Financial Aid and Scholarships at Anderson University
You may qualify for more financial aid than you expect.
At Anderson University, we walk with you through the financial aid process so you can understand your options, reduce uncertainty, and take your next step with confidence.
Students who complete key steps in the admissions process early can earn up to $3,250 in additional aid for their first year, and can receive an additional total of $11,500 over the course of their four years.
Financial Aid
Made Easy.
Understand the real cost of tuition and learn about how financial aid and scholarships can help make becoming a Raven possible at AU.
2027-2028 Merit Scholarships for Incoming Students
AU offers merit scholarships for first-time undergraduate students based on GPA and Satisfactory Academic Progress. These academic scholarships are renewable each year and are available to incoming freshmen who are beginning college in fall 2027 or spring 2028.
| Undergraduate Merit | GPA | Amount Range |
| Presidential Scholarship | 4.0+ | $22,000/year |
| Edwards Scholarship | 3.75-3.99 | $20,000/year |
| Nicholson Scholarship | 2.75–3.74 | $18,000/year |
| Reardon Scholarship | 2.25–2.74 | $14,000/year |
| Morrison Scholarship | 2.24 and below | $10,000/year |
Engagement Scholarships
These scholarships reward you for taking important steps in your college journey. Take 3 steps to increase your aid by up to $3,250 for your first year. The earlier you engage with AU, the more opportunities you have to reduce your cost.
- Visit campus
- Apply prior to November 1
- File your FAFSA by February 1
| Scholarship | Eligibility | Annual Amount | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Campus Visit Scholarship | Visit as a junior or senior | $1,500/year | Ongoing |
| Priority FAFSA Filer | File FAFSA by Feb. 1 | $1,250/year | Feb. 1 |
| Early Applicant Credit | Apply prior to Nov. 1 to receive a student account credit to use toward tuition charges, book costs, or Raven Dollars | $500/one-time credit | Oct. 31 |
| Launch Dual Credit Program | Previously enrolled in AU’s dual credit program called Launch | $1,000/year | Ongoing |
Additional Anderson Scholarships
Anderson University offers more than 500 additional scholarships funded by generous donors. These awards are unique to AU and are based on your interests, background, academic program, and involvement. These scholarships are available for freshmen starting classes in fall 2027 or spring 2028.
Academic Interests
Explore scholarships connected to your major, talents, and career goals.
- Communication & Media Arts Merit Scholarship: $2,500
- School of Theology & Christian Ministries Scholarship: $5,000
- Computer Science Scholarship: $2,000
- McCardwell Business Scholarship: $2,500
- National Security Scholarship
- School of Music & Performing Arts Scholarship: $2,500
- Music Education Scholarship: $1,000
- Music Ensemble Scholarship: $1,500
Competitive & Full-Tuition Scholarships
AU’s competitive scholarships recognize exceptional achievement and participation.
- Winner: Full Tuition
- Participant: $2,000
- Winner: Full Tuition
- Participant: $2,000
School of Nursing Competition
- Winner: Full Tuition
- Participant: $2,000
Falls School of Business Competition
- Winner: Full Tuition
- Participant: $2,000
Exercise Science Competition
- Winner: Full Tuition
- Participant: $2,000
Social Science Competition
- Winner: Full Tuition
- Participant: $2,000
- Winner: Full Tuition
- Selected for Program: $2,500
- Interviewed, Not Selected: $1,000
My Background & Community
Anderson University offers scholarships that recognize your experiences, community, and educational journey.
- Christian High School & Homeschool Scholarships: $5,000
- Out-of-State Scholarship: $5,000
- International Student Scholarship: $5,000
- Madison County Direct Admit Program: $5,000
- Transfer Scholarship: $5,000
Important Note: These scholarships are non-stackable with each other. Students may qualify for one of these awards within their financial aid package.
Church of God Students & Families
Anderson University’s Church of God heritage continues to shape our mission and scholarship opportunities.
- Church of God Scholarship: $5,000
- Church of God Ministers Dependent Scholarship: $1,000
- Church Matching Scholarship: $500
- IYC Scholarship: Full Tuition
- National Association of the Church of God Scholarship: Full Tuition
Local & Indiana
- Madison County Direct Admit Program: $5,000
- 21st Century Promise Scholarship: Full Tuition
AU Families with History
Did your parent or legal guardian graduate from AU? Does your sibling attend AU?
- Alumni Council Scholarship: $1,500
- Legacy Scholarship: $1,500
Military & Federal Aid
- Military Tuition Assistance at Anderson University
- Federal & State Aid: Available through FAFSA
How Financial Aid Works
- #1: Apply to Anderson University: Your application helps determine your scholarship eligibility.
