UCLA's Financial Aid program is a major factor in the admission and retention of students. The primary purposes of the program are to provide financial assistance to students who would otherwise be unable to attend UCLA, and to assist in the recruitment and retention of highly-able scholars.

FAO provides comprehensive information and counseling regarding financial aid programs to prospective and continuing students. Financial Aid staff attend meetings and conduct workshops to describe programs, services, and costs to parents, students, high school and community college counselors, and alumni. The Office publishes information about financial aid deadlines and procedures in campus newspapers and in the Financial Aid Fact Sheet, a quarterly newsletter for students. In addition, information about financial aid is placed in the UCLA General Catalog, Orientation Handbook, and other campus publications.

The Financial Aid Office provides timely and consistent delivery of information, counseling, and funds while insuring UCLA's conformity with Federal, State, and University requirements concerning reporting and accountability. Financial Aid policies and awarding issues are considered by the Financial Aid Policy Committee, which has both student and faculty representation.