Financial Aid FAQ's
What is the cost of tuition?
For the school year 2008-2009, tuition is $15,500. (Note: this tuition fee for students is less than one third the actual cost to the university) With fees, books, living expenses, student health insurance, and loan fees, the estimated total cost of attendance is $37,218. This number can vary greatly depending on your employment status as a student, your living situation, and general lifestyle. For the latest financial aid information, see our financial aid link on our web site.
Do most students receive a scholarship?
Yes. Each year Candler gives over $4.4 million to its students in the form of scholarships and grants, with students bringing in an additional $1 million a year in outside funding. Candler scholarships range from full tuition, plus fees and stipend to 33 percent tuition.
Eligible MDiv students: 81 percent receive scholarships; average award = 78 percent of tuition
Eligible MTS students: 54 percent receive scholarships; average award = 66 percent of tuition
Eligible ThM students: 83 percent receive scholarships; average award = 46 percent of tuition
What are the top scholarships at Candler?
The top scholarship for MDiv students is the Robert W. Woodruff Fellowship in Theology and Ministry. Typically, we encourage applicants with a 3.5 cumulative grade point average or above to apply for the Woodruff Fellowship. This award provides full tuition, fees, and a $5000 a year stipend. MTS students are eligible for a scholarship of up to full tuition, fees, and a $3000 a year stipend. International ThM applicants are eligible for a scholarship of up to 100 percent tuition; one scholarship of 66 percent tuition is given to a domestic or international graduate Candler graduate applying for the ThM program.
How do I apply for scholarships?
For most Candler scholarships, there is no separate application required for scholarship; your application for admission is your application for scholarship. All MTS and ThM scholarships are given based on the application for admission. For MDiv applicants, there are two groups of scholarships that require separate applications. For the Woodruff Fellowship, a separate application is required. Applicants must be admitted to the MDiv program by February 1, submit the Woodruff application form, the Woodruff essay, and the Woodruff nomination form. For United Methodist applicants, please see our scholarship link on our website. and/or the financial aid materials mailed to you for eligibility and application requirements for United Methodist scholarships, most of which are due March 1. You must also file the FAFSA by February 15.
If I receive a scholarship, will I have to reapply each year to continue to receive it?
No. Candler’s scholarship policy is that the scholarship money you come in with, you leave with. All Candler scholarships are guaranteed for the length of your enrollment at Candler. Some scholarships have minimum grade point average and enrollment status requirements, but Candler students do not need to re-compete or reapply for scholarships each year.
How do I finance my education?
Typically, students’ financial aid packages are made up of a combination of a Candler Scholarship, Federal Work-Study, Federal Student Loans, and scholarships from outside resources including churches, conferences and foundations. The Candler Office of Admissions and Financial Aid works in conjunction with the Emory University Office of Financial Aid to ensure that students are considered for as many financial aid opportunities as possible. Most Candler students also work part-time on or off campus to help cover expenses.
Are MTS and ThM students eligible for scholarships?
Yes. Most MTS and ThM students do receive Candler scholarships. MTS applicants are eligible for scholarships ranging from 33 percent tuition to 100 percent tuition, fees, plus $3000 stipend. ThM students can receive scholarships ranging from 33 percent to 100 percent tuition.
Are scholarships only for United Methodist students?
No. While some scholarships are denomination, conference, or vocation specific, most scholarships—including our top MDiv award, the Woodruff Fellowship—are open to all students.