Access NWU Scholarship Program

The Access NWU Scholarship Program funds 100% of tuition through federal, state and NWU merit-based and need-based grants for first-year and transfer students who qualify for the federal Pell Grant. The program will serve most students whose family adjusted gross incomes are at or below $65,000.

For Access NWU students, Nebraska Wesleyan first applies state and federal grants to the cost of tuition. NWU then provides scholarships to fully cover the remaining tuition cost with grants and scholarships that are not required to be paid back. Outside scholarships, family financial resources, federal student loans and on-campus work study may be used for additional educational expenses, such as room and board, fees and books.

To qualify, a student must:

• be federal Pell Grant eligible as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
• apply and be admitted to NWU as a first-time, first-year or transfer student beginning 2023
• carry a full-time academic course load of 12-18 credit hours per semester

How to Apply for Access NWU

Step 1 – Apply for admission to Nebraska Wesleyan University

Access NWU candidates must apply and be admitted as a new first-year or transfer student.

Step 2 – Submit a FAFSA

Interested students must file a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa and add NWU’s school code (002555). If required, recipients must complete the federal verification process to confirm eligibility for the Access NWU Scholarship Program. While there is no formal closing date, students are strongly encouraged to complete the application for admission and the FAFSA by March 1.

Step 3 – Watch for SAR

Completing the FAFSA will generate the Student Aid Report (SAR) on which the expected family contribution is listed. Eligibility will be specified when the financial aid award is formally announced. The NWU financial aid staff will confirm your official eligibility for the Access NWU Scholarship Program.

Renewal Process

Students will remain eligible for up to four years of Access NWU funding provided they file a FAFSA prior to March 1 each year and remain Pell-eligible. Students must also maintain full-time status and at least a 2.0 GPA. Access NWU funding covers the full cost of tuition after state and federal funds are applied. Outside scholarships, family financial resources, federal student loans and on-campus work study may be used for additional educational expenses, such as room and board, fees and books.