Financial Aid
Next Steps
- Financial Aid home
- Application process
- Next steps
- Awards
- Work-study
- Quick links
- Bronco Express
- Costs, billing, payment
- Forms, fact sheets
- Scholarships
- Student information
- Parent information
- Calendar
- Helpful links
- Glossary, terms
Next Steps
I've received my award letter.... now what?
Thank you for choosing Financial Aid first at WMU. You've received your award letter, but you still have questions. What's this all mean? Can I get more money? What's a PLUS? Get all the answers here.
Translation - reading your award letter
We'll help you translate your award letter, and explain what it means.
The price tag
We use the estimated cost of attendance to determine the maximum amount of aid Western can offer. The cost of attendance includes tuition, fees, room, board, books, supplies, personal expenses, travel and loan fees and is estimated based upon averages for each category. Actual tuition, fees, and university housing costs are published each year (generally after July 1) and are subject to Board of Trustees approval. Your cost will depend on your residency, class level, planned enrollment and housing options. Use the on-campus budgeting worksheet as a tool to help you determine your costs.
Need a PLUS?
See how Mom and Dad can help out with additional financial aid by getting a federal PLUS (Parent Loan
for Undergraduate Students). You can estimate your PLUS eligiblity by taking the estimated cost of attendance and subtracting your total financial aid award.
Borrow smart
There are many private financing options being marketed directly to students. We encourage ALL students to apply for financial aid first. Federal student loans offered through Financial Aid have low, fixed interest rates, deferment options and affordable repayment plans. We also have a list of recommended private lenders who offer special rates to WMU students, with no hidden fees.
For the parents
We have special information just for Mom and Dad. Find out how privacy laws affect your access to student information and more.
What's GoWMU? GoWMU is a convenient, online resource, available 24/7. This is where you will need to go to keep up-to-date on everything important.
You've got mail
WMU communicates with you via e-mail when you have missing financial aid requirements or a revised award notice. In order to protect your privacy, we only use your Western e-mail account. Check it regularly for important updates. Information may be time-sensitive. If you have missing documents or unsatisfied requirements, your aid could be reduced or revoked.
Cash or check?
Find out what payment options you have at
WMU.