Apply for Aid
We’ll partner with you when it comes to financing your education at Cornerstone University. Use the checklist below to navigate the ins and outs of applying for financial aid.
01
Apply for Admission for Cornerstone
Fill out our free online application and other relevant documents.
02
File the Free Application for Federal Student Aid
File your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) using Cornerstone’s school code (002266). Complete Financial Aid Office paperwork if applicable. Complete paperwork provided to you by the Student Financial Services Office, and review our helpful FAFSA tips.
03
Apply for University Grants and Scholarships
Contact our Student Financial Services Office for more information on Cornerstone University scholarships.
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage of students receive aid?
100% of our students received some type of financial aid assistance, including scholarships, grants and loans.
Do I have to apply for financial aid and file the FAFSA every year?
Yes, we recommend that you file for financial aid and file a new Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year.
What is the deadline to apply for financial aid?
The recommended deadline to file your FAFSA is March 1. Typically, the FAFSA is available Oct. 1 of the previous year.
What is Cornerstone’s school code?
Cornerstone University’s school code is 002266.
How does the Department of Education determine my expected family contribution (EFC)?
Family financial information is calculated based on income, family size and other criteria selected by the FAFSA. That information is then sent to all schools that are listed on your FAFSA.
Why was I selected for financial aid verification and what does that mean?
Students are randomly selected by federal student aid. Less than ⅓ of all FAFSA applicants are selected. Students selected simply need to provide the additional requested documentation from our Financial Aid Office.
What is the difference between private loans and federal loans?
Federal loans are only available to the student based on filing a FAFSA and are typically the only loans available without a cosigner and provided on the financial aid package. Private loans require a credit check and cosigner from a private bank and are used to help meet education costs not covered by federal, state or institutional aid.
What is the difference between subsidized loans and unsubsidized loans?
Subsidized loans do not accrue interest while enrolled at least half time and are need based and eligibility is determined by the FAFSA. Unsubsidized loans accrue interest while in school and are available to all students.
How long does the student financial aid awarding process take?
Student Financial Services begins sending out award packages in January (Fall) or November (Spring) to admitted students (FAFSA recommended).
What documents are required to complete a FAFSA?
Students need an FSA ID, a parent needs an FSA ID if the student is still a qualified dependent according to the IRS and tax information from two years prior.
Does Cornerstone offer additional scholarships once I am a student?
Yes, returning students can apply for additional donor funded institutional scholarships. Applications open up in December and are awarded in the spring for the following fall semester.
Where else can I find external scholarships?
We recommend students look for external scholarships through local community foundations, Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Clubs, local businesses and websites like fastweb.com or scholarships.com.
What scholarships are available for international students?
International students can apply for academic, athletic, music and other leadership scholarships. Deadlines vary, and students are required to also complete a Declaration of Finances form.
Do you offer any scholarships for transfer students?
Transfer students can receive academic, athletic, music and other leadership scholarships. There is also a transfer specific scholarship called the Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship.
Are there scholarships for seminary students?
Yes, donor funded scholarships are available for seminary students. FAFSA and application to the seminary are required to qualify.
Are there scholarships for adult students seeking a master’s degree?
Scholarships for adult students seeking a master’s degree are limited. Contact Student Financial Services for additional information.