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Affordability

One of the most common myths about attending a private college is that it isn't affordable. Not true at Bethel College. More than 98 percent of Bethel students receive scholarships or financial aid. Intended to bring college costs within reach, the Bethel financial aid package is typically a combination of college scholarships, state and federal grants, campus work and student loans. Only loans must be repaid after graduation. You'll find that Bethel's outstanding quality and reasonable cost add up to a great educational value. For details on the types of academic, fine arts and athletics awards, along with information on federal grants and loans, read about financial aid, scholarships and tuition for prospective students.

The First Step

Central to the financial aid process is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), available online at www.fafsa.ed.gov or from your child's high school counselor. This federal form determines your child's eligibility for state and federal funds by analyzing income and asset data. Bethel College's FAFSA code is 001905. If you need help completing the FAFSA, contact Bethel's financial aid office.

Timeline

Refer to the first-time freshman and transfer student timelines for important deadlines to ensure your child receives the best financial aid package possible.

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, you as a parent may borrow, if eligible, up to the total cost of your child's education minus the aid your child is receiving.

• Is there a limit to the amount of financial aid my son or daughter can receive?

Yes. The federal government says we can only award enough aid to cover the cost of the school.

• When will I find out how much in scholarship and financial aid my son or daughter is receiving?

When your son or daughter has 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.

• Our family 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 does my child have to do to retain an 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. Read more about payment plans.

• When does my child 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 tax returns aren't completed by the FAFSA due date of April 1?

To be eligible for the Kansas Comprehensive Grant (for Kansas residents), the 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.

• I just lost my job. How can our family 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 my child receives an outside scholarship (Rotary Club, etc.), how will that affect his or her 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?

The largest free scholarship search available on the Internet is www.fastweb.com.

• Can my child get financial aid if I don't fill out a FAFSA?

Your child will still qualify for Bethel scholarships and awards, but he or she will not be eligible for any federal or state funds.

• Can my child obtain a job on campus?

Many Bethel students secure a part-time job on campus to help pay for tuition. Bethel's Center for Career Development and Placement will help your son or daughter find a job that suits his or her interests and skills.

If you have additional questions, contact the financial aid office. If you would like a free financial aid counseling session, please contact the Office of Admissions at (316) 284-5230 or admissions@bethelks.edu.