Costs and Financial Aid

The Student Financial Services Office is devoted to efficiently servicing the financial needs of the students at Fresno Pacific University. The staff members are caring, accomplished professionals dedicated to providing excellent service. The Student Financial Services Office offers resources that will guide students through the processes of financing an education, applying for financial aid and maintaining their student account, equipping them with helpful resources, and encouraging Christian stewardship. The schedule of basic tuition charges, fees, and financial policies for the university is given below, as well as important deadlines, scholarship qualifications,  and other detailed information about various financial aid programs. The tuition charges reflect only a portion of the actual cost of the student's education; the remainder is subsidized by contributions from churches, alumni and other friends of the university. The university reserves the right at any time to change its student charges and policies as deemed necessary by the Board of Trustees.

Program Costs

Traditional Undergraduate Programs

Tuition

*If private music instruction places a student's account into overload, over 18 units, students are responsible for the cost of both private music instruction and overload charges. No tuition is charged when a student's registration exceeds 18 units because of enrollment in one or more of the following courses:

• ACCT 481 , ACCT 482  
• ART 482  
• ATH 105  - ATH 196  (Varsity Sports)
• BUS 481, BUS 485 , BUS 496  
• CHR 240  
• COM 130 , COM 496  
• CP 152A , CP 152B , CP 152L , CP 252 , CP 252L  
• CRIM 476  
• ICS 300 , ICS 382 , ICS 482  
• KIN 390     
• LEAD 120H  
• LIT 496  
• MIN 483   
• MUS 108 , MUS 109 , MUS 114  - MUS 123 , MUS 127 , MUS 129 , MUS 130 , MUS 132 , MUS 208 , MUS 216 , MUS 222 , MUS 265 , MUS 465 ,  MUS 493  
• PE 212  - PE 278  
• PS 365 , PS 476  
• SOC 476 , SOC 481   
• THTR 110 , THTR 115 , THTR 120 , THTR 310 , THTR 315 , THTR 320 , THTR 496   

Room and Board

All freshman and sophomore students living on campus are required to enroll in the full-access meal plan. Juniors and Seniors residing in FPU housing are required to enroll in at least a 50-block meal plan. Additional meal plan offerings are available and may be optionally purchased.

Notes: For housing placement purposes only, class standing for the fall semester will carry throughout the entire year (both fall and spring semesters); and Meal Plan contract dates will follow the traditional semester. Meals and Flex Dollars must be used in the semester in which they are purchased; they do not carry over to the next semester. 

Specialized Course Material/Lab Fee Policy (Undergraduate)

Fees may be assessed to students for lecture, activity, assessment and/or laboratory classes and other student fees in addition to regular tuition and fees. Fees assessed to students may vary by course and are administratively approved in advance. These fees cover additional materials or costs associated with specialized equipment, facilities, field trips, etc.

These are fees unique to certain courses and are set up by the respective schools. In instances where there is a discrepancy between the catalog and another document, such as a syllabus, the catalog amount will be charged. The university reserves the right, with or without notice, to create new or change existing fees and charges when necessary.

Confirmation Deposit

New students must pay the confirmation deposit after acceptance to hold their enrollment. This deposit will also hold the student's registration as they register during the summer. Part of this deposit is applied toward the students' accounts when they arrive for classes and is only refundable until May 1st for the fall and December 1st for the spring.  Deposits are not held for future semesters without specific arrangements with Student Financial Services.

Parking Permit

To obtain a parking permit, vehicles must be registered with the Campus Safety Office. Permits and vehicle registration forms are available online; consult with Campus Safety for the process. Permits cannot be charged to a student's account; permits must be paid in full at the time of purchase. Students living on campus are not eligible to purchase permits.

Activity Fee

A fee is assessed for students enrolled in certain activity classes to cover additional costs or materials, facilities, trips, equipment, etc. These may vary from course to course. (See course schedule.)

Degree Completion Programs Tuition

Fees/Deposits (Degree Completion)

University Service Fees (Undergraduate)

Degree Unit Fulfillment

If courses need to be taken outside of a declared major program in order to fulfill degree unit requirements for graduation, charges for those units will be in accordance with the declared program costs. For example, if a traditional undergraduate student needs to enroll in a Degree Completion course in order to fulfill units, they will be billed as a traditional undergraduate course and vice versa for a Degree Completion student taking traditional undergraduate courses. Please note that if a traditional undergraduate student is part-time, these units will be billed at a per-unit rate; if they are full-time, the full-time cost will be assessed per usual. If these units put a student into overload units, overload fees will apply.

Payment of Accounts

Online Payment Center

Students can view their student account information at any time by logging into the Online Payment Center via my.fpu.edu.The Online Payment Center provides a real-time picture of the student account balance. All of the transactions on the student account, including registration and other charges, estimated financial aid, and payments are available for viewing. Students can schedule and make payments to their account as well as sign-up for a Monthly Payment Plan and e-refunds. Students can also authorize others to view and make payments on their student account.

Means of Payment

1. Financial Aid
   Students who have a current and fully processed financial aid application on file can use their financial aid (grants, scholarships and/or student loans) to pay their student account balance, subject to any Federal and State limitations. If the student's estimated financial aid will pay for the entire student account balance due, then there is no need to make any other payment; the account will be paid automatically when financial aid is disbursed. See the Financial Aid section below for more information.
2. Outside Assistance
   ​Students who participate in outside assistance programs (i.e., California Department of Rehabilitation, Department of Veterans Affairs, employer reimbursement programs, etc.) should contact the Student Financial Services Office as soon as possible to ensure that the student's account is correct and up-to-date. It is the student's responsibility to ensure that all required information for payment by the outside provider is given to SFS. Failure to provide the necessary information may result in funding delays and the placement of a student account hold.
3. Personal Funds
   Costs not covered by financial aid and/or outside assistance are the responsibility of the student. Fresno Pacific University expenses may be paid in installments throughout the course of the semester. See the payment plan section below. Students needing additional assistance may use educational, alternative and personal loans to cover any remaining balance.

