Types of Aid
There are many types of aid available for students. Some programs run by Roger Williams are awarded by simply applying for admission, while others are awarded to students through a more formal aid application process. To ensure full consideration for all aid programs, you should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Scholarships and Grants
Scholarships and grants are awarded to students to directly offset costs and do not need to be paid back. They can be awarded by the university, federal or state government or outside entities/agencies. Scholarships tend to be earned (“merit” aid) due to student qualities and qualifications (such as GPA, test scores, essay/selection process) whereas grants (need-based aid) may be based on your financial circumstances and require the FAFSA or other demonstration.
RWU Scholarships
Every year, Roger Williams University provides over $59 million in merit-based aid through scholarships. All incoming students are eligible for merit-based aid offered by the University and it will be reviewed during the application process.
Find out more about RWU Scholarships
Federal and State Grants
Some students may be eligible for federal and state grant support to fund your education.
Learn more about Federal and State Grant Programs
Endowed Scholarships
In addition, incoming and returning students may be eligible for scholarships and grants based on certain characteristics.
Departmental Scholarships for Current Students
High-performing returning students have the opportunity to receive awards from academic departments at RWU.
Learn more about Departmental Scholarships
Loans
Loans provide funds to students and/or parents as part of an agreement to pay the money back, with interest, after graduation. Generally speaking, the Federal government and private bank lenders are the two most common providers of student or parent loan options to consider as a tool to help pay for college. Various loan options may be in the student or parent name and in some cases (such as international students) may require a co-signer.
At RWU, we can help you understand interest rates, loan options, and various repayment options so you can make the best informed decision about student and parent borrowing.
Federal Loan Options
The Federal Government can provide loans to directly offset costs for students to attend school. This includes Direct Loans.
Private/Alternative Loans
Private bank lenders are another option for students to consider when thinking about paying for college. Other loan options also exist which each have pros and cons for a family to carefully consider.
Private/Alternative Loan Options
Work
Student employment is a way for students to earn money to pay for educational expenses typically on a part-time basis. Unlike other types of financial aid, work earnings typically do not address your tuition and fees. Students receive a regular paycheck throughout the semester, based on hours worked, just like a normal job. Employment earnings therefore typically cover expenses such as books, supplies, travel, and entertainment rather than the tuition bill.
Student employment may be awarded to you when you apply for financial aid (with funds coming from the Federal College Work Study program), while other jobs at RWU are open to any student.
Jobs at RWU may be on campus, off-campus in a community service related capacity, or may be part of our unique FIT program which programs hands-on experience and a mentor in an internship-like role over a three-year work opportunity.