The federally mandated formula used to determine financial aid eligibility is based on the premise that students are expected to contribute toward the cost of their education since they are the primary beneficiary of that education. Based on the information that the student (and spouse) provide on the FAFSA, the Central Processor will determine an Expected Family Contribution (EFC) and indicate this figure on the SAR. Financial aid is to assist you with educational expenses and relying on financial aid without any personal resources will make your financial situation very difficult.
Below is an estimate of the fall 2019-spring 2020 COA based on living off campus for 9 months. If you attend summer classes, financial aid is a separate process with a separate COA. To receive financial aid you must be in a minimum of 6 hours in any given semester.
The Cost of Attendance (COA) or budget is determined by the SFA office each spring. This budget is developed based on the cost of living in this geographic area. Plan ahead for a successful budget. Be aware of your available resources. The decision to take on debt will affect your lifestyle during law school as well as the years that follow. Many students are limited to the funds they receive with financial aid and have no savings or personal resources on which to fall back. This can make your financial situation very difficult. If you find yourself in a difficult situation, reach out to the financial aid advisor for options.
The amount of financial aid a student is eligible to receive is based on the COA which includes:
The COA minus the EFC equals financial need. The types and amounts of financial aid that UH can award is based upon this figure.
The average debt of the 2019 graduating class was $96,382 with 70% of the class borrowing federal &/or private loans.
University of Houston Law Center
Financial Aid & Scholarship Office
4604 Calhoun Road
Houston, Texas 77204-6060
(713) 743-2269
School code 003652
lawfinaid@uh.edu