Financial Aid at Oregon State University

Just started comparing college costs and financial aid options, yikes! Who here has experience with Oregon State University's financial aid system? How generous are they?

Oregon State University offers various scholarships and financial aid options to its students. Many students at OSU qualify for some amount of aid, whether it be need-based aid, merit-based aid, grants, or loans.

For need-based aid, OSU uses information from the FAFSA or ORSAA to determine eligibility. These aids typically include federal programs such as Pell Grants, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), and Federal Work-Study, as well as a variety of state grants.

OSU also offers numerous merit-based scholarships. Their most prestigious awards, such as the Presidential Scholarship, cover substantial portions or even the full cost of attendance for exceptionally talented students. OSU also has a wide range of smaller scholarships targeted towards students from various backgrounds and disciplines.

In addition, Oregon State administers a number of grant programs to help cover the cost of tuition. These grants are usually awarded based on financial need, academic performance, or a combination of both.

That being said, while OSU does offer a variety of aid opportunities, it's not guaranteed that every student will receive an aid package that fully covers their need or eliminates all out-of-pocket costs. OSU's net price (the cost after subtracting average grants and scholarships from the sticker price) can still be substantial for some families. So, make sure to complete the FAFSA and apply for as many scholarships as you can. Don't forget to also check out their net price calculator for a rough estimate of what you may need to pay, based on your financial profile.

Please note that the actual amount of financial aid you receive will depend on various factors such as your family income, assets, number of family members in college, academic performance, and more. Your best bet is to reach out to Oregon State's financial aid office for the most accurate information tailored to your specific circumstances.