Tuition and Financial Aid FAQ

Tuition and Billing

How much does the @WashULaw program cost?
Tuition is based on the number of credits for which you register. Current tuition rates can be found on the @WashULaw Tuition and Financial Aid page.

Are there additional fees assessed on top of tuition?
There is a fee associated with the immersion courses that are offered twice a year. The fee is not set, it increases each year.

How much is the enrollment deposit?
There is a $600 non-refundable enrollment deposit due once admitted.

Can I use financial aid to cover the deposit?
No, federal student aid cannot be used to pay the deposit.

Will I be able to view my award package before submitting the deposit?
No, your student record is not created until the enrollment deposit is paid. Once the deposit is paid and your record is created, you will have the ability to register for classes and view your reward offer, which must occur before any financial aid package is generated.

When will I receive a tuition bill and when is payment due?
Students are billed for tuition and fees per semester prior to the beginning of that semester. Tuition and fees are due in full by the statement due date. If payment is not received by the date specified on the bill, a monthly finance charge will be assessed.

How do I view my bill?
To view your bill, log onto your WebSTAC account and go to Billing Records and Pay/View My Bill.

What are the accepted forms of payment?
Washington University billing statements are issued by the Student Accounting office and are due by semester. Students can make a tuition payment online or in person. Please review the Methods of Payment for more information.

How does my employer go about paying the school?
If your employer is paying all or part of your tuition and fees, please contact Student Accounting by phone at (800) 758-0050 or via email at student.billing@wustl.edu to discuss Third-Party Billing and payments.

Are payment plan options available for online students?
Payment plans are not available for graduate students at Washington University in St. Louis.

What are the consequences if my tuition bill is not paid when classes begin?
Tuition and fees are due in full by the statement due date. Balances remaining on the account after the due date will be subject to a 2% late fee each month the outstanding balance remains on the account.

If I’m eligible to receive a refund, what is the process?
Students have the option to receive refunds via direct deposit or check. Visit the Financial Services site for more information on student refunds.

What is the Title IV Authorization?
By completing the Title IV Authorization, found in my faa access, WashU can apply your federal student aid to all your charges.

Who can I contact at @WashULaw for billing and payment questions?
You may contact LeAndra Parker, Assistant Director of Financial Aid & Student Life, via email at parkerlm@wustl.edu.

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WashU Student Account Set Up

What is my WashULaw user account?
Your user account is your WebSTAC. This will allow access to student services, your WashU email, and your WashU student portal.

When will I get access to my WashU User Account?
Students gain access to WebSTAC via an automated email from the school, which they should receive a few days after enrolling. In this email, students are prompted to set up their username and password at that time. It also contains a link to access their Office 365 email account, which they use the same username and password for.

What is the WashU student portal?
The WashULaw student portal is MyCanvas. Your MyCanvas account includes access to academic records, billing, financial aid, direct deposit set up, and more. You will need your WUSTL Key ID and password to log into your student portal.

Financial Aid at WashU

Does WashULaw offer internal scholarships to online students?
Students may qualify for select competitive awards offered by the Washington University School of Law or can identify private independent scholarships for which they can apply separately of the law school application or the federal aid process.

Are there WashULaw specific supplemental financial aid forms I need to complete?
WashULaw does not require any school specific supplemental forms. If you are a new student, and are planning to apply for federal student aid, you will need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), Entrance Counseling and the Loan Agreement Master Promissory Note (MPN) on the Federal Student Aid website.

What federal student aid is available to graduate students?
The types of federal student aid graduate students are eligible to apply for include the Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan and the Federal Direct Graduate PLUS loan. Learn more about the types of federal student aid.

Why are graduate students not eligible for the Federal Pell Grant or the Federal Subsidized Loan?
The Department of Education awards Federal Pell Grants and Direct Subsidized Loans to eligible undergraduate students who demonstrate financial need and have not yet completed their bachelor’s degrees. The Department of Education does not evaluate need or income for loans at the graduate or professional level. Therefore, graduate students are not eligible for the Federal Pell Grant nor the Direct Subsidized Loan.

