Keeping Northwestern Affordable
Learn about our commitment to affordability, our approach to meeting demonstrated financial need and the types of aid available to eligible students.
How Financial Aid Works
Meeting you and your family where you are
At Northwestern, we work with students and families to determine eligibility for financial assistance and help make a Northwestern education as affordable as possible.
We're one of a small number of universities that is committed to meeting 100% of each admitted student's demonstrated financial need.
Whether you're exploring your options, estimating costs, or preparing to apply, this guide will help you understand how financial aid works and what to expect throughout the process.
Step 1: Understand How Aid Works at Northwestern
Before you begin an application, it's helpful to understand how financial aid works and how Northwestern evaluates each family's financial circumstances.
Financial Need and Eligibility
Understand how financial need is determined, what factors are considered, how eligibility for need-based aid is assessed, and what 'demonstrated need' means.
Before Applying for Loans
Get an overview of the loan process, required forms, timelines, and information you'll need before submitting your application.
Step 2: Estimate What Northwestern May Cost You
Every family's situation is different. Before applying, you can get an estimate of what you may be expected to contribute and what financial aid you might receive.
Estimate Your Cost and Aid
Use planning tools and calculators to estimate your costs and potential financial aid eligibility before you apply.
Cost of Attendance
Learn what's included in Northwestern's estimated annual cost, including tuition, housing, meals, books, personal expenses, and other educational costs.
Step 3: Learn What Your Options Are
Your aid offer will include gift aid based on your family's financial need, in addition to your options for loans and student employment.
Types of Aid
Understand what aid you'll be given loan-free and what other financial options you might qualify for, along with emergency aid, loan options and aid for programs like study abroad.
Sample Aid Award Letter
Learn how to read a financial aid offer and understand the grants, scholarships, loans, work-study opportunities, and family contribution reflected in your award.
Requirements
Find details about the academic, enrollments, and citizenship status requirements needed to be considered for financial aid.
Step 4: Submit Your Aid Application and Review Your Offer
Apply for Aid
When you apply for admission, you'll submit the required financial aid forms and supporting documentation.
Our financial aid team reviews the information you provide to determine your family's financial need and create your financial aid offer.
Review and Respond to Your Financial Aid Offer
Once you've reviewed your offer, you can accept, reduce or decline any of the loan assistance options offered to you. If the cost of attendance changes, your aid offer will change, too.
You'll revisit this process each year as you apply for financial aid and whenever changes to your financial situation affect your eligibility.
Not sure where to start?
| If you're asking... | Start here |
|---|---|
| Can I afford Northwestern? | Estimate Your Cost and Aid |
| How does Northwestern determine need? | Financial Need and Eligibility |
| What does Northwestern cost? | Cost of Attendance |
| What should I know before applying? | Review the Steps for Applying and Prepare the Required Materials |
| What does Northwestern require for students to qualify for aid? | Requirements |
| What will my aid offer look like? | Sample Financial Aid Letter |
| How does Northwestern make college affordable? | Keeping Northwestern Affordable |