Payment Options

Pay in Full

Students may pay the semester balance in full. Payment is due by the end of the first week of each semester to avoid being administratively enrolled in a payment plan.

Monthly Payment Plan

Monthly payments will reflect the total balance remaining after subtracting out any pending gift aid and approved loans. Because the account balance can change from month to month, it is the student's responsibility to check the account online on a regular basis using the Online Payment Center by logging into my.fpu.edu. Contact the Student Financial Services Offices at 559-453-2041 regarding questions on the account.

Students who have a balance remaining for the current term and have not developed a payment plan by the designated deadlines will be administratively enrolled in a payment plan for the duration of the semester. Students are expected to make their monthly payments as detailed on their payment plan and are responsible for any late fees that may be assessed due to non-payment. If the semester balance is not up-to-date or the student has not made appropriate payment arrangements with their Student Financial Services Advisor, the student will be de-registered from any courses that have not started.

Students and authorized users will receive monthly reminders to their Fresno Pacific email addresses, reflecting the current balance and any payments due.

The payment plan is a legal agreement between the university and the student (or the parent if the student is under 18 years of age).

Please note that if the balance is not paid in full by the last payment due date, any preregistered classes for the next semester will be dropped.

Plan Details for Traditional Undergraduate Students

The monthly payment schedule is:

• Summer: June 1, June 15, July 1, July 15, August 1
• Fall: August 15, September 15, October 15, November 15, December 15
• Spring: January 15, February 15, March 15, April 15, May 15

Plan Details for Degree Completion Students

The monthly payment schedule is:

• Summer: May 15, June 15, July 15
• Fall: August 15, September 15, October 15, November 15
• Spring: January 15, February 15, March 15, April 15
• Tuition for short term and weekend courses will be accrued as registration is processed. The remaining payments will be automatically adjusted and/or recalculated so the balance is cleared by the last payment of the semester.

Requirements for all Students

• The student's account must remain in good standing.
• Payments must be made in full, due on the fifteenth (15th) of each scheduled month and are considered late when received 3 days after the due date. $50 late fees are charged for late, missed or partial payments.
• All financial aid paperwork must be submitted prior to the first payment installment due date to avoid a late fee.
• Students will not be allowed to register or make course changes for future semesters until the previous semester's balance has been paid in full.
• Monthly payments will automatically be recalculated to reflect the inclusion of any additional charges (library fines, additional units, etc.)

How to Set Up a Payment Plan

You can set up your payment plan by:

• Enrolling online through the online payment center by going to my.fpu.edu. The site is easy to navigate and accessible anytime.
• Contacting the Student Financial Services Office during regular office hours. They will be happy to assist you with the payment plan enrollment process.

Method of Payment

Payment must be made in U.S. funds and may be made by cash, check and all major credit cards. Payments can be made online via the Online Payment Center in My FPU. Payments can also be mailed to the main campus in Fresno or paid at the Cashier's Window. The university does not recommend mailing cash payments. Credit and debit card payments are only accepted online through the Online Payment Center and will incur a 2.95% service fee with a minimum $3 charge.

When mailing payments, please address to:
Fresno Pacific University
1717 S. Chestnut Ave., Box 2004
Fresno, CA 93702

Cashier Phone: (559) 453-5586

Financial Obligations

Students are responsible for their student account at FPU. Students are expected to regularly review their account, make timely payments and follow the guidelines stated above. Students with delinquent accounts are subject to the following consequences:

1. If the semester balance is not up-to-date or the student has not made appropriate payment arrangements with Student Financial Services Advisor, the student will be de-registered from any courses that have not started. Once the balance has been paid in full, the student may re-register for courses but will be subject to course availability and applicable processing fees (i.e.: late registration fee).
2. A hold will be placed on the account prohibiting:
   1. Registration for future courses.
   2. Participation in commencement ceremonies.
   3. Receipt of diploma.
3. The loss of institutional financial aid. Financial aid for the next semester will not be credited to the student's account until previous balances are paid in full. Late fees will be assessed for late, missed or partial payments.
4. Assumption of collection costs/fees as well as the principal balance if the account is sent to a collection agency.
5. Financial loss to the university due to the discharge of a current or former student's unpaid debts by bankruptcy will result in the placement of a student account hold and denial of admission, reinstatement or access to university services including registration and the issuance of diplomas. A bankruptcy hold may be removed by making voluntary account payments to the university equal to the full amount discharged in bankruptcy.

Please Note:

1. Class schedules will not be reinstated; students will need to re-enroll in courses available at the time the hold is released.
2. Administratively withdrawn students are subject to the processes required to re-register.
3. Students without a payment plan and a balance due are subject to the same conditions and consequences of students with a payment plan.
4. Delinquent accounts are subject to all financial and academic consequences as described in the Payment Options, Nonpayment of Account, and Financial Aid sections of this catalog.
5. Students who retake a course will be responsible for paying for the course again.
6. Students applying for readmission must clear all student account holds before they can be accepted at FPU. Contact Student Financial Services for clearance instructions.

Refund Policies - Undergraduate Programs

Tuition Refunds

Tuition refunds are granted for authorized course drops only and are based upon the drop date provided by the Registrar's Office. Students are responsible for following the appropriate drop procedures. After the first week of the semester or the session (as applicable), students are not automatically dropped from courses if they fail to attend. It is the responsibility of the student to follow the correct drop procedures through the Registrar's Office. Tuition refunds, either in full or partial, for dropped courses will only be offered for the first THREE weeks of the course, for the refund schedule, see Course Drops in the Academic Policies section.

