will be valid for ten years.
Funding:
U.S. Department of Education
Interest:
  1. 3.4% for Undergraduate Subsidized Stafford loans with a first disbursement on or after July 1, 2011
  2. 6.8% for all other Stafford Loans: all Unsubsidized Loans and Graduate Subsidized Loans, as well as loans first disbursed between July 1, 2006 and June 30, 2008)
  3. Interest on unsubsidized loans begins to accrue as of the date funds are disbursed
Graduating/Departing:
  1. Exit Counseling (online)
Forms:

Interest on unsubsidized loans begins to accrue as of the date funds are disbursed.

Once students complete FAFSA and submit all other paperwork requested by the Financial Aid Office, the Financial Aid Office will determine whether student is eligible to receive subsidized or unsubsidized funding. The Financial Aid Office will contact the student regarding loan eligibility.

Direct Parent PLUS Loan

Eligibility:
Non-need based loan for parents of dependent students who are enrolled at least half-time. Based on credit.
Deadline:
June 15th for the upcoming academic year is recommended in order to be processed in time for the beginning of the school year. All loan requests must be received no later than the last day of the semester in which the funds are being requested in order to be processed.
Application:
  1. FAFSA (online)
  2. Direct Parent PLUS Loan Master Promissory Note, Entrance Counseling & Plus Loan Request (online)
Amount:
Up to cost of education minus financial aid
Renewable:
No, students must re-apply each academic year.
Qualification:
Student and parents must be either U.S. Citizens, or eligible non-citizens with a U.S. address and the student must be enrolled at least half-time in an eligible degree program.
Interest:
7.9%

Biola University Loan

Eligibility:
Financial Need, minimum half-time enrollment.
Deadline:
Priority given to earliest applicants with completed financial aid requirements.
Application:
  1. FAFSA (online)
  2. Complete financial aid file with Biola University Financial Aid Office
Amount:
  1. Up to $2,000 per academic year
Renewable:
No. Must apply each academic year.
Funding:
Biola University
Interest:
5% subsidized
Repayment:
Begins 9 months after graduating, dropping below half time, or withdrawing from Biola.

Once students complete the FAFSA and submit all other paperwork requested by the Financial Aid Office, the Financial Aid Office will determine Biola University Loan eligibility. If eligible, the Financial Aid Office will contact the student.

Please complete the following two steps ONLY if you have been instructed to do so by the Financial Aid Office.

  1. Review Biola Loan Application and Solicitation Disclosure (PDF - Coming Soon) and Biola University Loan Application Instructions (PDF)
  2. Complete Biola Loan Master Promissory Note (PDF - Coming Soon), Online Entrance Interview (online) and Self-Certification Form (PDF - Coming Soon)

Helen Grace Colbert Yates Loan

Please complete the following two steps ONLY if you have been instructed to do so by the Financial Aid Office

  1. Review Helen Grace Colbert Yates Loan Online Entrance Interview Instructions (PDF)
  2. Complete Online Entrance Interview (online)

Federal Nursing Loan

Eligibility:
Financial need, minimum half-time enrollment in nursing program.
Deadline:
Priority given to earliest applicants with completed financial aid requirements
Application:
  1. FAFSA (online)
  2. Complete financial aid file with Biola University Financial Aid Office
Amount:
Up to $3,000 per academic year for LEvel 1 students
Up to $4,000 per academic year for Level 2 and 3 students
Renewable:
No. Must apply each academic year.
Funding:
Federal government
Repayment:
Begins 9 months after graduating or dropping below half time.
Interest:
The Nursing Loan is subsidized and has an interest rate of 5%.
 

Once students complete the FAFSA and submit all other paperwork requested by the Financial Aid Office, the Financial Aid Office will determine Federal Nursing Loan eligibility. If eligible, the Financial Aid Office will contact the student.

Please complete the following two steps ONLY if you have been instructed to do so by the Financial Aid Office.

  1. Review Nursing Student Loan Application and Solicitation Disclosure (PDF - Coming Soon) and Federal Nursing Loan Applicaton Instructions (PDF)
  2. Complete Nursing Loan Master Promissory Note (PDF - Coming Soon), Online Entrance Interview (online) and Self-Certification Form (PDF - Coming Soon)

Federal Perkins Loan

Eligibility:
Financial need, minimum half-time enrollment.
Deadline:
Given to earliest filers.
Application:
  1. FAFSA (online)
  2. Complete financial aid file with Biola University Financial Aid Office.
Amount:
  1. Up to $2,000 per academic year
Renewable:
No. Must apply each academic year.
Funding:
Federal Government
Interest:
5% subsidized.
Repayment:
Begins 9 months after graduating, dropping below half-time status.

Once students complete the FAFSA and submit all other paperwork requested by the Financial Aid Office, the Financial Aid Office will determine Perkins Loan eligibility. If eligible, the Financial Aid Office will contact the student.

Please complete the following two steps ONLY if you have been instructed to do so by the Financial Aid Office.

