There are many ways to make attending college more affordable. Grants, loans, scholarships, work study or a combination of these types of aid help students with the costs of pursuing a degree at the University of Southern Indiana.
Grants
State and federal grants, which do not have to be paid back, are available on the basis of financial need and other situations. Some grants require that you file the FAFSA by April 15 to qualify.
Loans
A loan is a form of financial aid that must be repaid. Loans come in three major categories: Federal Direct Loans, Federal Direct PLUS Loans and Private Education Loans (also called alternative student loans).
Scholarships
Scholarships are merit-based and need-based forms of aid which do not have to be paid back. Scholarships are available from several sources: the State of Indiana, USI and outside sources.
Work Study
This program provides jobs for undergraduate and graduate students who need financial aid. Students are paid at least minimum wage and work between 5 and 20 hours per week when school is in session.
Assistantships (Graduate Students Only)
Graduate assistantships provide fee waivers to graduate students enrolled in a minimum of six semester hours in exchange for up to 20 hours of work on campus each week. An hourly wage is paid for hours worked.
21st Century Scholars
Income-eligible 7th- and 8th-graders who enroll in the program and fulfill a pledge of good citizenship to the state are guaranteed the cost of four years of college tuition at any participating public college or university in Indiana.