Evaluating Need

Financing a WAU education is a very important aspect in determining your ability to attend our University.  At WAU, we are committed to assisting families to make the most of their financial aid dollars and to treat families equitably while maintaining flexibility in recognizing unusual situations. Each financial aid application file is given a personal review by experienced staff in the Office of Student Financial Services. In addition to submitting the required documentation, you are welcome to include any information you believe will help us understand your family's financial circumstances.

The following factors are used in determining a student’s eligibility for need-based assistance.

Determining the Cost of Attendance

The cost of attendance is determined by the University and is an estimate of the educational and miscellaneous expenses a student will occur during the nine-month academic year.  An educational expense budget is calculated for each financial aid applicant. These expenses include direct costs such as tuition, fees, room, and board as well as indirect costs which are standard allowances for books, supplies, personal expenses, and transportation.

Calculating the Expected Family Contribution

WAU uses the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) as the main determinants in calculating the family contribution. The Office of Student Financial Services evaluates each student's application using federal and institutional methodologies to assess the family’s financial resources. During the review, attention is given to individual family circumstances. Based on this information, a determination is made as to what the family could expect to contribute toward the student's annual educational expenses following the appropriate federal and University policies.

Financial Need is Determined

Demonstrated financial need of each student is the difference between the cost of attendance and the calculated family contribution. The calculated need determines the student’s eligibility for financial assistance.

Construction of a Financial Aid Award

Eligibility for government grants is estimated and, if there is significant need, aid may be offered from University-administered and University-funded resources. The student is sent notification of the aid offer in the form of an award letter.

The financial aid award may include one or a combination of any of the following assistance vehicles: grants and/or scholarships from federal and/or institutional funds, and federal loans.