February Financial Aid Awareness Month
Throughout the month of February, the higher education community, including Caruso Law, celebrates Financial Aid Awareness Month in an effort to provide crucial information to students about access to federal and institutional student aid. The Office of Financial Assistance is committed to keeping the community informed about the many financial aid resources available at the university and beyond. Here are some important events, resources, and reminders for the spring semester:
In partnership with Accesslex Institute and their MAX program we continue to provide a platform for students to explore personal finance questions and expand their education. It is not too late to sign-up and reap the benefits of a free personal financial education, and be entered into the spring scholarship drawings! For more opportunities to win and learn, attend our MAX Workshops this month (RSVP below):
- Feb 3, 2026: Student Loan Repayment Strategies & Public Service Loan Forgiveness Actions Plan
- Feb 4, 2026: Money and Your Career: Legal Salaries, Taxes, and Benefits
- Feb 5, 2026: The Other Bar Prep: Budgeting, Credit, and Debt Management
One-on-one appointments are available on campus this week with Justin Zieman from AccessLex. Book an appointment today! If you are unable to meet on campus this week there is always 1:1 assistance through AccessConnex.
Additional Financial Literacy workshops are being hosted by the School of Public Policy and are open to all Pepperdine students:
- Feb 10, 2026: Understanding Credit and Identity Theft: Join the Zoom link at 12:00 pm
- Feb 24, 2026: Banking and Budgeting: Join the Zoom link at 12:00 pm
Scholarship Opportunities
- Stephen J. Schanz Scholarship is now open. This award is dedicated to supporting our JD students who manage disabilities while attending law school.
- California Change Lawyers Scholarship Application now open!
Weekly updates for outside scholarship opportunities can be found here: Scholarship and Writing Competition
With Summer quickly approaching, funding options available for current students include federal loans, federal work-study, and stipend opportunities. Students enrolled in 3 or more JD units are eligible for federal loans to cover tuition and living expenses. Students in Public Interest positions can apply for a summer stipend. We encourage students to reach out to the Office of Financial Assistance regarding any financial aid needs.
Summer Public Interest Stipend Applications open on March 2nd!
Caruso School of Law Federal Work Study
Here are some additional resources to help reduce costs:
- LADWP Low Income Home Energy Assistance
- Cal-Fresh SNAP for food assistance
- Woman, Infants, & Children
- SoCal Edison discounted rates
- Cal LifeLine Program telephone service discounts
- Health Insurance options
Lastly, federal loan borrowing is changing starting July 1, 2026! Stay up to date on the federal loan changes related to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
Remember to fill out the 2026-2027 FAFSA for the new academic year.
Other university resources for emergency & acute financial needs are available through the Student Care Team.
Veterans can also contact vabenefits@pepperdine.edu for additional support.
As always, the Office of Financial Assistance is here to help. Thank you for celebrating with us!