Types of financial aid
Discover affordability at our nationally ranked liberal arts college. We provide various forms of aid, including scholarships, grants, loans, and student employment opportunities, ensuring accessibility for eligible students.
There are two main categories of aid: merit-based and need-based
Merit-based aid
Merit-based aid is typically awarded in the form of scholarships. For many of our scholarships, no separate application is needed—we will award based on your application for admission.
Need-based aid
Need-based aid is calculated and awarded based on your completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Scholarships
Scholarships honor your talents and contributions. They don’t require repayment. Remember to inform Earlham of any external scholarships you receive. We automatically consider every student for merit scholarships. Additionally, Earlham provides a range of unique scholarship opportunities.
Scholarship opportunities
More types of aid to help with your journey
Grants
Grants are typically need-based funds provided by the federal or state government. Earlham College also administers its own grant funds, thanks to our generous donors and alumni. Grant funding does not have to be repaid. To be considered for grants, make sure to complete the FAFSA.
Loans
Loans are funds provided by the federal government or financial institutions. Loans must be repaid once you graduate or if you withdraw or drop to less than half-time enrollment. Each academic year, you’ll need to submit the FAFSA to Earlham to be eligible for federal loans. Since the cost of your program paired with the other aid you receive affects your eligibility for any Federal Direct Loan, your eligibility for loans is individually determined by the Earlham College’s Office of Financial Aid.
Student employment
Students who are financially eligible may receive aid via Federal College Work-Study (FCWS) or another work program as part of the financial aid award. If eligible, you have an opportunity to work on campus to help offset your college expenses. Student employment awards are need-based funds, so be sure to complete the FAFSA to be considered.
INspire Earlham Program
Students who are financially eligible may receive aid via Federal College Work-Study (FCWS) or another work program as part of the financial aid award. If Earlham has always awarded students significant financial aid to support students from around the world. However, even with competitive financial aid offers, there are still costs that pose barriers for students in completing a degree in four years. The INspire Earlham program is a bold statement of Earlham’s commitment to reversing a decline in the number of Hoosiers pursuing higher education from low-income backgrounds.
Program details
Free tuition to Indiana students whose families are Pell and State of Indiana grant-eligible and earn up to $60,000 per year.
Financial aid information and resources
Earlham is a community like no other. Our students and faculty are partners in learning, seeking truth wherever truth may lead. Learn more about Earlham at the links below.