Fresno Pacific University's refund policy is:

• Dropping prior to the start of the course: 100% refund
• Dropping during the first week of the course: 100% refund
• Dropping during the second week of the course: 25% refund
• Dropping during the third week of the course and after: No refund

Short-term courses may have a different refund schedule. Consult the appropriate refund schedule in the Course Drops  section on the Academic Policies page.

Course weeks run Monday-Sunday. Independent and directed studies start on the first calendar day of the session, whether or not any meetings have taken place.

In addition to the institutional refund policy, students who withdraw or cease attendance and receive Title IV Federal Financial Aid are subject to the Return of Title IV Funds Policy (see the SFS website) which may result in a return of federal grant and loan funds. Students receiving VA benefits may also be subject to a return of funds if they withdraw or do not complete all of the courses in which they enroll. The return of funds may result in the student having a balance due to the university which if unpaid will result in a student account hold and collections activity.

Private Music Lesson Refund Schedule

Room and Board Refund Schedule (Traditional Undergraduate Program)

Housing Deposit: Cancellation notice must be submitted in writing to the Housing and Residence Life Office. To receive a full refund of the $200 housing deposit, returning students must cancel their housing assignment by June 1 for the fall semester and December 15 for the spring semester. New students must cancel their housing assignment by August 20 for the fall semester and December 15 for the spring semester. Failure to meet these deadlines will result in a forfeit of the student's housing deposit.

Room and board rates are combined and are not itemized separately. The date used for cancellation of room and board will be the date the student officially and completely checks out of their room with a Residence Life staff member (including turning in their room key). The check-out date will be recorded on the completed Room Condition form.

Meal plans are assigned and charged by semester. Changes or cancellations will not be accepted after the second Friday of each semester.

Dismissal/Suspension

A student who is dismissed or suspended from the university is not eligible for refunds.

Refund of Overpayment on Student Account

If a student's account is overpaid in any semester and a credit balance currently exists on the account, the student will receive a Financial Aid Credit Disbursement (FACD). Students may sign up for an e-refund (direct deposit) through the Online Payment Center via MyFPU. The funds may be kept on the student's account to be applied to other expected expenses upon request by the student. The first FACD for each term takes place during the third week with subsequent disbursements made biweekly.

If the student's account was partially or fully paid by a third party (i.e., employer assistance or private scholarship), the refund to the student will not exceed the amount paid by the student. Any credit balance over the amount that the student paid will be refunded to the third party. If a credit balance is the result of a parent plus loan, the FACD will be issued to the parent.

Returned Payment Policy

A $25 fee is applied to a student's account if a student's check/payment is returned for any reason including improper bank routing or account information. Anyone with two returned checks on file may have check-writing privileges suspended and FPU reserves the right to decline checks from such individuals. For nonpayment or balances on an account, including NSF fees, FPU reserves the right to place a hold on student records. All payments made via check may be subject to a 7-day waiting period before payment is considered cleared.

Appeals and Petitions

Appeals of student account policies for undergraduate and degree completion students may be made by filing an official petition with the Student Financial Services Office. This petition will be reviewed by the Student Accounts Appeals Committee. All petitions that have financial bearing will be reviewed by this committee. Students will be notified via email once a decision has been made.

Financial Aid

General Information

Fresno Pacific University offers three basic types of financial aid:

• Scholarships and grants, that do not have to be repaid.
• Loans, that must be repaid.
• Employment, that must be earned.

Most grants, loans and employment opportunities are awarded on the basis of a combination of demonstrated financial need and scholastic or other achievement. A limited number of scholarships are awarded on the basis of merit only.

Application Process

1. All financial aid applicants must be accepted for admission to a degree program at Fresno Pacific University as a precondition for financial aid eligibility.
2. Students who are U.S. citizens or U.S. permanent residents are encouraged to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online at www.fafsa.gov. The FAFSA provides the information needed to determine a student's financial need and eligibility for Federal Pell Grants, Work Study and Student Loans. Need is determined by calculating the difference between a student's cost of attendance and the expected family contribution. You can find more information at our website fresno.edu/finaid. The FPU school code is 001253.
   NOTE: If a student chooses not to complete the FAFSA, they must contact the Student Financial Services Office to indicate they do not wish to do so. By waiving the FAFSA the student will not be eligible for any federal or state aid, including federal student loans and will not be considered for need-based Donor Scholarships. For students who waive the FAFSA or refuse any offered state and federal aid, FPU institutional aid may be reduced or denied.
3. Students who are undocumented are encouraged to complete a California Dream Act Application online at csac.ca.gov/dream_act.asp. Students who meet AB 540 criteria may apply for state-funded financial aid such as the Cal Grant and Chafee Grant. Students will be required to annually complete an AB540 Affidavit.
4. Cal Grant. New undergraduate students applying for a Cal Grant are responsible to request GPA verification be sent to the California Student Aid Commission from their high school or previously attended college by the March 2 Cal Grant deadline. There is a second deadline of September 2 for students enrolled in a community college in the fall semester who plan to transfer to FPU mid-year for the spring semester. High school seniors must request that their high school provide this information to CSAC. High school students who participated in a home school program or who attended an unaccredited high school should follow instructions on the Cal Grant GPA Verification Form available at www.csac.ca.gov. Current FPU students who are California residents and who have completed 24 or more degree applicable college units will have their GPA automatically submitted to CSAC during the last week of February for Cal Grant consideration for the next academic year.
5. A student may be selected by the U.S. Department of Education to verify their FAFSA information. A verification form and copies of federal tax transcripts, as well as other documentation, may be required to be submitted to the Student Financial Services Office. Upon submission of the FAFSA, the FAFSA confirmation page and the FAFSA Student Aid Report, will first tell students if they are selected for verification. If requested documents are not submitted, federal and state funds cannot be released to the student.

