Tuition, scholarships, & Financial Aid

At Claremont Lincoln University, we prioritize maintaining low tuition costs so students can complete their education with minimal financial burden. We are proud to offer scholarship opportunities and access to the Federal Pell Grant for eligible students, and we encourage students to take advantage of employer tuition reimbursement programs whenever possible. While these options help make education more accessible, we understand that some students may still need access to low-interest student loan options.

CLU offers the Federal Direct Loan program to eligible students, and the application process can be completed in just a few easy steps. Our experienced Financial Aid team is also available to discuss your individual situation and guide you through the process, helping you move forward with confidence as you begin your journey toward earning your degree.

Tuition Financing Options

A grant is a form of financial aid that doesn’t have to be repaid (unless, for example, you withdraw from school and owe a refund, or you receive a TEACH Grant and don’t complete your service obligation). A variety of federal grants are available, including Pell Grants.

The Pell Grant is a need-based financial aid program from the federal government that is designed to help undergraduates from low-income families afford college. Grants don’t require you to pay any money back and don’t carry interest, unlike student loans.

At CLU, we’re passionate about helping organizations nurture and develop their talent. We provide exclusive tuition savings to professionals from over 2,000 organizations toward our online degree and certificate programs. By combining these partner discounts with employer tuition assistance benefits or scholarships, you can often earn a CLU degree or certificate at little to no cost. Connect with a CLU enrollment manager to check your eligibility and start your journey today.

A loan is money you borrow and must pay back with interest. If you apply for financial aid, you may be offered loans as part of your school’s financial aid offer. When you receive a student loan, you are borrowing money to attend a college or career school. You must repay the loan as well as the interest that accrues. It is important to understand your repayment options so you can successfully repay your loan.

A subsidized loan is awarded to undergraduate students with financial need, determined by cost of attendance minus expected family contribution and other financial aid (such as grants and scholarships). The Department of Education pays the interest while a student is in school and during grace and deferment periods

An unsubsidized loan is awarded to both undergraduate and graduate students and is not based on financial need. The borrower will be charged interest from the time the loan is disbursed until it is paid in full. If you allow the interest to accrue while you’re in school or during other periods of nonpayment, it will be capitalized- that is, the interest will be added to the principal amount of your loan, and additional interest will be based on the higher amount. You can choose to pay the interest or allow it to accrue

CLU does not participate in federal loan programs outside of the subsidized and unsubsidized Stafford loan programs. In addition, CLU does not certify or process private (non-federal) education loans. Students utilizing alternative funding sources are required to make payments directly to CLU.

As a military-affiliated student, you need a respected degree that you can earn in a timely and cost-effective manner. At Claremont Lincoln University, we provide you with support from application to graduation to ensure you get the most from your CLU experience.

Return of Unearned Federal Financial Aid and Military Tuition Assistance (TA) Policy

Claremont Lincoln University (CLU) complies with federal regulations governing the return of unearned Title IV Federal Student Aid and U.S. Department of Defense Tuition Assistance (TA) funds. These policies apply to students who withdraw (officially or unofficially), drop all courses, are administratively dismissed, or are called to active military duty before completing the required portion of a term.

Both the Return to Title IV (R2T4) and Tuition Assistance return calculations are conducted separately and may result in different obligations.

Return of Title IV Funds (Federal Financial Aid)

This policy applies to students receiving Title IV Federal Aid, including but not limited to Federal Direct Loans, Pell Grants, and Iraq & Afghanistan Service Grants. When a student withdraws before completing more than 60% of the term, a Return to Title IV calculation is required.

The withdrawal date is determined by one of the following:

  • Official withdrawal
  • The date the student begins the official withdrawal process or provides official notification. If both circumstances occur, the earlier withdrawal date will be used.
  • Unofficial withdrawal
  • The midpoint of the payment period or period of enrollment, or the last date of documented academic activity, whichever is later, when CLU becomes aware the student ceased academic activity.

Based on these federal guidelines, any student who receives federal financial aid and does not complete at least 60% of the term is responsible for repaying a portion of the aid they received. A student who remains enrolled beyond the 60% point is considered to have earned 100% of their financial aid.

