Types of Financial Aid

We know you'll be happy to hear about all of the financial aid available for Concordia students. From loans and grants to scholarships and work study, there’s something for nearly everybody. All of our need-based aid (like loans, grants and some scholarships) is awarded based on the results of your FAFSA, so fill that out as soon as you have a chance. Our merit-based aid (including academic and performance scholarships) is awarded based on your high school academic achievement, GPA, class rank, standardized test scores and often interviews or auditions.

Loans

A loan is just what it sounds like—money that you borrow from a bank or the government and have to pay back. Subsidized loans do not require borrowers to make interest payments if still attending school, while unsubsidized loans do require interest payments. Some loans require an eligible co-signer. You must begin repaying your loans six months after you graduate.

Grants

Grants are “gifts” of money—they’re sometimes called “gift assistance”—and do not have to be paid back. Depending on your financial need, you may receive grants through Concordia, the State of Minnesota and the federal government. Renewal is based on continued financial need.

Scholarships

We offer two types of scholarships – financial need-based scholarships and merit-based scholarships. Renewal of the need-based awards is dependent on continued financial need and academic achievement. The merit-based scholarships include the Regents' Scholarship, the Presidential Distinction Scholarship, the Music Scholarship and many others. You may also apply for and receive scholarships from external organizations. Any awards must be reported to the Financial Aid Office.

Work Study

Work study assistance is basically a job on campus or at the America Reads program in Fargo-Moorhead. On campus jobs and America Reads pay you an hourly wage. You use those wages to pay for your college expenses. All students are eligible to work on campus regardless of financial need.

If you have questions about your own financial aid award packet, contact us for more information.



FAFSA Code: 002346

Information For:

current students
faculty and staff		 parents
alumni		 high school students
admitted students