Financial Aid Information
How Much Does it Cost?
Seminary tuition is $415 per credit hour. Full-time status is considered 9-15 credit hours.
Where Do I Start?
Upon acceptance into an EMS program you will receive a financial aid forms packet including a checklist of forms, a financial aid information sheet, and several other forms needed to apply for institutional and federal aid.
What Financial Aid is Available?
There are three types of financial aid.
Matching Grant
The church matching grant is available to students who are enrolled in at least three credits of on-campus work. Seminary students will receive a dollar for dollar matching grant for the first $1000 donated from a congregation or conference on a student’s behalf. Funds in excess of $1000 received from a congregation or conference will be matched at a rate of $1 for every $4 donated.
Mennonite Student Grant
This grant is available for full-time students who are members of a Mennonite church. This grant is awarded on a semester basis. Availability is subject to program funding. Application for this grant is made on the EMU Financial Aid Information Sheet (FAIS).
Federal Stafford Loans
These loans are optional. Many students do not have the cash resources to fully pay for graduate school expenses even with institutional and outside assistance. When necessary, student loans are available to assist with education related expenses. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is required to begin the loan application process. When you submit the FAFSA be sure to list EMU as a school to receive your results. The EMU school code is 003708.
Financial Aid Checklist
This checklist is included in the financial aid forms packet from EMU and will give you an idea of needed forms and their deadlines. Forms received after the deadline indicated are subject to delays, and some funds may be exhausted.
- Complete the EMU Financial Aid Information Sheet (FAIS)
- Recommended date of completion is before April 15; deadline is June 1, forms will be accepted after June 1.
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, if you wish to apply for loans.
- Recommended date of completion is before April 15, deadline is June 1, and applications will be accepted after June 1.
- Submit the Church Grant Commitment form to the appropriate church official or contact person for completion
- Submission is recommended as soon as possible.
- Church should mail this form by March 1, forms will be accepted after March 1.
- Review your financial assistance award letter, sign it and return the appropriate forms to the financial assistance office within 30 days of receipt.
- Complete a Federal Stafford Loan Request Form, included with your award letter if you are eligible.
- Recommended date of completion, June 1, deadline is July 1. Forms will be accepted after this date. Loans need to be applied for separately for each semester/term.
- Complete a Student Employment Application if you are eligible and a work-study position is desired.
- Submit this form as soon as possible.
Is financial assistance available beyond EMU?
Yes! Several organizations may offer financial aid. Check with the following institutions about financial aid for seminary studies.
Your local church conference or district
Your local congregation
Mennonite Mutual Aid- Contact your congregational MMA representative
Mennonite Women- www.mennonitewomenusa.org
The Fund for Theological Education- www.thefund.org
Important Information Regarding Student Loans
Stafford student loan disbursements are generally delayed until registration is reviewed after the first week of class. Any loan refunds requested to help pay for rent or other personal expenses will also be delayed. Be aware of when your student loans are disbursed, as well as the money you will need in the interim , and budget accordingly. If you have urgent need for funds prior to the established disbursement date, contact the financial assistance office.
Contact EMU Financial Assistance Office (540)432-4137, toll free (800)330-9683 or email
