Current Students > Financial Services > Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Financial Services Help Line: 724-589-2006

Q. Can I afford Thiel College?

A. Yes! It is very likely that you CAN afford the investment that a Thiel College education requires.

Many families know the value of a quality, private college education but make the mistake of assuming that such an education is out of their reach financially.

After working with the financial aid office at Thiel, families with all kinds of financial circumstances often discover that our personal, private education is just as affordable as that large, impersonal public university. Don't let the "sticker price" keep you from looking at Thiel! Our extensive pool of financial aid dollars is used to make Thiel College affordable for any student who qualifies academically.

Q. What does my investment in Thiel College buy?

A. A favorable faculty/student ratio means small classes and lots of personal attention from expert faculty. Nationally recognized science and math programs means a challenging curriculum that prepares you for the future. Unique programs like the Center for Women's Leadership and the Haller Enterprise Institute for student entrepreneurs. All this at a cost that is among the lowest of any private, liberal arts school in the country.

Q. How much will I be expected to contribute?

A. We ask you to contribute what you can reasonably afford. We will work with you to determine what that amount is based on the financial information that you and your family provide. Every family is different. You'll need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which should be completed between January 1, and May 1, after income tax forms have been filed is preferable but not necessary. Once you complete this required form we will work with you to determine your individual need. The amount you and your family can afford to contribute to your Thiel education will be determined by considering such variables as income and assets, the size of your family, the number of family members in college, the amount of taxes paid, the age of your parents, the earnings and savings of the student.

Q. What are the various types of financial aid?

A. Financial Aid comes from different sources of funding including federal, state, local and resources provided by Thiel College. Awards to students are most often a combination scholarships, grants, loans and college work-study.

Q. How do I apply for financial aid?

A. Step I: Complete and submit an application for admission carefully completing all of the requirements. You can apply online here at Apply Online. Be sure your academic transcripts are sent from your High School.

Step II: Complete the FAFSA form. Find it online here FAFSA.

Step III: On either form be sure to specify that a copy of your financial aid results be sent to Thiel College, Title IV code 003376.

Step IV: Been accepted to Thiel? If so, we will review your FAFSA results and send you details about your financial aid package.

Q. What else do I need to know?

A. After Thiel has received and reviewed your FAFSA results and provided that you have been accepted for admission at Thiel, we will send you your official financial award. The awards usually come in the form of a "package" - a combination of grants, scholarships, loans and employment. First priority is given to students who submit forms early. Because funds are limited, you are required to indicate acceptance of your package within two weeks of notification. If you do not accept the award within that period of time, the funds may be awarded to other qualified applicants.

Q. Any helpful hints?

A. Keep these helpful tips in mind as you move through the financial aid process.

1. Familiarize yourself with all of the financial aid forms before you begin completing them.
2. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as early as possible after January 1. You may either submit the form on-line or use the paper format.
3. Make every effort to complete your tax returns as early as possible. Use estimated tax information if you need to so that you can apply for financial aid in time.
4. Observe deadlines. Follow instructions. PA residents - state deadline is May 1.
5. Remember to release your information to Thiel College.
6. Make photocopies of all forms and correspondence.
7. If your family's circumstances change after you have completed the FAFSA, contact Thiel for information on what to do next.
8. If you have any questions about completing your application, please call your admissions counselor or the Thiel College Financial Aid Office.