30-Days Past Due Student Accounts
Student accounts past due by 30 days or more will result in having an ‘Outstanding Debt’ indicator in the hold section of the Student Financial Account Tile. Upon payment of past due balance(s), the hold will be removed within 24 – 48 hours. If the account remains past due, you will continue to receive communication and a final demand for payment. Student accounts in this group have the following impacts:
- Not allowed to receive a diploma
- May not be eligible to add any classes
- May not receive aid disbursements
While the Bursar’s is always available to help students who are past due; regrettably, student accounts past due by 120 or more can result in the university submitting the past due amount to an external collections agency and the State of California Franchise Tax Board in addition to penalties and fees.
While SDSU offers payment plans to all students to spread out the payment of tuition and fees during the fall and spring semesters, there are occasions when a student may encounter unexpected hardships and require more time to pay. In such cases, SDSU may offer a Courtesy Repayment Agreement that allows additional time to pay while preventing the debt from being sent to a collection agency. Depending on the situation, we may refer you to a retention specialist for a short-term arrangement. It is important to note that this agreement does not allow for registration.
Are you stressing about paying your tuition at San Diego State University? Don’t worry we’ve got you covered! As former students ourselves, we know how confusing the billing process can be. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about SDSU bill pay options.
Understanding SDSU’s Payment System
SDSU has transitioned to a “post-pay model” for tuition and fees, This means you’ll pay your tuition and fees in my,SDSU after you’ve enrolled in classes for a given term, It’s super important to check your mySDSU “Financial Account” tile for your specific due date,
Key Payment Deadlines
Missing payment deadlines can result in a $50 late fee for each missed payment. Nobody wants those extra charges! To avoid this:
- Log into your my.SDSU account regularly
- Check the “Financial Account” tile for due dates
- Set calendar reminders before each deadline
Payment Options for SDSU Students
Depending on your financial situation you have several options for paying your SDSU bill
Financial Aid Students
If you’re using Federal and State Student Aid, you’ll fall into one of two categories:
Full Funding Students: Your financial aid package covers your entire tuition bill. You may qualify for a Financial Aid Tuition Fee Deferment, which:
- Prevents cancellation of registration for non-payment
- Temporarily prevents late payment fee assessment
- Will be visible in your account after enrollment and when your Financial Award has posted
Partial Funding Students: Your financial aid package covers only part of your tuition. You’ll need to:
- Log in to my.SDSU
- Select “Financial Account” tile
- Review the “Account Balance” section
- Pay the “Total Due” amount by the given “Due Date”
Once payment is made, the Financial Aid Tuition Fee Deferment will automatically apply.
Installment Payment Plans
Can’t pay all at once? No problem! SDSU offers Installment Payment Plans (IPP) during Fall and Spring semesters. There are three types:
-
Resident Tuition and Fees IPP: Requires initial payment of Mandatory Campus Fees with the remaining tuition split into 3 equal installments (includes a $60 service fee).
-
Non-Resident Tuition IPP: Requires initial payment of Basic Tuition and Mandatory Campus Fees with remaining non-resident tuition split into 3 equal installments (includes a 10% service charge).
-
Housing IPP: Varies based on your housing license agreement.
For Fall 2025, the installment due dates are:
- 1st Installment: September 20
- 2nd Installment: October 20
- 3rd Installment: November 20
To enroll in an Installment Payment Plan:
- Log into your my.SDSU account
- Click on the “Financial Account” tile
- Click “Account Services”
- Click “Enroll in Payment Plan”
- Choose “Payment Plan”
- Pay your initial payment once enrolled
Remember, you must enroll in the plan by the Schedule Adjustment Deadline!
Personal Funding Options
If you’re paying out of your own pocket, SDSU offers several convenient payment methods:
Online – ACH (Electronic Check)
This works just like writing a check, with no additional fees. You’ll need your bank routing and checking account number.
Online – Credit Card
You can use MasterCard, Visa, American Express, or Discover through Transact (SDSU’s secure third-party vendor). Be aware that Transact charges a 2.65% service fee on each transaction.
You can mail a personal check, money order, or certified funds to:
University Bursar's OfficeSan Diego State University5500 Campanile Dr, SSW 2536San Diego, CA 92182-7425Make sure to include your:
- First & last name
- RedID number
In-Person/Cash
Visit the university cashiers department at the Main Campus in the Student Services West Building – 2536. They’re open Monday – Friday from 9am to 3:30pm.
