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Scholarships

Biola Missionary Scholarship

The Biola Missionary Scholarship is a Biola-funded scholarship to assist students who demonstrate a calling on their lives for cross-cultural missions.

Amount

$4,000

Application

Students must review the following application guidelines:

  1. Log into Scholarship Portal
    • New Applicants:
      1. Complete General Application
      2. Search and complete "Biola Missionary Scholarship - New Applicant" application
    • Renewing Applicants:
      1. Complete General Application
      2. Search for and complete “Biola Missionary Scholarship – Renewing Applicant" application
Deadline

April 15

Eligibility

Students must meet the following eligibility requirements:

  • Must be a new/accepted or continuing student 
  • Must maintain full-time enrollment in a traditional program
  • Special programs not eligible:
    • All certificate and non-degree seeking students
    • Biblical and Theological Studies in the Eurasion Context (Kyiv)
    • B.S. in Biblical Ministries
    • Doctor of Ministry
    • English Language Program
    • Master of Arts – Christian Apologetics
    • Master of Arts in Classical Theology
    • Master of Arts – Science and Religion
    • Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy
    • Messianic Jewish Studies (NYC)
    • Spiritual Formation
    • Ph.D. – Educational Studies
    • Ed.D. in Educational Studies
  • U.S. citizens and permanent residents only
  • FAFSA must be filed and sent to Biola by application deadline
Renewable Status

Yes, this scholarship is renewable for one additional year. The renewal amount is $6,000.

Acts 17 Scholarship

The Acts 17 Scholarship is a departmental scholarship available to new students in the Christian apologetics or science and religion programs.

Amount

A limited number of $1,300 one-year ($650 per semester) scholarships are available.

Application

Submit the Acts 17 Scholarship application by the required deadline.

Deadline

Applications must be received by:

  • July 15 — fall semester deadline
  • November 1 — spring semester deadline
Eligibility

Students must meet the following eligibility requirements:

NOTE: Students who drop below 5 credits in their first semester will have their scholarship withdrawn for both semesters. Students who drop below 5 credits in their second semester will have their scholarship withdrawn for the second semester only. Students who receive below a 3.3 GPA their first semester will not receive the scholarship for their second semester.

Renewable Status

No, this scholarship is not renewable.

Church Matching Scholarship

The Church Matching Scholarship is a Biola-funded match to church sponsorship funds.

Amount

Biola will match up to $750 of a church’s sponsorship funds.

Application

Students must review the following application guidelines:

  1. Confirm your financial aid file by the scholarship deadline, which includes a completed FAFSA (online) and all requested forms; international students are exempt.
  2. Submit Church Matching Scholarship Application for appropriate aid year, and attach a church sponsorship check made out to Biola University by the scholarship deadline.
Deadline

Students must be aware of the following deadlines:

  • October 1 — Deadline for students who attend the fall semester only, or both fall and spring semesters
  • March 1 — Deadline for students who attend only the spring semester
Eligibility

Students must meet the following eligibility requirements:

  • Student must be enrolled at least half-time
  • Student must be enrolled in a traditional degree program.
  • Student must demonstrate financial need based on FAFSA information.
  • Student must receive financial sponsorship from a church.
  • Special programs are not eligible. 
  • Please see the included instructions on the first page of the application for a list of all ineligible programs.

Renewable Status

Yes, this scholarship is renewable. Students must reapply each year.

Spouse Tuition Reduction Scholarship

The Spouse Tuition Reduction Scholarship is a Biola-funded benefit for married Talbot students who desire to train together for ministry.

Amount

Two-thirds reduction of tuition rate for one spouse up to 6 credits (recipient will be the spouse with the fewest credits).

NOTE: After the first 6-credit reduction, each subsequent credit taken will cost the regular price).

Application

Application available from Talbot School of Theology.

Deadline

Students must be aware of the following deadlines:

  • New Students:
    • July 1 — Applications for fall semester deadline
    • December 1 — Applications for spring semester deadline
  • Continuing Students:
    • May 15 — Applications for fall semester deadline
    • October 15 — Applications for spring semester deadline
Eligibility

One spouse must be attending Talbot with full-time enrollment (9 credits). The spouse who will receive the deduction will attend with equal or fewer credits.

  • Special programs not eligible:
    • All certificate and non-degree seeking students
    • Biblical and Theological Studies in the Eurasion Context (Kyiv)
    • B.S. in Biblical Ministries
    • Doctor of Ministry
    • English Language Program
    • Master of Arts – Christian Apologetics
    • Master of Arts in Classical Theology
    • Master of Arts – Science and Religion
    • Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy
    • Messianic Jewish Studies (NYC)
    • Spiritual Formation
    • Ph.D. – Educational Studies
    • Ed.D. in Educational Studies
Renewable Status

Yes, this scholarship is renewable. Students must reapply each year.

Talbot CRU Scholarship

The Talbot CRU Scholarship is a Biola-funded benefit for full-time and part time (level 2) employees of CRU International.

