Navigating tuition, payment plans and financial aid for online and graduate students is essential.
From day one, pursuing online undergraduate or graduate studies is an important step—one that requires both commitment and careful planning. At Concordia University Wisconsin, we want every student to feel confident about their investment. That’s why our tuition structure, payment options and financial aid resources are designed to provide clarity and flexibility.
Tuition made simple
Online and graduate program tuition at CUW is charged by the credit hour. This structure makes it easy to understand your costs based on the number of credits required for your program. Because every degree and certificate vary in length, we encourage students to review program-specific tuition details at cuw.edu/academics.
Enrollment agreement required before classes
On the first day of a class, students must complete an enrollment agreement. That lets CUW know that you are an active student and triggers financial aid to disburse any financial aid for the semester to a student’s student account. This important document outlines payment responsibilities, ensuring that you fully understand the financial expectations of your program. It also confirms your agreement to CUW’s policies regarding billing, financial aid and refunds.
Completing the Enrollment Agreement is a vital first step that provides transparency and helps you begin your studies with confidence.
Flexible payment options
We know many online and graduate learners balance their studies with work, family and other responsibilities.
To support you, CUW offers:
- Monthly payment plans to spread tuition into manageable installments across the semester.
- Employer reimbursement coordination for students whose companies help fund tuition.
- Online billing and payment systems so you can review and manage your account at any time.
Automatic payment scheduling is also available to simplify the process further.
Financial aid for CUW online and graduate students
Online and graduate learners at CUW may qualify for multiple types of aid, depending on enrollment and program:
- Federal loans for degree-seeking students enrolled at least half time.
- Scholarships and grants, including CUW-funded awards and outside opportunities.
- Military and veteran benefits for eligible service members, spouses and dependents.
- Church-work support for students preparing for ministry or education vocations.
Additionally, many CUW students make use of employer tuition assistance programs, which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs. CUW’s Business & Financial Aid office will help you coordinate these benefits.
Understanding financial aid award notices
Once you complete the FAFSA and your aid is processed, CUW provides a Financial Aid Award Notice. This notice outlines the types and amounts of aid you qualify for, including federal loans, grants and scholarships. All financial aid revisions and initial offers are sent through a prospective student’s future Falcon account or to a student’s CUW email.
Students often see their award notice updated more than once. This is normal and can happen for several reasons, including:
- A change in your enrollment status (for example, moving from part-time to full-time).
- Updates from the federal government or state regarding eligibility.
- Adjustments based on scholarships or outside funding received.
- Corrections or updates to your FAFSA information.
Award notices are a living document, meant to reflect the most accurate information available at the time. If your notice changes, CUW’s Financial Aid office can help you understand them.
Support rooted in mission
Financial planning should not be a barrier to pursuing your calling. At CUW, the Business & Financial Aid team—can be accessed through Concordia Central—which provides clear guidance and Christ-centered support to help you understand your bill, set up payment options, and manage financial aid. Guided by our mission to help students develop in mind, body and spirit for service to Christ in the Church and the world, we are committed to making your education attainable.
Frequently asked questions:
Q: When is my first payment due?
Payment is always due on or before the first day of each course. If you use financial aid, make sure everything is submitted. If you are paying out of pocket or using the payment plan, make sure to have everything processed before the first day.
Q: Can I adjust my payment plan after signing the agreement?
No. The university payment plan is through a vendor that splits tuition evenly between the remaining months of the payment plan.
Q: What if I receive employer reimbursement or military benefits?
CUW coordinates directly with employers and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to ensure benefits are applied properly. You’ll still need to sign your Enrollment Agreement, but CUW will help you align payments with your benefits.
Q: Do I need to re-sign the Enrollment Agreement every semester?
Yes! An Enrollment Agreement is required for each class each semester. Don’t be concerned, as the process is super quick and simple and should take less than two minutes.
Q: Who can I contact if I have questions about my bill?
Concordia Central is your first stop for billing and payment support. If additional assistance is needed, the Business & Financial Aid office can provide one-on-one help.
Take the next step
If you’re ready to begin or continue your journey, connect with CUW’s Business & Financial Aid counselors. Together, we’ll create a plan that fits your goals and makes graduate or online education achievable.
Learn more about tuition and financial aid at: CUW Financial Aid
Want in?
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.
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.