The portion of financial aid to be returned is determined by the percentage of financial aid not earned by the student. The percentage of unearned aid is calculated using the following formula:

% Earned} = #of days completed up to withdrawal date/Total number of calendar days in term

Any unearned portion is returned to the appropriate federal program within 45 days of CLU’s determination that the student withdrew.

CLU will return Title IV funds in the following order:

  • Unsubsidized Direct Loans (other than Direct PLUS loans)
  • Subsidized Direct Loans
  • Federal Perkins Loans
  • Federal Pell Grants for which a return of Title IV funds is required
  • Iraq & Afghanistan Service Grants for which a return of Title IV funds is required.

The Return to Title IV Funds policy is separate from the University’s refund policy. A student who withdraws from the University prior to the 60% completion point may be required to return unearned federal aid resulting in a balance owed to the University for tuition and fees.

Post-Withdrawal Disbursements

If a student has earned more aid than was disbursed, CLU will offer a Post-Withdrawal Disbursement (PWD). Students will be notified within 30 days of the determination date and must accept loan funds within 14 days of notification. Grants will be disbursed automatically unless the student declines.

Overpayments

If a student receives an overpayment, CLU will notify the student in writing, outline repayment options, and refer unresolved debts to the U.S. Department of Education’s Default Resolution Group if not repaid.

Return of Department of Defense (DoD) Tuition Assistance (TA)

This policy applies to all active-duty service members, National Guard members, and Reservists using DoD TA benefits.

Calculation of Earned TA

The earned portion of TA is calculated as:

% Earned} = #of days completed up to withdrawal date/Total number of calendar days in term

For CLU’s six 8-week (56-day) terms, the minimum schedule is:

Withdrawal Point Tuition Earned TA Returned
Before or during Week 1 0% 100%
During Week 2 25% 75%
During Week 4 50% 50%
After Week 6 100% (Fully earned) 0%

If withdrawal occurs between these defined points, earned TA is calculated proportionally based on the actual day of withdrawal.

Withdrawal Date Determination

  • Official Withdrawal
    • Date withdrawal process begins or official notification is provided (earlier date is used if both occur).
  • Unofficial Withdrawal
  • Midpoint of payment period or last date of documented academic activity, whichever is later.
  • Military Orders
  • Effective date on official orders, unless otherwise documented.

Notification and Documentation

Students are encouraged to consult their Educational Services Officer (ESO) before withdrawing. CLU will notify the appropriate military branch within 14 days of the determination date for TA recipients who withdraw. Official documentation (e.g., military orders) may be required.

Refunds and Balances

Returned TA funds are sent directly to the military branch and may result in a tuition balance owed by the student to CLU.

Readmission of Service Members and Reservists

In compliance with 34 CFR § 668.18 and the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA), CLU will promptly readmit any service member or reservist who must suspend studies due to service obligations. Students will be readmitted to the same academic program (or closest equivalent) with the same enrollment status, academic standing, and tuition/fee rate as when they left, unless covered by military benefits. Notification of intent to return must occur:

  • Within three years after completion of service, or
  • Within two years after recovery from a service-related injury.

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CLU is reimagining access and improving cost transparency in higher education. The new Course-Based Cost Model for undergraduate students offers a simplified, transparent, and predictable per-course tuition model. Students will pay $270 per course, and can complete a 60-credit baccalaureate completion program for $5,400, offering clarity and cost certainty throughout their academic journey.
 

Claremont Lincoln University offers the Lincoln Institute of Land Policy Scholarship (LILPS) to incoming students who enroll in one of our many master’s degree programs or the bachelor’s of organizational leadership degree completion program.

Learn more>

Partner Tuition Reduction Program

We’re committed to making online degrees even more affordable. Claremont Lincoln University partners with over 2,000 organizations looking to enhance employee professional development programs, giving students the skills to lead change and advance their careers. If your employer is a part of this program, you can receive a discount on your CLU degree or certificate program! Ask your enrollment manager if you are eligible.