Deadlines (Priority) Specifications for Traditional Undergraduate Students

All documentation required to complete the processing of financial aid is due by July 6 for the fall semester, November 29 for the spring semester and April 1 for the summer semester. Required documentation not submitted by these dates may result in a denial of awarded aid. Students may still apply for aid or submit documentation; however, once denied, aid may be re-awarded dependent upon the availability of funding.

Students who wish to take advantage of the four-year graduation guarantee must meet both the application and documentation deadlines.

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

A new FAFSA application must be filed for each academic year a student attends FPU. The information contained in the FAFSA and other required documentation is confidential. Access to this information is governed by the terms of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974. The FAFSA can be completed at fafsa.ed.gov. The FPU school code is 001253.

California Dream Act Application

A new CA Dream Act Application must be filed for each academic year a student attends FPU. The information contained in the CA Dream Act Application and other required documentation is confidential. Access to this information is governed by the terms of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974. The CA Dream Act Application can be completed at csac.ca.gov/dream_act.asp.

Award Processing

Students will receive a financial aid offer letter after application requirements have been completed. The offer letter will list the type and amount of assistance for which the student is eligible. The offer letter is an estimate of funding and is contingent upon final notification from funding sources and verification of the information reported on the FAFSA.

Applicants need to allow the Student Financial Services Office sufficient time to properly process financial aid for each student. The student may shorten the processing time by responding to all correspondence and submitting requested documents as quickly as possible. The goal is to have all financial aid work completed prior to registration. The Student Financial Services Office is happy to help throughout the financial aid process, but it is the student's responsibility to submit requested paperwork promptly in order to have financial aid arrive in a timely manner.

Coordination of Aid

It is the responsibility of the Student Financial Services Office to coordinate all aid resources awarded to each student. Students may not receive aid greater than their Cost of Attendance as determined by Student Financial Services. When need-based funds are a component of the student's financial aid award package, care must be taken to ensure that the total aid awarded does not exceed each student's financial need. When total aid exceeds financial need, an over-award exists. In these situations, the aid package will be reviewed and appropriate reductions will be made to eliminate the over-award. Care is always taken to retain as much of the original aid package as possible. Some institutional scholarships are stackable, that is, they are in addition to other scholarships already awarded, whereas, other scholarships may replace existing scholarships. With limited exceptions, institutional scholarships may not exceed the cost of tuition. Unless specifically designated otherwise, all institutional scholarship and grant aid shall be considered to be tuition assistance.

Enrollment Requirements and Changes

All financial aid is awarded based on full-time enrollment and attendance. Full-time is 12 units per semester for undergraduate programs. Students enrolled less than full-time will have their financial aid adjusted and potentially canceled depending upon the type of aid awarded and the student's enrollment status. Additionally, students who drop below the minimum enrollment requirements will have their aid adjusted according to federal, state and institutional policies. Federal Direct Student Loans require students to be enrolled at least half-time (6 units). Pell Grants, Federal Supplemental Opportunity Grants, TEACH Grants, Cal Grants, and Work Study jobs all require the student to be enrolled at least quarter-time (3 units). Fresno Pacific University Academic, Merit and Need-based Scholarships, Grants and Donor Scholarships require students to be enrolled at least half-time to receive their funds and may be prorated based on enrollment status. Students are strongly encouraged to contact their Student Financial Advisor to determine the effect an enrollment change may make to their financial aid, student account balance and payment plan.

Undergraduate degree students who withdraw from a term after it has begun or who drop a course will have their aid recalculated based on their new enrollment status. The student may be required to repay some or all of the financial aid that has been disbursed for that term based on the result of the new aid calculation. A return of federal financial aid (Pell Grant, Direct Loans, FSEOG, etc.) already received may be required. Go here to see the Return of Title IV Aid Policy.

Satisfactory Academic Progress

Background

Federal law requires Fresno Pacific University to establish specific standards for measuring Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP). To remain enrolled at the university and receive federal, state, and need-based financial aid, students must meet SAP policy requirements. Some scholarships and awards may have additional standards. Veterans Affairs students have additional requirements. Academic progress is reviewed after each semester for all active students based on the criteria below. Students are responsible for monitoring their academic progress through Sunbird Central and understanding their program requirements and the SAP standards.

Overview of SAP Standards

To make steady progress toward earning their degree, credential, or certificate at FPU, students must meet reasonable academic milestones each semester. While the details of how each standard is measured are provided below, it is crucial to note that a student's full academic record must be considered when evaluating these standards, regardless of whether the student received financial aid for that coursework.

Standard 1: The GPA Standard

Standard 1 measures progress by tracking the student's cumulative grade point average (GPA) at FPU. The GPA calculation follows FPU's academic policies, factoring in which grades are included and how repeated courses affect the GPA. Students can view their current cumulative FPU GPA on their unofficial transcript in Sunbird Central. To meet Standard 1, students must earn the minimum cumulative FPU GPA each semester as listed in the provided chart.

Standard 2: The Pace Standard

Standard 2 measures a student's progress toward program completion by calculating their pace, defined as the percentage of attempted courses that were successfully finished for credit. To meet Standard 2, students must maintain or exceed a pace completion rate of 66.67%.

Calculating pace involves two steps.

