The Ultimate Guide to Pitt Financial Aid

Applying to college is stressful, but paying for it? Yikes, that’s a whole different story. It’s so tedious, but it’s important to stay organized so you don’t get overwhelmed by it all. Start by following our simple guide to Pitt financial aid to afford the school of your dreams!

1. March 1st is a very important date for Pitt financial aid – don’t forget it!

The FAFSA is due on March 1st, which is the priority filing date. You want your documents in by then because if you pass it in after, it’s less likely you’ll receive financial aid. If you miss the deadline, pass it in ASAP so you don’t miss out on any potential financial help!

2. Those resources are there for a reason!

The University of Pittsburgh’s site has a ton of information on it about the financial aid process, so it’s a good place to start if you’re confused. The office can also be reached via phone at 412-624-4138 or by e-mail at finaid@pitt.edu

If you’re nearby, the office is located in Alumni Hall and is open Monday-Friday, 8:30AM-5PM.

3. Keep track of all the documents you’ll need to reference.

The FAFSA asks for a lot of detailed information. You’ll need your 2015 tax returns and your parents’ 2015 tax returns. You will also need your income information and your parents’ income info as well, so be prepared!

If you’re selected for extra verification, you’ll be notified and you’ll have to submit even further proof of identification.

4. Follow the instructions and don’t miss a step!

Pitt’s site offers a great in-depth guide to applying for financial aid. Their checklists are super helpful if you’re not sure what to do next!

5. Where will I see my financial aid award?

You should receive both an electronic and paper copy of your financial aid package!

6. When will I find out my financial aid award?

Assuming you got your FAFSA in on time, you should receive your financial aid notification around April, so keep an eye out! Make sure you actually accept your awards, as well!

7. Send in your enrollment deposit to confirm your attendance!

To reserve your spot in the incoming class, Pitt asks that you submit a non-refundable $300 enrollment deposit by May 1st, 2017. Once you do this, congrats – you’re officially a Pitt student!

8. What’s the cost of attendance at Pitt?

A detailed breakdown of Pitt’s cost of attendance can be found here.

An in-state student in the College of General studies can expect tuition to be about $17,688/year. An out of state student in the same college should expect tuition alone to be about $28,828/year. In addition to these fees, students have to pay the following:

Room & Board: $11,536
Student Activity: $160
Wellness: $240
Computing & Network Services: $350
Security, Safety, & Transportation: $180

9. How much does an average Pitt student get in financial aid?

96.7% of students found to have financial need received some sort of aid, with an average percent of need met being 61%. The average financial aid award at Pitt is around $14,332.

10. Reconsideration is always an option if the situation calls for it.

Special circumstances can change the outcome of your financial aid package, so be sure to contact the financial aid office if a sudden change of income occurs! You can begin the appeal process from there.