Are there academic standards I must meet to continue to receive federal student aid?
Students must maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) to continue receiving financial aid. This is generally defined as maintaining a 2.0 GPA and earning enough credits to graduate on time.

What is the minimum number of credits required to receive federal student aid?
Students need to be part time (4.5 credits) in order to receive federal financial aid.

How do I determine full-time, part-time, or half-time enrollment in this program?
Students who are enrolled in at least 4.5 credits every term are considered part-time. Students enrolled in 9 credits or more every term are considered full-time. In the summer term only, at least 3 credits are considered part-time, and 6 credits are considered full-time.

What are private loans?
Private education loans, also known as alternative loans, are offered by private lenders to help students bridge the gap between the cost of education and the amount the government allows you to borrow in federal loans. Lenders offer private educational loans with different rates, fees, repayment terms, and approval requirements.

Are private loans offered at WashU?
Wash does not offer private loans. Private loans are offered by private banks based on your credit score. These loans tend to have higher interest rates than government loans. We encourage our students to pursue all options for federal student aid before considering a private loan.

When will I receive my financial aid award?
Financial aid awards are typically prepared within 21 business days if a FAFSA is on file for the year. Once the deposit is paid and your record is created, you will have the ability to register for classes, which must occur before any financial aid package is generated.

How do I accept my financial aid award?
Once your award offer is available, you will receive notification to your WashU email address directing you to accept the award on the Student Financial Service website.

Am I required to accept the full amount that I am offered on my award letter?
No, you do not have to accept the full amount offered. Students are encouraged to borrow only what is needed. You can choose to accept all, part or none of your financial aid award.

Does my Direct Loan eligibility cover the entire cost of the program?
Assuming you are eligible for both the Direct Unsubsidized loan and the Direct Graduate PLUS loan, you may borrow for tuition and fees in full for the current academic year you are enrolled in.

How soon will loans disburse to my student account?
Federal student loans do not disburse earlier than 10 days prior to the start of classes.

Can I use loans to cover additional expenses such as living expenses, books, supplies, etc.?
The total cost of attendance (COA) for the academic year includes tuition and fees. If you have eligibility for additional loan funds based on your COA, you are able to use those resources to cover expenses such as books, supplies, etc.

Is there an immersion required for this program? If so, will I be able to use the loan funds to cover these expenses?
There is no immersion required for this program.

Who can I contact at WashU for financial aid questions?
If you have any questions about tuition and financial aid at WashU, you may contact LeAndra Parker, Assistant Director of Financial Aid & Student Life, by phone at 314-935-6421 or via email at parkerlm@wustl.edu.

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Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

What is the FAFSA?
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the application the Department of Education uses to determine if you are eligible to receive federal student aid.

Where can I find the FAFSA?
The FAFSA is available online at FAFSA.ed.gov. The FAFSA is a FREE application; You will not be asked to pay.

What is the University FAFSA school code?
The WashULaw FAFSA school code is 002520.

Do I need my parents’ tax information to complete the FAFSA?
If you are applying for graduate school, you are considered an independent student, and do not need to include your parents’ information to complete the FAFSA.

What is the Expected Family Contribution (EFC)?
The Expected Family Contribution (EFC) is a measurement of your ability to contribute toward your educational costs. As a graduate/professional student your EFC is not a factor in your eligibility for federal student loans.

When should I complete the FAFSA?
The FAFSA is available every October 1st for the upcoming academic year. New students planning to use federal student aid should complete a FAFSA while applying for admission. Continuing students will need to submit a FAFSA each year they plan to receive federal student aid.

