On-Campus Financial Aid
Empowering Impactful Futures, Without Financial Barriers
We’re committed to equipping you to make an eternal impact in a way that only you can. That’s why we’re committed to ensuring that finances never stand in the way of pursuing your degree. Discover a wealth of opportunities, including scholarships, grants, and loans, tailored to support your journey toward your calling.
![Student-Account-Payment Two female Grace students sitting at a table in the Student Commons.](https://gracechristian.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Student-Account-Payment.jpg)
100% of incoming students receive some form of financial aid
GCU Scholarships
Honors Scholarship
$1,500-8,500 Per Year
The Honors Scholarship recognizes academic excellence among first-time freshmen. This scholarship is awarded based on high school GPA and provides financial support to students who demonstrate outstanding scholastic achievement. To qualify, students must be enrolled full-time on campus, taking 12 or more credits per semester.
High School GPA |
Description |
Scholarship Amount* |
4.00 | Outstanding Scholarship | $8,500 |
3.70-3.99 | Presidential Scholarship | $6,000 |
3.30-3.69 | Trustee Scholarship | $4,500 |
2.70-3.29 | Dean’s Scholarship | $3,500 |
2.00-2.69 | Faculty Scholarship | $2,500 |
1.99 and below | Challenge Scholarship | $1,500 |
*Subject to change each new award year.
Advantage Scholarship
$500-2,000 Per Year
The Advantage Scholarship is awarded to incoming on-campus freshmen who have completed at least one Dual Enrollment course with Grace Christian University.
Eligible students must notify their Enrollment Advisor upon completion of their Enrollment Application. Awards are based on the following range:
Dual Enrollment Courses Completed |
Scholarship Amount |
1-2 | $500 ($250/semester) |
3-4 | $1,000 ($500/semester) |
5-6 | $1,500 ($750/semester) |
7-8 |
$2,000 ($1,000/semester) |
AWANA Ministry Achievers Scholarship
$500-750
The AWANA Achievers Scholarship is available to incoming students who have excelled in AWANA—a nonprofit ministry focused on providing Bible-based youth discipleship. This scholarship recognizes the dedication and accomplishments of AWANA achievers, with award amounts varying depending on the highest level of achievement.
Description |
Scholarship Amount |
Citation Achievement | $750/year ($375/semester) |
Meritorious Achievement | $600/year ($300/semester) |
Timothy Achievement | $500/year ($250/semester) |
Students are responsible for submitting a copy of their AWANA Achievement to Grace for verification. Recipients are required to be enrolled full-time on the Grace campus.
Cheyenne Develasco "Portrait of Courage" Scholarship
$2,000 ($1,000/semester)
This scholarship is awarded to one recipient each award year who is dual enrolled in high school to attend Grace Christian University.
While juggling treatments for osteosarcoma (bone cancer), Cheyenne DeVelasco was dual enrolled at her local college to further her education in hopes of attending Grace Christian University to study Exercise Science and Bible Ministry. Cheyenne went to be with the Lord on August 20, 2017.
Applicants must have completed at least one high school Dual Enrollment course through Grace Christian University. Applicant must submit an application/essay of 500-600 words, answering both of the following questions:
- When facing a crisis in your life, how has the Lord helped you?
- How have you grown spiritually through your experience?
The deadline to submit the essay is May 31. Essays can be submitted via email to kclassen@gracechristian.edu.
Christian Workers Scholarship (GGF)
$4,500-9,000 per year
This scholarship is designed for students who are dependents of a Christian worker who is employed full time serving the Lord in one of the following ways:
- In a GGF-affiliated ministry, or parachurch organization, approved by the Scholarship Committee.
- Pastor of GGF-affiliated church or ordained by the GGF who is pastoring a Grace church (in GGF directory)
- As a missionary with Things to Come Ministry.
This scholarship requires a letter from the organization, written on their letterhead, indicating which family member is employed full-time with the organization. An updated letter is required each academic year.
