Does GCU Accept FAFSA? Financial Aid for Online Students

Published on:

June 17, 2026

Learn how FAFSA works at GCU, including grants, loans, scholarships, military benefits, tuition costs, and ways to lower your college expenses.

Paying for college is often one of the biggest concerns for prospective students. For many learners exploring online colleges that accept FAFSA, Grand Canyon University (GCU) stands out because of its wide range of online programs and multiple financial aid opportunities.

Whether you're pursuing your first degree or returning to school as a working adult, understanding your financial aid options can help you make a more informed decision. Below, we'll go over whether GCU accepts FAFSA, who qualifies for aid, and what types of financial assistance may be available.

Does GCU Accept FAFSA?

GCU accepts FAFSA and participates in federal financial aid programs administered by the U.S. Department of Education. Eligible students may qualify for federal grants, federal student loans, and other forms of financial assistance by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Students attending GCU online can generally access the same federal financial aid programs available to students attending classes on campus, provided they are enrolled in an eligible degree program and meet federal eligibility requirements. In addition to federal aid, GCU offers scholarships, military education benefits, employer-sponsored opportunities, and institutional aid that may help reduce educational costs.

GCU's FAFSA school code is 001074. When completing the FAFSA, you'll need to include this code so your financial information is sent directly to the university for review.

Who Qualifies for FAFSA at GCU?

To qualify for federal financial aid at GCU, students must meet the general eligibility requirements established by the federal government. In most cases, this includes being a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen, having a valid Social Security number, and enrolling in an eligible certificate or degree program.

Students receiving federal financial aid must also maintain satisfactory academic progress throughout their studies. This means meeting the university's academic standards and making consistent progress toward completing their program in order to remain eligible for aid.

The amount of aid you receive depends on factors such as your financial circumstances, enrollment status, dependency status, and the information reported on your FAFSA. Undergraduate students with demonstrated financial need may qualify for Pell Grants and other need-based assistance, while undergraduate and graduate students may be eligible for federal student loans.

Even if you're unsure whether you qualify for grants or other aid, completing the FAFSA is often worthwhile. Many students discover they are eligible for more assistance than expected, and the FAFSA is also used to determine eligibility for certain scholarships, grants, and other financial aid opportunities.

Types of Financial Aid Available at GCU

GCU offers several forms of financial aid to help students pay for college. Depending on your financial need, academic program, military status, employer benefits, and residency, you may qualify for federal aid, scholarships, grants, and other funding opportunities.

Many students use a combination of financial aid sources to reduce their educational costs. For example, a student may receive a Pell Grant, qualify for scholarships, use employer tuition assistance, and borrow federal student loans to cover remaining expenses.

Federal Grants

Federal grants are one of the most valuable forms of financial aid because they generally do not need to be repaid. Students must complete the FAFSA to determine their eligibility for federal grant programs.

The most common federal grant available to GCU students is the Federal Pell Grant, which is awarded based on financial need. Eligible undergraduate students may receive grant funding that can be applied toward tuition and other educational expenses. Many online colleges accept the Pell Grant, including GCU.

Similarly, many online colleges accept the TEACH Grant. The Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant is for students pursing programs in education and provides funding to eligible students who agree to teach in high-need fields after graduation.

Federal Student Loans

Students who complete the FAFSA may qualify for federal student loans through the U.S. Department of Education.

Available loan programs may include:

Direct Subsidized Loans for eligible undergraduate students with demonstrated financial need
Direct Unsubsidized Loans for undergraduate and graduate students
Direct PLUS Loans for graduate students and parents of dependent undergraduate students

Federal student loans often provide benefits such as fixed interest rates, income-driven repayment plans, deferment options, and eligibility for federal forgiveness programs.

State Financial Aid Programs

Many states offer grants, scholarships, and tuition assistance programs that students can use alongside federal financial aid. Eligibility requirements, award amounts, and deadlines vary by state, so students should review opportunities available through their state's higher education agency.

Because GCU enrolls students from across the country, the specific state aid programs available to you will depend on where you live. Completing the FAFSA is often required to qualify for state-based financial aid programs.

GCU Scholarship Opportunities

GCU offers a variety of scholarships for online and evening students, including opportunities for undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral learners. Many of these scholarships are offered as tuition discounts that can significantly reduce the cost of earning a degree.

Examples of GCU scholarships include:

22% Off Tuition Scholarship for eligible new online undergraduate students
32% Off Tuition Scholarship for new psychology and behavioral health students
32% Off Tuition Scholarship for undergraduate students pursuing initial teacher licensure
20% Off Tuition Scholarship for eligible education master's degree students
10% Off Tuition Scholarship for new Master of Science in Nursing students
$5,000 Alumni Doctoral Degree Scholarship for qualifying GCU graduates pursuing doctoral studies

GCU also partners with hundreds of employers and organizations nationwide that offer scholarship opportunities to eligible employees and members.