Please reference the chart below to determine which FAFSA to complete based on your desired start date:

StartTermFAFSA Year
January 2024
Winter
2023-2024
April 2024
Spring
2023-2024
July 2024
Summer
2024-2025
October 2024
Fall
2024-2025
January 2025
Winter
2024-2025
April 2025
Spring
2024-2025

Yes. Because eligibility for federal student aid does not carry over from one award year to the next, you will need to complete the FAFSA for each award year for which you are or plan to be a student.

What constitutes an academic year for federal student aid?
An academic year is the year for which financial aid is used to fund your education. Generally, this is the 12-month period that begins on July 1 of one year and ends on June 30 of the following year.

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Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan

What is the Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan?
The Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan is a federal loan offered to students to help with the cost of education. The Federal Unsubsidized Loan is not based on income or financial need.

What criteria is used to determine eligibility for federal student aid?
The Direct Unsubsidized Loan is not based on income. In order to apply for federal student aid, you must:

  • Be U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen
  • Have a valid SSN
  • Be registered with Selective Service if you’re male (must register between the ages of 18-25)
  • Be enrolled or accepted for enrollment in an eligible degree program
  • Be enrolled at least half-time in an eligible program
  • Maintain satisfactory academic progress
  • Not currently be in default on previous student loans or overpayment in Pell Grant
  • Not have exceeded the maximum aggregate loan limit

Learn more about federal student aid eligibility criteria at StudentAid.ed.gov.

What is the aggregate loan limit?
The aggregate loan limit is the total amount that you may borrow in federal student loans for undergraduate and graduate study. In addition to borrowing limitations based on the cost of attendance for the program, students are also limited in terms of lifetime borrowing. The maximum aggregate loan limit for federal loans is $138,500. This amount does not include PLUS loans, nor private loans.

If the total loan amount you receive over the course of your education reaches the aggregate loan limit, you are not eligible to receive additional loans. However, if you repay some of your loans to bring your outstanding loan debt below the aggregate loan limit, you could then borrow again, up to the amount of your remaining eligibility under the aggregate loan limit. You can learn more about graduate annual loan limits on the Federal Student Aid website.

How do I find out if I am near my aggregate loan limit or have defaulted on a federal student loan?
Log in on the StudentAid.gov homepage to view your federal student loan borrowing history and loan servicer details. Please note that private education loans are not listed on this site. Students in default are not eligible for additional federal loans. Contact your lender for default resolution options.

What is the difference between a Direct Unsubsidized Loan and a Direct Subsidized loan?
Direct Subsidized Loans are available to undergraduate students with financial need. The U.S. Department of Education pays the interest on subsidized loans while students are enrolled in their undergraduate program. The Direct Unsubsidized Loan are available to undergraduate and graduate students; there is no requirement to demonstrate financial need. The Unsubsidized loan begins accruing interest as soon as funds are disbursed. Learn more about the difference between unsubsidized and subsidized loans.

How much am I eligible for in the Direct Unsubsidized Loan?
Most graduate level students are potentially eligible to receive up to $20,500 per academic year in the Direct Unsubsidized Loan. Learn more about graduate annual loan limits.

How do I apply for the Direct Unsubsidized Loan?
To apply for the Direct Unsubsidized Loan, you must complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

What is the current Direct Unsubsidized Loan interest rate?
The Direct Unsubsidized Loan interest rate is determined on an annual basis. Learn more about interest rates on the Federal Student Aid website.

Are there any additional loan fees for the Direct Unsubsidized Loan?
There is a loan origination fee that is a percentage of the total loan amount. The loan origination fee is deducted proportionately from each loan disbursement you receive. Information on Unsubsidized loan origination fees can be found on the Interest Rates and Fees page of the Federal Student Aid website.

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Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan

What is the Direct Graduate PLUS Loan?
The Direct Graduate PLUS Loan is a federal loan that graduate or professional degree students can use to help pay education expenses in addition to the Direct Unsubsidized Loan. Learn about Direct PLUS Loans.