Completed letters can be mailed, faxed, or emailed:
- 1011 Aldon St SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49509
- Fax: 616-538-0599
- Email: FinancialAid@GraceChristian.edu
The awarded scholarship amount is determined by the following criteria:
- $9,000 per year, if living in Grace-owned housing and on the Food Plan
- $4,500 per year, if living off campus and NOT on the Food Plan
Recipients must be enrolled full-time (12+ credits). After the fourth semester, students must have a cumulative GPA of 2.00 to remain eligible for this scholarship.
This scholarship is not available to dependents of part-time workers or volunteers. Exceptions to be approved by the Scholarship Committee.
Christian Workers Scholarship (Non-GGF)
$3,000 – $4,500 per year
This scholarship is designed for students who are dependents of a Christian worker who is employed full time serving the Lord. Examples of ministries include the pastorate, youth camps, domestic or offshore missions, parachurch organizations, and Christian education (K-12, college, etc.).
This scholarship requires a letter from the organization, written on their letterhead, indicating which family member is employed full time with the organization. An updated letter is required each academic year.
Completed letters can either be mailed, faxed, or emailed:
- 1011 Aldon St SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49509
- Fax: 616-538-0599
- Email: FinancialAid@GraceChristian.edu
The awarded scholarship amount is determined by the following criteria:
- $4,500 per year, if living in Grace-owned housing and on the Food Plan
- $3,000 per year, if living off campus and NOT on the Food Plan
Recipients must be enrolled full-time (12+ credits). After the fourth semester, students must have a cumulative GPA of 2.00 to remain eligible for this scholarship.
This scholarship is not available to dependents of part-time workers or volunteers. Exceptions to be approved by the Scholarship Committee.
Church Matching Scholarship
$500 per year ($250/semester)
This scholarship presents an excellent opportunity for students’ home churches to offer financial support for their college education. Churches have the flexibility to contribute any amount, and Grace Christian University will match donations up to $500 annually ($250 per semester) for undergraduate students who are enrolled in at least 6 credit hours. Award applications must be filed each academic year.
Note: Grace Christian University does business in US dollars, therefore all payments received are processed in US dollars.
Dependents of Alumni Scholarship
$1,000 per year ($500/semester)
This scholarship requires both the student and the alumni parent to complete the scholarship application below. To be eligible, the student must be a dependent child of a Grace alumni who completed 60 or more credit hours at Grace. However, students are ineligible if the alumni parent owes a balance to Grace. This scholarship is not available to dependents of faculty/staff.
Junior Achievement Scholarship
$1,200 ($600/semester)
This scholarship is a one-time scholarship for incoming students who have completed a Junior Achievement (JA) course in high school. Students are responsible for notifying the school about the award by providing documentation, such as a letter from JA, or a letter from the high school, indicating that they have successfully completed the JA course. Recipients must be enrolled full time on the Grace campus.
Multiple Family Member Scholarship
$500 per year ($250/semester)
This scholarship will be awarded if two or more dependent students from one family (living in the same household) are attending Grace Christian University. Those receiving the Christian Worker’s Scholarship are not eligible. This scholarship is prorated for Grace credit hours only. Eligible students must notify the Financial Aid Office.
One Wyoming Scholarship
$3,000 per year ($1,500/semester)
Grace Christian University partners with local businesses and community members to offer the One Wyoming Scholarship. Scholarship recipients demonstrate a desire to make a positive impact in their world.
Up to 10 scholarships are awarded each year to high school graduates from one of the following high schools in Wyoming, MI:
- Godfrey-Lee
- Godwin Heights
- Kelloggsville
- The Potter’s House
- Tri-Unity Christian
- West Michigan Lutheran
- Wyoming Public
To apply, students must meet the following requirements:
- Enroll at Grace either the year of high school graduation or the year after high school graduation.
- Graduate from high school with at least a 2.0 GPA and a composite ACT score of 18 or a composite SAT score of 910.
- Complete the required application and essay.
This scholarship is renewable each year, but to maintain eligibility students must meet the following criteria:
- Be enrolled full time
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress
- Continue in good standing according to Grace’s student handbook
Returning Student & New Transfer Student Academic Scholarship
$3,500 – $8,500 per year
Eligibility for receiving this award is based on the student’s final cumulative GPA, chapel attendance and ministry requirements. To qualify, students must be registered before the spring registration deadline, which is set by the Registrar. Students must be enrolled full time at Grace Christian University.Â
Dual Degree students are eligible, but students who are Dual Degree with GRCC will have their awards prorated based on the amount of Grace courses they take.