Step 1: 

Not all credits posted to the student's academic record are a good indication of the pace at which they are completing their program. As a result, the various types of credit are evaluated based on the following:

Types of Courses and Credit That Are Included in this Calculation:

1. All FPU courses not exempted below
2. All transfer credits that have been officially accepted to complete program requirements
3. Repeated coursework

Types of Courses and Credit That Are Not Included in this Calculation:

1. Audited coursework
2. Courses dropped with no attendance or last day of attendance in the first week.
3. In progress (IP) courses and not reported (NR) courses

Step 2:

Based on the included courses above, pace is then calculated by dividing the total number of credits successfully completed (passed with units earned) by the total number of credits attempted.

Pace Formula: Total Credits Earned (Completed) / Total Credits Attempted

Total Credits Earned = all coursework where credit is earned with a grade of CR, A, B, C, D (including plusses and minuses) and transfer credits that have been officially accepted to complete program requirements.

Total Credits Attempted =  the total credits earned (above) plus all coursework with a grade of NC, F, I (including variations), W, and transfer credits that have been officially accepted to complete program requirements.

Standard 3: The Maximum Time Frame

Standard 3, also known as "The 150 Percent Rule", limits the total number of units a student can attempt versus successfully complete to remain eligible for financial aid. Once a student's attempted units exceed 150 percent of the required units for their program, they lose financial aid eligibility and must complete the program without additional financial assistance.

Calculating the 150 Percent Rule involves two steps:

Step 1

Determine the minimum units required for the academic program. Multiply this number by 1.5 to find the maximum attempted units allowed while receiving aid. For a 120-unit bachelor's program, the max is 180 units (120 x 1.5).

Step 2

Calculate the student's total attempted units, including transfer credits. Compare this to the limit from Step 1.

To meet the 150 Percent Rule, a student's attempted units must be less than 150 percent of their program's required units. This ensures students complete their program efficiently within the aid time frame.

How Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards Are Monitored

Satisfactory academic progress is monitored at the end of each academic term (summer, fall, and spring). Students who meet all three standards above are considered in good standing for SAP. Students who do not meet the standards will be notified by email of the results and impact on their financial aid and academic eligibility. Students exceeding the maximum time frame immediately lose financial aid eligibility but may appeal this status (see Appeal Guidelines below).

Warning Status

Students who were previously meeting academic standards, but then fall below the GPA or pace requirements, will be placed on financial aid warning for one term. During the warning period, they can continue receiving aid. By the end of their next enrolled term, students on warning must meet all three academic progress standards to regain eligibility for financial assistance. Students who successfully meet the standards after the warning period will regain good standing.

Disqualified Status

Students who are on academic warning and fail to meet satisfactory academic progress standards at the end of their next enrolled term will be academically disqualified and lose eligibility for financial assistance. However, students may appeal their financial aid disqualification by following the appeal guidelines.

Probation Status

If a student's appeal is approved, they will be placed on academic probation and must submit an academic plan approved by their advisor. Once the approved academic plan is received, the student can get financial aid for one more semester. The student's status will be reviewed at the end of that semester. To continue getting financial aid and stay eligible to register after the probation semester, students must meet all three academic standards. Students who don't meet the standards but satisfy their academic plan's terms each semester can stay on probation for the length of their academic contract. If students fail to fully meet the terms of their academic plan, they will lose financial aid eligibility and registration privileges.

Impact on the Disbursement of Financial Aid

The financial aid office cannot disburse any financial assistance until confirming student eligibility under Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) standards. As a result, the office will place a hold on ineligible students' accounts, preventing future aid disbursement. The hold affects students who are:

1. On academic probation.
2. Monitored per an approved academic plan.
3. Approaching the maximum timeframe limit.

Once grades post, the office will evaluate SAP standards and release holds for eligible students. Holds remain for disqualified students unless they successfully appeal.

Request to Have Satisfactory Academic Progress Recalculated

A student may request a recalculation of their SAP status if their academic record was modified after the initial SAP calculation. Recalculation may be warranted when:

• Grades were posted late, after the SAP calculation
• Grades were changed or an incomplete was resolved 
• Transfer credits were added 
• The academic program objective changed

Appeal Guidelines

To appeal your financial aid suspension, submit a SAP Appeal Form, available from Student Financial Services, and the required documentation. Incomplete appeals or those without sufficient documentation may be sent back for completion or be rejected. Frequently check in with your advisor to stay on track to graduate.

If your appeal is approved, you will be placed on probation and will be required to complete an academic plan with your advisor. You must meet the terms of your academic plan to remain eligible for aid. If you do not meet the SAP standards or follow your academic plan, you will lose your financial aid eligibility. 

For a Maximum Timeframe Appeal, list all remaining credits needed for your first bachelor's degree. These must be in your advisor's academic plan. We cannot consider credits for minors or double majors. Once your approved extension credits are attempted, you lose eligibility regardless of grades. Additional appeals require extenuating circumstances and extensive documentation.

Secondary Review: If your appeal is denied, you may request a secondary review within 7 days of being notified of the SAP Committee's decision. The committee will decide within 20 days.

Students Seeking University Readmission and Aid Reinstatement After Disqualification Due to Failing SAP

Students seeking readmission to the university and reinstatement of financial aid eligibility after being disqualified for failing to meet Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) requirements must follow these steps:

Students who have not completed additional coursework outside the university since disqualification:

• May appeal for reinstatement based on extenuating circumstances like illness, death in the family, or other mitigating factors outside the student's control that led to failing SAP. 
• Must complete the SAP Appeal Form and provide appropriate documentation to support the appeal circumstances.
• Must submit appeals at least 20 days before the start of the next academic term they wish to enroll in; otherwise, the appeal will be considered for the following term.
• Will have appeals decided by the SAP Committee based on regulatory standards.
• If readmitted, will be placed on Probationary SAP status, required to follow an academic plan, and must meet all SAP standards during their next enrolled term.
• Will be disqualified again if SAP standards are not met in the first reinstated term, resulting in loss of federal aid eligibility.

