Costs & Aid

Yes, college can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be excessive. At USF, we work with students and families to find ways to keep costs down. Our goal – in keeping with our Franciscan mission and values – is to make our high-quality education as accessible and affordable as possible.

Use the information on this page as a resource and guide. And remember, we’re here to help. For questions or assistance, contact us at [email protected] or 260-399-8003.

USF Is Affordable

Tuition at USF for the 2023-24 academic year is $35,420. Combined with fees, room and board, that adds up to $46,660. Yes, that number is large, but for most families at USF, it is not the number that they actually pay. Once scholarships, grants, and student loans have been applied, the amount left is the actual cost, which often times is less than the original sticker price.

While the actual cost of USF is different for each family, based on merit, need levels and other eligibility criteria, the average financial aid package for full time undergraduate students last year was $29,988.

How To Apply for Aid

Title IV student aid programs (including federal grants, loans, Work Study, and some scholarships) are determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which must be submitted annually. By completing the FAFSA, you will be automatically considered for a Federal Pell Grant.

Students and families can file the FAFSA as early as October 1 (using prior-prior year income, per the Department of Education). The State of Indiana deadline and USF’s preferred cut-off date for completing a FAFSA is April 15, annually.

A College Education is Worth the Investment

Fact 1. Any funds invested in your higher education will yield a high rate of return.

Per the Bureau of Labor Statistics:

• Average earning with a college degree: $66,600/year
• Average earning with a high school diploma: $38,900/year
• Increase in salary: 71%

Fact 2. Lifetime earnings soar with a college degree

• A bachelor’s degree will yield $900,000 more than a high school degree
• A graduate degree will yield $1.5 million more

Fact 3. Your USF education will set you up for success – in your life and career.

• 95% of the class of 2018 are either employed, in the military, or enrolled in additional education

Every year, numerous USF seniors are hired into professional jobs before graduation!

Ways to Fund Your Education

The Office of Financial Aid administers all Title IV student aid (federal grants, loans,  Work Study, and some scholarships). Start by knowing your options and what they mean.

• Grants: both state and federal
• Scholarships: including University funded and private scholarships
• Loans: including low-interest federal loans for students and parents
• Student Employment: Federal Work Study and on-campus employment.
• Veteran Benefits: including the Yellow Ribbon program and our own matching grant

Other Options: Many students also off-set costs through

• Student Leadership, which includes paid positions for Resident Assistant, Peer Mentor, Student Activities Council, Peer Minister, and Student Government.
• Internships, research, and other experiential learning opportunities. Not only do these experiences provide real-world learning and connections, but many pay (and/or offer academic credit).
  • 93% of students complete internships, research, clinicals, and other forms of real-world learning.

USF prepared me for a great future. I learned more than academics. I learned how to pursue my dreams. Everyone there believed in me and that taught me to believe in myself. USF works really hard to help students meet their goals. As students, we matter.

Irish Starkey ‘21

Flexible Payment Options

USF offers a variety of flexible payment plans, which allow for smaller, more affordable payments. Options include plans ranging from 3-6 monthly payments. Contact the Student One Stop for questions regarding payments.