Scholarships are based on the following scale:
GPA |
Scholarship Amount |
4.00 | $8,500 |
3.70-3.99 | $6,000 |
3.30-3.69 | $4,500 |
2.40-3.29 |
$3,500 |
Spouse of Married Students Scholarship - 50% Off One Course
Spouses of full-time students at the junior level or higher are entitled to a 50% discount on one course per semester within the on-campus program. In instances where both spouses are concurrently enrolled as full-time students at Grace and meet the junior standing requirement, each spouse will receive a 50% discount on one traditional course.
Federal Scholarships & Grants
Federal scholarships and grants offer valuable financial aid opportunities to help offset the costs of your education. By completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), you can determine your eligibility for federal aid programs.
Federal Pell Grant
The Federal Pell Grant is a need-based grant program that provides financial assistance to help cover the costs of tuition, fees, and other educational expenses. The Pell Grant is available to eligible students pursuing their first bachelor’s degree, as well as some post-baccalaureate programs. The amount of the Pell Grant awarded is determined by factors such as the student’s expected family contribution, enrollment status, and the cost of attendance at the institution.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) is a need-based grant program aimed at providing additional financial assistance to undergraduate students. Eligibility and award amounts vary depending on individual financial circumstances and the availability of funds at the institution.
Teacher Education Assistance for College & Higher Education (TEACH) Grant
The TEACH Grant program provides financial aid for students intending to pursue a career in teaching. Recipients must agree to serve as full-time teachers in high-need fields in public or private elementary or secondary schools that serve low-income students. This grant supports students who are committed to making a difference in underserved communities through education.
Loans
Loans are a type of financial aid that allows students to borrow money to cover educational expenses, which must be repaid with interest. To apply for federal student loans, borrowers must be enrolled at least half-time. Eligibility is determined through the FAFSA, and the student must be certified as eligible by the University.
Federal Direct Loans
- To access Federal Direct Loans, students need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Once submitted, the Financial Aid Office will determine the loan amount a student qualifies for based on their financial need and other factors. Students receive an award letter detailing their loan eligibility, up to the maximum amount allowed per student. (Cost of Attendance limits apply.)
- To accept Federal Direct Loans, students must complete a Master Promissory Note (MPN) at studentaid.gov. The MPN serves as a commitment to repay the federal loans. Once the MPN is submitted, the Financial Aid Office is notified by the Department of Education.
Dependent Students |
Subsidized + Unsubsidized = Total |
1st year undergrad | $3,500 + $2,000 = $5,500 |
2nd year undergrad | $4,500 + $2,000 = $6,500 |
3rd year (up to graduate) | $5,500 + $2,000 = $7,500 |
Independent Students |
Subsidized + Unsubsidized = Total |
1st year undergrad | $3,500 + $6,000 = $9,500 |
2nd year undergrad | $4,500 + $6,000 = $10,500 |
3rd year (up to graduate) | $5,500 + $6,000 = $11,500 |
Federal Direct Loans Requirements
- Entrance Counseling
Students wishing to borrow Federal Direct Loans are required by the Department of Education to complete the Loan Entrance Counseling. Federal Direct Loan funds will not be released to the school without completion of the required Entrance Counseling.
- Exit Counseling
Upon withdrawal or graduation, students who borrowed Federal Direct Loans must fulfill their Loan Exit Counseling requirement. This step ensures students understand their loan rights and responsibilities.
If you have any questions as you complete the counseling requirements you may contact the Financial Aid Office at financialaid@gracechristian.edu or (616) 538-2330.
Direct Parent Plus Loans
For Dependent Students:
Direct PLUS loans offer parents with a good credit history the opportunity to cover education expenses for their dependent undergraduate child enrolled at least half-time. Eligibility is determined through the FAFSA, and the student must be certified as eligible by the Financial Aid Office.
- To complete the Parent PLUS Loan application, parents should visit the Federal Student Aid website and log in using their FSA ID and password. If parents do not have an FSA ID, they can create one here.