Students who have enrolled and completed additional coursework after disqualification (TUG, DC):

• Must submit appeals at least 20 days before the start of the next academic term they wish to enroll in; otherwise, the appeal will be considered for the following term.
• May appeal based on demonstrated successful completion of courses from an accredited institution. 
• Must show successful completion of at least 12 undergraduate units with a GPA and pace of progress meeting the university's SAP standards.
• If SAP standards are met in the outside coursework, will be placed on Probationary status when readmitted.
• Will be required to follow an academic plan and meet all SAP standards in their first reinstated term.
• Will be disqualified again if SAP standards are not met in the first term, resulting in loss of federal aid eligibility.

Note:  Reinstatement of financial aid eligibility does not guarantee readmission to the University.

Chafee Grant Recipients

Students who get the State of California Chafee Grant must follow extra rules about receiving grant funds if they fail to meet the Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy. Though these students stay eligible for the grant after being disqualified, they can't get the money since they're no longer enrolled at the university, which the grant requires. However, students who are readmitted on probation and meet all other eligibility rules will keep getting their Chafee Grant.

Second Bachelor's Degree

FPU does not offer any institutional financial aid to students who choose to pursue a second undergraduate degree. Federal Pell and Supplemental Education Opportunity Grants are only available to students who are working on their first undergraduate degrees. Students who return to pursue a second undergraduate degree will be able to apply for federal student loans under the Federal Direct Student Loan Program. There is an aggregate loan limit for undergraduate studies. This limit is not extended for students returning for a second undergraduate degree.

Freshman Academic Scholarships and Grants (Traditional Undergraduate Program)

Awarded to Freshmen, for 4 years only, based on the incoming student's academic record. Academic GPA's are calculated by FPU on a weighted, 4.0 scaled and based on core academic classes in grades 10-12.

• Paragon Scholarship - Full tuition scholarship (4 awarded annually) includes a $3,000 housing scholarship.  Awarded to four freshmen each year, the Paragon Scholarship is FPU's top academic award. Students receiving the President's Scholarship are eligible to apply. The Paragon Scholarship is good for 4 years of attendance. If a Paragon Scholar is unable to complete their program, the remaining scholarship funds allocated to them may be awarded to a continuing student. Applications are due by January 2. Participation in the Paragon program, enrollment in the "Perspectives in Leadership" (LEAD-120H) class, and a residency on campus are required if selected.  

• President's Scholarship - $18,000 annually. Enrollment in "Perspectives in Leadership" (LEAD-120H) is required. (4.00 GPA and above required)

• Dean's Scholarship - $15,000 annually (3.75-3.99 GPA required)

• Heritage Scholarship - $14,000 annually (3.50-3.74 GPA required)

• Faculty Scholarship - $12,000 annually (3.25-3.49 GPA required)

• Director's Scholarship - $10,000 annually (3.00-3.24 GPA required)

• Founder's Grant - $8,000 annually (Below a 3.00 GPA required) 

Satisfactory Academic Progress is required for renewal.

Transfer Academic Scholarships and Grants (Traditional Undergraduate Program)

Awarded to transfer students, for up to 4 years only (depending on the total of transferred-in units), who have attained 12 or more transferable, post-high school units. GPAs are based on transferable units calculated by FPU.

• Transfer Scholar Award - $14,000 annually. Enrollment in "Perspectives in Leadership" (LEAD-120H) is required. (3.50 GPA and above required)

• Transfer Achievement Award - $10,000 annually (3.00-3.49 GPA required) 

• Transfer Academic Award - $7,500 annually ( 2.40-2.99 GPA required)

• Transfer Partnership Grant - $5,000 annually (Below a 2.40 GPA)

Satisfactory Academic Progress is required for renewal.

Institutional Scholarships and Grants

Students seeking FPU grants and scholarships must complete a FAFSA if they are U.S. Citizens or U.S. Permanent Residents (See point 2 under Application Process, above).

Athletic Scholarship

A student-athlete must meet applicable NCAA, conference, and FPU regulations. These regulations include but are not limited to the following: be academically eligible, meet progress toward degree, and have not exceeded their 10 semesters of eligibility.

Church Match Scholarship

Fresno Pacific University will match a gift from a church up to $250 per semester (not to include summer) if received by the deadline. Gifts from the Pacific District Mennonite Brethren Churches are matched two to one. Contact the Student Financial Services Office for details about the Church Match Scholarship policy and specific deadlines. You can find a detailed question and answer sheet about this scholarship at: fresno.edu/students/student-financial-services/state-local-institutional-aid

International Scholarship

2.0 GPA, show potential for contribution to the church, university and society. Contact the FPU International Student Office for more information. Students receiving the International Scholarship are ineligible for the Out of State Scholarship.

FPU Donor Scholarships

Alumni, parents, friends, businesses and foundations have generously provided a special set of scholarships available to students attending Fresno Pacific. These scholarships are vital to FPU. Applications can be found online at: scholarships.fresno.edu. Deadlines vary by student population.

Fresno Pacific Grant

Various criteria and amounts. The FPU Grant is awarded to students who have completed the FAFSA and is based on need and other financial aid awards. Students receiving Athletic Scholarship funds are not eligible to receive this Grant.

Resident Success Grant

Various criteria and amounts. The Resident Success Grant is awarded to students living on campus who have completed the FAFSA and based on need and other financial aid awards. Students receiving Athletic Scholarship funds are not eligible to receive this Grant.

