CUW offers a robust selection of online programs designed to help you pursue academic and spiritual growth. But what about financial help?
After scrolling through Concordia’s rich online program selection, and perhaps narrowing down a preferred field of study, a common question among prospective online students often is: “Can I receive financial aid like the Federal Pell Grant or Wisconsin Tuition Grant?” The answer is yes.
Here’s a breakdown of available aid for online undergraduates and graduate students, and what it means for your Concordia journey.
Undergraduate online students
Federal Pell Grant
- What it is: A federal need-based grant for students pursuing their first bachelor’s degree.
- Eligibility: Determined through the FAFSA; awarded to students with significant financial need.
- Award range: Up to $7,395 per year (for full-time enrollment; prorated for part-time).
- CUW online students: Fully eligible, regardless of learning format—on-campus or online.
Wisconsin Tuition Grant
- What it is: A state grant for undergraduate Wisconsin residents attending private colleges like CUW.
- Eligibility: Based on financial need and completion of the FAFSA by August 1. This grant is only awarded at the beginning of each fall semester.
- Award range: Up to $4,850 per year.
- CUW online students: Eligible if they live in Wisconsin and are enrolled at least half-time. This grant can be applied for through our financial aid office.
Graduate online students
Graduate students are not eligible for Federal Pell Grants or the Wisconsin Tuition Grant, as those are reserved for undergraduate programs. However, financial aid is still available for graduate-level online programs at CUW:
Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans
- What it is: A federal student loan available to graduate students regardless of financial need.
- Loan limit: Up to $20,500 per academic year.
- Interest: Begins accruing immediately, but repayment is deferred while enrolled at least half-time.
- CUW online graduate students: Fully eligible by completing the FAFSA.
Concordia Scholarships and Employer Discounts
CUW offers institutional aid, especially for graduate students who are:
- Teachers, school administrators, or employees of Christian or partner schools.
- Working for Concordia system partners (e.g., healthcare, education, church organizations).
- Part of corporate partnerships that provide tuition discounts or reimbursement.
Tip: Check with your CUW Admissions Counselor to see if your employer or church qualifies you for a 10–25% discount on graduate tuition.
Applying for Financial Aid
- Complete the FAFSA at studentaid.gov (use CUW code: 003842).
- Apply early—especially for the Wisconsin Grant, which requires FAFSA submission by August 1.
- Review your estimated award—contact the CUW Financial Aid Office after you receive your award letter if you have any questions about your award.
- Ask about employer discounts and scholarships—especially if you’re in education, ministry, or healthcare.
Reminder: Kim Mittelsteadt, CUW’s associate director of financial aid reminds students, “the Financial Aid Office is here for you throughout your entire time at Concordia. We are here to help you understand your available financial aid each school year, but also after graduation with loan repayment information as well.
Investing in your purpose
Earning an online degree from Concordia University Wisconsin is an investment not only in your future career but in your God-given calling. Through generous federal, state, and institutional aid options, CUW strives to make Christian higher education affordable and accessible for all learners—undergraduate and graduate, online or on-campus.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.”
– Jeremiah 29:11
CUW’s online undergraduate and graduate classes are offered year-round, with students beginning courses in two eight-week mini-terms during the spring, summer, and fall for most programs. Take action and connect with Concordia University’s admission team by visiting CUW Online Undergraduate Admissions for undergraduate degrees or Graduate Admissions for master’s degrees and licenses or by calling 262-243-4300.
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Concordia University Wisconsin is a Lutheran higher education community committed to helping students develop in mind, body, and spirit for service to Christ in the Church and the world.