Stanford
Student Services

Late Fees & Penalties to Avoid

There are different types of student late fees and penalties that we try to help you avoid. If you are in need of student financial support, reach out to the Student Services Center. A team of specialists are ready to help you.

Late Payment Fees

If your full payment is not received by the published due date, a late payment penalty of 1% of the amount past due may be assessed. Anticipated aid (aid that has been accepted but not disbursed) will reduce the total amount due prior to late fees being applied.

If your payment is more than 30 days past due, a financial hold will be placed on your student account and will block future enrollment, transcripts and diplomas. For more information, see Delinquent Accounts information below.

Penalties for Returned Checks

A returned check fee may be assessed for payments made by check or electronic checks. Such fees are posted to your student account.

The following rules and penalties apply:

  • A non-refundable $25 administrative fee may be charged for returned checks and electronic checks.
  • Payments returned may cause holds to be placed on your student account which block future enrollment, transcripts, and diplomas from being issued.
  • Late payment fees of 1% may also be applied to any unpaid portion of the student account.

Delinquent Accounts and Financial Holds

You are expected to review your bill monthly and pay amounts by the due date.

Unpaid amounts may result in financial holds being placed on your  student account, which block enrollment in the following term as well as block diplomas immediately.

Additionally, the following may apply to severely delinquent accounts:

  • National credit reporting agencies may be notified.
  • Collection agency placement and/or litigation may occur.
  • Any collection costs, attorney fees and court costs may be the student’s responsibility.

Avoiding Late Fees, Penalties & More

Stanford is committed to supporting your student financial experience by ensuring you are informed about your responsibilities and equipped with financial literacy throughout your academic journey. We do this by regularly notifying you of upcoming due dates, sharing information to help you avoid negative financial impacts, and providing programs like Mind Over Money. 


We are here to guide you and partner with you; please reach out to us through the Student Services Center if you need assistance.