Financing Your Future

The knowledge you acquire and the lifelong relationships you develop in the Doctor of Optometry program at Pacific University represent a tremendous investment in yourself and your career. Our students typically rely on a combination of savings and financial aid to finance the investment. Loans tend to be the largest source of financial aid available to graduate students.

Tuitions and Costs

Financial Aid Programs Optometry students typically finance their graduate educations through current income, personal savings and financial aid sources. If you plan to seek financial aid, it is important to file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as possible after October 1.

FAFSA Be sure to list Pacific University (Federal School Code 003212) as a school to receive your FAFSA data. Do not wait to be accepted into a program to apply for financial aid.

Scholarships  The College of Optometry awards approximately 20 scholarships to first-year students. The scholarships include our Dean’s Merit Award ($15,000 over three years), the Dean’s Scholarships ($5,000 toward your first year tuition), and other awards ranging from $1,000 to $5,000. For more information, please visit our website.

Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education  Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education Fund (WICHE) monies are available to qualified students from Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, Hawaii, Montana, North Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming who have applied for funding from their states. For further information, visit wiche.edu.

Federal Work Study  Work-study funds allow eligible students to work on campus or in the community. Indicate your interest in these funds when filling out the FAFSA.

Loans  More than 60 percent of graduate students receive loans. Because loans must be repaid from future income, carefully consider how borrowing will affect your life after graduation.

International Students  Pacific University is a private institution, so all students pay the same tuition rate. In general, international students are not eligible for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). For more information, please visit our website.

What Happens Next Our Financial Aid Office will design a financial aid package based on your needs to help ensure the best possible financial assistance. For questions about budgeting, financial aid, repayment or other monetary concerns, please contact our Financial Aid Office.