How does financial aid work at IWU?

Hey folks, I'm considering Illinois Wesleyan University as one of my top choices, but I'm not too sure about their financial aid process. I could really use some information on the kind of financial aid options available at IWU. Does anyone know if they reliably meet demonstrated need? Thanks!

Illinois Wesleyan University (IWU) strives to support its students financially, and it does offer an array of options in regard to financial aid. IWU's financial aid program includes federal or state financial aid, institutional aid such as scholarships or grants, and work-study opportunities.

As for meeting demonstrated need, it's important to know that IWU is not listed amongst those schools that pledge to meet 100% of the demonstrated financial need of every admitted student. However, this doesn't necessarily mean they can't provide substantial aid. On average, IWU's institutional aid awards can be quite generous and they are known for providing a number of merit-based scholarships. This includes both academic scholarships and talent-based scholarships for areas like music, theatre, and fine arts.

To determine your financial aid eligibility at IWU, be sure to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and have the results sent to IWU. SAI (student aid index) derived from the FAFSA will help determine your eligibility for both state and federal financial aid. Don't forget to check the deadline for submitting the FAFSA to ensure you're considered for the maximum amount of aid available.

In addition, I suggest checking out the Net Price Calculator on IWU's website. This tool will give you a personalized estimate of what you might expect to pay there, after any financial aid that you may receive.

Lastly, it's always a good idea to contact IWU's financial aid office directly to get the most accurate and up-to-date information. Engaging with them can help clarify any uncertainties you might have around financial aid at IWU. Good luck!