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Indiana University
Cost and Financial Aid

Find help paying for college

Figuring out how to pay for college can be overwhelming, but we’re here to help. From scholarships, grants, and loans to work-study programs, financial aid can help you reduce the amount you’ll actually pay in a variety of ways.

Get started by filling out the FAFSA

The first thing you need to do to get financial aid is fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form, which will determine your eligibility for loans, grants, work-study, and some scholarships. You can complete the form online in about 30 minutes.

IU will use your FAFSA to create a “financial aid statement” that details the types and amounts of financial aid you qualify for. If you’re applying to IU, you’ll receive this statement after you’re admitted.

Review our guide to filling out your FAFSA

Types of financial aid

Financial aid can come in many forms, each with its own advantages. Here are some of the most common ways you’ll see financial aid offered.

Scholarships

You may qualify for scholarships based on things like academic achievement, athletic abilities, financial need, and more. Scholarships do not have to be paid back.

Grants

Your financial aid statement may include grants, which are based on financial need and do not have to be paid back.

Loans

Loans allow you to borrow money from the U.S. government or private lenders. Loans do have to be paid back, usually after you graduate.

Work-study

Work-study jobs are part-time jobs available on and off campus. The U.S. government pays part of your wages, and how much you earn depends on how many hours you work and your hourly pay rate.

Review your financial aid statement

Your financial aid statement (or financial aid notification letter) from IU will let you know how much financial aid you qualify for, your estimated cost of attendance, and more. Based on this, you can decide whether you want to apply for additional student loans or work-study programs to help cover the rest of your costs.

Find financial aid information and deadlines

Looking for more information?

Learn more about FAFSA and managing your financial aid next.