Your first step to financial aid is to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online and to include Coastal Carolina University's school code (003451) so that our office receives your information. To be considered for need-based scholarships, we must receive your FAFSA before March 1. New students do not need acceptance from Admissions before applying for financial aid.

You should complete a FAFSA every year as soon after October 1 (of the prior year) as possible to ensure the maximum award. Your eligibility will be determined based on:

Financial Need

Your financial need is determined using the following formula: Cost of Attendance - Expected Family Contribution - Outside Scholarships or Other Resources = Need for Financial Aid

The cost of attendance is determined each year by the University and includes not only tuition and fees, but also your room and board, books and supplies, traveling expenses, and cost of living - in other words, the cost of being a student. This number is only for planning purposes and for determining your financial need, which will differ from your actual Coastal Carolina University bill and will vary with each student. It is important to note, however, that the total amount of financial aid a student receives cannot exceed the cost of attendance.

The Expected Family Contribution (EFC) is determined by the Department of Education using your FAFSA information. This is based on your income and assets as well as your parents', unless you are considered independent. If your EFC is more than the cost of attendance then you don't qualify for need-based aid. However, there are other financial aid programs available regardless of your financial need such as the unsubsidized Federal Direct Loan, the Parent PLUS Loan and private loans. If you are an undergraduate, South Carolina resident, once Admissions and Registrar's Office data becomes final, you will be considered for an official LIFE or HOPE scholarship for the upcoming year. This determination will not occur until the conclusion of the current academic year; therefore, official LIFE and HOPE scholarships may not appear on the early award notifications. You may, however, have an estimated LIFE or HOPE scholarship listed. Once LIFE or HOPE scholarships are awarded and official, earlier awards will be updated and you will receive a new award notification via email.