College of Arts & Sciences

Types of Financial Aid

Financial aid comes in two categories: gift aid (grants and scholarships) and self-help aid (loans and student employment). 

Grants

A grant is a gift given usually on the basis of financial need. Visit the Grants webpage for information about grants available at Bethel.

Loans

Loans must be repaid. Student loan programs allow you to borrow money at low interest rates to help pay for your education. Generally the repayment of student loans is deferred until after you complete your education.  Because loans must be repaid, you should plan your debt financing carefully. For detailed information regarding available loans, go to the Loans webpage.

Scholarships

A scholarship is a gift given in recognition of academic achievement; special talents; or contribution to church, school, or community. Go to the Scholarships webpage for more information regarding Bethel scholarships.

Departmental Scholarships (Special Awards)

In addition to the programs listed above, returning students are eligible to apply for a number of endowed and restricted scholarships. These departmental scholarships are awarded to students in the spring of the year to be applied toward the coming school year.  Students are selected by the faculty in the students' academic majors. Both need-based and merit scholarships are available. Students must submit an online application by February 10 (available by the end of November). The descriptions for these departmental scholarships are listed in the College of Arts & Sciences Catalog.

Student Employment/Work Study

Campus work study allows a student to earn a portion of his/her college expenses by working a part-time job on campus or in an off-campus community service position. Please see the Student Employment webpage for more information.

Outside Sources

Financial aid is also available from various outside sources. You may want to explore these possibilities through your local high school, employer, church, veterans or professional organizations, fraternal orders, ethnic heritage groups, and other local or state agencies. Your high school guidance officer is a good source of information about most local awards. You can also visit our Helpful Links webpage for possible sources of additional aid. Financial assistance received from outside sources must be reported to the Office of University Financial Aid.