Learn more>

FINANCIAL AID

Eligibility for Federal Financial Aid Assistance

To qualify for Federal Financial Aid at Claremont Lincoln University under Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended, students must meet the following requirements:

  • Citizenship Status: Be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, permanent resident, or other eligible non-citizen as defined by federal regulations.
  • Educational Background: Have a valid high school diploma or equivalent (such as a GED or recognized homeschool completion).
  • Enrollment Status: Be enrolled in an eligible undergraduate or graduate program at least half-time. At CLU, enrollment in a minimum of 3 units per 8-week term within a semester is considered half-time.
  • Identification: Have a valid Social Security Number (with limited exceptions permitted by federal law).
  • Loan/Grant History: Not owe a refund on a federal grant, not be in default on a federal student loan, and not have exceeded federal loan limits.
  • Selective Service: If required, be registered with the Selective Service (males ages 18–25).
  • Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP): Maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress toward degree completion in accordance with CLU’s SAP policy.

How to Apply for Federal Financial Aid

Federal financial aid is available to eligible students under Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended. To secure aid, follow the steps below:

  • Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online each academic year.
  • CLU School Code: 042536
  • FAFSA information is used to determine your eligibility for federal aid programs, including Federal Direct Loans.
  • You will receive a funding estimate that outlines your federal financial aid eligibility based on your FAFSA and enrollment status.
  • During your financial services appointment, you will be encouraged and guided on smart borrowing practices, including borrowing only what is necessary to cover educational expenses.
  • Students review and electronically sign their funding estimate through the financial portal, accessible on a smartphone or computer.
  • The signed funding estimate serves as the student’s official acceptance of their aid package.

To receive Federal Direct Loan funds, students must complete the following requirements at studentaid.gov:

  • Master Promissory Note (MPN) – a legally binding agreement to repay loans, including interest and fees.
  • Entrance Counseling (EC) – an educational module that explains borrower rights, responsibilities, and repayment obligations.
  • Both must be completed before loan funds can be disbursed.
  • Federal Direct Loans are not grants and must be repaid with interest.
  • Borrow responsibly — consider your future repayment obligations when determining how much to borrow.
  • For detailed information on federal student aid programs, visit studentaid.gov.

Tuition/Cost of Attendance/Calculator>

Cost of Attendance (COA)-2025–2026 Academic Year

The Cost of Attendance (COA) is an estimate of the total cost to attend Claremont Lincoln University (CLU) for one academic year. It includes both direct costs (such as tuition and fees) and indirect costs (like living expenses and transportation), and is used to determine a student’s financial aid eligibility in accordance with federal regulations.

 

Category Undergraduate w/Parent Undergraduate Off-Campus Graduate
Tuition $3,240 $3,240 $9,900
Books & Supplies $1,200 $1,200 $900
Room & Board $25,704 $36,960 $36,960
Personal Necessities $8,652 $25,452 $25,452
Transportation $11,802 $14,904 $14,904
Total $50,598 $81,756 $88,116
 

Program Type Tuition Per Credit Hour Estimated Credits *Estimated Tuition Books & Supplies* Room & Board Total
Undergraduate Degree Completion $270/course 60 $5,400 $100–$200 per course $0 $7,400–$9,400
Graduate Degree $550/hr 33* $18,150 $100–$200 per course $0 $21,450–$24,750
Graduate Certificates $550/hr 9* $4,950 $100–$200 per course $0 $5,850–$6,750
UG-Non-Degree Seeking $270/course Varies Varies $100–$200 per course $0 Tuition + Books
Grad-Non-Degree Seeking $550/hr Varies Varies $100–$200 per course $0 Tuition + Books

 
*Books & Supplies are purchased by the student and not billed by Claremont Lincoln University. Estimates are based on $100–$200 per course.

Direct Costs (billed by CLU): Tuition only.
Indirect Costs: Room & Board – $0; Transportation – $0; Miscellaneous/Personal – $0.

 

Fee Type Fee-UG Fee-Grad
SHRM N/A $750
Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) $170 $550
Course Challenge $170 $550
Undergraduate Application Fee $125 N/A
 

Program Tuition Per Credit Hour Estimated Total Program
Undergraduate Degree Completion $270/course $5,400*
Graduate Degree $550/hr $18,150*
Graduate Certificates $550/hr $4,950*
UG-Non-Degree Seeking $270/course N/A
Grad-Non-Degree Seeking $550/hr N/A

 
*Books & Supplies are purchased by the student and not billed by Claremont Lincoln University.

