Financial Aid

Northwestern financial aid may be used for participation on Northwestern programs, exchanges, and partner study abroad programs. Additional scholarship opportunities or financing options may be available for students who do not receive need-based aid or who wish to pursue independent programs. The pages in this section outline information about the various forms of financial assistance available for study abroad.

Need-Based Financial Aid

Financial aid and loans can be applied to Northwestern, exchange, and partner study abroad programs during the regular academic year. Your family contribution stays the same, and your financial aid will be adjusted based on your program's costs.

Summer Aid & Scholarships

You are encouraged to apply for summer study abroad scholarships from a variety of sources, including your program and outside organizations. Need-based aid may also be available, but you must apply for summer aid separately from the regular academic year.

Student & Parent Loans

Find out what you need to know about borrowing student loans for study abroad, especially if you will be a first-time borrower. If your family usually borrows a parent loan or a private loan, these options are still available if you will attend a partner, exchange, or Northwestern program.

Northwestern Faculty/Staff Educational Assistance

If you are a current Northwestern undergraduate, and your parent is a full-time, benefits-eligible Northwestern employee, you are eligible to use Northwestern education benefits toward your tuition on a study abroad program.

Outside Scholarships & Funding

There are many opportunities to apply for outside scholarships and funding for your study abroad program. Funding search engines are also available to help you locate opportunities.