University of the People FAFSA & Financial Aid Guide 2026

If you're researching online colleges that accept FAFSA, you may assume federal financial aid is the only way to make college affordable. While many online universities participate in federal aid programs, some schools take a different approach by keeping costs low enough that students may not need traditional financial aid in the first place.

University of the People is one example. As a tuition-free, online university accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), it offers degree programs with no tuition charges. Instead, students pay relatively modest assessment fees and may qualify for scholarships or other forms of assistance to reduce those costs even further.

Does University of the People Accept FAFSA?

University of the People does not accept FAFSA. Students cannot use federal financial aid programs such as Pell Grants, Direct Subsidized Loans, Direct Unsubsidized Loans, or other federal student aid funds to pay for their education at the university.

Unlike traditional colleges that charge tuition and participate in Title IV federal financial aid programs, University of the People operates on a tuition-free model. Students do not pay tuition but are responsible for assessment fees associated with their courses. Because of this, the university cannot participate in Title IV federal aid programs, and students are not eligible to receive FAFSA funding for University of the People degree programs.

Why Doesn't University of the People Accept FAFSA?

University of the People was founded on a tuition-free model designed to make higher education more accessible to students around the world. Rather than charging tuition, the university funds its operations through assessment fees, donations, grants, partnerships, and philanthropic support.

Because the university does not charge tuition, it isn’t able to participate in federal student aid programs, so students are not eligible to use FAFSA funding. However, many students find that the university's low-cost structure, combined with available scholarships and fee assistance programs, makes it possible to earn a degree without relying on federal grants or student loans.

For students who do not qualify for FAFSA, have exhausted their federal aid eligibility, or want to avoid taking on student loan debt, but otherwise can’t afford a college degree, University of the People can provide an alternative path to earning a regionally accredited degree online.

Types of Financial Aid Available at University of the People

Although University of the People does not accept FAFSA or participate in federal financial aid programs, students still have several options for reducing or eliminating their educational costs. Because the university operates on a tuition-free model, financial assistance is focused on helping students cover application fees, assessment fees, and other educational expenses rather than traditional tuition charges.

Many students are able to combine scholarships, sponsorships, and the university's low-cost structure to earn a degree at a fraction of the cost charged by traditional colleges.

University of the People Scholarships

University of the People offers a variety of scholarships designed to help students who may not be able to afford assessment fees on their own. Scholarships may cover some or all of the fees associated with earning a degree.

Scholarship opportunities are available for students from a variety of backgrounds, including those facing financial hardship, refugees and displaced students, students from underserved communities, and learners pursuing educational opportunities that may otherwise be out of reach.

Because scholarship availability can change over time, students should review current opportunities and eligibility requirements before applying.

Grants and Sponsorship Programs

In addition to scholarships, University of the People receives support from donors, foundations, organizations, and philanthropic partners that help fund student education. These partnerships allow the university to offer sponsorship programs and fee assistance opportunities that reduce costs for eligible students.

Some sponsorships are designed for specific populations or regions, while others focus on students demonstrating financial need. Available opportunities vary based on funding availability and program requirements.

Employer Tuition Assistance

Although University of the People does not charge tuition, some employers may be willing to reimburse educational expenses such as assessment fees or other costs associated with earning a degree.

Students whose employers offer educational assistance or professional development benefits may wish to ask whether those benefits can be applied toward University of the People expenses. Employer policies vary, so reimbursement eligibility should be confirmed directly with the employer.

Other Fee Assistance Options

University of the People was created to make higher education accessible to students around the world. As a result, the university offers several pathways that can help students manage educational costs, including scholarships that cover assessment fees and other forms of financial support funded through donations and partnerships.

Students who are concerned about affordability should explore available assistance options early in the admissions process. In many cases, financial barriers can be reduced or eliminated through a combination of scholarships, sponsorships, and the university's tuition-free model.

How to Apply for Financial Aid at University of the People

Because University of the People does not participate in federal financial aid programs, students do not need to complete the FAFSA. Instead, students seeking financial assistance should explore the university's scholarship and sponsorship opportunities before beginning their studies.

Step 1: Review Program Costs and Assessment Fees

Before applying for assistance, take time to understand how University of the People charges for its programs. While the university does not charge tuition, students are generally responsible for application fees and course assessment fees.

Reviewing these costs upfront can help you determine whether you'll need financial assistance and estimate how much support may be necessary.

Step 2: Explore Available Scholarships and Sponsorships

University of the People offers a variety of scholarships and sponsorship programs designed to help students who may not be able to afford assessment fees. Some opportunities are based on financial need, while others may be intended for specific student populations or geographic regions.

Carefully review the eligibility requirements for each scholarship opportunity to determine which programs may be the best fit for your circumstances.

Step 3: Complete the Scholarship Application

Students seeking assistance should complete the university's scholarship application and provide any required documentation. Depending on the scholarship, this may include information about financial circumstances, educational goals, or other qualifying factors.

Providing complete and accurate information can help ensure your application receives full consideration.

Step 4: Submit Any Required Supporting Documents

Some scholarship and sponsorship programs may require additional documentation to verify eligibility. This could include financial information, identification documents, proof of residency, or other materials requested by the university.

Submitting documents promptly can help prevent delays in the review process.

Step 5: Monitor Your Application Status

After submitting your application, monitor your student account and email for updates. University of the People may contact you if additional information is needed or if a decision has been made regarding your request for assistance.

