Admissions
Financial Aid FAQ for Parents and Families
We know that understanding college costs is a big part of your family's decision-making process. That’s why Bethel provides a clear approach to tuition and financial aid, ensuring you have the information you need to plan with confidence. From scholarships to grants to need-based aid, we offer resources that help make a Christ-centered education accessible. Explore answers to common financial aid questions and discover the options available to support your student’s journey.
Frequently asked questions
-
Bethel has taken a bold step to make college costs more transparent by repositioning tuition for the College of Arts & Sciences. This change provides families with a clearer starting point for financial planning while also showing that a Christ-centered education is within reach at Bethel.
-
In addition to tuition, families should consider housing, meal plans, books, and fees when planning for college costs. Use our net price calculator to estimate your student's total expenses after financial aid.
-
Yes! Bethel is committed to making a Christ-centered education accessible, and 98% of students receive financial aid. Options include:
- Academic scholarships based on GPA
- Need-based grants determined by FAFSA
- The Bethel Promise Grant, which can lower tuition to as little as $2,500 per year for qualified Minnesota students
- Federal and state aid, including Pell Grants and Minnesota State Grants
- Student loans and work-study opportunities
-
To be considered for need-based financial aid, your student should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This application unlocks federal and state grants, loans, and Bethel-specific financial aid for your family.
-
It’s best to submit the FAFSA as soon as it becomes available, which is typically around the end of the calendar year. The earlier you apply, the better access you’ll have to all available financial aid options.
-
Yes! Bethel offers scholarships to help students reach their goals and make a Christ-centered education more attainable. These scholarships do not need to be repaid and can significantly reduce the cost of tuition.
- Academic Achievement Scholarships are awarded based on high school GPA and range from $3,000 to $7,000 per year.
- Departmental scholarships are available across a variety of academic programs and provide additional support for students pursuing specific fields of study.
- Identity-based scholarships support students from underrepresented backgrounds.
- Faith scholarships support those preparing for ministry or faith-centered careers.
- External scholarships can also be a great resource, and Bethel provides guidance to help students find outside funding opportunities.
Students are automatically considered for many scholarships when they apply to Bethel, while some require additional applications.
-
Yes! Many grants are available to help students pursue a Christ-centered education. These grants do not need to be repaid and are awarded based on financial need, residency, or specific eligibility requirements.
- The Bethel Promise Grant significantly reduces tuition for qualifying Minnesota students. To be considered, students simply need to apply to Bethel and submit the FAFSA—no separate application is required.
- The Bethel Campus Housing Grant provides support for eligible students receiving the Bethel Promise Grant and living in campus housing.
- Federal and state grants provide additional funding options. These include the Federal Pell Grant, Minnesota State Grant, and other need-based awards for qualifying students. Some grants provide targeted support for future teachers, foster youth, and international students.
For many grants, your student will be considered by filling out the FAFSA. But others require additional steps. Eligibility and award amounts are determined annually.
-
Yes! Bethel provides on-campus and off-campus student employment opportunities to help students gain valuable work experience while earning money to support their education. Many positions are flexible, allowing students to balance work with academics and campus life.
Student employment is a great way to develop professional skills, connect with the Bethel community, and help manage college costs.
-
Bethel is committed to affordability. Most students graduate with manageable student loan debt, and many qualify for financial aid that significantly reduces their costs. In fact, we offer many resources for planning and repayment.
-
Yes! Bethel accepts credits from various programs, including Advanced Placement (AP), Postsecondary Enrollment Options (PSEO), International Baccalaureate (IB), and College-Level Examination Program (CLEP). These credits can reduce the number of courses needed to graduate, saving time and money.
-
Yes! Bethel is proud to support military students and their dependents with financial aid options, including:
- VA education benefits, such as the Post-9/11 GI Bill® and Yellow Ribbon Program
- Military tuition assistance for eligible active-duty service members
- Scholarships and grants specifically for veterans and military families
- Credit for military training, which may apply toward your degree
Have more questions?
If you have more questions or need help, our team is here to support you every step of the way. Contact the Office of Financial Aid at finaid@bethel.edu or 651.638.6241.
