Pre-Health Financial Aid
Learn about financial aid to help you pay for the Pre-Health program.
Financial Aid and Assistance
If you have not already applied, complete the FAFSA to be considered for federal student loans.
Use the following guidelines:
- SFSU school code: 001154
- Grade level: 5th-year or other undergraduate
- Degree or certificate: Other or undecided
Federal aid for post-baccalaureate programs is limited. Because this program awards a certificate, you may receive federal aid for one year. This typically covers the first three semesters if you start in spring or summer, or the first two semesters if you start in fall.
Private student loans may be available beyond this period.
Some students apply for loans as “graduate” instead of “5th year undergraduate.” This may show a higher loan amount, but you will not qualify for graduate-level loans and will not receive that amount.
The maximum federal direct student loan per academic year is:
- $12,500 if you are 24 or older
- $5,500 if you are under 24
If you are under 24, your parent or guardian may be eligible to apply for a Federal Parent PLUS Loan to supplement your funding.
To stay eligible, you must begin using your federal loan in your first semester and enroll in at least 6 units each semester at SFSU.
After you submit your FAFSA, you will receive an email if more information is needed or when your award is available. You can also check your status in your SFSU Student Center under “Holds & Alerts” and “To Do List.”
To access the Student Center, log in to the SFSU Gateway, select “Academics,” then choose “Student Center.”
If you have questions, contact the Office of Student Financial Aid. Include your 9-digit SFSU ID number in your message.
It is important to plan for your expenses across future semesters.
The number of semesters you can receive federal loans depends on when you start:
- Fall start: You may be eligible for two consecutive semesters, fall and spring
- Spring start: You may be eligible for three consecutive semesters, spring, summer and fall
- Summer start: You may be eligible for three consecutive semesters, summer, fall and spring
After this period, you will need to cover remaining costs through savings, private loans or income.
If you consider private loans, choose a reputable lender and review your options carefully. For more information, visit the Alternative Loan Program.
Many students use a combination of loans and part-time work, usually four to 20 hours per week, to help cover tuition and living expenses. This can be manageable with careful planning.
Because the program is rigorous, working full time is not recommended and may affect your academic performance. You should discuss your work schedule and financial plan with your academic advisor.
This program gives you an option to split the cost for one semester into smaller payments.
Find out about scholarship options.