Jump to main content

The 2024-25 FAFSA is open.
Start the FAFSA                                                         


Join the line at Bear Central with ‘BearQ’ 

UNC Bear Central will be providing students with an easier way to join the line for student services without physically waiting in line. Starting May 20, UNC students will be able to enter a virtual queue for financial aid, registrar and student account services from anywhere by using BearQ. This system allows students to check-in remotely via mobile app, our online kiosk or by coming in person. Plus, students will receive text notifications of their estimated wait times and when they’re next in line.

How to Apply for Aid

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the 2024-25 year is now open! Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by June 1 to be considered for the maximum amount of financial aid. 

UNC’s Federal School Code: 001349.

If you miss the June 1 deadline, you should still submit a FAFSA as soon as possible. Applying is free, and aid is awarded to most students ranging from those with demonstrated financial need to students with a record of high achievement, as well as those who may need some federal loan assistance.

Future students

Future Students
Interested in UNC, but worried about cost? Let us help you understand the many options in paying for college.

Current students

Current Undergraduates
Learn more about maintaining your financial aid status throughout your college career at UNC.

Graduate students

Graduates and Professionals
Want to continue your education? Find more information on financial aid for graduate students.

Veterans

Veterans
UNC proudly supports you as a member of the military affiliated community.

Graduate students

International Students
Visiting from abroad? Learn more about getting financial aid. 

Parents

Parents/Guardians
What steps do you need to take as a parent of a UNC student?

Financial Aid Timeline

October 1 (December  2023 for the 2024-25 aid cycle)

FAFSA Application available
Use UNC school code 001349. Apply for a FSA ID 

Need help filing the FAFSA? Contact our Financial Aid Office at 970-351-4862 or ofa@unco.edu.

November 1st

UNC Scholarship Application is available on Ursa.

December

 Check Ursa account regularly for updates and any additional requirements.

January

For Estimated award use UNC's Net Price Calculator  

February 1 and June 1

UNC scholarship deadline is February 1.
Make sure your FAFSA application processed correctly by March 1and was sent to UNC. 

Check your Ursa account and BearMail on a regular basis for updates.

April 1

Official UNC award letters are sent out.

Be sure to check your Ursa account for the most updated information.

June 1

UNC Scholarship  deadline for transfer, graduate and international students. 

June 15

Accept or decline your award through your Ursa account.

Contact the Office of Financial Aid with any questions you may have.

July 1

Complete your award Entrance Counseling and Master Promissory Note (MPN) studentloans.gov. Contact the Office of Financial Aid with any questions you may have.

Late August

Your Financial Aid Award will be applied to your student bill.

Important Information

Federal Student Aid (FSA) ID

An FSA ID gives you access to Federal Student Aid’s online systems and can serve as your legal signature. Only create an FSA ID using your own personal information and for your own exclusive use.

Get more help on creating your FSA ID

Complete Your FAFSA

The 2024-25 FAFSA is open.
Start the FAFSA

Ursa is your student account that will detail information such as financial aid, credit requirements, and GPA. Be sure to check your BearMail account, this is where you may view your UNC emails. The Office of Financial Aid will send your award email and information to your BearMail account.

IRS Data Retrieval

Determine if you are eligible to use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool, or, if needed, obtain a tax transcript from the IRS.

Use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool/Obtaining a Tax Transcript 

Kevion Ellis

From the UNC Magazine
Spring/Summer 2018 Issue

How my Financial Aid Story Led to Meeting Bill Gates

I've learned that the power of storytelling is an incredible thing that can lead to major impact.

Kevion Ellis, 2018 International Affairs graduate

Read Kevion's financial aid story in the UNC Magazine.