Do Direct PLUS Loans affect my aggregate loan limit?
Only Direct Subsidized/Direct Unsubsidized Loans, (formerly referred to as Stafford loans) and federal loans made through the Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) Program count towards your aggregate loan limit.

What are the eligibility criteria to apply for the Direct Graduate PLUS Loan?
A credit check will be conducted when applying for the Direct Graduate PLUS Loan. In addition to the federal student aid eligibility criteria, applicants cannot have an adverse credit history.

What are the credit criteria to receive the Direct Graduate PLUS Loan?
One of the eligibility requirements to receive a Graduate PLUS Loan is that you must not have an adverse credit history. A credit check is performed to determine whether a Graduate PLUS Loan applicant meets this requirement.

How much can I borrow from the Direct Graduate PLUS Loan?
If approved for the Grad PLUS Loan, you can borrow up to the cost of attendance as determined by WashU.

When can I apply for the Direct Graduate PLUS Loan?
You can apply for the Graduate PLUS loan within 180 days prior to the start of your program or once you are enrolled.

How do I apply for the Direct Graduate PLUS Loan?
In order to apply for the Direct Graduate PLUS loan, you must first complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Once you have completed the FAFSA, apply for the Direct Graduate PLUS Loan by completing the credit application on the federal student aid website. Also complete the Graduate PLUS Loan Agreement Master Promissory Note (MPN).

What are the next steps if I’m approved for the Direct Graduate PLUS Loan?
If approved, complete the Graduate PLUS Loan Agreement Master Promissory Note (MPN) on the Federal Student Aid website.

What are my options if I’m denied the Direct Graduate PLUS Loan?
If you are denied the Graduate PLUS loan, you may reapply with an endorser or follow the instructions on the Department of Education’s website to appeal the denial.

What is the Direct Graduate PLUS Loan current interest rate?
The Direct Graduate PLUS Loan interest rate is determined at the beginning of each academic year, and is available on the Federal Student Aid website’s Interest Rates and Fees page.

Are there any additional loan fees for the Direct Graduate PLUS Loan?
There is a loan origination fee that is a percentage of the total loan amount. The loan origination fee is deducted proportionately from each loan disbursement you receive. Information on PLUS loan origination fees can be found on the Interest Rates and Fees page of the Federal Student Aid website.

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Loan Repayment

Do I have to repay my student loans while I’m in school?
You can defer payment on your federal student loans if you are enrolled at least half-time. You should be aware that although you can defer payments while you are in school, interest will still accrue on your loan(s).

Your Unsubsidized Loan will go into repayment six months after you graduate, fall below half-time status, take a leave of absence or withdraw from the program. Most private loans also have deferred payment options while you are in school; however, you will need to check with your loan servicer.

When do I have to repay my loan?
After you graduate, leave school or drop below half-time enrollment, you will have a six-month grace period before you are required to begin repayment. During this period, you’ll receive repayment information from your loan servicer, and you will be notified of your first payment due date. Payments are usually due monthly. You are not required to pay while in school, however if you choose to, there is no penalty to prepay. Learn more about repayment timelines.

What are the repayment plan options and how do I select one?
The Department of Education (DOE) offers multiple options for repayment. You may visit the DOE website for more information on loan repayment plans.

Is there a repayment calculator or estimator that I can use?
Yes, visit the DOE website for repayment calculators.

Can I consolidate my graduate loans and my undergraduate loans?
A Direct Consolidation Loan allows you to consolidate (combine) multiple federal education loans into one loan including both graduate and undergraduate loans. The result is a single monthly payment instead of multiple payments. Learn more about loan consolidation.

Are there any loan forgiveness options available?
In certain circumstances, all or a portion of a borrower’s federal student loans may be forgiven under the federal government’s loan forgiveness program. Please review the Department of Education website for more information on federal loan forgiveness programs.