Amount

The scholarship amount is based on the student's enrolled credits:

  • 1–4 credits: $495
  • 5–8 credits: $990
  • 9+ credits: $1,980
Application

Students must review the following application guidelines:

  1. Confirm your financial aid file by the scholarship deadline, which includes a completed FAFSA and all requested documentation.
    1. International graduate students: Please contact the financial aid office for a link to the International Student Financial Need Assessment.
  2. Log into the Scholarship Portal
  3. Complete the General Application
  4. Search for and complete the "CRU Scholarship” application
Deadline

Students must be aware of the following deadlines:

  • New Students:
    • July 1 — Applications for fall semester deadline
    • December 1 — Applications for spring semester deadline
  • Continuing Students:
    • May 15 — Applications for fall semester deadline
    • October 15 — Applications for spring semester deadline
Eligibility

Applicants must be full time or part time (level 2) employees of CRU. A letter of verification from ministry supervisor must be on file.

Renewable Status

Yes, this scholarship is renewable. Students must reapply each year.

Talbot Ethnic Ministry Scholarship

The Talbot Ethnic Ministry Scholarship is a Biola-funded scholarship in cooperation with the student's church, awarded to Talbot students who minister 10+ hours per week in an official capacity in a church that consists of at least 60% Latino, African American or Native American attendees

Amount

A third of tuition provided by Biola, a third of tuition provided by student's church, a third of tuition provided by student.

Application

Application available from Talbot School of Theology.

    Deadline

    The application deadline for new and incoming students will be on the first day of the semester.

    Eligibility

    Students must have a U.S. citizenship and maintain half-time enrollment (5+ credits). Pastors must verify church membership and ethnic makeup.

    • Special programs not eligible:
      • All certificate and non-degree seeking students
      • Biblical and Theological Studies in the Eurasion Context (Kyiv)
      • B.S. in Biblical Ministries
      • Doctor of Ministry
      • English Language Program
      • Master of Arts – Christian Apologetics
      • Master of Arts in Classical Theology
      • Master of Arts – Science and Religion
      • Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy
      • Messianic Jewish Studies (NYC)
      • Spiritual Formation
      • Ph.D. – Educational Studies
      • Ed.D. in Educational Studies
    Renewable Status

    Yes, this scholarship is renewable. Students must reapply each semester.

    Talbot Master of Arts (Philosophy) Scholarship

    The Talbot Master of Arts (Philosophy) Scholarship is a Biola-funded scholarship for master’s-level students.

    Amount

    Varies

    Application

    No application required

    Deadline

    The application deadline for new incoming students will be on the first day of the semester.

    Eligibility

    Students in the Master of Arts (concentration in philosophy) program are eligible for this scholarship.

    Renewable Status

    No, this is a one-time scholarship given to all new incoming philosophy students in their first semester.

    Contact

    Contact Talbot School of Theology for additional questions.

    Ahmanson Veterans Scholarship

    The Ahmanson Veterans Scholarship was generously donated by The Ahmanson Foundation in an effort to support veterans who are eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill®. Funds are applicable to tuition, Collegium membership, and the Biola Counseling Center.

    Note: GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.

    Amount

    Up to $1,500 per year (for graduate students)

    Application

    Students must review the following application guidelines:

    1. Complete the FAFSA (with Biola listed)
    2. Provide a current Certificate of Eligibility to military.benefits@biola.edu
    3. Log into the Scholarship Portal
      • Complete the General Application
      • Search for and complete the “Ahmanson Veterans Scholarship” form
    Deadline

    Funds will be awarded first-come, first-serve throughout summer.

    Eligibility

    Students must review the following eligibility requirements:

    • Student veterans with current Chapter 33 Post 9/11 GI Bill® benefits are eligible to apply.
    • Student is eligible if he or she has demonstrated financial need and is at least a half-time student.
    Renewable Status

    No, this scholarship is not renewable. Students must reapply annually based on financial need and availability of funds.

    Grants

    Talbot School of Theology Graduate Grant

    The Talbot School of Theology Graduate Grant is a Biola grant calculated on cost of tuition, room and board against other resources available to the student.

    Amount

    Students may be eligible for up to $3,100 (prorated per enrollment).

    Application

    Students must review the following application guidelines:

    1. Complete the FAFSA (with Biola listed).
    2. Once students complete the FAFSA and submit all other paperwork requested by the Office of Financial Aid, which will determine Graduate Grant eligibility. If eligible, the Office of Financial Aid will contact the student.
    Deadline

    Priority is given to the earliest applicants with completed financial aid requirements.

    Eligibility

    Students must have sufficient financial need and be enrolled at least half-time.

    Renewable Status

    Yes, this scholarship is renewable (according to need determined by completing the FAFSA for the new financial aid year).

    International Student Aid Grant

    The International Student Aid Grant is available to international students who have been accepted to Biola University and who are studying on the F1 Student Visa.

    Amount

    $2,000 per year for master’s and doctoral studies.