- The PLUS application includes a credit check. Upon approval, parents can contact the Financial Aid Office to request a loan, up to the allowable amount determined by the student’s cost of attendance.
- Parents seeking a Direct Parent PLUS loan must complete the Master Promissory Note (MPN). The MPN serves as the parent’s commitment to repay the federal loans. Once the MPN is submitted, the Department of Education will notify the Financial Aid Office.
Private Loans
In some instances, students may require additional financial assistance to cover remaining educational expenses. Private loans offer a solution to bridge the gap between federal, state, and institutional aid and the total cost of attendance.
- Private loans are typically for students who still have an amount owed after applying for Stafford and PLUS loans.
- Private loans usually require a cosigner, but in some cases (if the student has established credit) the student may be able to apply for a loan without a cosigner.
Responsible Borrowing
Many students borrow more than they need for their tuition, books and fees. We want to strongly encourage you to consider borrowing only what you need or using only subsidized loans when possible. Subsidized loans do not collect interest while you are attending your program, however, unsubsidized loans do.
Other Sources of Aid
Don’t forget to explore the scholarships and grants that may be available to you through the State of Michigan. To qualify, students are encouraged to submit their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) before the state deadline of July 1. This ensures full consideration for state grants.
Explore a variety of scholarship databases to discover opportunities tailored to your unique qualifications and interests. These databases provide comprehensive listings of scholarships from various sources, offering valuable resources to help fund your education.
Federal Work-Study Program
Federal Work-Study offers valuable part-time employment opportunities for students demonstrating financial need. These positions not only provide a source of income to offset educational costs but also foster community service involvement and career-related experiences aligned with students’ academic pursuits.
Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E)
Applicants with a service-oriented disability handicap should visit benefits.va.gov/vocrehab to learn what assistance is available to them. Benefits are determined according to individual need.
Veteran’s Educational Benefits
Grace Christian University partners with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to support the education of honorably discharged service members. Veterans interested in utilizing benefits should visit va.gov/education. Eligible veterans who are reimbursed directly by the Department of Veterans Affairs should plan to pay their Grace billing account in accordance with Grace’s payment schedule.
Employment
Grace is committed to being job friendly by offering no Friday classes and concluding Tuesday-Thursday classes by 2:30 p.m., granting students additional time for employment commitments. Numerous part-time job opportunities are within walking distance, including on-campus roles in administration, maintenance, athletics, library, bookstore, and food services, which are available based on need and ability.
Featured Outside Scholarship
Grace Ministries International (GMI) Future Missionary Scholarship
$2,000 per year ($1,000/semester)
GMI offers a $2,000 annual scholarship to new and returning full-time students at
Grace Christian University who are interested in a career in missions.
Steps to Apply
Step One
Apply and Be Accepted to Grace
To unlock Grace Christian University’s institutional scholarships, start by applying for admission. Begin your journey by completing the admissions application today.
Step Two
Fill Out FAFSA
To apply for Federal financial aid, students must first submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). To receive maximum consideration for State of Michigan grants, we advise submitting your FAFSA before July 1. Remember, a new FAFSA application is required each academic year.Â
The Federal School Code for Grace Christian University is 002265.
Step Three
Review GCU Scholarships
Explore the 15+ scholarships that are available at Grace. Our scholarships are designed to support your academic journey and alleviate any financial burden as you pursue a bible-based degree within our encouraging community.
Step Four
Apply for Outside Scholarships
Leverage the power of scholarship databases, your high school guidance counselor, and your personal network to explore external scholarship opportunities. Should you be awarded an external scholarship, kindly notify the Financial Aid Office to ensure seamless integration with your financial aid package.
Financial Aid
Contact Us
If you have questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to the Financial Aid Office.
Phone: (616) 538-2330
Email: FinancialAid@gracechristian.edu
Fax: (616) 538-0588 (Attn: Financial Aid)
Kurt Postma (Director): (616) 261-8557 or kpostma@gracechristian.edu
Jody Ferguson: (616) 264-6651
Ken Myers: (616) 261-8577
Jamie Bristol: (616) 261-1564