Applying for Financial Aid

Check out our Financial Aid 101 page for more information

As current events unfold, we understand that navigating the financial aid process can seem more uncertain, but rest assured, we are here to support you every step of the way.

Duquesne University's dedicated financial aid professionals are well-versed in the complexities of federal education policies and funding. We have been through various changes to federal and state operations over the years and have successfully helped students and families plan and matriculate at Duquesne.

The fact is: the Secretary of Education, the President, and Congress each play both distinct and related roles in shaping these policies.

Bottom line? Federal student aid is still fully funded for this year, and we are ready to help you access the aid for which you qualify. The Department has clearly stated that "direct to family funding" will not be impacted. As things evolve, we will be in contact, to make sure you are informed every step of the way.

In the meantime, below are resources we have gathered for your knowledge and planning. Remember, you are not alone in this journey. We are here to help you achieve your educational goals and make your Duquesne experience as smooth and rewarding as possible.

DUQ Financial Aid TV (24/7 Video Library) 

Types of Financial Aid, Key Definitions

Duquesne University’s Chatbot is a virtual assistant, available on admissions, financial aid and other University web pages, designed to help students and families quickly find answers to common questions about admissions, financial aid and campus life. 

External Resources:

Federal Student Aid – studentaid.gov 

The office website of the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Federal Student Aid.  It offers detailed information on grants, loans, work-study programs and the application process through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Students can also get information about federal student loans and grants and track their federal financial aid. 

U.S. Department of Education – ed.gov 

The main site for the Department of Education offering a broad range of resources on education policies, programs and financial aid. 

Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency – pheaa.org 

Provides information and tools to navigate funding options, step-by-step instructions on applying for aid, budgeting for college and understanding the financial aid process. 

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Duquesne's code is 003258.

CSS Profile
Families who would like an estimated financial aid package prior to the FAFSA opening can submit a CSS Profile beginning Oct 1. The CSS Profile does not replace the FAFSA for federal aid, but can be helpful when evaluating special circumstances. There is a fee to create a profile, but you may be eligible for the fee waiver. If your parents are divorced or separated, the Noncustodial Parent must complete a separate CSS Profile. Duquesne's School Code is 2196
To receive maximum consideration for aid, students must complete a FAFSA prior to May 1 each year. The earlier the better! Many state agencies, including PA, require a FAFSA for state grant consideration. 
003258. Be sure to also indicate Duquesne as your first choice if you are a PA resident interested in a PA State Grant.
All first-year applicants and transfer applicants are automatically considered for academic scholarships.

First-year students can apply for additional scholarships.

Some graduate programs offer special tuition rates.
Yes. To receive consideration for as many programs as possible all students should file a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).  
If you are a Graduate student (excluding Law) or a part-time student, you must also submit the Duquesne Financial Aid Application.
The only way to determine your eligibility for financial aid is to submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

You can check out the academic scholarship ranges for first-year students and transfer students.
Many variables are considered such as: family size, number of family members in college, age of oldest parent, savings, investments, income, and assets.
Any one of the following will result in your being independent: age is over 23 years; a ward of the court; both parents deceased; a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces; legal dependents (other than a spouse) for which you provide more than half of their support; married at the time of filing; an emancipated minor as determined by your state; were in legal guardianship as determined by your state; or were considered homeless.
The parent you live with should complete the FAFSA. If the parent you live with has remarried, the information of that parent and their new spouse (stepparent) must be used.
If your family's financial circumstances have changed due to death of a parent, divorce or separation or loss of employment, contact the Financial Aid Office to discuss your situation.
The Student Aid Report, or SAR, is generated from the information you submit with your FAFSA. A copy is sent to you and to the college(s) indicated on your FAFSA. It will provide you with how much the government expects you to contribute (Student Aid Index or SAI).