Financial Aid

Supporting Your Graduate Education

The Financial Aid & Scholarships Office at CSU Channel Islands is dedicated to helping students secure the financial resources needed to achieve their educational goals - whether through federal aid, scholarships, work-study, or military benefits. The types and amounts of aid available are subject to fund availability, enrollment status, and demonstrated financial need.

Financial aid disbursements for eligible students will be processed according to the Office of Financial Aid schedule. The Office of Financial Aid disburses funds according to the University academic calendar and timeliness of financial aid document submission. Please note that the program's academic calendar and the University academic calendar is the same. Students can accept partial amounts of financial aid if desired. Graduate students must minimally enroll in four (4) units per semester to be eligible for financial aid.

Applying for Financial Aid

1. Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA):

  • Who Should Apply: U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens pursuing the MSBA program.
  • Application Period: The FAFSA for the 2025-2026 academic year is expected to open on December 1, 2024. Early application is encouraged to maximize your financial aid opportunities.
  • How to Apply: Complete the FAFSA online at studentaid.gov. Be sure to include CSUCI’s Federal School Code: 039803.

2. California Dream Act Application (CADAA):

  • Who Should Apply: Undocumented and nonresident students meeting certain criteria.
  • Application Period: Opens December 1, 2024, for the 2025-2026 academic year.
  • How to Apply: Submit your application through the California Student Aid Commission’s website.

Types of Aid Available

1. Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans:

  • Eligibility: Available to graduate students enrolled at least half-time (minimum of 4 units).
  • Loan Details:
    • Annual Limit: Up to $20,500.
    • Interest Rate: Fixed rate (refer to studentaid.gov for current rates).
    • Repayment: Begins six months after graduation or dropping below half-time enrollment.

2. Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loans:

  • Eligibility: Graduate students without adverse credit history.
  • Loan Details:
    • Maximum Amount: Up to the cost of attendance minus other financial aid received.
    • Interest Rate: Fixed rate (refer to studentaid.gov for current rates).
    • Repayment: Options available; deferment may be possible while enrolled at least half-time.

3. Scholarships:

  • CSUCI Scholarships: While many scholarships are geared toward undergraduate and credential students, graduate students are encouraged to explore available opportunities.
  • External Scholarships: Research and apply for scholarships offered by external organizations related to business analytics and data science.

4. Work-Study Opportunities:

  • Description: Part-time employment opportunities on or off-campus to help students earn money to pay for educational expenses.
  • Eligibility: Determined by financial need as indicated on the FAFSA.

5. Military & Veterans Educational Benefits

CSU Channel Islands proudly supports active-duty service members, veterans, and military-affiliated students in pursuing higher education. We encourage eligible students to explore Military Tuition Assistance (TA), VA education benefits, and other financial aid options to fund their graduate studies.

Click here for more details on military branch-specific tuition assistance programs.

  • VA & Military Support Office:
    • Location: Sage Hall, Second Floor, Room 2153
    • Veteran’s Advisor/VA School Certifying Official: Robert C. Felix
    • Phone: (805) 437-1618
    • Email: robert.felix@csuci.edu

6. State University Grant (SUG) Program

The State University Grant (SUG) program provides need-based awards to eligible undergraduate and graduate/postbaccalaureate students who are California residents or otherwise determined as eligible, such as AB 540-eligible students. When you apply for financial aid via the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or California Dream Act application (CADA) you are considered for a SUG by your campus.

Important Dates and Deadlines

  • FAFSA/CADAA Opening Date: December 1, 2024
  • Priority Filing Deadline: March 2, 2025
  • MSBA Program Application Period: March 1 – May 1, 2025

Applying early ensures consideration for the widest range of financial aid opportunities.

Contact Information

For personalized assistance or to schedule an appointment with a financial aid counselor:

  • Phone: (805) 437-8530
  • Email:financial.aid@csuci.edu
  • Office Location: Enrollment Center, Sage Hall, Room 1020
  • Office Hours:
    • Front Counter: 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
    • Phone Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Office closed on holidays: January 20, March 31, May 26.

For more detailed information, visit the CSUCI Financial Aid & Scholarships website.

Note: Financial aid policies and availability are subject to change. Always refer to official CSUCI communications for the most current information.

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