Frequently Asked Questions
What services does the Student Accounts Department provide? |
We keep an accounting record of each student's charges and payment history. We provide students with financial clearance for classes, room and board. We counsel students on payment options in relation to their student account. The distribution of student paychecks and the cashing of personal checks is also available. |
How will I be billed? |
Students who are registered will receive an initial pre-bill in June, for fall semester and December, for spring semester. Monthly electronic bills will be available online thereafter. |
When is payment due? |
Payment for fall semester is due during the first week of August. Payment for spring semester is due during the first week of January. |
What is included in the pre-bill packet? |
You will receive an estimated pre-bill, reflecting tuition, room & board charges and estimated financial aid. A welcome letter, Student Payment Agreement & Disclosure Statement, and Budgeting Worksheet. |
| What is financial clearance? |
Upon receiving a completed Student Payment Agreement & Disclosure Statement with appropriate payment information, we financially clear the student for classes, room, board and fees. |
| Do you have a payment plan? |
Yes. For an annual fee of $100, you may make monthly payments to California Lutheran University. See Payment Options for more information. |
| Does CLU accept credit cards? |
No. CLU has partnered with TouchNet, an e-commerce provider that allows you to charge your education costs for a pre-determined convenience fee. |
| Do you assess Interest? |
Yes. Any student owing a balance at the end of our monthly billing cycle will be assessed an interest charge of 1.25% of the unpaid balance. |
Will I receive a billing statement? |
Yes. Electronic statements are available online for all students. Once a student is admitted to the university, they are automatically enrolled to receive electronic statments. |
When will my Stafford Loan be credited to my account? |
Electronic funds are applied to your account within 7 - 10 daysof the disbursement date shown on the disclosure statement you receive from your lender. Checks requiring endorsement are mailed to CLU on the disbursement date. Once your paper check is received you will be notified to come to the office and endorse it. |
| How do I request a refund if I have excess financial aid ? | After the third week of the semester, any Federal loan excess may be requested. Automatic refunds are generated based on the requirements of the Department of Education. |
| How long does it take to receive the refund once it is requested? | Anticipate 5-7 business days to process a check after it is requested. Students have the option of receiving an electronic refund deposited directly into their bank account through TouchNet. Electronic refunds may be processed sooner. |
What if my financial aid changes? |
If it affects your balance due, you must make payment of the difference. |
Do I list my financial aid on my worksheet? |
Yes. Once you receive an official award letter from the Financial Aid Office, list your aid on the worksheet. This award will reduce your total expenses. |
Do I list loans on my calculation of charges worksheet? |
Yes. However, you must deduct the loan origination fee (3% maximum) from the gross amount to determine the net proceeds. This applies to Stafford and PLUS loan programs. |
Do I list Federal Work-Study on the calculation of charges worksheet? |
No. Work study is not credited until the student endorses their paycheck and has it applied to their account balance. |
Do I list my housing deposit? |
No. This deposit is retained until the student graduates or withdraws from CLU. |
May I change my meal plan? |
Yes. Meal plan changes are made through Residence Life. Changes are allowed between semesters only. |
| How do I add munch money? | After the initial buy in, you may purchase additional munch money at the Cafeteria. |
If I go to the Student Health Center , is there a charge? |
There is no charge for seeing the doctor or nurse, but any medications or lab fees are to be paid at the time of service. Health Services |
Does CLU Provide Health Insurance |
Health insurance is provided to all full-time undergraduate students enrolled in 12 or more units, and/or residing on-campus or in any university controlled residential facility. See Student Health & Counseling for details. Insurance FAQ |
| Do I need to purchase a vehicle registration permit? |
There is no charge for parking permits, but you must register your vehicle with our security office. Security Office. Parking Registration. |
| How do I change my address? | Contact the Student Accounts
Department to change the billing address. Contact the Registrar’s Office to change the local and permanent address. |