One of the most confusing aspects of financial aid may be how you receive your money.
- Each type of funding has its individual restrictions for distribution, and most disbursements of financial aid are contingent upon your financial aid file being complete.
- Be sure to submit necessary forms and documents in a timely manner so that your disbursements are not affected.
Most grant and loan funds are divided equally and disbursed at the beginning of each semester but must cover educational expenses for several months. As such, it is very important to budget carefully so that your funds will last until the next disbursement.
- The expected grant and loan disbursement dates are typically mid- to late August for the fall semester and mid-January for the spring semester.
- Generally, one-half of the total award amount (minus any applicable origination fees for loans) will be credited directly to your student account each semester. Please plan accordingly for your living cost needs (rent, utilities, food, etc.).
- Finally, please be aware that financial aid documents that are missing from your financial aid file will prevent the disbursement of your aid. We will notify you regarding necessary documents that are still outstanding. Please make certain to arrange for their prompt submission in order to avoid delays in the disbursement of your aid.
Our Elements of Financial Aid page outlines how various elements of your financial aid award will be disbursed, including:
- Law School Grants
- External Awards
- Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans
- Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loans
- Private Educational Loans
REMINDER: Funds received early in a semester or academic year need to last for several months, and students must budget themselves accordingly.
Please review our Student Refund page for details about refunds from student accounts.