Financial Aid

The University of Indianapolis offers a number of merit scholarships at various amounts up to full tuition to recognize students who have excelled academically.  The University also supports students in a variety of economic circumstances by providing grants and awards based on financial need to admitted students who would be unable to attend college without financial assistance.

Financial aid is available from the federal and state governments as well as from the University. Outside organizations as well as  friends and alumni of the University also contribute scholarship funds to aid students.

Information provided here is accurate at the time of publication. Refer to the Financial Aid site for more information. Paper copies of information on the website are available on request.

All of the financial aid programs are subject to change as a result of changes in federal, state, or institutional laws, rules, or regulations or changes to aid program requirements or funding levels.

To be eligible for most UIndy merit scholarships and need-based grants and state of Indiana scholarships and grants, undergraduate students must be enrolled full-time (12 or more credits per semester).  Part-time students enrolled in six or more credits per semester, may be considered for Federal Pell Grants, Federal Student Loans, and Federal Parent PLUS Loans (dependent students) only, if eligible. Students pursuing a second undergraduate degree may be eligible for Federal Student Loans, and Federal Parent PLUS Loans (dependent students) only. Students enrolled in graduate programs may be eligible for Federal Unsubsidized Student  Loans and Federal Graduate PLUS Loans.

With few exceptions, students who wish to be considered for financial aid are required to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA. Students should include the University’s school code (00180400) to ensure that the Office of Financial Aid is able to determine their financial aid eligibility. To be eligible for state of Indiana scholarships and grants, the FAFSA must be submitted by the state of Indiana deadline (typically April 15) prior to the beginning of the fall semester. Additional documentation may be requested in order to process a student financial aid.

Financial need and academic achievement are the major criteria used in awarding University aid. Generally speaking, need-based scholarships are awarded to students who show need and maintain at least a B average in their academic work. Need-based grants are typically made available to students who show financial need and meet Satisfactory Academic Progress requirements. Several scholarships are awarded to outstanding students based solely on their academic performance in high school.

All need-based financial aid awards to students are determined by the University of Indianapolis Office of Financial Aid, and students applying for aid are considered for all programs for which they are eligible. The eligibility criteria for each of the federal, state, and University programs are described in a later section of this catalog, on the financial aid website, or in the student’s financial aid notification or online portal.

Many financial aid awards are renewable over the normal four-year college program. The student must continue to (1) meet the general eligibility requirements for financial aid, (2) demonstrate financial need (when awards are need-based) by submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, (3) meet any specific eligibility requirements applicable for that award, and (4) meet the Satisfactory Academic Progress requirements as established by the Office of Financial Aid. The student usually must reapply for financial aid each year by the state of Indiana FAFSA deadline (typically April 15 before the start of the fall semester).

Several scholarships are available through special gifts and bequests from donors who have contributed an amount sufficient to establish an endowment fund. Earnings from these funds are awarded annually to students who meet the criteria set by the donor. In most cases, academic merit and financial need are requirements for these scholarships. The amount and number of awards may vary depending on available funds. Students who wish to be considered for endowed scholarships should submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. View a list of the endowed scholarships offered by the University.

The Office of Admissions, academic departments, or the Office of Financial Aid identify recipients of the awards listed below. In most cases, a student who qualifies for multiple awards will receive only the highest award. Other awards may be combined up to a maximum amount established by the University. In no instance will the amount of these awards in combination with outside scholarships exceed the student’s direct costs. General information about the most common University awards is listed below. Award eligibility, availability, and requirements are subject to change. Details about award requirements can be found on the student’s financial aid notification or through their student portal. Visit the financial aid site for additional information about other awards.

Academic Transfer Scholarships. Awards are offered to transfer students who come to the University of Indianapolis from another institution. Scholarship amounts vary depending on transferred grade point average. This award is renewable for two additional years of undergraduate study working toward a baccalaureate degree. Renewal requirements vary by award, and you must be enrolled full time to be eligible for these awards.

