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Paying For College Tuition

Going back to school is a big decision, and figuring out how to pay for it can feel overwhelming. At SDSU Global Campus, we’re here to make it easier. From tuition discounts and scholarships to payment plans and financial aid, we offer a range of options to help you move forward without putting your next on hold.

Financial Aid

Financial aid is available to our students who are enrolled in an online Advanced Certificate, undergraduate, or graduate degree program. Online college students may be eligible for the same financial aid resources that are available to students who study in person on campus. 

Visit our Financial Aid Overview page for more details on available financial aid resources, such as:

Scholarships

San Diego State University has close to 800 scholarship opportunities to support our students’ educational goals.  Funding for our scholarships has been provided by generous donors to SDSU who believe in higher education and your ability to achieve academic success. Also, external scholarship opportunities are available and worth exploring.

Our application portal, “Aztec Scholarships,” allows students to apply for university scholarships via one application.  The SDSU Scholarship Office coordinates the SDSU scholarship application and awarding process with core committees from the various colleges, departments and organizations responsible for selecting recipients.

“Additionally, the Graduate Equity Fellowship program provides support for economically disadvantaged graduate students, especially from groups who are underrepresented within their respective disciplines. More information can be found here.”

Global Campus students also are eligible for the same scholarships as on-ground students. Additionally, Global Campus has a scholarship that is only available for Global Campus students, the Dorothy Allshouse Endowed Scholarship.

Active Duty and Veterans Benefits

SDSU Global Campus proudly offers financial aid services specifically for members of the U.S. Armed Forces. While Global Campus students are not eligible to use the Cal Vet Fee Waiver as part of their financial aid package, there a


Visit our financial aid services page for more information on these financial aid options.

Tuition Discounts

Tuition discounts are available on select SDSU Global Campus programs for the following groups and individuals:

  • SDSU Lifetime Alumni members
  • Veterans, active-duty service members, and their immediate family members
  • Full-time employees of SDSU (including CSU, Research Foundation, KPBS, and auxiliaries)
  • SDSU Global Campus instructors – eligible during the term they are actively teaching, and for two additional consecutive terms thereafter (e.g., if teaching in fall, eligibility extends through fall, spring, and summer)

Group Discounts: Employers who send three or more employees for the same course can receive a group tuition discount. For more information on the group discount, visit https://globalcampus.sdsu.edu/certificate-programs/career-skills-institute/corporate-training/ and submit the contact form.

Tuition Installment Plans

We offer the option of paying your semester tuition on a payment plan. Our payment plan breaks your tuition for the semester into three equal payments. There is no deadline to request a payment plan and there is no fee. It’s quick and easy to set up.

Tuition Installment Plan Process

Eligibility & Enrollment

All students who have registered for future terms are eligible for a tuition installment plan. Please note that installment plans cannot be applied to previous balances. To enroll in the installment plan, contact Global Campus Cashiers at cashier.global@sdsu.edu or call (619) 594-7700 and select option 5: ‘Speak to Cashier.”

There is no formal deadline to enroll in the payment plan, however, your full tuition amount must be paid in full prior to registering for the next academic session. There is no fee to set up a payment plan and no penalty for early payment.


Frequently Asked Questions


Who do I contact to set up a payment plan?

To enroll in the installment plan, contact Global Campus Cashiers at cashier.global@sdsu.edu or call (619) 594-7700 and select option 5: ‘Speak to Cashier.”

What payment methods can I use for the installments?

We accept ACH, credit card, e-checks, and checks. Installment payments should be mailed to:

University Bursar’s Office 

San Diego State University

5500 Campanile Dr., SSW 2536

San Diego, CA 92182-7425

    How many payments will I make during the semester?

    Installment plans are divided into 3 equal payments, regardless of the term length. These payments are spaced evenly throughout the term, with the final installment due before the end of the term.

    How do I make my installment payments?

    You can pay online through the student portal (my.SDSU) or in person at the Bursar’s Office:

    University Bursar’s Office
    San Diego State University
    5500 Campanile Dr., SSW 2536
    San Diego, CA 92182-7425

    Where can I view or manage my installment plan?

    You can access your installment plan through the student portal at my.SDSU.

    Fees, Adjustments & Early Payments

    Are there any penalties for paying off early?

    No– you can pay off your installment plan early without any penalties

    Is there a fee to join the payment plan?

    No, there is no fee to use the installment plan.

    What happens if I add or drop classes after enrolling?

    Your installment plan will automatically adjust based on the updated tuition balance. You’ll be notified if your payment amount changes– but keep in mind, due dates are also subject to change.

    Missed Payments & Cancellation

    What happens if I miss a payment?

    We’ll send you a reminder – but keep in mind, missing a payment could affect your eligibility for future payment plans.

    Can I cancel the plan after I’ve started it?

    Yes, but the full payment would be due immediately. Keep in mind, you can always pay off your remaining balance early if you prefer!

    What happens if I have an outstanding balance on my payment plan at the end of a semester?

    A registration hold will be placed on your account and you won’t be able to register for the next semester’s classes until you have cleared the hold by paying the balance owed.

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