Frequently Asked Questions
Click here for a Fall 2013 Financial Clearance FAQ Quick Reference Sheet
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?
Traditional undergraduate students who are registered will receive an initial pre-bill in June, for fall semester and December, for spring semester. However, all students can view a live online pre-bill in WebAdvisor for their upcoming semester or term. Charges are assessed on the account in the first or second week of classes. Those students who have not paid their balance in full will receive monthly electronic bills sent via email. Monthly paper bills/statements are not provided.
When is payment due?
Traditional undergraduate have a financial clearance deadline in which payment in full and a payment contract are due. The fall semester deadline is due during the first week of August. The spring semester financial clearance deadline is the first week of January.
All other programs require payment in full by the first day of class.
What is included in the traditional undergraduate pre-bill packet?
You will receive an estimated pre-bill, reflecting tuition, room & board charges and estimated financial aid. A welcome letter, information on the required payment contract, tuition insurance application, and a list of key dates.
Do you have a payment plan?
Yes. All programs now have payment plans at California Lutheran University. See Payment Plans for more information.
Does CLU accept credit cards?
CLU does not accept credit cards for tuition, room, board and student fees assessed on a student's account. The Business Office does accept credit cards a small number of charges students may incur; such as, parking fines, transcript costs, etc.
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 on the first of each month.
Do I have 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 statements. Students with outstanding balances will receive a monthly email reminder of their balance due.
When will my Stafford Loan be credited to my account?
Electronic funds are applied to your account within 7 - 10 days of 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.
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 an initial $10 fee to see a physician's assistant. Follow-up visits are provided at no charge. Any medications or lab fees are to be paid at the time of service. See 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.
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. See vehicle 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.