  1. Review Federal Perkins Loan Application Instructions (PDF)
  2. Complete Perkins Master Promissory Note (PDF - Coming Soon) and Online Entrance Interview (online)

Freeman Aitken Somerville Loan

Please complete the following two steps ONLY if you have been instructed to do so by the Financial Aid Office

  1. Review Freeman Aitken Somerville Loan Online Entrance Interview Instructions (PDF)
  2. Complete Online Entrance Interview (online)

Private Student Loan

 

Eligibility:
Borrower must be a US Citizen, eligible non-citizen, or an international student with a U.S. Citizen Cosigner. Both eligible non-citizens and international students need to have a current address in the United States.
Deadline:
Private loans are certified starting on June 15th and throughout the school year. It is recommended that you submit your loan application to your lender no later than a month before the last day of the semester for which you are requesting funds.
Application:
  1. Choose Your Lender and Complete Your Application (online)
  2. Fill out an Applicant Self-Certification Form and Submit it to your Lender (If your lender did not provide this form to you, we have added a link to it below.)
Amount:
Minimum loan amounts range from $1,000 to $2,000 depending on the lender. Maximum loan amounts are a student's cost of attendance minus all other financial aid.
Renewable:
No, Must apply yearly.
Qualification:
Student and parents must be either U.S. Citizens, or eligible non-citizens with a U.S. address and the student must be enrolled at least half-time in an eligible degree program.
Interest:
Varies according to lender.
Cosigner:
Varies. However, unless you are steadily employed, earn at least $12,000 a year, and have a stable credit history with a good FICO score (over 700), you will more than likely need a cosigner in order to be approved for a private student loan.
Self-Certification:

As of February 14, 2010, borrowers are required to complete a Private Education Loan Applicant Self-Certification form and submit it to their lender with their Private Student Loan application. In order to complete this form you will need to know the following:

Full cost of attendance at your school for the loan period you are requesting

Estimated financial assistance you will receive (grants, loans, work study, etc)

To determine your cost of attendance, select the appropriate link below:

2011-2012

  1. 2011-12 Estimated Cost of Attendance (Full Year Students) (PDF)
  2. 2011-12 Estimated Cost of Attendance (Semester Students and Full Year Students taking different unit loads each semester) (PDF)

 

2012-2013

  1. 2012-13 Estimated Cost of Attendance (Full Year, Full Time Students) (PDF)
  2. 2012-13 Estimated Cost of Attendance (Semester Students) (PDF)
Forms:

Recommended Lender Notice: We recommend lenders based on the quality of the products and services they provide to students and families. We have carefully considered our selections in order to provide you with the best lenders possible. However, if you wish to use another lender that is not on our Preferred Lender list, you have the right to do so. Please be informed that should you choose to borrow from a lender not on our list of recommended lenders, it is your responsibility to resolve any issues or problems that may arise by directly contacting your lender.

For international student (on the F-1 student visa), the type of financial aid that you will receive is generally limited to institutional aid programs that are provided by Biola University. In other words, the scholarship options are limited and the process is highly selective. Biola University does not offer full scholarships, so all international applicants are expected to provide proof of financial support as to how they plan to meet the cost of education at Biola University. 

International Students are not eligible for the federal grants and loans through the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). The federal and state financial aid programs require you to be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national (including natives of American Samoa or Swain’s Island), or permanent resident of the United States.

This page outlines all the financial aid opportunities that Biola University offers to undergraduate international students. Please review each program for specific details on eligibility.

Academic Scholarship: Freshman Students

Students who are applying for admission to Biola University as first time college students will be reviewed for eligibility based on their secondary school (high school) grade point average along with their SAT or ACT scores.  Please note that for the SATs, the scores that we use are the Critical Reading and the Math Scores only.  Do not include the Writing scores in this calculation.

 

Annual Scholarship Amounts

* President's Scholarship - $10,000/year

* Provost's Scholarship - $8,000/year

* Dean's Scholarship - $6,000/year

Eligibility

Eligibility requirements based on the student's non-weighted final high school GPA and scores received on the SAT or ACT.  Scholarship is renewable for subsequent years as long as a student maintains the minimum renewal GPA for the award received.  This information will be given to you by the Admissions Office upon receipt of the scholarship.

 

Note: The Office of Admissions automatically awards the Academic Scholarship at the time the student is admitted to Biola University and no separate application is required. The Academic Scholarship cannot be combined with the Community Service Scholarship.

Academic Scholarship: Transfer Students

Students who are transferring in to Biola University from other colleges or universities will be reviewed based on their college Grade Point Average.  Official Transcripts are required to confirm the scholarship amounts.  A student is eligible for the transfer scholarship if h/she is transferring a minimum of 15 units from an accredited college/university and meets the GPA requirements below. 

