There are many additional methods of payment to cover the out-of-pocket cost such as outside scholarships, the FACTS monthly payment plan, Federal Direct Parent PLUS Loan, Private Education Loans and part-time job opportunities. The USF Financial Aid Office can assist you as you determine which option or combination of options is the best for you.
Use the Estimated Cost Worksheet below to determine the remaining out-of-pocket amount (if any) that you will be expected to pay to the USF Student Accounts Office prior to your arrival at USF. Being well prepared for any out-of-pocket costs is very important in a smooth transition to college and allows for few financial surprises.
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If you decide that a Private Education Loan is your best option for meeting your out-of-pocket money owed to USF, you may choose to borrow through any lender offering a private educational loan. USF has provided some general information for your reference.
The maximum amount a student is eligible to borrow is determined by the USF Financial Aid Office and cannot exceed the student's cost of attendance minus other financial aid received. The USF Financial Aid Office recommends students apply for both the fall and spring semesters in the same application.
The University of Sioux Falls utilizes the ElmSelect tool to help students compare private loan options. Please select the link below to start using ElmSelect.
*The Private Education Loan application process may take several weeks. The USF Financial Aid Office will begin accepting private loan applications 3 months before the start of a term. Be sure to apply by August 1st for fall semester and January 1st for spring semester to ensure funding arrives to USF before the semester starts.
Note: Do not borrow to pay for non-educational items -- borrow only what you need for your education.
USF offers merit-based and degree-based scholarships. Students can also apply for outside scholarships. Use our scholarship search to find scholarships.
The Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students (PLUS) is a government-guaranteed loan that families can use to cover all or a portion of their student's educational expenses and is available to families of all income brackets. Students must be enrolled at least half-time (6+ credit hours) per semester to be eligible for a Federal PLUS Loan. A FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is required for a Parent PLUS loan.
As a parent of a dependent, undergraduate student, you may complete the following steps to apply for a Federal Direct Parent PLUS Loan.
Once the USF Financial Aid Office has received your completed PLUS Loan application, you will be notified if any further information or steps are required.
Some employers provide assistance to their employees in the form of paying for educational expenses. If you are receiving tuition reimbursement for tuition assistance from your employer, you are required to provide documentation each semester notifying the University of Sioux Falls of the amount of the benefits. If your employer has a designated form for this purpose, you may submit that form. You may also use the USF Employer Reimbursement Form, if you choose.
Eligible students should contact appropriate tribal offices for information and application procedures.
Eligible students should contact their local Division of Vocational Rehabilitation for information and application procedures.
Active and former military members can receive special funding for their education. For more information, visit our Veteran's Information page.
Explore our tuition and cost details to see how USF can be a feasible and rewarding choice for your academic journey.
Read More »Our most accurate way to estimate all forms of financial aid and find your out-of-pocket-cost for USF is bundled into this handy calculator.
Read More »USF is among the most affordable institutions in the region. We’re here to explain USF’s financial aid details, processes and options for all students.
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