We recognize that cost plays a major role in the college selection process, and we want to provide helpful information as you plan for a Wheaton education. Below are some of the most commonly asked questions, and answers, about financial aid.
What’s included in the “cost of attendance”?
The cost of attendance is an estimate of all expenses you are likely to incur over the academic year. It includes tuition, housing, meal plan and mandatory fees for which you are billed by the college. For financial aid purposes, it also includes an estimate for books, supplies, and personal and miscellaneous expenses.
Why does a financial aid package differ from one school to another?
Wheaton uses Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) data and the Federal Methodology (FM) to determine eligibility for federal, state and institutional need-based aid. If you believe that your aid differs because of errors in your aid application or a significant change in family circumstances, please send the Office of Student Financial Services (SFS) updated information to assess the impact on your aid offer.
How is eligibility for financial aid determined?
The need-based financial aid program at Wheaton assumes that the family has primary responsibility for paying college expenses; financial aid then supplements the family contribution. Wheaton’s program also considers a student’s academic history and potential when awarding funds. Using a uniform and equitable formula, we first calculate a family’s ability to contribute toward college expenses. We then compare this amount to the total cost of attendance. If the calculated family resources are less than the total cost, you have demonstrated eligibility for need-based assistance. Based on the demonstrated need of the entire pool of admitted applicants, Wheaton distributes institutional grants and campus-based federal and state aid funds. These resources are finite; demand and demonstrated need across the pool prevents the college from meeting 100 percent of the calculated need of all students. Wheaton also offers merit-based awards at the time of admission. If you are the recipient of an award, it is included in calculating your remaining eligibility for need-based funds.
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