FPU Possibilities Scholarship Program

Full tuition for the 2024/2025 school year. The FPU Possibility Grant is awarded to students who have demonstrated eligibility, through FAFSA completion, for a full Pell Grant award as well as a Cal Grant A award and have an academic GPA of 3.6 or higher. Students receiving Athletic Scholarship funds are not eligible to receive this Grant. Students who have graduated from Dinuba High School may qualify for an annual $3,000 housing stipend in addition to the Possibilities Scholarship.

Ministerial Grant

Dependent of a parent in full-time Christian service.

Mennonite Brethren Scholarship

Awarded yearly to incoming freshman and transfer students attending and in good standing at a Mennonite Brethren Church. Students must submit an MB Church Membership/Attendance Form to SFS. Awards apply only towards tuition. See the MB Scholarship webpage for more information.

Out of State Scholarship

Awarded yearly to students attending from any state outside of California. International students and students receiving Athletic Scholarship funds are not eligible to receive this scholarship.

Music

2.0 GPA, audition. Must agree to continued participation in music at Fresno Pacific University. Contact the FPU Music Department at 559-452-2267 for more information.

Art

Awarded to selected FPU students for their participation on campus.

Pacific Publications Scholarship

Awarding to selected FPU students for their publishing abilities.

School of Business Divisional Scholarship

Awarded to selected, outstanding juniors and seniors with a cumulative FPU GPA of 3.5 or higher by the dean and/or faculty in the School of Business.

School of Humanities, Religion and Social Sciences Divisional Scholarship

Awarded to selected, outstanding juniors and seniors with a cumulative FPU GPA of 3.5 or higher by the dean and/or faculty in the School of Humanities, Religion and Social Sciences.

School of Natural Sciences Divisional Scholarship

Awarded to selected, outstanding juniors and seniors with a cumulative FPU GPA of 3.5 or higher by the dean and/or faculty in the School of Natural Sciences.

SIFE Scholarship

Awarded to selected FPU students for their exemplary participation in Students Free Enterprise.

Summer Harvest Scholarship

Awarded to selected FPU students by the Office of Spiritual Formation staff for their leadership in ministry.

Theater

2.0 GPA, audition. Must agree to continued participation in theater at Fresno Pacific University. Contact the theater advisor for more information.

On-Campus Housing Requirement

Any traditional undergraduate student receiving FPU institutional aid equal to 80% or more of the current cost of tuition will be required to live on campus. Faculty/staff tuition waivers from FPU's employee benefits program will not be counted toward the 80% requirement.

Degree Completion

Church Match Scholarship

Fresno Pacific University will match gifts from a student's church up to $250 per semester, not to exceed $500 for the year. Gifts from the Pacific District Mennonite Brethren Churches are matched two to one. Contact the Student Financial Services Office for details about the church match scholarship policy and specific deadlines. 

FPU Donor Scholarships

Alumni, parents, friends, businesses and foundations have generously provided a special set of scholarships available to students attending Fresno Pacific. These scholarships are vital to FPU. Applications can be found online at: scholarships.fresno.edu. Deadlines vary by student population.

Public Grants–State Grants

Cal Grant

Cal Grant is a program of the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC). Award amounts are determined annually by the passing of a final State of California budget; all Cal Grant awards listed on an offer letter are to be considered estimated until the final budget is passed into law by the California legislature. If the amount on the offer letter is different than the amount approved by the legislature, financial aid staff will be required to re-award the student, including the state-approved amount.

CSAC notifies new Cal Grant recipients whether they have been awarded an entitlement or a competitive Cal Grant. A student can only receive one type of Cal Grant; at FPU a student may receive a Cal Grant A or a Cal Grant B, but not both. These awards by CSAC are based on the student's first submitted FAFSA or California Dream Act Application, as applicable. If a student changes FAFSA or CA Dream Act Application information, or the student is selected for verification and submits required paperwork to FPU that requires changes to their application, Cal Grant eligibility may be lost if a student no longer meets the eligibility requirements set forth by CSAC. All Dream Act students must complete an AB540 Affidavit annually to maintain Cal Grant eligibility.

Cal Grant A

This state-sponsored program helps students who have financial need with tuition expenses (the tuition amount does not cover the cost of tuition at FPU). Award amounts and recipients are selected by the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) on the basis of need and academic ability. Undergraduate students with a GPA of 3.0 or higher are encouraged to apply. Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or CA Dream Act Application, as applicable, and have their GPA verification sent to CSAC by March 2. There is a secondary deadline of September 2 for students enrolled in community college in the fall semester, and planning to transfer to FPU for the spring semester.

Cal Grant B

Similar to Cal Grant A, this program is intended for students who demonstrate significant financial need. During the first year of the award, Cal Grant B provides an access/stipend amount. The stipend will automatically be applied to the recipient's student account to assist in offsetting direct expenses. If the student prefers, the entire access/stipend may be given directly to the student by contacting the Student Financial Services Office. The student has the ability to rescind his/her existing instructions at any time. During the second and subsequent years, Cal Grant B includes the access/stipend amount and a tuition amount (the tuition amount does not cover the cost of tuition at FPU).

Undergraduate students with a GPA of 2.0 or higher are encouraged to apply. Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or CA Dream Act Application, as applicable, and have their GPA verification sent to CSAC by March 2. There is a secondary deadline of September 2 for students enrolled in community college in the fall semester, and planning to transfer to FPU for the spring semester.

Application Process for New Cal Grants

Students must have submitted a FAFSA (fafsa.gov) or CA Dream Act Application by March 2, and a verified grade-point average (GPA) to the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) by the same date. High school seniors must request that their high school provide this information to CSAC. High school students who participated in a home school program or who attended an unaccredited high school should follow instructions on the Cal Grant GPA Verification Form available at csac.ca.gov/. Current FPU students who are California residents and who have completed 24 or more degree-applicable college units will have their GPA automatically submitted to CSAC during the last week of February for Cal Grant consideration for the next academic year.

