Scholarships & Financial Aid

A university education is one of the most important and valuable investments you’ll make during your lifetime. Choosing a private institution involves a significant financial commitment, and our financial aid staff is dedicated to helping make Canisius an affordable option. We offer competitive aid packages that include scholarships, grants and other awards to help reduce the cost of attendance and minimize debt. The college also administers state and federal programs to further reduce tuition costs for students who qualify. We encourage all students to file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as possible to maximize their eligibility for all forms of aid. 

Types of Aid

Thanks to the generosity of our benefactors, Canisius awards competitive scholarships and grants to incoming students.  Canisius aid is renewable each year provided certain criteria are met.  

Scholarships
A number of merit-based and specialized scholarships are available. Merit scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic performance and will be included with your acceptance packet if you qualify, with no separate application required.  Some specialized scholarships have unique criteria and require a separate application.

VIEW SCHOLARSHIP OPTIONS

Canisius Grants
Canisius University grants comprise the largest of our institutional aid programs. These awards are based on financial need with eligibility determined by information provided on a student’s Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FASFA). This is free money that does not require repayment.

EXPLORE GRANTS

Federal & State Programs

Federal & State Grants
Students may be eligible to receive additional state and federal grant aid.   Eligibility for these awards is determined by information provided on a student’s Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FASFA). Like grant aid awarded by Canisius, this is free money that does not require repayment. 

LEARN MORE ABOUT GRANTS

Federal Loans
Canisius participates in various federal loan programs to assist students in meeting education costs.  Education loans are financial aid funds that require repayment. Eligibility is determined by information provided on a student’s Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). 

SEE FEDERAL LOAN OPTIONS

Private Loans

Unmet education costs may be financed through private loans offered by a number of lending institutions.  Upon request, Canisius will provide a list of education lenders and counseling to applicants. Private loans are financial aid funds that require repayment.  

SEE PRIVATE LOAN OPTIONS

Student Employment

Students may be eligible for Federal Work-Study or the Canisius Griffin Employment Program. These programs pay students for work performed in a job on campus.
Eligibility is determined by information provided on a student’s Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). 

LEARN MORE ABOUT STUDENT EMPLOYMENT

Appealing Your Financial Aid Award

We want to get to know you and your family’s situation today – and not just on paper. That’s why we offer a one-on-one financial aid appeal process, so that we can provide you and your family with the best possible package, tailored to you. 

Simply use the free form text box to explain your circumstances, and upload any applicable documentation. A financial aid advisor will reach out to set up a time with you to review.

Start Your Appeal

Still Have Questions? Contact Us 

Student Records and Financial Services Center
Bagen Hall Room 106
2001 Main Street Buffalo, NY 14208-1098
Office Hours:   8:30 am – 5:00 pm 
                      
Summer Office Hours:  mid-May through mid-August:
                      8:30 am - 4:30 pm (Monday through Thursday)
                      8:30 am - 1:00 pm (Friday)

Phone: 716-888-2600; 800-238-8160 (toll-free) or @email