Military and Veteran Benefits

GCU supports active-duty service members, veterans, reservists, National Guard members, and military families through a variety of military education benefits and support services.

Eligible students may be able to use benefits such as the Post-9/11 GI Bill, Montgomery GI Bill, Military Tuition Assistance, and other military education programs. Military-affiliated students may also qualify for scholarships and support resources designed specifically for their needs. Learn more about how to use military benefits for college.

Employer Tuition Assistance

There are many companies that offer tuition reimbursement or tuition assistance programs to help employees earn degrees while continuing to work. GCU has established relationships with hundreds of employers and organizations across the country, creating additional opportunities for students to reduce their education costs.

Depending on your employer's policies, tuition assistance may cover part of your tuition expenses or reimburse you after successfully completing courses. In many cases, employer benefits can be combined with federal financial aid and scholarships to further lower out-of-pocket costs.

How to Apply for Financial Aid at GCU

Applying for financial aid at GCU begins with completing the FAFSA. Starting the process early can help you maximize your eligibility for grants, loans, scholarships, and other forms of assistance before your classes begin.

Step 1: Create Your FSA ID

Before completing the FAFSA, you'll need a Federal Student Aid (FSA) ID. This username and password allow you to access federal financial aid systems, sign your FAFSA electronically, and manage your aid throughout your college education.

If you're a dependent student, a parent may also need to create an FSA ID to provide required financial information and sign the FAFSA.

Step 2: Gather Your Financial Information

Before starting the FAFSA, collect information about your income, taxes, and household finances. This may include tax returns, W-2 forms, records of untaxed income, and information about savings or investments.

Having these documents ready can make the application process faster and help reduce errors that could delay your financial aid review.

Step 3: Complete the FAFSA

Visit StudentAid.gov to complete the FAFSA online application form. The FAFSA is used to determine eligibility for federal grants, federal student loans, and many state financial aid programs.

Even if you're unsure whether you'll qualify for need-based aid, completing the FAFSA is often worthwhile. Many students qualify for assistance they did not expect, and some scholarships and grant programs require FAFSA information as part of the application process.

Step 4: Add GCU's FAFSA School Code

When completing the FAFSA, enter GCU's federal school code: 001074.

Including the correct school code ensures that your FAFSA information is sent directly to Grand Canyon University so the financial aid office can evaluate your eligibility and prepare your financial aid offer.

Step 5: Submit Any Requested Documentation

After reviewing your FAFSA, GCU may request additional documents to verify information reported on your application. This process, known as verification, is a normal part of financial aid administration and may require you to submit tax documents or other supporting materials.

Responding quickly to these requests can help avoid delays in processing your aid package.

Step 6: Review Your Financial Aid Offer

Once your FAFSA and any required documentation have been processed, GCU will provide a financial aid offer outlining the grants, loans, scholarships, and other aid for which you qualify.

Review each award carefully and make sure you understand the differences between grants, scholarships, and loans before accepting your financial aid package.

Step 7: Complete Any Remaining Requirements

Students who accept federal student loans may need to complete entrance counseling and sign a Master Promissory Note before loan funds can be disbursed.

After all requirements have been completed, your financial aid can be applied toward eligible educational expenses as you begin your program at GCU.

How Much Does GCU Cost After Financial Aid?

The amount you'll pay to attend GCU depends on your program, enrollment status, transfer credits, and financial aid eligibility. Many students lower their costs through a combination of federal grants, scholarships, military benefits, employer tuition assistance, and federal student loans.

For online undergraduate students, GCU estimates annual tuition at approximately $11,760. Students who qualify for scholarships, grants, or other forms of aid may pay significantly less than the published cost. In some cases, tuition discounts and financial aid packages can reduce educational expenses by thousands of dollars per year.

Tuition and Fees

GCU tuition for online undergraduate students is approximately $11,760, compared to about $16,500 for undergraduate students attending classes on campus. This lower tuition rate is one reason many students choose online programs when comparing costs.

Your actual tuition costs will vary based on your degree program, course load, transfer credits, and any scholarships or tuition discounts you receive. Students who qualify for GCU's online scholarships may be able to reduce their tuition expenses even further.

Books and Learning Materials

According to GCU's cost estimates, online students spend approximately $780 per year on books, course materials, supplies, and equipment.

Actual costs may vary by program and course requirements. Some courses may require additional materials, while others rely primarily on digital resources that can help keep expenses lower.

