As an independent college, we recognize our responsibility to help meet the financial need of students who want to invest in their education.

On average, we offer need-based financial aid awards to approximately 65% of our students. Award packages typically combine scholarships, grants, loans, and student employment.

Understanding Your Financial Aid Options

There is a wide variety of funding available to assist students and their families with educational expenses. Financial aid is available from federal, state, university, and independent or private resources.

Scholarships & Grants
Gift aid that is awarded based on many factors, including academic achievement and/or financial need. Scholarships and grants do not have to be repaid.
Loans
Loans are borrowed money that you repay with interest to the lender. There are subsidized and unsubsidized loans.
Aid for Veterans
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is your best source for information about all VA educational benefits programs.
Work-Study Employment
Need-based financial aid program that assists students by providing an opportunity to work part-time while going to school.

Need-Based Aid vs. Merit-Based Awards

There are a number of ways to pay for college. At Puget Sound, our financial aid options can be placed into one of two financial assistance categories:

Need-Based Financial Aid

Need-based financial aid is awarded to students whose families do not have sufficient financial resources to pay for college as determined by their completed FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Grants, loans, and work-study employment opportunities are all examples of need-based financial aid.

Merit-Based Awards

Merit-based financial aid may be awarded to students regardless of financial need. Academic, talent, or other achievement awards are all examples of non-need-based aid. Non-need-based loans—such as Federal Unsubsidized Direct and PLUS Loans—are also available to assist with college costs.

Take The Next Step
Apply for Aid
Learn more about the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and funding deadlines. Our school code is 003797.