You’ll probably pay for college with the help of financial aid. There are many types of aid—scholarships, of course, but also grants, loans, work-study, and more. The types and amounts you receive will depend on many factors, including your academic merit and your financial need.
Whatever your circumstances, you need to understand financial aid so you’ll have realistic expectations for what you’ll receive. It’ll also help you minimize your post-college debt.
67% of IU Bloomington undergraduates received grant or scholarship aid in 2020–2021
$250+ million in scholarships and grants awarded to IU Bloomington students in 2020–2021
Learn about types of aid, how to apply, your financial aid timeline, and more at Student Central.
Go to Student CentralLearn about types of scholarships, deadlines, and when you’ll learn if you’ve received an award.
Go to the Office of Scholarships*Admission to IU is now test-optional. To find out if this is the right path for you, learn more about our test-optional admissions policy.
Take the next step in your IU journey and apply for financial aid by April 15. Before you complete your FAFSA, check out the video on this page to get important information on how to manage the financial aid process.
Description of the video:
[video description: The IU logo appears on the screen, followed by the word “FAFSA.”]
Voiceover: You’ve heard about it. You know it’s important. But what exactly is the FAFSA, and what can it do for you? Keep watching, and we’ll tell you everything you need to know.
[video description: Title: “Everything you need to know about the FAFSA.”]
Voiceover: FAFSA stands for “Free Application for Federal Student Aid,” and completing it is your first step in getting financial aid for college.
[video description: Graphic of a house. Roof pops open, and numerals and money symbols float in and out of the house.]
Voiceover: You’ll fill in your household’s financial information, which colleges will then use to determine your eligibility for scholarships, grants, work-study, or loans.
[video description: Timeline graphic, beginning with October 1 and ending with April 15.]
Voiceover: The FAFSA opens on October 1 every year. Our priority deadline is April 15, but we recommend completing it as soon as possible during your senior year.
[video description: Graphic of campus building with IU flag on top. Text: “Complete each year.”]
Voiceover: Once you’re a college student, you’ll need to complete the FAFSA each year to remain eligible for financial aid.
[video description: Graphic of computer screen. User types “FAFSA.GOV.”]
Voiceover: Ready to get started? Visit fafsa.gov to create your Federal Student Aid ID, which is the username and password you’ll use throughout the entire FAFSA process.
[video description: Computer screen is replaced by smartphone, which displays myStudentAid app.]
Voiceover: You can complete your FAFSA online at fafsa.gov, or you can use the myStudentAid app on your smartphone.
[video description: Graphic versions of Social Security card, bank statement, and tax form appear.]
Voiceover: When you’re filling out your FAFSA, make sure you have at least one parent or guardian with you, since you may need information like Social Security numbers, bank statements, and tax returns. It takes most families about 30 minutes to complete.
[video description: Graphic of analog clock showing passage of 30 minutes.]
Voiceover: To ensure that Indiana University Bloomington receives your information, be sure to list our federal school code: 001809.
[video description: Text: “IU Bloomington’s federal school code: 001809.”]
[video description: Graphic of “SUBMIT” button, with pointer hovering over it.]
Voiceover: Before you hit “Submit,” read over your information carefully to make sure you’ve answered everything correctly.
[video description: Pointer clicks the button, then turns into an icon of two clapping hands.]
Voiceover: Then give yourself a round of applause! You’re one step closer to paying for college. Watch for notifications from IU.
[video description: Graphic of envelope. Text: “Financial award notice.”]
Voiceover: We send Financial Award Notices starting in February.
[video description: Text: “Questions?”]
Voiceover: Questions? We’re here for you.
[video description: Text: “studentcentral.indiana.edu”]
Voiceover: Visit Student Central any time to find information, answers, and tips on financial aid and managing costs.
[video description: IU logo. Text: “Indiana University Bloomington.”]
