Applying for Aid: Steps and Deadlines

The total tuition cost to attend Biola isn’t the end of the story. Financial aid can significantly decrease your true yearly cost, which is why it’s important to pay close attention to the financial aid process. There are specific applications and forms you’ll need to fill out, as well as key deadlines to meet — and we’re here to help you through the process, start to finish.

Steps for Financial Aid

Get started on the financial aid process by finishing the steps below. You'll receive a financial aid offer letter when you're accepted.

1. Complete and submit your Biola University application.

   Before you begin the financial aid process, make sure to complete and submit your Biola University application.

2. Complete your FAFSA form.

   Enter Biola University’s federal code (001122) to send information to Biola. Please see additional/alternative instructions for specific student groups:

   • California Residents

     Students who live in California (or have established residency for at least one year through the official state process) should also submit their Cal Grant GPA Verification Form, which can help them earn additional aid (Note: The FAFSA deadline for Cal Grant eligibility is April 2).
     
     All Cal Grant applicants must complete the Cal Grant GPA Verification Form. High school seniors (who have not already completed 24 college credits) by the April 2 Cal Grant application deadline should coordinate with their high school to submit the GPA Verification Form. Students who have completed 24 college credits by the April 2 Cal Grant application deadline should coordinate with their college’s Office of the Registrar to complete the GPA Verification Form.

   • Homeschooled California Residents

     If you are a homeschooled student who is also a California Resident, the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) requires that you submit SAT or ACT test scores in lieu of a high school GPA to determine your Cal Grant eligibility. In addition to completing your FAFSA, you must submit your test scores along with a Cal Grant GPA Verification form to CSAC prior to the April 2nd Cal Grant application deadline to be considered for the grant. This form can be found on the CSAC website.

   • Dream Act Students

     Eligible AB 540 students may complete the California Dream Act Application, which allows students interested in attending eligible California universities to apply for state financial aid. This application is unrelated to the federal Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program.

   • Veterans

     In addition to the FAFSA or Dream Act Application, please submit your certificate of eligibility for any of your military benefits to:

     • Office of Registrar
       13800 Biola Avenue
       La Mirada CA, 90639

   • International Students

     In order to be eligible for restricted scholarships, international students must complete the general application for restricted scholarships, in addition to either the 2021 International Student Financial Need Application or the 2021 International Student Financial Need Application. Together, these two forms help the Office of Financial Aid determine which restricted scholarships you are eligible for.

3. Complete and submit all documents requested by the Office of Financial Aid.

   The Office of Financial Aid needs to complete your financial aid profile to help determine your aid amount. Be sure to pay close attention to any notifications or requests our office sends your way through your My Account profile.

4. Apply for additional financial aid opportunities.

   In addition to financial aid awards based on the FAFSA or alternative forms, you can also explore additional financial aid opportunities including departmental scholarships, outside (non-Biola) scholarships, as well as private loans. Please note that some students will not be considered for additional aid if they have not yet completed their financial aid file.

5. Make plans for your time at Biola.

   Once you’ve received and accepted your financial aid offer, you can start making plans for your future at Biola — including which payment plan you’ll select (and noting key payment deadlines), and more.

Important Dates to Remember

When can you expect to hear about your financial aid offer? When are forms and applications due? We’ve mapped out the important dates for you, so pay close attention to the following steps and mark your calendars. Don’t miss out on deadlines for important forms like the FAFSA and California Dream Act Application.