Responding quickly to any requests can help keep the process moving smoothly.

Step 6: Accept Your Award and Begin Your Studies

If you receive a scholarship or sponsorship, review the terms carefully to understand which fees are covered and whether any conditions apply. Once your funding is in place, you can continue the enrollment process and begin your program.

Students who do not receive assistance may still find University of the People affordable because of its tuition-free model and relatively low assessment fees compared to many traditional colleges and universities.

How Much Does University of the People Cost After Financial Aid?

University of the People is designed to be one of the most affordable degree options available. Because the university does not charge tuition, students are not responsible for the costs that typically make college expensive, such as tuition bills, annual enrollment fees, or required course materials. It’s one of the few truly tuition-free online colleges in the U.S.

Instead, students generally pay a one-time application fee and an assessment fee for each course they complete. Assessment fees are currently $180 per course for undergraduate programs and up to $490 per course for graduate programs. The university does not charge annual enrollment fees, and course materials are provided at no additional cost.

For students who qualify for scholarships or sponsorship programs, some or all of these fees may be reduced or eliminated. As a result, many students are able to earn a degree for a fraction of what they might pay at a traditional college or university.

While students should still budget for personal expenses such as a computer and internet access, University of the People's tuition-free model can make higher education accessible to learners who may not qualify for FAFSA, want to avoid student loan debt, or are seeking a lower-cost alternative to traditional colleges.

Other Ways to Pay for Tuition at University of the People

Because University of the People does not charge tuition, students are mainly responsible for application and assessment fees rather than traditional tuition bills. Even so, planning ahead can help you reduce your costs and avoid financial stress while completing your program.

Consider these options:

• Apply for scholarships early: University of the People offers scholarships that may cover some or all assessment fees for eligible students.
• Look for sponsorship opportunities: Some students may qualify for donor-funded or partner-supported sponsorships based on financial need, location, background, or other eligibility factors.
• Ask your employer about education benefits: If your employer offers tuition reimbursement or professional development funding, ask whether those benefits can be used toward assessment fees.
• Budget for assessment fees by term: Since fees are charged by course assessment, planning ahead can make costs easier to manage.
• Apply for private scholarships: Some outside scholarships may allow funds to be used for accredited online degree programs, including fees and education-related expenses.
• Plan for personal technology costs: Course materials are included, but students still need reliable internet access and a computer or device that can support online learning.

Financial Aid Deadlines for University of the People

University of the People does not have FAFSA deadlines because it does not participate in federal financial aid programs. Students do not need to complete the FAFSA or wait for a federal financial aid award before enrolling.

However, scholarship and sponsorship opportunities may have their own deadlines, eligibility rules, and funding limits. Students who need help covering assessment fees should review available scholarships as early as possible and submit required materials before beginning their program.

Because University of the People uses a low-cost, tuition-free model, the most important step is to create a financial plan before enrolling. Understanding your assessment fees, scholarship options, and personal technology needs can help you start your program with a clear budget.

Compare Financial Aid at Other Online Schools

University of the People offers a unique tuition-free model, but it is not one of the online colleges that accept FAFSA. If you're comparing schools, it can be helpful to explore how other online universities handle federal financial aid, scholarships, military benefits, and tuition assistance programs. Reviewing multiple options can help you find the balance of affordability, flexibility, and financial support that best fits your needs:

• WGU financial aid
• SNHU financial aid
• Liberty University financial aid
• University of Phoenix financial aid
• University of the People financial aid
• GCU financial aid
• Purdue Global financial aid
• National University financial aid

FAQs About FAFSA and Financial Aid at University of the People

University of the People's tuition-free model often raises questions about financial aid, accreditation, and overall legitimacy. Below are answers to some of the most common questions prospective students ask before enrolling.

Does University of the People Accept FAFSA?

University of the People does not participate in Title IV federal financial aid programs, so students cannot use FAFSA, Pell Grants, or federal student loans to pay for their education. Instead, the university keeps costs low by operating on a tuition-free model and offering scholarships to help cover assessment fees.

If University of the People Is Tuition-Free, What Do Students Pay For?

Students do not pay tuition, but they are generally responsible for application fees and course assessment fees. Assessment fees are charged when students complete courses and are significantly lower than the tuition charged by many traditional colleges. Scholarships are available for eligible students who need help covering these costs.

Is University of the People Legit?

University of the People is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), one of the regional accrediting agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. The university offers associate, bachelor's, and master's degree programs and serves students around the world through its online learning platform.

As with any college, students should research transfer credit policies, degree requirements, and career goals before enrolling. However, its regional accreditation means the university meets established standards for academic quality and institutional effectiveness.

Can I Transfer Credits From University of the People?

Transfer credit decisions are always made by the receiving institution. Students who plan to transfer credits or pursue graduate education elsewhere should contact prospective schools directly to confirm how credits from University of the People will be evaluated.

Does University of the People Offer Scholarships?

University of the People offers scholarships and sponsorship programs that can help cover some or all assessment fees for eligible students. Opportunities vary based on factors such as financial need, geographic location, donor funding, and program requirements. Students should review current scholarship options and eligibility requirements before applying.

Find Online Schools That Accept FAFSA

Start your journey toward a college degree by exploring colleges and financial aid options featured on Learn.org. To find out more about University of the People’s finance options, contact the school directly.