At Grand Valley, we know that for most adult and online students, figuring out how to balance the costs with real-life responsibilities is one of the biggest hurdles.

You don't need to figure it out alone. We partner with adult learners to help combine federal aid, institutional scholarships, employer benefits, and community resources to make earning your degree achievable. 

Your Financial Aid Award

Financial aid includes funds designed to assist you with college costs through grants, scholarships, work study or loans. 

Grand Valley's Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships provides support to prospective and current students to help you navigate processes, understand your award, and maximize your financial resources. Financial aid counselors are available to assist you Monday - Friday 8:00am - 5:00pm. 

• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: 616-331-3234
• Videocall: email [email protected] to schedule an appointment
• In-person: Student Services Building on the Valley Campus - no appointment needed! (view map)

Resources & Guides

The Financial Aid & Scholarships Video Library provides short, informative videos on topics related to the financial aid process.

The Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships also offers a comprehensive FAQs and webpages dedicated to supporting your familiarization with critical concepts on your own schedule: 

• Eligibility and Application Information - learn what is required to secure and continue receiving financial aid
• Timeline Information for Incoming and Current Students - track critical deadlines so you never miss an opportunity
• Your Financial Aid Award - understand your award letter and how much you'll owe
• How Enrollment Impacts Your Financial Aid Award - find out how part-time attendance may impact your award
• Special Circumstances - learn about the process of requesting reconsideration of your award due to changes in your financial situation

Scholarships

Scholarships are an excellent way to reduce your out-of-pocket costs. Grand Valley offers opportunities specifically reserved for adult, returning, and non-traditional learners.

myScholarships

Grand Valley makes it easy to find and apply for funding available through the university and external sources through the myScholarships portal. This system automatically matches you with opportunities you qualify for, including those specifically for adult learners of any major.

• Alpha Sigma Lambda Adult Honor Society Scholarship
• Grand Forum Endowed Scholarship
• Kendal J Denbleyker Scholarship
• Endowed Scholarship for Non-Traditional Students Through the Gayle R. Davis Center
• Thomas A. & Cheryl L. Butcher Non-Traditional Student Scholarship
• Dr. Esther and Enrico Sobong Scholarship

With over 500 opportunities available, you can find additional scholarships you may be eligible for based on your major, academic performance, future goals, or interests. Use keywords in the search function to explore additional funding you may be eligible for.

While most applications for awards for the next academic year are due in February or March, there are opportunities with various deadlines available year-round. 

External Scholarships

Consider exploring additional external resources available through your community and network:

• Local Community Foundations - designed to support educational attainment and career progression for residents
• Professional and Industry Organizations - associations connected to specific occupations offer funding to support students in entering or advancing in their field
• Community Organizations and Clubs - local non-profits and organizations provide assistance to adult learners in their communities

Employer Tuition Assistance

If you are currently balancing work and school, your employer may offer educational benefits that could significantly lower or cover your tuition costs. 

Employer Tuition Reimbursement

Many companies provide tuition reimbursement or professional development funds to help their employees advance their careers and gain in-demand skills. Depending on your organization's policies, this may require you to pay for your courses at the beginning of the semester and provide reimbursement after you successfully complete your coursework. Your leadership or Human Resources department can provide you with information about the benefits they offer and any associated requirements.

Organizational Partnerships

Grand Valley maintains partnerships with some local employers, corporations, and community organizations to streamline workforce education. If you are involved with a GVSU partner, special direct billing or payment arrangements may be available to you. Ask your leadership or Human Resources team if a partnership with Grand Valley is offered or possible. 

Additional Information

Deferment Plans

If you plan to pay for some or all of your degree out-of-pocket, Grand Valley offers a standard deferment plan that allows you to pay the balance of your bill in monthly installments throughout the semester. Payment deadlines and enrollment information is available on the Student Accounts website.

Tax Education Credits

Continuing your education can also offer advantages when tax season arrives. You may qualify for federal education tax credits to offset the cost of your degree. A qualified tax consultant or preparer can help you understand your eligibility.