Financial aid FAQs

How do I apply for a PLUS Loan?

A parent (PLUS) loan application is sent to all new students along with information about how to fill it out and which bank to choose. By definition, a parent may borrow, if eligible, up to the total cost of the student’s education minus the aid the student is receiving.
Is there a limit to the amount of financial aid I can receive?

Yes. The federal government says we can only award enough aid to cover the cost of school.
When will I find out how much in scholarship and financial aid I am getting?

When you have been accepted for admission to Bethel College and we have received your completed Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) with the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) information, we will send a financial aid award notice to you.
My church isn’t Mennonite, but it has a church aid program. Will Bethel honor that?

Yes. Bethel will match church funds from any denomination, dollar for dollar up to $1,000.
What do I have to do to retain my academic scholarship level?

Most of our academic scholarships are renewable up to 10 semesters based on maintaining a 3.0 Bethel College GPA. The Merit Scholarship is renewable with a 2.8 GPA.
Does Bethel have a payment plan?

Yes. Bethel offers three payment options. Students can pay (1) twice a year with no finance charge; (2) four times a year with an $80 one-time charge; or (3) nine times a year (monthly) with a $75 one-time charge. Read more about student payment plans.
When do I have to pay?

Due dates for the three different payment options above are: (1) registration day (the day before classes start); (2) registration day and halfway through the semester; and (3) monthly.
What if my parents’ tax returns aren’t completed by the FAFSA due date of April 1?

To be eligible for the Kansas Comprehensive Grant (for Kansas residents), your FAFSA must be received before April 1. The federal aid processing center will still process your application after April 1 for other types of aid. We encourage families to estimate their incomes and taxes if necessary in order to make the April 1 deadline. If you are mailing your FAFSA, you should have it mailed by March 15.
My parent just lost his job. How can I afford Bethel?

While financial aid is based on eligibility as determined by the FAFSA, there are circumstances that can affect that eligibility. A job loss, unusual medical expenses or parents attending college are some examples that can lead to unusual financial circumstances. Under “Professional Judgment,” the financial aid officer can review the situation to determine if changes need to be made to the FAFSA.
If I receive an outside scholarship (Rotary Club, etc.), how will that affect my financial aid?

Generally outside scholarships are a great addition to the financial aid package and can reduce your out-of-pocket expense. At Bethel, we encourage students to apply for outside scholarships. However, there are federal, state and college guidelines that have to be followed which may limit the amount of financial aid a student can receive from outside sources.
Where can I find out about other scholarships or financial aid information?

The largest free scholarship search available on the Internet is www.fastweb.com. You can find additional information about financial aid at www.finaidfacts.org or www.finaid.org.
Can I get financial aid if my parents don’t fill out a FAFSA?

You will still qualify for Bethel scholarships and awards, but you will not be eligible for any federal or state funds.

If you have additional questions, you can contact Tony Graber, director of financial aid.

For a free financial aid estimate, complete our estimate worksheet. If you would like a free financial aid counseling session, please contact the Office of Admissions:

Contact Information

Office of Admissions
Bethel College
300 East 27th Street
North Newton, KS 67117
Toll-free: 1-800-522-1887 ext. 230
Local: (316) 284-5230
admissions@bethelks.edu

Hours

8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday

Location

Leisy Welcome Center