Scholarships. Grants. Loans. Work study. You’ve heard these terms and know they can help you finance your college education, but you may not know how they work or how they differ from one another. Read on to better understand these types of financial aid and how each can help you afford your Wheaton College experience.
Starting in the fall of 2025, Wheaton College will cover the remaining tuition cost for enrolling first-year Illinois residents receiving both the Federal Pell Grant and Illinois MAP Grant.
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Each year, Wheaton College provides more than
to students based on merit and financial need. Over 90 percent of new first-year students receive some combination of scholarships, grants, loans, and/or federal work-study to help make their Wheaton experience affordable.
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Wheaton College scholarships are generally awarded based on merit, such as commitment to deepening your Christian faith, significant academic achievement, or excellence in a particular field like music. Many of these scholarships are made possible by generous gifts from Wheaton alumni and friends, as well as the college’s endowment.
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Grants are also forms of gift aid and do not need to be repaid. They differ from scholarships because they are calculated based on demonstrated financial need. To be considered for a grant, you must submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year. Federal and state grant eligibility is determined by Wheaton College’s cost of attendance and your expected family contribution.
After your federal and state grant eligibility is determined, you may also qualify for a Wheaton Grant. We award grants on a first-come, first-served basis, and students must reapply each semester.
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Loans are forms of financial aid that must be paid back with interest. Students and families typically use loans to pay any expenses that are not covered by scholarships or grants. There are several kinds of loans you can consider, including:
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Wheaton offers various aid options beyond standard financial aid, including GI Bill benefits, ROTC scholarships, and the Bennett Fund for missionaries. Additional opportunities include federal loans, on-campus employment (federal work study), and a college payment plan to help students manage educational expenses.
Whether you have questions about affording a Wheaton education or want more information about our academic programs, Wheaton's admissions counselors are your first point of contact.