Art Scholarships. Recipients are chosen by the Department of Art & Design from incoming freshmen applicant portfolios. Scholarship amounts vary, and recipients must be a full-time art major.

Athletic Grants. A number of grants are available to outstanding athletes who are full-time students. These grants are awarded following NCAA guidelines. The recipients must participate in the chosen sport and be recommended by the coaching staff and athletic director.

Campus Employment. Many part-time jobs are available on campus. Employers include the library, administrative offices, and faculty offices. Students that complete the FAFSA may be eligible for positions through the Federal Work-Study program. Students interested in campus employment should contact the Stephen F. Fry Professional Edge Center for assistance or visit uindy.edu/professional-edge for more information.

Dean’s Scholarships. The Dean's Scholarship is awarded at the time of admission to first-time freshman students at the University based on their outstanding high school performance. You must be enrolled full time to receive this award. The Dean's Scholarship is renewable by maintaining a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 and can be received for a maximum of eight semesters of full-time undergraduate enrollment.

Discovery Award. A limited number of scholarships are given to first-time freshman students who qualify for the state of Indiana’s 21st Century Scholars program and Frank O’Bannon Grant. The Founders Award guarantees that the University will cover any part of a student's tuition not already covered by federal or state grants, other institutional aid, or outside scholarships and grants. The award is renewable based on academic performance and annual completion of the FAFSA by the state of Indiana deadline.

Horizon Grant. The Horizon Grant is awarded at the time of admission to first-time, full-time freshman students at the University based on their high school performance. The amount of the Horizon Grant varies. The Horizon Grant is renewable by maintaining a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0 and can be received for a maximum of eight semesters of full-time undergraduate enrollment.

International Student Scholarships. A limited number of academic scholarships are available for undergraduate international students. Amounts vary, and eligibility for these scholarships is determined on the basis of academic credentials. Generally, students must maintain a 2.7 cumulative grade point average and full-time enrollment for renewal. The award can be received for a maximum of eight semesters of full-time undergraduate enrollment.

Legacy Awards. The Legacy Award is offered to entering full-time freshmen and transfer students whose parent, stepparent, or grandparent obtained a UIndy undergraduate, graduate, or honorary degree. To renew the Legacy Award, students must maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0 and remain enrolled as a full-time undergraduate student. Students can receive the Legacy Award for up to eight semesters.

Lugar Academic Scholarship. The Richard G. Lugar Academic Scholarship is awarded at the time of admission to first-time freshman students at UIndy based on their outstanding high school performance. The amount of the Lugar Scholarship varies, and the award is renewable and can be received for a maximum of eight semesters of full-time undergraduate enrollment.To renew your Lugar Academic Scholarship, you must maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5. You can receive this scholarship for a maximum of eight semesters of full-time enrollment.

Music Scholarships and Grants. Music scholarships are awarded to music majors based on a performance audition before the music faculty. Students’ experiences in music (piano, theory, lessons, and ensembles) also are taken into consideration. Music ensemble grants are awarded to non-music majors based on a performance audition before the music faculty. Award amounts vary, and the awards are renewable at the discretion of the music faculty. Visit Music Auditions and Scholarships for more information.

Phi Theta Kappa Academic Honors Scholarships. These scholarships are awarded to select transfer students who are members of Phi Theta Kappa honor society. This award is renewable with a 2.7 GPA for two additional years of full-time undergraduate study working toward a baccalaureate degree and can be received for a maximum of six semesters.

Presidential Scholarships. These full-tuition scholarships are offered to the most outstanding freshmen each year. Recipients are chosen by a faculty scholarship committee based on academic achievement, interview and essay. This scholarship is renewable and can be received for a maximum of eight semesters of full-time undergraduate enrollment.

R.B. Annis Engineering Scholarship. These full-tuition scholarships are offered to a limited number of outstanding freshman engineering majors each year. Recipients are chosen by a faculty scholarship committee based on academic achievement, interview and essay. This scholarship is renewable and can be received for a maximum of eight semesters of full-time undergraduate enrollment.

