Wartburg Financial Aid Philosophy
Regardless of your financial standing, we are committed to making education attainable for you. As a residential college, Wartburg supports the concept of a socially, culturally, and economically diverse student body and believes this diversity better prepares students for society. The college provides financial aid to enable students from all segments of society to attend. Wartburg believes that students should be able to select a school for academic rather than financial reasons. It admits students on academic and personal promise, not the ability to pay.

Planning in advance is important when preparing for college. Financial aid is intended to supplement, not replace, a family's resources. Colleges, government agencies, and special programs that award aid expect you and your family to contribute as much as possible toward college costs. Members of the Wartburg Financial Aid staff are happy to discuss your questions and concerns about financial aid.

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.