University of Dayton

It's simple math. Really.

The first step in applying for financial aid is to apply for admission to the University of Dayton. The federal government requires that any student seeking need-based financial aid must first be admitted to a degree-seeking program.

Many undergraduate students qualify for a combination of merit-based scholarships and need-based grants. Educational loans, school-year employment, alternative loans and payment plans are designed to fill in the gap.

Keep in mind that financial aid is not intended to cover all of your expenses. The primary financial responsibility belongs to you and your family. The Office of Financial Aid will try to help you bridge the gap between the University's costs and your ability to meet those costs.

The nuts and bolts of affording your education.

Most types of financial aid awards fall within one of two categories:

Gift aid refers to awards that do not have to be repaid. Awards of this nature are generally called scholarships or grants.

Self-help refers to awards that require something in return from the student in order to receive the funds. Awards of this nature include student loans and student employment. Loans will require repayment and student employment will require the student to secure a part-time position on campus to receive their paycheck.

Use your budget to manage your costs. Simple, right?

The University of Dayton is one of the most affordable private, Catholic universities in the country. Among comparable universities, it is an excellent value. Tuition costs at the University of Dayton are the same for all full-time undergraduate students. Since the University of Dayton is a private institution, there are no special out-of-state charges.

Undergraduate Costs for the 2011-12 Academic Year

Tuition and fees: $31,640
Residence halls: $5,400- $8,100
Meal plans: $3,890 - $4,520

Variable costs not listed include books and supplies, orientation fee, laboratory fees, additional meals, etc.

Budgets

The Office of Financial Aid establishes annual student budgets (.pdf) to reflect a realistic cost of attendance. These budgets are then used to determine your eligibility for assistance. Per federal regulation, the combination of financial assistance received by the student from all sources cannot exceed the established student budget.

We encourage you to use the What's My Bottom Line Worksheet (.pdf) to calculate the amount your family will be required to pay toward the cost of attendance.

If your budget is lower than our estimate, you are encouraged to borrow less money through the educational loan programs. If your projected expenses are higher than your estimate, we encourage you to speak with one of our counselors to discuss your needs.