Find help paying for college
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?
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Fill out the FAFSA
Get a step-by-step guide to filling out your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
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Get financial aid basics
See how the financial aid process works and get familiar with common terms.
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Learn how to manage financial aid
Get tips for making smart decisions about your financial aid options.