Hi everyone. I've been considering UIW for college but I'm a bit stressed about the cost. Can anyone explain how their financial aid system works? Do they offer good scholarships? Is the process easy?
Hello! Understanding the financial aid system certainly can be a bit overwhelming, but let's dive into it step-by-step for the University of the Incarnate Word (UIW).
The key document when dealing with financial aid is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Completing this form is the first step towards determining your financial aid package. The results of your FAFSA will determine your Student Aid Index (SAI – this has replaced the Expected Family Contribution or EFC), which schools use to determine your need-based aid. Be sure to include UIW's federal school code on your FAFSA so they receive your information.
In addition to federal and state aid, which you become eligible for by completing the FAFSA, UIW offers several institutional scholarships. There are merit scholarships, which are based on your academic achievements (high school grades and standardized test scores), and specific scholarships for participation in UIW's choir, band, or athletic teams, among other things.
Another thing to take note of is UIW's policy for meeting full demonstrated need. The university tries to meet 100% of demonstrated financial need, which means they aim to fill the gap between what your family can afford to pay (your SAI) and the total cost of attending.
As for the process, after you're accepted to UIW and have submitted your FAFSA, the school will send you a financial aid award letter outlining all the details of your financial aid package, which might include a combination of grants, scholarships, work-study opportunities, and loans.
Ultimately, everyone's financial aid situation is unique, so it may be beneficial to connect with UIW's Financial Aid office to discuss any specific concerns or questions you may have. They can guide you through the process and clarify any confusion. Best of luck!
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