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FAQs and Glossary

 What does it cost to go to seminary?

The cost for seminary is based on tuition, books, living expenses, transportation, student health insurance and other miscellaneous expenses you may have during the time it takes for you to complete your degree.  At Luther Seminary tuition is charged on a per course basis ($1100/course for the 2008/2009 academic year).  Most degree programs require 18-30 courses for completion.  Living expenses vary based on indivividual need and preference.  On-campus housing, in Bockman Hall for single students or in a one, two, or three bedroom seminary apartment, range from $328-$830/month for the 2008-2009 academic year.  Click here for more information.(Current costs may be found here)

Who can help me pay for seminary?

Paying for seminary can be overwhelming, but remember your're not doing this on your own.  Luther Seminary has several options to keep your costs low through its scholarship and grant programs.  In addition to the funds available through Luther Seminary, we encourage each student to invite his/her home congregation and home synod or adjudicatory to partner in paying for seminary.  It is common for a congregation to support a seminary student with prayer and financial support.  While work and study requires a delicate balance fo time, it is common for students to work an on-campus or off-campus job while taking courses.  Luther Seminary also keeps a list of scholarships that some of our students have received. (Current outside scholarships)

Where do I find scholarships?

Luther Seminary offers several scholarships as well as keeps a list of scholarships that some of our students have received.  (Click here for more information)

How do I apply for financial aid?

For most students the application process consists of two steps. The first, which everyone must complete, is the Luther Seminary Financial Aid Application.  The second, if you want to be considered for any type of loan, would be to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).  Further Details can be found at:  Application Process

Do I have to complete the FAFSA to receive aid at Luther Seminary?

If you want to be considered for Federal Student Loans or the Luther Seminary Mourer Loan you must complete the FAFSA.  Even if you are not considering student loans we still recommend that you complete the FAFSA.  Your situation may change over the course of the year, and when we have a completed form we can respond more quickley than starting from scratch.  Further, our office receives gifts throughout the year designated to students with high need.  If we have the FAFSA information we can compare your situation to other similar students.  Our advice is to always complete the FAFSA.  Complete FAFSA Now!

When/how do I receive my financial aid money?

Luther Seminary typically pays students their grant/scholarship/loan funds approximately one month into each semester.  If a student completes their financial aid application after we have paid for the term, then they would usually receive their aid approximately a week after their aid.  Payments from congregations and other sources are applied to student accounts as they come in.  Typically the business office requires any outstanding balances to be paid before they will release funds to a students.  Luther Seminary grants/scholarships and all loans are applied directly to student accounts.  Typically the business office requires any outstanding balances to be paid before they will release funds to a student.

What if I run short before I receive my financial aid?

Luther Seminary offers a Short Term Loan for this type of situation. Students may request a Short Term Loan from the Office of Financial Aid.  These are no-fee, no-interest loans that must be repaid prior to graduating or leaving school.  A student may request up to $1500.  The application is available on-line or may be picked up in the Office of Financial Aid. Short Term Loan checks are cut each Wednesday.  Applications must be completed by noon Tuesdays in order to be ready the next day.  Due to staffing changes, vacations, etc, this schedule may change without notice.  Please check with the Office of Financial Aid for current deadlines.  The Short Term Loan Application can be found here.

How do I defer my student loans?

Most lenders require that you be enrolled at least half-time to defer your student loans.  At Luther Seminary, taking 1.5 coureses/semester or more, attending CPE, Internship will qualify you for a deferment.  To defer your student loan, contact yoru lender to request a deferment form.  Luther Seminary does not participate in the federal student loan clearinghouse.

Glossary (back to FAQs)

Work in progress

  • FAFSA

  • Luther Seminary Financial Aid

  • Federal Student Loans

  • Stafford Loans

  • Unsubsidized and Subsidized

  • Mourer Loan

  • Lender

  • Guarantee Agency

  • Short Term Loan

  • Loan Checks

  • Need-based Aid

  • Merit Aid

  • Financial Wellness

  • Financial Education