Resident Assistants. Resident assistants receive remission of residence hall room and board charges based on work in the residence halls. Students interested in this peer counseling position can apply by completing the application available in the Office of Residence Life. Selection is made on the basis of the application, recommendations from faculty and staff, and interviews conducted by a staff committee.

Speech Team Scholarships. Scholarships are awarded each year to new students who excel in the area of individual events in public speaking and interpretation. Visit Communication Scholarships & Awards for more information.

Theatre Scholarships. Awards are given based on auditions or interviews held each year by the Department of Theatre. Awards may be renewable for a total of four years as a full-time student. Recipients are expected to major in theater or theater teaching, participate in all major productions, and maintain at least a 2.5 GPA.

University of Indianapolis grants. Grants are awarded from University funds to undergraduate students who demonstrate financial need. Eligibility is based, in part, on the results of a student’s FAFSA and other financial aid.

University of Indianapolis Scholarships. These awards are made to students who have a B average academic record, demonstrate financial need, and are enrolled in at least six day credit hours each semester. Students must maintain a grade point average of 2.7 for renewal. The scholarship depends on the family’s financial status and available funds.

United Methodist Awards. A limited number of incoming freshmen and new transfer students who are members of the United Methodist Church and admissible as full-time students will be considered for this $500 award. This award may be received in combination with other University awards up to the cost of tuition plus standard book allowance (commuter) or the cost of tuition, room and board (not to include increased charges for certain residence halls) plus books (resident). This award may be received for a maximum of four years as long as students maintain a cumulative grade point average of 2.0, and continue to be enrolled as full-time undergraduates. Interested students must apply for admission by January 15. Recipients will be selected based upon recommendation of their United Methodist Church minister, academic performance, challenging curriculum, and leadership potential.

Federal Pell Grants. The Pell Grant is awarded by the federal government to undergraduate students with financial need who have not already earned a bachelor's or graduate degree. The amount of the Pell Grant is based on the results of a student’s FAFSA, academic program, and number of enrolled credit hours. The Pell Grant amount could be adjusted if FAFSA information or enrollment level change. Visit Federal Pell Grants for more information about this grant.

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants. The FSEOG is a federal grant available at the University of Indianapolis to undergraduate students that are also eligible to receive the Federal Pell Grant. Students must remain enrolled as an undergraduate student and must not have previously earned a bachelor's degree to receive this grant. The FSEOG amount could be adjusted if FAFSA information or enrollment level change.

Federal Work-Study. Federal Work-Study (FWS) allows students with financial need to earn money through a part-time job on campus or in the local community. Earnings from FWS jobs are not automatically applied to your student bill. You will receive a bi-weekly paycheck for hours worked and can use your earnings to assist with your educational expenses. Students that are eligible for FWS aren't guaranteed a job and need to apply with potential employers. Visit uindy.edu/financial-aid/work-study for more information about the FWS program and to explore employment opportunities.

Federal Direct Student Loans. The Federal Direct Loan is offered by the federal government to students enrolled in a degree program at an eligible institution. This is a loan that is repayable, and students have the right to cancel or reduce this loan. Students are offered the Federal Direct Loan up to the maximum amount available to them based on the results of their FAFSA and their academic level. All new Federal Student Loan borrowers will need to complete Federal Loan Entrance Counseling Session and a Master Promissory Note if one is not already on file. View more information about the Federal Student Loan program.

Federal PLUS Loans. The Department of Education offers Federal PLUS Loans to graduate students and parents of dependent undergraduate students. A separate application is required and the amount of the loan varies depending on the student’s cost of attendance and other financial aid Learn more about Direct Plus Loans.

Frank O’Bannon Grant. The Frank O’Bannon Grant is a need-based award for Indiana residents. Eligibility is based on a student’s FAFSA, and the grant may be used toward tuition and mandatory fees... Students should complete the FAFSA by the state deadline (typically April 15 before the fall semester) to be considered. Get more information about the Frank O'Bannon Grant.

