Opening Thoughts
Attending a private university in Delaware, such as Wilmington University or Goldey-Beacom College, offers a unique and personalized educational experience but often comes with a higher price tag. Fortunately, there are multiple financial aid options available to make these institutions more affordable. This guide outlines the federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs you can tap into to reduce your educational expenses.
Federal Financial Aid Programs
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is your first step in securing federal financial aid for private universities:
• Pell Grants: These need-based grants do not require repayment, making them an ideal option for students from low-income families.
• Federal Work-Study: Provides part-time employment opportunities to earn money for educational expenses while attending school.
• Federal Student Loans: Offers low-interest subsidized and unsubsidized loans to help bridge the gap between tuition costs and other aid.Pro Tip: Complete the FAFSA as early as possible, starting October 1st each year, to maximize your eligibility for federal, state, and institutional aid.
State-Specific Financial Aid in Delaware
Delaware has several state-funded aid programs that can be used at private universities:
- Delaware State Scholarship Programs
The Delaware Higher Education Office administers a variety of scholarship programs available to Delaware residents attending private institutions. Some notable scholarships include:
• Diamond State Scholarship: A merit-based scholarship for high-achieving Delaware residents pursuing undergraduate studies.
• Governor’s Education Grant for Working Adults: Provides financial assistance to adult learners seeking to advance their education.
• Eligibility: Varies by program; generally requires Delaware residency, academic performance, and financial need.
• Award Amount: Varies depending on the specific scholarship and available funding.- Delaware Scholar Program
This program offers scholarships to Delaware residents based on a combination of academic achievement and financial need.
• Eligibility: Must be a Delaware resident enrolled in a degree program at a participating institution.
• Award Amount: Award amounts vary based on financial need and the institution’s funding.Institutional Scholarships and Grants
Private universities in Delaware offer a range of institutional scholarships to help ease the financial burden of tuition:
• Wilmington University: Provides scholarships like the WilmU Academic Achievement Scholarship for students who demonstrate strong academic performance.
• Goldey-Beacom College: Offers merit-based scholarships, including the Presidential Scholarship, to high-achieving incoming students.Tip: Visit each university’s financial aid webpage to explore available scholarships, grants, and application deadlines.
Tips to Maximize Financial Aid
• Apply for Private Scholarships: Numerous Delaware-based organizations and businesses offer scholarships to students attending private universities. Use scholarship search engines like Fastweb and Scholarships.com to find additional opportunities.
• Contact the Financial Aid Office: Reach out to the financial aid office at your chosen university for guidance on additional funding options, payment plans, and how to appeal for more aid if necessary.
• Maintain Academic Excellence: A higher GPA increases your eligibility for merit-based scholarships and could unlock additional aid opportunities.Relevant Links/Sources:
• Federal Student Aid - FAFSA
• Delaware Higher Education Office
• Wilmington University Financial Aid