2007-2008 Academic Year

Who qualifies for financial assistance?
At Bethany Lutheran College, over 95% of students are eligible for need-based assistance or merit-based scholarships.

How much financial assistance is available to me personally?
You can use our convenient Financial Aid Estimate Request form to get a personalized estimate of what financial aid you could be awarded.

How can I determine my out-of-pocket expense for attending Bethany?
Once you've received a financial aid estimate or official award letter, use our Net Cost Calculator to get a good estimate of your final costs after aid.

How do I apply for financial assistance for future years?
Since financial assistance is calculated on an annual basis, you are responsible for completing a new or renewal FAFSA every year. The priority deadline for financial aid applications is April 15. Institutional need-based aid may be reduced for applications received after this date.

If I receive an outside scholarship, will I lose some of my aid?
Bethany Lutheran College's policy regarding outside scholarships is to reduce a student's work-study allowance or federal loan, but it will generally not reduce the availability of grants or scholarships. This is done both to encourage the search for outside scholarships and to reduce borrowing or time commitments due to student employment.

Use caution when using paid scholarship search services, as many are fraudulent or make false claims. Visit the Federal Trade Commission  web site for more information on scholarship scams. It is generally best to search for scholarships on your own. Your school guidance counselor or local library may be able to help you begin your search. Check with your parents' employers and insurance companies for possible education benefits.

How do I determine if I can claim independent status?
The Financial Aid Office is required to adhere to the standard criteria defined by the United States Department of Education when determining independent student status. According to this definition, students will be considered an independent if the student meets ANY of the following criteria:

• Were you born before January 1, 1984?
• Will you be working on a master’s or doctorate program during the 2007-08 school year?
• As of today, are you married?
• Do you have children who receive more than half of their support from you?
• Do you have dependents (other than your children or spouse) who live with you and who receive more than half of their support from you, now and through June 30, 2008?
• Are you an orphan or ward of the court or were you a ward of the court until age 18?
• Are you a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces?
• Are you currently serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces for purposes other than training?