Discover the Value of a Nonprofit University
Keeping tuition rates low is just the beginning. At Southern New Hampshire University, we’re committed to helping you understand all the ways you can get more from your education—for less money.
SNHU offers some of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation.
We recently cut our campus tuition in half to make the traditional college experience more affordable.
Get more information about financing your education, and how to lower the cost of your degree.
Transferring to SNHU? Let’s Get Started.
We’ll help you maximize the value you can get for the work you’ve already done—which can save you time and money on the path to your degree. Learn more about transferring credits to SNHU or use our Net Price Calculator to see how much you could save.
Financial Aid Step-by-Step
Applying for financial aid can seem daunting at first. Use this step-by-step guide to walk through the process.
Step 1: Get your FSA ID
Visit studentaid.gov to create an account and get your Federal Student Aid ID. You’ll need this to complete step 2.
Step 2: Submit the FAFSA
Use the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) form to apply for financial aid any time after Oct. 1, but at least 60 days prior to your anticipated start date.
SNHU's School Code is 002580.
Step 3: Review your FAFSA Submission Summary
After you submit your FAFSA online, you’ll receive your FAFSA Submission Summary (FSS). Check it for errors, make corrections and submit any additional documentation that may be required.
Step 4: Evaluate your financial aid offer
Student Financial Services will create an offer for you through a process called “packaging.” They’ll send it to your SNHU email to let you know which grants or loans you qualify for.
Step 5: Secure funding
To accept federal loans, complete a Master Promissory Note (MPN) and entrance counseling. Tip: You don't have to take the full amount you're approved for — contact Student Financial Services to customize your loans.
Step 6: Work hard!
To receive Federal Student Aid, you’re required to make satisfactory academic progress toward completing your degree, so be sure to keep up with your classes and reach out for help if you need it.
Step 7: Repeat
To continue receiving financial aid, you’ll need to repeat steps 2-6 each year you attend SNHU. Tip: Follow the office of Federal Student Aid on Twitter for info and updates.
Step 8: Contact us
If you still have questions, contact your Student Financial Services team to learn more. Email us at sfscampus@snhu.edu (campus students), studentfinance@snhu.edu (online students) or call 877.455.7648.
What SNHU Students are Saying
Jennifer Wysocki '21
"The financial aid team walked me through the process, and the costs were much lower than I expected."
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Financial Aid?
Financial aid is financial assistance to help students pay for college. Financial aid can consist of a variety of resources such as federal and private loans, grants, scholarships and work-study programs. Financial aid is used to cover educational expenses such as tuition, books, fees, housing and transportation.
I don't think I qualify for Financial Aid, should I even bother applying?
SNHU encourages all students to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) if seeking financial assistance for school. Most students qualify Direct Subsidized and/or Direct Unsubsidized loans even if they don’t qualify for grant funding. Keep in mind that any loans borrowed to pay for school must be repaid with interest. Contact Student Financial Services to discuss available payment options.
Is there a difference in Financial Aid between undergraduate and graduate Students?
Yes. Undergraduate and graduate students may qualify for different types and amounts of funding. Online and campus students may also have different resources available.
No one is helping me pay for college; that makes me an independent student, right?
The federal government determines your dependency status by asking a series of questions on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). If you indicate no to each of these questions, you are a dependent student.
When does SNHU receive my FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)?
SNHU will receive your FAFSA information from the federal government approximately 3-5 business days after they have processed your completed application. You will receive an email from the federal processor when your information has been released to SNHU.
I am being asked for additional documentation to process my financial aid. What does this mean?
Some students may need to verify or resolve flagged information entered on their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Any requested documentation should be submitted as quickly as possible to determine your financial aid eligibility.
How do I use Financial Aid to pay for my books?
You may qualify for a book voucher, which provides an advance of financial aid funding to purchase materials through the SNHU book store. Once your financial aid offer is finalized, you may contact Student Financial Services to determine if you qualify for a book voucher.
I am coming back to school, how do I defer my loans?
SNHU will automatically report your enrollment to the National Student Clearinghouse a few weeks into your first term and in each term you attend. If you require verification prior to SNHU reporting your enrollment, you may submit a request to the Registrar via the student portal, email at registrar@snhu.edu, or fax at 603.629.4647 once you are registered.
My income this year is much less than last year. Should I let you know?
The FAFSA uses prior-prior year (PPY) federal tax information as a determinant of financial need. If your income is significantly less now than is reflected in your PPY tax information, you may want to contact Student Financial Services at 877.455.7648 to discuss.