Skip to main content
Indiana University
Cost and Financial Aid

Discover more help for college costs

IU students receive millions of dollars in financial aid and scholarships each year, from merit- and need-based scholarships to need-based grants, donor-funded scholarships, and department- or program-specific scholarships.

IU scholarships can help fund your education

When you apply to IU, the university will check to see if you’re eligible for academic scholarships. You may also be asked to complete additional applications for other IU scholarships and grants.

There are many different kinds of scholarships available, including:

Admissions-based academic scholarships

IU campuses award a variety of scholarships for high academic performance in high school. Awards are given to both Indiana residents and out-of-state IU applicants and are typically renewable for up to four years.

Donor-funded scholarships

Some IU campuses offer donor-funded scholarships through generous contributions from local businesses, alumni, civic groups, private citizens, and other supporters.

Departmental and program scholarships

If you’re eligible for scholarships in your department or program, you can complete applications for those awards once you are admitted.

Scholarships for international students

Check with your IU campus’s international student office for information related to scholarships for international students.

IU scholarships

Find scholarship information for each campus.

IU is really affordable in comparison to other schools I applied to, and that was through scholarship and instate tuition.

Breanna Burress Policy Analysis student, IU Bloomington

External scholarships offer more ways to cover costs

Scholarships are often available outside of IU from community and nonprofit organizations, private foundations, the military, religious institutions, area businesses, and more. If you receive an external scholarship, the awarding organization will send the funds to IU to be credited to your student account.

IU does not recommend applying for scholarships that ask you to pay a fee or provide marketing information. You can learn about common scholarship scams at the Better Business Bureau, the Federal Trade Commission, or FinAid.

Grants help with the bottom line

When you fill out the FAFSA, you’ll be evaluated for your eligibility for federal grants, Indiana state grants, and IU grants, without the need for separate applications. All undergraduate grants are need-based and are considered gift aid, so they do not need to be repaid.

Questions? We’re here to help.

Have questions about scholarships, grants, or awards? The Admissions office at each IU campus will connect you with someone who can help.

Learn more about IU Admissions