    Application

    Application is sent to eligible admitted students who are planning to study on the F1 student visa.

    Eligibility

    Eligibility is based on academic achievement, leadership experience and preference is given to financial need. Students enrolled in the following graduate schools are eligible:

    • Cook School of Intercultural Studies
    • Rosemead School of Psychology
    • School of Education
    • Talbot School of Theology
    Renewable Status

    Renewable when maintaining minimum grade requirements and on-campus study.

    Loans

    Direct Unsubsidized Loan

    The Direct Loan is a loan funded by the U.S. Department of Education that must be repaid with interest. Amount determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

    Amount and Interest

    Up to $20,500.

    For current Direct Loan interest rates and origination fee amounts, please visit the Federal Student Aid website.

    Application

    Students must complete the following applications:

    1. FAFSA (online form; with Biola listed)
    2. Direct Loan Master Promissory Note & Entrance Counseling (online form)
    Deadline

    April 15 — This is the recommended deadline in order to be processed in time for the beginning of the school year. All loan requests must be received no later than the last day of the semester in which the funds are being requested in order to be processed.

    Eligibility

    Student must be enrolled at least half-time.

    Repayment

    Loan repayment is deferred while a student is enrolled at least half-time in a degree program. Repayment typically begins six months after a student drops below half-time enrollment.

    Renewable Status

    Yes, this loan is renewable yearly (with the completion of a FAFSA). MPN is valid for up to 10 years.

    Graduating/Departing Information

    Students must complete exit counseling online in preparation for graduating/completing their program.

    Direct Grad Plus Loan

    The Direct Grad Plus Loan is a loan funded by the U.S. Department of Education that must be repaid with interest.

    Amount and Interest

    Up to cost of attendance minus financial aid.

    For current Direct Loan interest rates and origination fee amounts, please visit the Federal Student Aid website.

    Application

    Students must complete the following applications:

    1. FAFSA (online form; with Biola listed)
    2. Direct Graduate PLUS Loan Application, Master Promissory Note & Entrance Counseling (online form)
    Deadline

    April 15 — This is the recommended deadline in order to be processed in time for the beginning of the school year. All loan requests must be received no later than the last day of the semester in which the funds are being requested in order to be processed.

    Eligibility

    Student must be enrolled at least half-time, and must meet federal credit check standards.

    Repayment

    Loan repayment is deferred while a student is enrolled at least half-time in a degree program. Repayment typically begins six months after a student drops below half-time enrollment.

    Renewable Status

    No, this loan is not renewable. Students must apply yearly using the applications linked above

    Graduating/Departing Information

    Students must complete exit counseling online in preparation for graduating/completing their program.

    Private Student Loan

    You may choose to borrow Private Student Loan funds from a private financial institution to help fund your education after all other resources have been exhausted:

    • Federal direct loans are required by law to provide a range of flexible repayment options, including, but not limited to, income-based repayment and income-contingent repayment plans, and loan forgiveness benefits, which other student loans are not required to provide.
    • Federal direct loans are available to students regardless of income, whereas private student loans are dependent on student (and cosigner) credit. Private loans are not federally funded, and are dependent on student (and cosigner) credit. Private loans tend to have higher interest rates than federal direct loans, and in most cases, Parent PLUS loans.
    Amount and Interest

    Minimum loan amounts begin at $1,000 and may also be large enough to cover the remaining cost of attendance (varies by lender).

    Maximum loan amounts are determined by subtracting all of a student's financial aid from their cost of attendance for the school year.

    Interest rates vary by lender.

    Application

    Students can complete a loan application with their chosen lender, or may look for a lender on our Preferred Lender List. Please note the following additional details:

    1. Part of your loan application will include completing an Applicant Self-Certification Form. This includes calculating your estimated cost of attendance. Learn more about how to do that on our FAQ page.
    Deadline

    June 1 — This is the recommended deadline in order to be processed in time for the beginning of the school year. All loan requests must be received no later than the last day of the semester in which the funds are being requested in order to be processed. Please allow 4–6 weeks for processing.

    Eligibility

    Generally, the borrower must be a U.S. citizen, eligible non-citizen with a U.S. address, or an international student with a U.S. citizen cosigner (varies per lender).

    Cosigner Requirements

    Criteria varies per lender. Unless you are steadily employed, earn at least $12,000 a year, and have a stable credit history with a good FICO score (over 700), you will more than likely need a cosigner in order to be approved for a private student loan.

    Renewable Status

    No, these loans are not renewable. Students must apply yearly using the application resources linked above.

    Additional Resources

    Know Your Options

    The Office of Financial Aid provides different resources that can help you plan out your finances as you pursue your Biola education.

    Financial Aid Counseling

    Have questions about the process? Call us or come by our office for a drop-in appointment with a knowledgeable financial aid counselor — they can help.

    Connect With a Counselor

    Contact Us

    The Office of Financial Aid is here to answer questions you have about the financial aid process. Contact us in person, by phone or email.

    View Contact Information