Affording a St. Olaf Education

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  • Affording a St. Olaf Education

    We meet the need of EVERY student.

    St. Olaf College is committed to providing a unique educational experience that delivers lasting value to our students. We know a St. Olaf education is expensive — this is true of all high-quality colleges. However, we have a long tradition of meeting the demonstrated need of all admitted students. It’s an important commitment that ensures we will continue to attract and educate a diverse student body.
    93%

    of our students receive financial aid or scholarships

    59%

    of our students receive merit scholarships only

    69%

    of our students receive need-based financial aid

    Among 2016-2017 First Year Students

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    APPLY Complete Part One

    MERIT SCHOLARSHIPS

    To recognize past achievement and invest in promising students and the talents they will contribute to the St. Olaf community, the college offers merit scholarships in academics, the fine arts, and service leadership. We also participate in the academic scholarship programs of the National Merit Scholarship Corporation.

    Merit scholarships are one way we attract and support students who have skills, talents, and personal qualities that balance and enrich this community. While we offer scholarships in academics, the arts, and community engagement, as a member or the National Collegiate Athletic Association – Division III, we do not offer athletic scholarships. Athletes are welcome to seek other merit scholarships for which they qualify.

    Merit Scholarships

    NEED BASED FINANCIAL AID

    Our need-based financial aid program is designed to enable all admitted students to fully participate in the programs and activities that enrich the St. Olaf experience. Need-based financial aid packages typically combine scholarships, grants, loans, and student employment. To qualify for federal financial aid, students and their families must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). To qualify for St. Olaf-funded financial aid, students and their families must complete the CSS/Financial Aid PROFILE administered by the College Board.

    How to apply for financial aid

    NET PRICE CALCULATOR

    We understand that a college education is one of the largest and more important financial decisions students and their families make. The cost of college can be an important factor in choosing where to apply and enroll.

    This Net Price Calculator provides an early estimate of what a new first-year student can expect to pay to attend St. Olaf College. It is not an official application for financial aid and is not a substitute for applying for financial aid.

    Net Price Calculator