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Military Education Benefits

How do I apply for military education benefits?
To begin the process of applying for eligible military education benefits, visit the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs website. Questions regarding eligibility should be directed to the VA at 1-(888)-442-4551.

What documents are required to process military education benefits?
Visit VA.gov to access and manage your VA education benefits. If you are applying for Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits, complete the Education Benefits Application, which generates a request for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE). The COE is mailed to you within 6-8 weeks from submitting the application. A copy of the COE must be provided to the Office of Military & Veteran Services.

Will my military benefits cover the entire cost of the program?
Please visit the GI Bill comparison tool to view what your VA benefits will cover at WashULaw.

What are the eligibility factors for the Post-9/11 GI bill?
You are potentially eligible if you have at least 90 days of aggregate active duty service after Sept.10, 2001, and are still on active duty, or if you are an honorably discharged Veteran or were discharged with a service-connected disability after 30 days, you may be eligible for this VA-administered program. Learn more about the Post-9/11 GI Bill.

How is the Post-9/11 GI Bill® benefit calculated at WashU?
The Office of the University Registrar is responsible for certifying enrollment to the Department of Veterans Affairs.

What are the current rates of benefits including the Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA)?
The tuition and fee payment rate, and MHA are determined at the beginning of each military academic year on August 1st. The current rate table is located on the Education and Training page of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs site.

Because WashU is a private university, students who receive Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits are subject to a maximum tuition and fee reimbursement per academic year (August 1 through July 31). The amount of the national cap changes each year on August 1, and is available to be used from August 1 to July 31 of the following year.

When VA benefits are calculated, the amount of this national cap must be expended before Yellow Ribbon Program benefits can be awarded.

What is the Yellow Ribbon Program (YRP)?
The Yellow Ribbon Program allows degree-granting private colleges and universities in the United States to voluntarily enter into an agreement with the VA to fund tuition expenses that exceed the annual maximum cap for the resident tuition and fees at public institutions. Veterans who are utilizing Post-9/11 GI Benefits and who are entitled to 100% of their benefit may be eligible. To participate in the Yellow Ribbon program, you must be using Post-9/11 GI benefits at 100% eligibility, not on active duty, and not a military spouse.

Does @WashULaw participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program (YRP)?
Washington University participates in the Yellow Ribbon program, which funds the difference between what the Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33) at the 100% rate covers for tuition and fees and the actual tuition and fees to attend the university. Learn more about the Yellow Ribbon Program at WashU.

Who can I contact at Wash U for questions about using Military Education Benefits?
You may contact the Office of Military & Veteran Services via email at VACertifications@wustl.edu or by phone 314-935-2609. For additional information visit the Office of Military & Veteran Services Website.

Tax Benefits for Education

How do I qualify for a tuition tax credit?
For details on tax benefits for education, see IRS Publication 970,  Tax Benefits for Higher Education, which provides detailed information. Washington University in St. Louis is unable to provide tax advice. We urge you to contact your tax advisor or the IRS at 800-829-1040 or www.irs.gov if you have any questions regarding the HOPE or Lifetime Learning Tax Credits.

What is the 1098-T Form?
It is an informational form filed with the Internal Revenue Service to report the amounts billed to you for qualified tuition, related expenses, and other related information. The primary purpose of the IRS Form 1098‐T is to inform you that we have provided this required information to the IRS.

What information is included in the 1098-T Form?
Form 1098-T reports amounts paid for qualified tuition, scholarship and grants processed in 2018 to students enrolled in courses at Washington University in St. Louis for which they receive academic credit. The information reported on the 1098-T form helps students evaluate whether he or she is eligible for an educational tax credit.

How do I obtain my 1098-T Form?
1098-T forms are mailed or e-mailed if the student has opted to receive the form electronically, by January 31. Current year and prior year 1098-T forms are available on CASHNet. Students can log on to WebSTAC under Billing – Pay/View My Bill – 1098-T to view their 1098T’s.

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