Financial Aid Application Process

1. Review Financial Aid Information
   Before completing any forms, review the Financial Aid section of this website. Pay close attention to the applicable deadlines. While you may apply for aid after these posted dates, some aid sources may no longer be available if you apply late.
   
   
2. Complete the FAFSA
   Submit the current Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
   • The California Western School of Law institution code is G13103.
   • After your FAFSA is processed, an electronic version will be sent to each school you listed.
     
     
3. Create Your Financial Aid Portal Account
   Students must be admitted before they can create a financial aid portal account. 
   • Instructions on establishing a login are expected to begin in March. After that time, newly admitted students will typically receive their login information within one week of admission.
   • New users must set up their account using their Social Security Number (SSN) and student ID number.
     • Important: Students who did not provide their SSN on their LSAC application must contact the Admissions Office to update their file before they can create their account.
   • If you forget your password, you may reset it using your security questions.
     Note: Passwords and security questions are case‑sensitive.
     
     
4. Monitor Communication from the Financial Aid Office
   The Office of Financial Aid will begin reviewing FAFSA information in March.
   • You will be notified via email and in the financial aid portal if additional documents, information, or steps are required.
   • It is essential to check your email regularly.
     
     
5. Review Your Financial Aid Offer
   After your eligibility is determined, a financial aid offer letter and instructions for your next steps will be emailed to you.
   
   
6.   Complete Your Financial Aid File
   Your financial aid file is considered complete when your financial aid portal reflects: 
   • All requested documents are received, and
   • All aid has been either accepted or declined.

Once your file is complete, the Financial Aid Office will begin processing your accepted aid.