Financial Aid
- Financial Aid home
- Application process
- Awards
- Work-study
- Quick links
- Bronco Express
- Calendar
- Costs, billing payment
- Forms, fact sheets
- Scholarships
- Student information
- Parent information
- Helpful links
- Glossary, terms
Information for Parents
Announcement
'Credit crunch' worries parents and students
Despite some troubling reports in the media, students will be able to borrow federal
student loans and receive financial aid this fall. The federal government and student
loan companies have assured colleges that they will not allow recent developments
in the credit markets to prevent students from obtaining loans. Get all the facts in this brochure 
, produced by the National Association for Student Financial Aid Administrators.
Welcome Bronco Parents!
Thank you for selecting Western Michigan University! This will be an exciting time in your lives. The tips below will help you get a feel for the financial aid process and what comes next.
- Get money
Before you do anything, apply for financial aid first. Everyone qualifies for some aid, and it's the best way to pay for college. - Make a list
See the steps in the financial aid process and keep track using our Financial Aid Checklist. - How much?
Learn more about the cost of your student's education. - Cash or check?
Find out what payment options you have at WMU. - Need a PLUS?
Help your student pay for college with a PLUS (Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students). - Be smart
There are many private financing options being marketed directly to students. They need your help choosing the least expensive method of financing. 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. - No peeking
Federal Privacy Law (FERPA) affects your access to student information. Ask your student to make you an Authorized User so you can see financial aid, billing, payment and academic information online using GoWMU. - What's GoWMU? GoWMU is a convenient, online resource, available 24/7. This is where you and your student will need to go to keep up-to-date on everything important.
- You've got mail
WMU communicates with your student via e-mail when they have missing financial aid requirements or a revised award notice. Remind your student to check their Western e-mail regularly for important updates. - Find relief
Educationally related tax benefits are available when you file your federal tax return.