 

Program Tuition Per Course Estimated Total Program
Bachelor in Land Policy and Real Estate Development** $270 $5,400*
Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership with a Concentration in Human Resources*** $270 $5,400*
Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership with a Concentration in Integrated Policing Studies*** $270 $5,400*
Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership with a Concentration in Management*** $270 $5,400*
Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership with a Concentration in Professional Studies*** $270 $5,400*

 
*Books & Supplies are purchased by the student and not billed by Claremont Lincoln University.
**Not eligible for federal Title IV financial aid.
***Eligible for federal Title IV financial aid for students who qualify.

 

Program Tuition Per Credit Hour Estimated Total Program
Master of Legal Studies in Land Policy: Land Use, Planning, and Development** $550/hr $16,500*
Master in City and Regional Planning** $550/hr $16,500*
Master of Arts in Human Resources Management*** $550/hr $18,150*
Master of Arts in Healthcare Administration*** $550/hr $18,150*
Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership with a Concentration in Healthcare*** $550/hr $18,150*
Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership with a Concentration in Management*** $550/hr $18,150*
Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership with a Concentration in Professional Studies*** $550/hr $18,150*
Master in Public Administration with a Concentration in Advanced Management and Leadership in Complex Systems*** $550/hr $19,800*
Master in Public Administration with a Concentration in Advanced Practices in Public Finance*** $550/hr $19,800*
Master in Public Administration with a Concentration in Strategic Innovation for Collective Impact*** $550/hr $19,800*
Master in Public Administration with a Concentration in Sustainable Communities through Public Service*** $550/hr $19,800*

 
*Books & Supplies are purchased by the student and not billed by Claremont Lincoln University.
**Not eligible for federal Title IV financial aid.
***Eligible for federal Title IV financial aid for students who qualify.

 

Program Tuition Per Credit Hour Estimated Total Program
Certificate in Advanced Practices in Public Finance and Administration*** $550/hr $4,950*
Certificate in Executive CLU Core: Advanced Engagement for Exceptional Leaders*** $550/hr $4,950*
Certificate in Innovations and Trends in Public Administration*** $550/hr $4,950*
Certificate in Resource Management*** $550/hr $4,950*
Certificate in Urban Management*** $550/hr $4,950*
Certificate in Urban Planning*** $550/hr $4,950*
Certificate in Advanced Practices in Land Policy*** $550/hr $4,950*

 
*Books & supplies are purchased by the student and not billed by Claremont Lincoln University.
**Not eligible for federal Title IV financial aid.
***Eligible for federal Title IV financial aid for students who qualify.

sTUDENT FINANCE Forms

Financial Aid Department Forms

Student Financial Planning >

New Cash Payment Plan Agreement >

Student Accounting Department

Credit Card Authorization >

Credit Balance Delivery Option

Claremont Lincoln University applies federal Title IV funds (including Federal Pell Grants and Federal Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans) to your student account to cover allowable charges, such as tuition and fees. If the total amount of Title IV funds disbursed to your account exceeds the current allowable charges, a Title IV credit balance is created, and in accordance with federal regulations (34 CFR §668.164), Claremont Lincoln University will process and return any Title IV credit balance to you no later than 14 calendar days after the balance occurs. Students may select their preferred method for receiving credit balance refunds by completing the Credit Balance Delivery Option Form; if no preference is provided, refunds will be issued via paper check and mailed to the address on record.

Download form >

 

Financial Aid Shopping Sheet

The Financial Aid Shopping Sheet is a consumer tool that participating institutions use to notify students about their financial aid package. It is a standardized form that is designed to simplify the information that prospective students receive about costs and financial aid so that they can easily compare institutions and make informed decisions about where to attend school.

Undergraduate Worksheet>

Graduate Worksheet>

Meet Your Student Finance Team

jazmin richardson

Jazmin Richardson

Associate Vice President
Student Financial Services

austin

Austin Eckhoff

Student Financial Services Account Manager

for more information

Call the Student Financial Services Office at 909-667-4400 ext. 3, or email financialservices@claremontlincoln.edu to learn more.