At Cardozo School of Law, FAFSA disbursements for federal financial aid (like Stafford and Graduate PLUS Loans) are designed to help you cover tuition & fees for your online legal education. Here’s how the process works:

Disbursement Timing: Before Each Semester

Cardozo disburses financial aid right before the start of each semester (Summer, Fall, and Spring). For example, if you’re enrolled for the full academic year, your annual financial aid award is split evenly across the semesters you’re attending. Funds are first applied to your student account to cover tuition and fees, and any remaining amount (called a refund) is sent to you for living expenses like rent, food, and books, typically within the first few weeks of the semester. To receive your refund faster, enroll in Cardozo’s Direct Deposit for Student Refunds.

Steps to Ensure Timely Disbursement

- File FAFSA Early: Submit your FAFSA by Cardozo’s priority deadline of April 1 for the 2025–2026 academic year (Summer ’25, Fall ’25, Spring ’26). Use Yeshiva University’s school code: 002903. Filing early ensures your aid is processed on time, as institutional aid is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

- Review Your Student Aid Report (SAR): After submitting your FAFSA, you’ll receive an SAR via email. Check it for errors and make corrections promptly, as Cardozo receives an electronic copy to determine your aid eligibility.

- Complete Requirements: You may need to complete Entrance Counseling and sign a Master Promissory Note (MPN) at studentaid.gov for federal loans. Cardozo’s Office of Student Finance (OSF) may also request additional documents (e.g., tax forms or verification) to finalize your aid package.

- Check Your Status: Newly admitted students receive a financial aid offer email from OSF. Continuing students can view their aid package on the Banner Self-Service portal via InsideTrack.