Financial Services

We're here to help!

New Student Financial Services at Western Colorado University provides guidance on tuition, billing, payment plans, and financial aid to help make your transition to college as smooth as possible. We’re here to answer questions and connect you with the resources you need.

90%

Receive Aid

$0000

Scholarship Dollars Annually

---

How to receive Financial Aid

Get Accepted to Western Prepare the required (and optional) materials, then submit your application. Apply Now

Apply for Scholarships Eligible merit scholarships and tuition discounts are awarded automatically; additional aid requires an application. View Scholarships View Financial Aid

 

Accept Financial Aid Scholarships In your application portal, you’ll be able to view and accept your full financial aid package. Log in to Western Navigator Applicant Portal

Important Dates

Oct. 1

FAFSA application opens. Use Western’s school code, 001372, to apply.

Mar. 1

FAFSA priority deadline is March 1. Apply before this date to capitoloze on aid.

Apply to FAFSA

Dec. 1

This is when we start sending financial aid packages! View your entire financial aid package in your Western Navigator

Western Navigator

New Student Resources

Tuition & Costs

View our net price calculator and more details on how much Western costs. Here’s the breakdown by residency status!

Tuition & Cost

Scholarships

There are several different kinds of scholarships! Here’s the breakdown of what they are and the qualifications needed.

scholarships

Financial Aid

Details on FAFSA, CASFA, and COF. When to apply and how they can help

Veterans & Military

Support for veterans and military-affiliated students with dedicated resources, benefit guidance, and personalized support throughout their academic journey.

Quick Guide

See what scholarships you should apply to in a compact list!

Here are all of the scholarships we recommend based on student type.

Quick Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

What's a liberal arts education?

A liberal arts education teaches you how to think critically, not what to think. By taking a variety of core classes, you’ll gain a well-rounded education that helps you analyze ideas, ask big questions, and see the world from different perspectives. This way, you’re ready to adapt, problem-solve, and succeed no matter where life takes you.

What does hands-on learning mean?

Hands-on learning means you’ll gain practical, real-world experience that goes beyond textbooks. Regardless of what you choose to study, we are committed to taking your learning outside the classroom. Through internships, fieldwork, and other real-world applications, you’ll apply your knowledge and build a competitive edge for your future career.

Why does a small class size matter?

Our 17:1 average student-to-faculty ratio ensures you’ll receive the personal attention you need to make the most out of your education. Small classes allow you to connect with your professors and classmates, creating an engaging and collaborative learning environment.

Will the professors know me?

Our professors will know you by name and are dedicated to your success as a student. As leaders in their field, they’ll provide personalized one-on-one instruction to elevate your academic experience.

Meet the Team

• 

  Carrie Shaw

  Director, Student Financial Services

• 

  Nancy Duetsch

  Assistant Director of Student Financial Aid

• 

  Paula Giavasis

  Work Study Coordinator

• 

  Amelia Lukassen

  Financial Aid Counselor

Financial Services

• Carrie Shaw

• Director, Student Financial Services

Contact Information

970.943.3085

finaid@western.edu

8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Contact Location

Western Colorado University
Taylor Hall 314
1 Western Way
Gunnison, CO 81231