2024-25 Financial Aid Processing Update: Student Financial Aid is in the process of implementing new software that will be live for the 2024-25 academic year. This implementation, along with the delayed 2024-25 FAFSA, will change the timeline for returning students receiving financial aid. We anticipate financial aid offers being available starting in mid-May for students who have submitted all requirements.

Aerial view of campus with blue filter

Student Financial Aid

Sayles Hall building with spring branches

Carleton’s Commitment

We meet 100 percent of every student’s demonstrated need. We approach financial aid as a partnership between Carleton, our students, and their families. When you apply, we start by determining what your family can reasonably pay. We use a combination of need-based grants, student employment, and manageable loans to cover the rest.

Our goal: To make Carleton affordable to every admitted student.

Key Financial Aid Dates

Financial aid deadlines are the same as admission application deadlines. Notification of aid amount is sent with your acceptance letter.

DeadlineNotification By
Fall Early DecisionNovember 15December 15
Winter Early DecisionJanuary 15February 15
Regular DecisionJanuary 15April 1
Transfer StudentsMarch 31May 15
Returning StudentsMarch 25Mid-May

Financial Aid by the Numbers

$19K

Average amount a family on aid pays

79%

Students who work a campus job