Types of Aid Available

 SCHOLARSHIPS FOR PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS - Southwestern University awards a variety of scholarships to students who demonstrate academic excellence regardless of a family's financial circumstances. Approximately one-third of Southwestern students receive merit scholarships, with the average award being $8,539 a year. The application for admission is also the application for merit scholarships.

 SCHOLARSHIPS FOR CONTINUING STUDENTS - Gifts from alumni and friends of Southwestern enable the University to offer scholarships to students demonstrating financial need. In cases where financial need is established, any scholarship assistance based on merit or talent will be counted toward meeting that need.

 GRANTS - Grants are gift aid based on demonstrated need and can be funded from federal, state and/or institutional sources.

 LOANS - An education loan is a form of financial aid that must be repaid, with interest. Education loans come in three major categories: student loans (e.g., Stafford and Perkins loans), parent loans (e.g., PLUS loans) and private student loans (also called alternative student loans).

 STUDENT EMPLOYMENT - Federal Work Study (FWS) provides part-time jobs for students with financial need, allowing them to earn money to help pay education expenses. Work Study jobs can help you get valuable experience in your chosen field before you leave school. Students will earn $5.15 per hour and may work up to 17 hours per week.