Types of Financial Aid

College students have many different options available to them when it comes to building a financial aid package that will make attending college possible. Basic types of aid include:

Grants

Grants are a type of financial aid that does not have to be repaid; eligibility is determined by financial need. To be eligible for grants you must file your Free Application for Federal Student Aid.

Scholarships

Scholarships are a form of gift aid awarded for either merit or need. To be eligible for WCU Scholarships, you must complete the Undergraduate or Graduate University Scholarship application, available through your MyWCU portal. For more information on university scholarships and deadlines, please visit scholarships.wcu.edu. 

Loans

Federal student loans are available to students at low interest rates. Those loans must be paid back with interest, and students must file a Free Application for Federal Student Aid to be eligible for loans.

Work-Study

The Federal Work-Study program can provide you with an on-campus or community-based job opportunity to assist with tuition costs.

Graduate Student Aid  

A variety of funding assistance may be available to graduate students, including assistantships, fellowships and awards.

Military Assistance

Active military personnel, veterans and dependents may be eligible for educational military benefits. Western Carolina University’s Office of Military Student Services can assist students in identifying and completing the correct applications.