International Wire Transfer
SDSU partners with Convera and Flywire for international students. This option:
- Offers favorable exchange rates
- Eliminates typical bank fees associated with wire transfers
- Automatically posts to your student account once received
529 Plans
If you have a 529 plan (tax-advantaged education savings account), you can use these funds to pay for tuition and fees. Request funds about a month in advance to ensure timely payment.
Alternate Payer Account
If someone other than you (like parents or guardians) will be paying, they can create an Alternate Payer Account to make payments on your behalf.
Third-Party Billing and Waivers
If an outside agency is funding your tuition and fees, you’ll need to submit the Sponsorship letter or Third Party Billing Authorization form to the University Bursar’s Office before the payment due date each term. This applies to:
- Military
- Tuition Waivers
- Department of Rehabilitation
- International Third Party Billing
- Outside Agency
What Happens If You Don’t Pay on Time?
If you don’t submit payment by the due date, you’ll face:
- A $50 late fee for each missed payment
- Possible cancellation of registration
- Withholding of services until all financial obligations are resolved
Additionally, if your payment is returned by your bank for any reason, you’ll be charged a $35 dishonored payment fee plus the $50 late fee where applicable.
Need Help? Contact Information
If you’re confused about any aspect of the payment process, don’t hesitate to reach out for help:
Cal Coast Student Financial Center
Phone: 619-594-5200
Address: 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, CA 92182
Comparing to South Dakota State University (SDSU)
It’s worth noting that San Diego State University (SDSU) and South Dakota State University (also abbreviated as SDSU) have different payment systems.
South Dakota State uses a system called SDePay, accessible through Self Service. With SDePay:
- No paper statements are mailed; students receive email notices when bills are available online
- Students can authorize parents/guardians to view and pay charges
- Payments can be made via e-check (free) or credit/debit card (2.85% service fee)
So make sure you’re using the correct payment system for your university!
Our Top Tips for Managing Your SDSU Payments
From our experience, here are some pro tips to make the payment process smoother:
- Set up calendar reminders for all payment deadlines
- Check your my.SDSU account weekly to catch any unexpected charges
- Enroll in direct deposit for faster refunds if you’re expecting one
- Keep documentation of all payments made
- Contact the Bursar’s Office early if you anticipate payment problems
FAQ: Common Questions About SDSU Bill Pay
Q: Can I pay my tuition with a credit card in person?
A: No, the University Bursar’s Office doesn’t accept credit cards for in-person payments. You’ll need to use the online system through Transact.
Q: How long does it take for an online payment to post to my account?
A: Payments made through Transact are normally posted to your account in real-time.
Q: Can all fees be included in the Installment Payment Plan?
A: No. Parking, miscellaneous fees, Global Campus tuition fees, and Professional Program Fees cannot be paid in installments.
Q: What if my financial aid amount changes?
A: If your award or tuition fees change for any reason, causing you to no longer qualify, your fee deferment may be removed. You’ll be responsible for paying your fees by the designated due date, so monitor your my.SDSU account regularly.
Q: Can I set up an Installment Plan for Summer Sessions?
A: No, the Basic Tuition & Fees Installment Plan is not available for Summer Sessions.
Final Thoughts
Remember, the most important things are to check your my.SDSU account regularly, know your payment deadlines, and reach out for help if you need it. The Bursar’s Office is there to assist you!
Have you had experience with SDSU’s payment system? We’d love to hear your tips and tricks in the comments below!
Online and Alternative Payment Options
An eCheck, or electronic check, is a form on online payment using the checking account and routing numbers of your bank account. Note: your debit card or credit card number cannot be used. This transaction is made via a processes called ACH (Automated Clearing House).
Notices Regarding eCheck:
- Only regular checking accounts at domestic banks (including most credit unions) may be used.
- eChecks are not automatically approved by your bank and may take up to three business days (72 hours) to be posted to your account.
- Despite the delay in processing, be sure that there are sufficient funds in the account during the entire process If a transaction is returned as invalid due to insufficient funds or erroneous account number(s) you will be charged a $35 dishonored check fee (late fees may also apply).
Credit card payments are normally posted to your student account in real-time. A 2.65% service charge will be assessed to credit card payments.
If a payment is returned by the bank for any reason you will be billed a $35 dishonored payment fee, in addition to the $20 late fee if applicable.
SDSU has partnered with Convera and Flywire to provide a convenient and secure online payment option for international students.
All students paying in foreign currency should use the IFT option through Transact in my.SDSU. Payments are automatically posted to your student account once received.
Wires through Convera and Flywire offer favorable exchange rates and eliminate bank fees typically associated with wire transfers.
529 plans are flexible, tax-advantaged accounts designed specifically for college savings. Funds can be used for qualified higher education expenses here at SDSU.