Renewal Cal Grants

All Cal Grant recipients must meet income and asset ceilings and family size limits established annually by CSAC in order to have their Cal Grant renewed. Renewal Cal Grant recipients must maintain at least $1,500 of need based on the information provided on the FAFSA or CA Dream Act Application, as applicable, for each subsequent academic year. Eligible students may renew a Cal Grant award for up to four academic years. Submission of a verified GPA is not required to renew a Cal Grant.

Chafee Grant

The California Chafee Grant program provides an additional stipend to current or former foster youth who meet certain requirements set forth by the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC). The grant is a federally funded program and is subject to the availability of federal funds each year.

Students with Dependent Children Grant

The Students with Dependent Children Grant increases the Cal Grant award by up to $6,000 for qualifying Cal Grant A or B recipients who have dependent children that are under 18 years of age for whom they provide more than half of their financial support during the academic year. 

Federal Grants

Pell Grant

Pell Grant is a federal program intended to assist undergraduate students demonstrating significant financial need to gain access to higher education. Awards are based on financial need and may be used only for a course of study that culminates in a first undergraduate degree. Pell Grant determination is based on eligibility as determined by the FAFSA. Complete the FAFSA online at fafsa.gov.

Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG)

SEOG is a federally sponsored program also designed to assist students pursuing their first undergraduate degree. Awards are based on financial need and availability. This program is administered through the Student Financial Services Office. Funds are limited and awarded until exhausted.

Loans

A loan is a type of financial aid that must be repaid. Loan funds are intended to assist a student with educational expenses only. A student should consider their future loan debt and ability to repay before they commit to borrowing. For each loan program described below, entrance counseling, a time when students must read about loan debt and future possible implications, must be completed.

Direct Student Loan

Subsidized and unsubsidized loans are available to undergraduate students. The loan is obtained from the Department of Education, working in cooperation with the Student Financial Services Office. Additional unsubsidized loans are available to independent undergraduate and dependent undergraduate students whose parents are unable to qualify for a PLUS loan. An origination fee and guarantee fee may be deducted from the student's loan disbursement by the lender in order to help defray the costs of the program. These are mandated by federal regulations and thus processing times may be influenced by changes initiated by the U.S. Department of Education. Please check with Student Financial Services for loan limits.

Students returning to work on a second undergraduate degree will be able to apply for federal student loans. There is an aggregate loan limit for undergraduate studies. This limit is not extended for students returning for a second undergraduate degree.

The Direct loan is typically more advantageous to the student than a private/alternative loan. It is recommended that students complete a FAFSA to be considered for direct loans before pursuing this type of loan. Various loan cancellation options through a variety of organizations are available for borrowers who enter certain occupations.

PLUS Loans

PLUS loans are available to parents of dependent undergraduate students and graduate students. Parents may borrow up to the cost of education minus financial aid per academic year. This program is not based on financial need; however, all borrowers must meet credit analysis standards set by the lending institution. These loans are subject to origination fees by the lender. Repayment begins 60 days following the full disbursement of the loan. The borrower is generally allowed up to 10 years to repay the loan with a minimum $600 annual repayment. It is recommended that students complete a FAFSA to be considered for Direct Student Loans before pursuing this type of loan.

Alternative/Private Loans

In addition to Direct Student Loans and PLUS loans other credit-based education loans are available to assist students with the cost of education. Contact the Student Financial Services Office for more information. It is recommended that students complete a FAFSA to be considered for Direct loans before pursuing this type of loan.

Other Aid Programs

Federal Direct Loan Forgiveness Program for Future Teachers

Students who teach full-time for five consecutive years in a designated low-income school may apply for loan forgiveness. For eligibility requirements and more information, contact the Department of Education at 800-433-3243 or studentaid.ed.gov or your student loan lender.

Veterans Benefits

Fresno Pacific University is approved by the California State Approving Agency for Veterans Education (CSAAVE) for the education of veterans, active duty personnel, reservists and eligible dependents under current law and has been approved in the Yellow Ribbon program. Benefit programs for veterans include: Chapter 30 (Montgomery GI Bill), Chapter 31 (Vocational Rehabilitation), Chapter 1606 (Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve or MGIB- SR), Chapter 33 (Post 9-11 GI Bill), Chapter 1607 (Reserve Educational Assistance or REAP), Chapter 33 (Survivors and Dependents Assistance) and Tuition Assistance (TA). The Registrar's Office is the point of contact for students receiving benefits from the CSAAVE. The office has a certification specialist, School Certifying Official, to assist in providing information about entitlements, filing claims to the DVA and certifying enrollment. This specialist monitors the academic progress of students receiving DVA educational benefits. Students who receive DVA benefits are subject to different academic regulations and should be aware that auditing courses, enrollment status, withdrawals, repeating courses, changing degree programs, adding majors and minors and other actions may affect eligibility for educational benefits.

Employment

Federal Work-Study (FWS)

Federal work-study is a federally sponsored employment program that enables students to gain employment experience while earning a portion of their financial aid. The Career Services Center and Personnel Office are responsible for coordinating on-campus jobs. Students may work no more than 20 hours per week during regular school sessions and no more than 40 hours per week during vacation periods. Federal work-study funds are available only to students who demonstrate financial need. Note that a work-study award is not a guarantee of employment. Every effort will be made to place all awarded students. Scheduling conflicts and other problems may, however, make employment an impractical alternative. 

Institutional Work-Study (IWS)

Institutional work-study is similar to FWS but is funded totally by Fresno Pacific University. Opportunity is given to students who are unable to qualify for FWS and/or off-campus employment. Students may apply for open positions through the Career Services Center.