College GPA Award Amount
3.75 + $7,500
3.35 - 3.749 $4,500
3.0 - 3.349 $2,500

Eligibility

A student is eligible if he/she is transferring 15 or more credit units, based on a college transcript. If the student is transferring 14 credit units or less, he/she is only eligible for the traditional academic scholarship based on the student's high school transcript.  Scholarship is renewable as long as the minimum renewal GPA is maintained.

International Student Aid Grant

Amount

$500 - $3,000/year

Eligibility

This grant is available to international students (on the F-1 visa) who have been accepted to Biola University, and have financial need as demonstrated by submission of an application.

Deadline

April 1st.

Scholarship Applications

International Student Grant Application  (FOR NEW APPLICANTS)

International Grant Renewal Application  (FOR CURRENT Biola STUDENTS)  

International MK/PK Scholarship

Amount

Up to $2,000 per year (SEPARATE APPLICATION REQUIRED)

Eligibility

The student is eligible if he/she has demonstrated financial need and is the dependent of a pastor or a missionary. To qualify, the primary parental income must be through the ministry organization.

Deadline

Due to limited funding, priority given to early applicants.

Application

International MK/PK Scholarship Application

 

Church Matching Scholarship

Amount

Up to $1000 per year

Eligibility

This scholarship is a matching scholarship for financial gift that a student receives from a church. Biola University matches the funds up to $1,000/year.  To qualify, the eligible student must submit BOTH the Church Matching Application and the church check (made payable to Biola University) to the Financial Aid Office.

Deadline

Due to limited funding, the matching part is guaranteed only as funds are available.  The anticipateddeadline is October 1st for the Fall Semester intake, and March 1st for the Spring Semester intake.  Students are encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible.

Application

Church Matching Scholarship Application (2013 application coming soon). Church sponsorship check should be written out to Biola University and attached to the Church Matching Scholarship Application.

Community Service Scholarship (CSS)

Amount

Freshman - $3,000 per year
Transfer - $2,000 per year

Eligibility

The student is eligible if he/she is a new undergraduate student and has demonstrated outstanding spiritual leadership in the community. To qualify, the student must also live on campus when enrolled and be a full-time student.  This scholarship is NOT stackable with the Academic Scholarship.

Deadline

To be considered for this scholarship, a student must complete the Biola University admissions process by January 15. 

Renewal

Annually renewable with demonstrated leadership involvement on campus.

 

Alumni Dependent Scholarships

Amount

$500 per year.

Eligibility

The student is eligible if he/she is the dependent of someone who has completed 30 units of coursework at Biola University (including Talbot School of Theology, Rosemead School of Psychology, or the School of Intercultural Studies) at the time the student enters Biola.

Note: The Office of Admissions reviews eligibility in collaboration with the Registrar’s Office to confirm the details of parent’s alumni status.

 

Departmental Scholarships

Amount

Varies.

Eligibility

Departmental scholarships are available for the following programs: Athletics, Music, Art, Science, and Communications (Forensics, Journalism, and Speech and Debate). The scholarships are awarded through the specific departments and students are encouraged to seek advise from the program advisors or coaches as well as review the specific websites.

 

Financial Aid Forms

Important!

Please do not download or complete any forms unless instructed to do so by the Financial Aid Office. If you are not sure, please contact us before proceeding.

First Step

You'll need to fill out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). You can complete this online at the FAFSA website.

If you have already filled out your FAFSA, but have not yet entered your current year's tax information, please follow these IRS Data Retrieval Instructions.

Second Step

Once you've completed the FAFSA and the Financial Aid Office has received your information, you will be contacted with instructions on what forms will be necessary to complete your file and confirm your financial aid.

Completed forms may be faxed to our office at (562) 906-4541. If you have any questions or are having difficulty with this page, please feel free to email us or call us at (562) 903-4742.

These forms are now interactive!* Please complete them online, print and sign. After reviewing the forms for completeness, you may submit them to the Financial Aid Office.

2011-2012 Financial Aid Handbook

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Forms

Net Price Calculator

At Biola University we believe that the benefits of a Biola education far outweigh the costs, but we do understand that paying for college can be one of most challenging aspects of your college decision.

Our Admissions Office is here to help you through this process in any way possible. After working through the calculator, feel free to contact your admissions counselor at 1‑800‑OK‑BIOLA to discuss your results.

About the Net Price Calculator

This calculator will provide you with an estimate of how much financial aid you might qualify for at Biola University. It is only as accurate as the information you provide and is subject to change. For best results, it would be helpful for you to have the following items: W-2 Form, Bank Statements, Academic Information (SAT or ACT scores, Official Transcripts).

* This calculator is intended for use by U.S. citizens or permanent residents who will be pursuing undergraduate degrees and will be enrolled full time.

Check out what students have to say about how they paid for college and the value of their Biola education:

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  • Student Send-Off

    June 30, 2012

    Are you an incoming Biola student for the 2012/13 academic year? Get acquainted with the Biola community before even arriving on campus! A 2012 Biola Student Send-Off Mixer is coming to a town near you, and we want you to be there!

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