Apply for Aid: Prospective Students

The prospect of paying for college doesn't have to feel overwhelming. At Bucknell, we're here for you every step of the way as you make this important investment.

Every situation is unique, so we'll work with you to discuss aid options, answer your specific questions and navigate the process of applying for financial aid.

Here is how financial aid works at Bucknell: At the same time you apply for admission, file the College Scholarship Service (CSS) Profile using the instructions below. We will evaluate your CSS Profile information and determine any need-based eligibility that you may have. We are not able to meet financial need levels, but we award as much financial aid as we can with a combination of grants, scholarships, loans and work-study from the federal, state and institutional aid programs that we offer.

Also, if your parents are divorced, separated or never married, both households will be instructed to fill out a separate CSS Profile. Both forms must be submitted by the admission deadline. If you feel you have special circumstances, please contact our office.

In addition, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is required each year for all federal financial aid programs such as the Federal Pell Grant, Federal Direct Loans and Federal Work-Study.

As you complete your financial aid materials, we suggest you keep copies of all documents in your own file at home.