Step-by-step to financial aid: graduates

Step 1: File the FAFSA

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the most important step in the financial aid process. It’s the best way to maximize the aid you receive. Visit FAFSA.gov for detailed instructions and a helpful video. Some important information to consider when completing the FAFSA:

• Priority filing date: April 1
• FAFSA must be completed each year
• You don’t need to be admitted to NAU to file the FAFSA
• Use NAU’s school code: 001082

Note for undocumented students: If you’re not eligible to complete the FAFSA, you can file the CSS Profile using NAU school code 4006.

Step 2: Use the Net Price Calculator

Want a customized estimate of what it might cost to attend NAU? Our Net Price Calculator gives you a personalized estimate and it can even match you with potential scholarships and aid.

Step 3: Look for your financial aid in LOUIE

Once you’ve been awarded financial aid, log into your LOUIE Student Center to view your scholarships, loans, and any additional items on your To Do List.

• Accept or decline your Graduate Unsubsidized Loan award through the LOUIE “Finances” menu.
• Apply for the Graduate PLUS Loan if needed—this loan requires a separate application and approval through StudentAid.gov.
• Complete your Graduate Loan Entrance Counseling and Master Promissory Note (MPN) at StudentAid.gov.

Step 4: Browse other financial aid options for graduate students

• Graduate waivers: Tuition and health insurance waivers are manually awarded by the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid based on information from the Office of Graduate and Professional Studies and your hiring department. Questions about these waivers should be directed to the Graduate College.
• Scholarships: Use ScholarshipUniverse to match with and apply for graduate scholarships.
• Graduate assistantships: Graduate Assistant (GA) positions offer financial support while gaining professional experience.
• Health Professions students: Talk to your advisor about eligibility for the Health Resources and Services Administration Scholarship.
• WRGP (Western Regional Graduate Program): Qualifying out-of-state students may be eligible for in-state tuition rates.

A few more things to note

• Stay on top of it: Your LOUIE To Do List and NAU/personal email accounts are where you’ll find key reminders and next steps—check them often.
• Meeting the criteria: Federal financial aid comes with requirements. Make sure you meet the basic financial aid eligibility standards to receive and keep your aid.
• Know your deadlines: There are specific dates and deadlines to apply for aid and scholarships. Mark them on your calendar so you don’t miss out.
• Timing of disbursement: Aid funds are sent out shortly before classes start. Review how aid disbursement works and when to expect your money.
• Keep your aid: Maintaining financial aid means keeping up your academic progress. Learn how your Satisfactory Academic Progress SAP status is reviewed and what it means for your aid.

Have questions? Reach out to us at 928-523-4951 or financial.aid@nau.edu.

Haven’t applied to NAU yet? Submit your graduate application when you’re ready. Starting your FAFSA early can still help you get the most aid possible.