Top 5 Things to Know

Step 1 - Apply for admission. To be considered for financial aid, you must first be accepted for admission to Wartburg College.

Step 2 - File a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as possible after January 1 in your senior year. For priority consideration, you should file before March 1. Be sure to list Wartburg College code #001896. If you are an Iowa resident, check the state release box. You are encouraged to apply over the Internet at www.fafsa.ed.gov. In order to sign your FAFSA electronically, you and your parent must have a personal identification number (PIN). Paper forms are available for those without access to the Internet by calling 1-800-433-3243.

Step 3 - If requested, submit completed, signed copies of your parents’ and your most recent federal income tax returns to the Wartburg College Financial Aid Office.

Step 4 - First-year students will be sent a financial aid information packet approximately 7-10 days prior to the student's S.O.A.R. (Student Orientation And Registration) Day. The packet will contain materials and information to be completed and returned on or before your scheduled S.O.A.R. day.

Step 5 - Apply for other aid from your high school, church, civic organizations, clubs, or other sources. Notify the Financial Aid Office of all additional scholarships you receive.

Funds and Eligibility

Most financial aid funds come from the federal government, the State of Iowa, Wartburg College and private donors. Each aid program has specific eligibility requirements. In general, all students must meet the following requirements to receive financial assistance through Wartburg College.

• Be enrolled on a full-time basis-a minimum of three course credits each fall term and winter term.
• Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen for federal assistance.
• Be admitted to Wartburg as a degree seeking student.
• Maintain satisfactory academic progress.
• Meet eligibility requirements for each of the aid programs accepted.
• Not be in default on any educational loan or owe a refund for a grant.
• Demonstrate financial need or meet special scholarship requirements.

The financial aid award is subject to the availability of expected federal and state funds. Institutional grants and scholarships require full time enrollment and must be applied toward tuition for a maximum of eight terms.  Renewal of institutional grants and scholarships for transfers is pro-rated based upon class status upon enrollment.

Types of Financial Aid

Gift Aid, which comes in the form of grants and scholarships and does not need to be repaid. This type of aid may be awarded on the basis of need or merit.

Self Help Aid, which comes in the form of loans and on-campus employment. Loans need to be repaid when a student graduates or leaves school for an extended length of time. Interest rates on these loans are generally lower than commercial loans. Students can work in various departments on campus up to 20 hours per week. Almost 75% of Wartburg students are employed on campus.

Notification of Award:
We accept applications throughout the year, giving priority consideration to students who apply before March 1. We will notify students of financial aid awards beginning March 15.