Technology and Program Costs

GCU estimates that online students will pay approximately $312 per year in technology fees. These fees help support the online learning systems and technology resources used to deliver courses and educational services.

Students should also budget for personal technology expenses, including a reliable computer and internet connection. Certain degree programs may have additional requirements, such as specialized software, professional licensure exams, background checks, or other program-specific costs.

Other Ways to Pay for Tuition at GCU

Financial aid is only one way to reduce the cost of earning a degree at GCU. Many students combine multiple funding sources to lower their out-of-pocket expenses and minimize student loan borrowing.

Consider these additional ways to pay for tuition at GCU:

Apply for GCU scholarships: GCU offers numerous scholarships for online students, including tuition discounts for undergraduate, graduate, nursing, psychology, behavioral health, and education programs.
Take advantage of employer partnerships: GCU has relationships with hundreds of employers and organizations nationwide that may provide scholarships, tuition discounts, or other educational benefits.
Use employer tuition assistance: Many employers offer tuition reimbursement or direct tuition assistance programs that can help cover educational costs while you continue working.
Use military education benefits: Eligible service members, veterans, and military family members may qualify for GI Bill benefits, Military Tuition Assistance, and other military funding programs.
Transfer eligible credits: Bringing in previously earned college credits may reduce the number of courses required for your degree, lowering your overall tuition costs.
Explore state grants and scholarships: Many states offer financial aid programs that can be used alongside federal grants and loans.
Apply for private scholarships: Community organizations, professional associations, nonprofits, and employers often offer scholarships that can help reduce college expenses.
Create a payment plan: Students who have remaining balances after financial aid may be able to use payment arrangements to spread costs over time.

Financial Aid Deadlines for GCU

GCU offers multiple start dates throughout the year, but students should begin the financial aid process as early as possible. Completing the FAFSA well before your intended start date can help ensure your aid is processed on time and may improve your chances of receiving certain need-based grants and state aid opportunities.

The FAFSA typically becomes available each year for the upcoming academic year. Students are encouraged to submit the application as soon as they have the necessary financial information rather than waiting until shortly before classes begin.

In addition to FAFSA deadlines, scholarship programs, state aid opportunities, and employer tuition assistance programs may have separate application deadlines. Applying early and responding promptly to requests from GCU's financial aid office can help maximize your available funding and avoid delays in receiving aid.

Compare Financial Aid at Other Online Schools

GCU is one of many online colleges that accept FAFSA, but financial aid packages, scholarship opportunities, tuition rates, and military benefits can vary from one institution to another. Comparing multiple schools can help you identify the combination of affordability, flexibility, and financial support that best aligns with your educational goals and budget:

FAQs About FAFSA and Financial Aid at GCU

Understanding your financial aid options can help you make a more informed college decision and avoid unexpected expenses. Below are answers to some of the most common questions students ask about FAFSA, scholarships, and paying for a degree at GCU.

Does GCU Accept FAFSA for Online Students?

GCU participates in federal financial aid programs and accepts FAFSA. Eligible online students may qualify for federal grants, federal student loans, and other forms of financial assistance, just as many on-campus students do.

What Is GCU's FAFSA School Code?

GCU's FAFSA school code is 001074. When completing the FAFSA, you'll need to include this code so the U.S. Department of Education can send your financial aid information directly to Grand Canyon University for review.

Can FAFSA Cover All of My GCU Tuition?

It depends on your financial circumstances and the types of aid you receive. Some students qualify for grants, scholarships, and other assistance that cover a substantial portion of their educational costs. Others may use a combination of federal loans, employer tuition assistance, military benefits, and personal funds to pay any remaining balance.

Does GCU Offer Scholarships for Online Students?

Yes. GCU offers a variety of scholarships and tuition discounts specifically for online and evening students. Opportunities are available for undergraduate, graduate, nursing, psychology, behavioral health, education, and doctoral students. The university also partners with hundreds of employers and organizations that provide scholarship opportunities to eligible participants.

Is GCU For-Profit?

Grand Canyon University is currently a private, nonprofit university. However, some students may remember GCU as a for-profit institution because it operated under a for-profit model for many years before transitioning back to nonprofit status in 2025.

This history is one reason questions about GCU's ownership and nonprofit status remain common. For prospective students, the most important factors are typically accreditation, program quality, student support services, graduation outcomes, and overall costs. GCU is institutionally accredited and participates in federal financial aid programs, allowing eligible students to use FAFSA-funded grants and loans to help pay for their education.

Find Online Schools That Accept FAFSA

Find your perfect online school by exploring the colleges that accept FAFSA, like GCU, featured on Learn.org. Reach out to specific institutions to find out more about tuition costs and financial aid options.