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Welcome to Capella
Select your program and we'll help guide you through important information as you prepare for the application process.
Steps to Apply for Federal Aid
Understanding the financial aid application process will help you get the most out of it. Here are the steps and approximate completion times.
3. Complete Online Loan Counseling
Learn your responsibilities for any federal student loans you receive.
20-30 minutes | Read more »
4. Sign Master Promissory Note
A pledge to repay your federal student loans with interest and fees.
30 minutes or less | Confirm »
5. Submit Capella's Financial Aid Agreement
Are you getting financial help from other sources? Your employer? Scholarships?
Regardless of whether you apply for federal aid, you must complete a financial aid disclosure as part of your Capella application. You can either complete it during your admissions application or after you’ve submitted it.
How to Use Your Aid
Here’s a quick overview of how and when you’ll get your student loan. Capella will disburse your funds late in the third week of courses if you’re enrolled at least half time, have posted in the courseroom during the first week, and have met all other aid eligibility requirements. After applying the offer to your outstanding balance, we’ll refund any excess to you to accept or return.
Apply your federal financial aid offer to:
- Tuition and fees
- Books and supplies
- Dependent care expenses
- Disability-related expenses
- Licensing/certification fees
- Personal computer
- Eligible study-abroad programs
- Miscellaneous living expenses
Maintaining Your Financial Aid
Maintain GuidedPath aid disbursements
Once you’re approved for financial aid, meet these requirements to ensure that you receive timely and consistent disbursements:
- Be enrolled at least half time.
- Participate in courses by census and ongoing.
- Maintain good academic standing and satisfactory academic progress.
Maintain FlexPath aid disbursements
With subscription-based tuition, the faster you move the more you save. You can complete as many courses as you want every 12 weeks—up to two at a time.
If you are approved for federal financial aid, note the requirements for you to maintain your eligibility. You must:
- Participate in a unique course during each 12-week billing session
- Complete a minimum number of required program points by the end of each billing session based on your degree and enrollment levels
- Maintain good academic standing
Contact a Capella financial aid advisor with questions or to discuss your situation.
Loan Repayment
Because your loan must be repaid, carefully consider repayment requirements before taking out a loan. Most lenders offer free repayment counseling.
There are a variety of repayment plans available. Your estimated monthly repayment will be based on your total loan amount and repayment plan. It’s important to work with your lender to set up a plan that fits your budget so you can make timely payments each month.
Under certain circumstances, you can receive a deferment or forbearance that allows you to temporarily stop making or reduce your federal student loan payments.