Looking for DePaul University financial aid? Learn how to apply, key deadlines, scholarships, grants, work-study, and insider tips to lower your tuition costs today.
Why Financial Aid at DePaul Is a Game-Changer
DePaul University is one of Chicago’s most prestigious private institutions. But let’s face it—tuition isn’t cheap. The good news? More than 95% of DePaul students receive some form of financial aid.
Whether you’re a first-time freshman or a returning student, navigating the aid process can feel overwhelming. This guide will help you decode it all—from FAFSA to full tuition coverage.
💸 Tuition at DePaul: Can You Afford It Without Aid?
The average tuition and fees at DePaul for undergraduates is around $44,000 per year. Add room, board, and books, and you’re easily over $60,000 annually. But most students never pay full price. That’s where financial aid steps in.
📝 How to Apply for Financial Aid at DePaul
✅ Step-by-Step FAFSA & CSS Profile Checklist
Here’s how to apply:
- Submit the FAFSA at studentaid.gov using DePaul’s code: 001671
- (If required) Submit the CSS Profile via CollegeBoard
- Check your DePaul student portal for additional requirements.
- Upload any documents the financial aid office requests.
💡 Pro Tip: Apply early. DePaul uses FAFSA data to award need-based scholarships!
📆 Key Deadlines You Can’t Afford to Miss
| Application Type | Deadline |
|---|---|
| FAFSA Opens | October 1 |
| Priority Deadline | February 1 |
| Regular Aid Review | Rolling admissions |
| Appeal Submission | Within 30 days of aid award |
🎓 Graduate vs Undergraduate: What’s the Process?
While undergraduates use FAFSA and merit-based aid, graduate students often apply separately for assistantships, fellowships, or department-specific funding. Always check with your program advisor.
💰 Types of Financial Aid You Can Get at DePaul
🏅 Scholarships at DePaul – Need-Based & Merit-Based
- DePaul Freshman Scholarships: Automatically considered with your admission.
- College-specific awards (e.g., Business, Law, Liberal Arts)
- Catholic Heritage Scholarships and Leadership Awards
Many scholarships are renewable, so maintain your GPA!
📚 Grants and Loans You Should Know About
- Pell Grants (for low-income families)
- MAP Grants (Illinois residents)
- DePaul Institutional Grants
- Federal Direct Subsidized/Unsubsidized Loans
- PLUS Loans for parents or grad students
🧑💼 Work-Study Programs: Earn While You Learn
DePaul offers federal work-study jobs both on-campus and off. These part-time roles help reduce student debt while offering valuable experience.
🌍 Aid for International Students: What’s Available?
Though not eligible for federal aid, international students can apply for:
- DePaul merit-based scholarships
- External scholarships like EducationUSA, Fulbright, or DAAD
- On-campus employment (20 hrs/week)
🔍 Insider Tips to Maximize Your Financial Aid
📈 5 Powerful Ways to Boost Your Aid Package
- Apply early — more money is awarded to early applicants.
- Highlight family changes (job loss, medical bills) in appeals.
- Apply for external scholarships — even $500 awards add up.
- Ask your department for program-specific scholarships.
- Maintain academic excellence for renewal and bonus merit aid.
🗣️ Don’t Settle: How to Appeal Your Aid Decision
If your financial situation changed after submitting the FAFSA (e.g., a parent’s job loss), DePaul allows aid appeals. Write a clear letter, attach documentation, and submit it ASAP.
🎯 Outside Scholarships You Might Be Missing
Explore:
Many local community orgs and even grocery chains offer scholarships!
☎️ Need Help? How to Reach DePaul’s Financial Aid Office
- Phone: (312) 362-8610
- Email: financialaid@depaul.edu
- Website: DePaul Financial Aid
- Walk-ins: Lincoln Park and Loop campuses available
You can also book a 1:1 virtual advising appointment via Blue Demon Central.
💬 Real Student Experiences with Financial Aid
“I thought DePaul was out of reach. But between scholarships and work-study, I only pay $5,000 a year. They made it possible.”
— Amanda, Class of 2025
“My appeal got me an extra $3,000. Don’t hesitate to ask.”
— Jordan, Graduate Student
📅 Bonus: Your DePaul Financial Aid Timeline
| Month | What To Do |
|---|---|
| Oct–Nov | Submit FAFSA + merit scholarships |
| Jan–Feb | Confirm aid documents + appeals |
| March–May | Compare award letters |
| Summer | Finalize loan options, enroll |
✅ Download our Financial Aid Checklist [here] (Insert PDF link)
❓ FAQs About DePaul University Financial Aid
Is DePaul generous with financial aid?
Yes! Over 95% of undergraduates receive aid. Average grants/scholarships exceed $30,000 per student.
What GPA is needed for DePaul scholarships?
Most scholarships require a minimum 3.0 GPA, but competitive awards go to students with 3.5+.
Can I lose my financial aid?
Yes, if you fall below Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) or violate aid conditions. Always maintain your GPA and credit load.
✅ Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Cost Stop You
If you’re dreaming of attending DePaul, don’t let cost be the barrier. Between federal aid, scholarships, and smart financial planning, DePaul can be more affordable than many public universities.
Start early, ask questions, and use every opportunity. The money is out there — and this guide just showed you how to find it.
👉 Need more help? Bookmark this page or share it with a friend applying to DePaul!