- #2: Visit campus: A campus visit helps you experience AU and may qualify you for additional scholarship support.
- #3: File the FAFSA: Submit your FAFSA before Feb. 1 for priority consideration.
- #4: Review your financial aid offer: We will help you understand scholarships, grants, loans, and the remaining cost.
- #5: Make your AU plan: Our team will walk with you through the next steps, payment options, and deadlines.
Transfer & Finish Strong
You’ve already started your degree. At AU, you can finish it with clarity, support, and a plan. Transfer students with 15 or more credit hours may qualify for merit scholarships:
Additional opportunities:
| Undergraduate Merit | GPA | Amount Range |
| Presidential Transfer | 4.0+ | $16,000/year |
| Edwards Transfer | 3.50–3.99 | $14,000/year |
| Nicholson Transfer | 3.00–3.49 | $12,000/year |
| Reardon Transfer | 2.50–2.99 | $10,000/year |
| Morrison Transfer | 2.49 and below | $8,000/year |
Why Families Choose AU
At Anderson University, affordability is not just about lowering cost. It is about helping students access a Christ-centered education where they are known, supported, and prepared for a life of faith and service.
- Christ-centered community
- Scholarships for academic achievement and engagement
- Personalized financial aid guidance
- Career-focused programs with strong outcomes
- A campus where students are known by name
FAQ: Financial Aid at Anderson University
How do I qualify for Anderson University scholarships?
Students are reviewed for merit scholarships through the admission process. Some additional scholarships may require specific actions, deadlines, program participation, or eligibility criteria.
Can my financial aid be more than what I owe Anderson University?
Anderson University scholarships, grants, and federal student loans are awarded to help cover your direct AU costs, such as tuition, housing, and meals. In most cases, your total financial aid package cannot be more than the amount billed by the university.
For example, if your scholarships, grants, and loans add up to more than your AU bill, your financial aid may be adjusted to match your direct costs. You would not receive the extra amount as a refund or payout.
This approach helps AU distribute financial aid resources as fairly as possible so more students and families can afford higher education.
Some types of outside aid may follow different federal or program rules. Our financial aid team can help explain your individual situation.
Do I have to file the FAFSA?
Students should file the FAFSA to be considered for federal, state, and need-based aid at any college they plan to attend. Filing early may also help students qualify for priority aid opportunities at the state and federal levels. In addition, AU offers an institutional scholarship for students who file by Feb. 1.
What is Anderson University's federal school code?
- Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form
- Anderson University’s Federal School Code: 001785
Can scholarships be stacked?
Some scholarships may be combined, while others are non-stackable or limited by eligibility. AU’s financial aid team will help explain your best available offer.
Is there a scholarship for visiting campus?
Yes. Students who visit Anderson University as sophomores, juniors, or seniors may qualify for a campus visit scholarship.
Are there scholarships for transfer students?
Yes. Transfer students may qualify for merit scholarships based on GPA, Phi Theta Kappa participation, and other eligibility factors.
What scholarships are automatically awarded?
Merit scholarships are automatically awarded based on GPA upon admission to Anderson University. Some additional scholarships require an application, participation in a scholarship competition, or meeting specific eligibility requirements. Completing a scholarship profile with the Office of Admission will help AU match you with our unique donor-funded scholarships.
What full-tuition scholarship opportunities are available at Anderson University?
Anderson University offers several competitive scholarship opportunities that can cover up to the full cost of tuition for eligible students. These awards recognize academic achievement, leadership, talent, and participation in scholarship competitions.
Examples of full-tuition opportunities include:
- Honors Distinction Scholarship
- Cybersecurity & Computer Science Competition Winner
- Engineering Competition Winner
- Nursing Competition Winner
- Exercise Science Competition Winner
- School of Business Competition Winner
- Social Science Competition Winner
- International Youth Convention (IYC) Scholarship
- National Association of the Church of God Scholarship
- 21st Century Scholars Promise Scholarship
- CLD Scholarship
Some scholarships require participation in a competition, an interview, or a separate application process, while others have eligibility requirements set by the sponsoring organization. Availability and selection criteria may vary each year. Students and families who are interested in full-tuition opportunities are encouraged to apply early and connect with their assigned admissions counselor.
Where is Anderson University located?
Anderson University is located in Anderson, Indiana, just northeast of Indianapolis. Students enjoy a residential campus community with easy access to internships, careers, and cultural opportunities across central Indiana and the broader Midwest.