The MSU Billings Financial Aid Office administers federal, state, and institutional aid programs designed to help eligible students pay for their educational expenses. Amounts of funding vary and depend upon the student's demonstrated and verified financial need as well as the amount of funds available. A formula mandated by Congress, known as the Federal Methodology, evaluates each family's financial circumstances and arrives at the expected family contribution. Financial need is determined by subtracting the family contribution from the cost of attendance.

Students who apply for financial aid are considered for all aid programs for which they are eligible. Assistance is offered in the form of the following:  

Both undergraduate and graduate students must apply for financial aid using the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Priority for financial aid funding is given to students who complete the FAFSA for the upcoming academic year (Fall/Spring)  before December 1st. The MSUB school code is 002530. Assistance for graduate students is generally limited to Direct Loans. A limited number of scholarships, waivers, teaching and graduate assistantships are also available and require a separate application through the Office of Graduate Studies and Research.

Cost of attendance is addressed on another page, however, students' expenses will vary according to such things as residency status and living arrangements. In estimating your University costs, remember not to overlook between-semester expenses. The financial aid award year begins with fall semester and includes the following spring and summer semesters, however financial aid does not include expenses between semesters.

Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid(FAFSA)

In order to receive financial aid, you must:

  • Have financial need, except for some loan programs;
  • Have a high school diploma, GED, or HiSet test;
  • Be a citizen or permanent resident of the United States;
  • Be enrolled or accepted for enrollment as a regular student working toward a degree or certificate offered at MSUB;
  • Not be in default on a student loan or owe a Title IV repayment;
  • Have a valid Social Security Number;
  • Make satisfactory academic progress;
  • Register with the Selective Service, if required.

Remember, policies and procedures governing financial aid programs and application filing dates at MSUB are subject to change at any time without prior notification or publication due to changes in university, state, or federal guidelines and regulations.