21st Century Scholars Program. The 21st Century Scholarship is offered by the state of Indiana to assist Indiana residents with undergraduate tuition costs. Students must enroll in the program in middle school and complete scholar requirements in high school. Current 21st Century Scholarship recipients must complete at least 30 credits each year, file the FAFSA by the state deadline, and complete all required Scholar Success Program steps and other requirements with the state. More information about the program is available at learnmoreindiana.org/scholars.

Indiana Academic Honors Scholarship. This award is given to students in combination with the Frank O’Bannon or 21st Century Scholars program to students who received an Academic Honors or Technical Honors Diploma.

Indiana Child of a Disabled Veteran (CVO) Program. This award pays tuition and regularly assessed fees at the undergraduate rate for up to 124 credit hours. Tuition coverage is based on the veteran's enlistment date and disability rating. In some cases you must use your CVO benefits within a certain period of time after applying for the grant. More information about the CVO program

Scholarships for Teachers. The state of Indiana offers several different scholarship programs for students pursuing a degree in education and planning to teach in the state after graduation. Requirements and amounts vary, and a separate application is usually required. Details about available programs are available at State Financial Aid - By Program.

Adult Student Grant. The Adult Student Grant provides part-time students pursuing their first undergraduate degree with funding to help them cover the costs of their education. A separate application is required. Additional information about eligibility requirements can be found at Adult Student Grant.

Non-Indiana Residents. Information on grants from the student’s home state is available at nassgap.org.

The University of Indianapolis is a certified military-friendly institution providing financial assistance to U.S. military veterans and dependents enrolled in eligible degree programs.  Federal aid programs available to veterans and their dependents include:

• Post 9/11 GI Bill^®, including Yellow Ribbon (Chapter 33)

• Montgomery GI Bill^® - Active Duty (Chapter 30)

• DEA - Dependents Education Assistance (Chapter 35)

• Montgomery GI Bill^® - Selected Reserve (Chapter 1606)

• Vocational Rehabilitation for Veterans with Service-Connected Disabilities (Chapter 31)

 As required by Title 38 of the United States Code Section 3679(e), UIndy policy permits any covered individual to attend classes during the period beginning on the date the student provides a certificate of eligibility for entitlement to educational assistance under Chapter 31 or 33 and ending the earlier of 1) the date on which payment from VA is made to UIndy or 2) 90 days after the date the university certified tuition and fees following the receipt of the certificate of eligibility.  UIndy policy does not impose any penalty, including assessment of late fees, the denial of access to classes, libraries, or other facilities, or require a student to borrow additional funds because of the student’s inability to meet his or her financial obligations due to the delayed disbursement funding from VA under Chapter 31 or 33.

Students receiving Chapter 31 and/or Chapter 33 benefits must, however:

1. submit a certificate of entitlement to educational assistance no later than the first day of a course of education, or submit a written request to use such entitlement;

2. provide additional information needed for proper certification of enrollment;

3. pay the balance of tuition and/or fees not covered under Chapter 31 or Chapter 33 if entitlement is less than 100%. 

For more information, please contact the Office of the Registrar or visit the Veterans page.

GI Bill^® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.

Alternative Loans. A student who has exhausted all other financial aid options may consider applying for an alternative educational loan through a bank, credit union, or other lender. Students can apply for this type of loan on their own if credit-worthy. If not, a credit-worthy cosigner may be required. Terms and conditions  vary depending on the borrower and lender. For more information visit Private Loan Information.

United Methodist Scholarships. A limited number of scholarships, funded by the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry of the United Methodist Church, are available to students who are active members of the denomination. Scholarship amounts vary. Applications and additional information are available at United Methodist Scholarships.

Payment Plans. UIndy offers a payment plan for each semester.  For more information, visit the website of the Office of Student Billing and Payment.

Space limitations prohibit detailed information about all of the financial aid programs. For further information on the aid programs and appropriate application procedures, please direct inquiries to The Office of Financial Aid, University of Indianapolis, 1400 East Hanna Avenue, Indianapolis, Indiana 46227-3697; telephone: (317) 788-3217; fax: (317) 788-6136.