INspire Earlham Program

As part of our ongoing efforts to widen the path to a four-year college education, we are offering free tuition to Indiana students whose families are Pell and State of Indiana grant-eligible and earn up to $60,000 per year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible? Eligible Indiana students must be accepted to and enroll at Earlham as part of the fall entering class; file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by March 1; and be eligible for state (21st Century Scholars, Frank O’Bannon), and federal (Pell, FSEOG) aid. 

Are transfer students eligible? Yes, income-eligible Indiana students transferring from a two- or four-year college can qualify for the INspire Earlham program as long as they are admitted to and enroll in the fall entering class. Earlham also has a transfer agreement with Ivy Tech Community College that allows certain graduates to transfer to Earlham knowing every credit they earned will count toward a four-year degree.

How does this actually work?  We take the cost of Earlham’s tuition, subtract your merit scholarship from Earlham, your state aid scholarship as well as grants (Pell and SEOG) from the federal government, and we commit to covering the remaining balance with an Earlham INspire grant.

Is this a “full ride” scholarship? No. This program eliminates the need for income-eligible students to pay tuition to attend Earlham. Eligible students must still pay fees, including room and board. A breakdown of costs is available here.

Is the INspire Earlham program available for four years? Yes, as long as a student remains in good academic standing, remains Pell- and state grant-eligible and maintains income eligibility.

Is this available to students from other states and countries? Not yet. Earlham is offering this scholarship to domestic Indiana residents.

What other kinds of financial aid are available to Earlham students? Click here to see a full list of the different kinds of aid, which includes scholarships, loans, grants, and student employment opportunities.

Why is Earlham doing this now? Earlham has always awarded significant financial aid to support domestic and international students. 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.

More 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.

Next steps