Ball State Online Financial Aid

 Navigating Your Financial Aid Options

At Ball State University, we recognize that higher education is an investment, and we’re committed to making a top-tier education both accessible and affordable. Navigating the cost of college can feel daunting, but dedicated support is available to help you make an informed financial decision.

Through a range of financial aid options like scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs, you can offset expenses while gaining valuable experiences. With a focus on combining rigorous academics with practical, hands-on learning, Ball State invests in our students’ long-term success. The Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships plays a key role in this effort, offering personalized guidance to help you discover the right financial path.

Named an Opportunity University by Carnegie 

Ball State has been named an “Opportunity College and University” by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. The classification assesses institutions on how well alumni earnings stack up against others in the same regional job markets. Ball State is the only public institution in Indiana to receive this recognition.

Education is a powerful driver of economic mobility. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, individuals with a bachelor’s degree earn about 84% more per week than those with only a high school diploma. At Ball State, this economic reality fuels a deep commitment to student success. This recognition highlights Ball State’s dedication to removing barriers, expanding access, and equipping students to launch rewarding careers.

Ball State Online Tuition

Adult Student Grant

If you are an Indiana resident and adult learner searching for ways to fund your education, the Indiana Commission for Higher Education offers the Adult Student Grant. This grant awards up to $2,000 toward college expenses and is renewable.

There are also options for program-specific aid available to students in Transition to Teaching or Early Childhood-related programs, as well as via the Federal Academic Alliance. We invite you to explore these links to learn more or contact our team for assistance.

Graduate Assistantships

In today’s competitive job market, standing out requires more than just a degree—it takes relevant, real-world experience. A graduate assistantship offers the opportunity to bridge the gap between academics and professional life by taking on meaningful work responsibilities. Not only do you earn a paycheck, but you also build career-specific skills and grow your professional network, positioning yourself for future success.

Requirements

Our graduate assistantships require students to maintain an on-campus presence of 20 hours per week in an office environment at Ball State. For this reason, graduate assistantships are limited to students who are willing and able to commute to Ball State to complete their employment requirements.

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Graduate Career Services

Ball State University's Career Center serves as a comprehensive resource for students, alumni, faculty, and employers, offering a suite of services designed to support career development and professional growth. The center provides personalized career coaching, assistance with résumé writing and interview preparation, and access to job fairs and on-campus recruiting events.

Tuition Reimbursement

Many employers offer tuition reimbursement options that even their employees may not be aware of. We recommend that you ask about what options may be available to you so you don’t miss out on any potential cost savings for your education.

Kentucky and Ohio Residents

New undergraduate and graduate students who are residents of Ohio or Kentucky may be eligible for educational cost savings through the Reciprocity Program.

Frequently Asked Questions about Financial Aid

Find out the answers to your most pressing financial aid questions.