Types of Financial Aid

Scholarships recognize outstanding academic achievement and/or financial need and do not have to be repaid.  

Wichita State Scholarships may be awarded based on your application for admission or be specific to your major or circumstances. 

Outside Scholarships are awarded to students from external organizations.  In fiscal year 2023, WSU students earned more than $3.9 million in outside scholarships.

Grants are based on financial need and do not need repaid.

Some grants, such as the Kansas Comprehensive Grant, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, and Shocker Promise are limited, first-come, first-served awards. 

Be sure to complete your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by Wichita State's March 1st priority date to maximize your consideration for these need-based grants.

Loans require repayment over time.

Federal loans offer tax-deductible, low, fixed interest rates and flexible payment terms.  Payments on federal student loans are deferred while you are enrolled at least half time.

Federal Direct Subsidized Loans: Awarded based on financial need, and you are not responsible for the interest while you are enrolled at least half time.

Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans: Not based on financial need and will being to accrue interest once the loans are disbursed.

Work study is awarded based on financial need.  It provides funds for on-campus, part-time jobs to help you offset your educational expenses through a paycheck for the hours worked.