Prospective and Entering Students

November – March

1. Learn About Scholarships and Gift Aid
   • Thoroughly review financial aid information on the Admitted Student Website and the Prospective and Admitted Students section of the financial aid website. This will help you understand how and when Berkeley Law determines gift aid offers.
2. Submit the 2025-26 FAFSA
   • Include “UC Berkeley” school code #001312 on your application (the Law School does not have a separate code).
   • Recommended Deadline: March 2025 for timely processing before the academic year.
3. For CA AB540 Students:
   • Complete the CA DREAM Act application to qualify for a CA Dream Loan.

April – May

1. Request Reconsideration (If Applicable):
   • Submit a request if:
     • You want a reevaluation of your gift aid offer based on an offer from another law school.
     • Extenuating financial circumstances warrant a reevaluation of your gift aid decision.
2. Review Financial Aid Offers:
   • Federal student loans will be visible in CalCentral after the final response deadline in mid-May. Gift aid offers are sent separately via email.
3. Complete Required Steps:
   • Submit the FAFSA: If you haven’t already, complete this as soon as possible.
   • Complete the Statement of Legal Residence: This task will appear on CalCentral and may take several weeks to process.
   • Create a Financial Budget:
     • Use the estimated Cost of Attendance to determine ways to fund your education and living expenses. 

June – July

1. Accept Federal Loans on CalCentral:
   • Loans are disbursed evenly between the fall and spring semesters.
   • Federal student loan interest rates are set in early July.
2. Complete Loan Requirements:
   • Entrance Counseling and Master Promissory Note(s):
     • Complete online at studentaid.gov.
     • Allow 2-3 weeks for processing.
3. Prepare for Financial Aid Disbursement:
   • We start disbursing financial aid awards 10 days prior to the start of the term. 
   • Refunds for indirect expenses (books, rent, travel) are available during the first week of classes.
4. Sign Up for Direct Deposit:
   • This ensures quick access to refunds. Paper checks are slower and mailed to your local address.
5. Additional Steps:
   • If applicable, submit a SHIP waiver by the deadline to avoid being charged for health insurance.
   • Apply for outside agency scholarships or the UC Parent Grant (for student parents).

August

1. Finalize Financial Aid Tasks:
   • Report Private Scholarships on CalCentral
   • Check Billing and Refund Status:
     • Billing statements are available on CalCentral in mid-to-late July.
     • Tuition and fees must be paid by the given deadline.
2. Plan for Disbursement:
   • Most financial aid awards apply to your bill before refunds are issued.
   • If paying out of pocket, consider enrolling in the Tuition and Fee Payment Plan (FPP) to avoid late fees.

Berkeley Law offers a diverse range of gift aid opportunities, including scholarships, grants, and fellowships. These awards reflect Berkeley Law’s commitment to fostering diverse talents and aspirations while addressing financial barriers. Students are encouraged to explore these opportunities and apply early to maximize their gift aid potential. Please visit the Entering Student Scholarships page to learn more about the various sources of gift aid. 

Please review our Frequently Asked Questions about gift aid.