Apply Now Visit
Apply Now Visit
Apply Now Visit
In This Section

Applying for Federal Financial Aid

Complete the FAFSA

The first step for all students is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Students will complete a new FAFSA application every year.

Completing the FAFSA does not obligate you to take out loans, but it will provide the Financial Aid Office with the necessary information to prepare your full financial aid offer. The full financial aid offer allows you to consider and review all available resources and make sound financial decisions. 

Complete the FAFSA online: https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa

  • First time users will have to create an FSA ID:  https://fsaid.ed.gov 
  • Capital University Federal School Code: 003023. 

After your information has been processed by the U.S. Department of Education and forwarded to Capital University, we will prepare a financial aid offer detailing your eligibility.  

The FAFSA opens every year on October 1 and Capital University begin processing financial aid offers mid-October.

Reviewing your Financial Aid Award Letter

Your offer letter will outline scholarships and federal funds for which you are eligible. Your total aid eligibility is based on the estimated Cost of Attendance for your program. 

The Total Estimated Cost of Attendance includes estimated tuition charges for your level of enrollment and funding to provide a modest lifestyle for the Columbus and Central Ohio region during the nine-month academic year.    

Before Requesting Loans 

Set a Sensible Budget: Most students do not need the entire amount for which they are eligible. All students should set a realistic budget and consider areas where you may be able to reduce spending and subsequently request fewer loans.  

Look for Funding Alternatives: Scholarships, work study, tuition reimbursement, and summer jobs all are options for funding your education.

You should also research the rates of non-federal loans from other entities: your bank or credit union or an outside lender. 

Request Loans  

Once you pay your deposit, you will be able to access your financial aid awards on your MyCap account. You will need to complete the following for your federal direct unsubsidized loan:

  1. Log into MyCap
  2. Click on Financial Aid
  3. Go to Checklist
  4. Click on "Review and Accept Your Financial Aid Award Package"
  5. Scroll to the loan section and select your unsubsidized loan
  6. Using the drop down for the loan, select Accept, Reduce, or Decline
  7. Submit

Financial Aid Loans – Additional Steps

You must complete a Master Promissory Note and Entrance Loan Counseling for your loans to process. You can complete both on www.studentaid.ed.gov.