Merit-based scholarships are not the only way to pay for college. Samford University is dedicated to making education affordable for students through a variety of need-based options. Maximize your eligibility for financial aid by submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by February 15. Aid will be awarded on an as-available basis after this date.
Financing Options
Several options are available for financing your education at Samford. The university offers payment plans and student employment, while the federal government (U.S. Department of Education and the Treasury Department) and private education lenders offer long-term loans in the name of the student, the student and a co-signer and/or a parent.
My parents were happy I had listened to the Lord, but concerned with where the money for Samford would come from. After weeks of prayer, I was awarded multiple scholarships and was able to make Samford my home. I am enjoying Samford to the fullest, and every day I am reminded that God leaves the best for those who leave their decisions to Him.—Claire McKeeStart Your FAFSA Find Student Employment Explore Payment Plans
Our pledge is to make the Samford experience as affordable as possible for as many as possible.
How to Submit My CSS Profile to Samford
- If you have already completed a CSS Profile for another institution, please login and add Samford to your list so that we can receive your profile for need-based consideration.
- Please visit the CSS Profile page to create a login and begin your CSS profile.
- Select the Fall 2025/Spring 2026 CSS Profile
- As you fill out the CSS Profile add Samford University (1302). This will ensure that you submit an abbreviated version of the CSS Profile. This version should take no more than 30 minutes to submit, given you have the necessary documents to answer family financial questions accurately.
- Make sure you have your fee waiver code ready when completing your application. Your fee waiver code can be found on your Samford Application Status Page.
All families receiving need-based assistance will still need to submit a FAFSA. A variety of need-based aid opportunities require the FAFSA, including federal and state assistance. Final financial aid letters are scheduled to be released in early March. We continue to be honored by your interest in Samford.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which application do I fill out?
Be sure to sign in and fill out the Fall 2025/Spring 2026 CSS Profile.
What is the Lite version of CSS Profile?
We have intentionally chosen the CSS Profile option that requires the least amount of effort and information from you to get only the information we need to determine need for assistance and nothing more.
Will this cost me anything?
No! Samford will be utilizing waiver codes in order to make this process free for you. Your fee waiver code can be found on your Samford Application Status Page.
Is it required for admission and enrollment?
No, completing CSS Profile Lite is not required for admission or enrollment. If you believe you will require need-based assistance, we highly encourage you to complete the CSS Profile Lite so that we can award Samford assistance as soon as possible.
Do I still have to fill out a FAFSA?
Yes, the FAFSA will verify the information from your CSS Profile Lite submission in order to make your aid package final.
Who can answer any questions I have?
Your dedicated admission counselor is your go-to resource for help with any questions regarding CSS Profile Lite, the FAFSA and other financial aid questions. If you do not know your counselor already, find yours here.
When will I receive my final aid notification?
Final aid notifications, including federal aid, will be sent in early March (pending the release of FAFSA data).
What if I have already filled out the CSS Profile for another school?
Great! Log into your CSS Profile account, and add Samford as a selected school.
