Filling the Gap
We are here to help you afford Boise State
There are many different options to fill in the gap between the funding a student has, and what they need. Our Student Financials Money Matters guide and Bottom Line Estimator can help families better understand the cost to attend.
Federal Aid
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid allows students to apply for aid like Pell Grants, work-study and student loans. We recommend that all students start here.
Scholarships
Boise State has a comprehensive website dedicated to scholarships. All of Boise State specific scholarships have deadlines. Admissions scholarships for non-residents are in December, with all other scholarship deadlines typically happening in the middle of February. After March, private scholarships may be the best bet in looking for deadlines that haven’t passed for the upcoming fall and spring semester.
Remember to fill out scholarship applications every year starting late fall.
Student Employment
Search for part-time jobs on and off campus, internships, and post-graduation career positions. Work-study is also an option to secure jobs on campus. Students can add themselves to the wait list if they are eligible for it at the bottom of the webpage.
PLUS Loans
PLUS loans can be used by parents of a dependent undergraduate student or graduate students. These are offered through the federal government and payments can be deferred as long as the student is enrolled at least half-time. There is a minor credit-check performed on this application. Dependent students can request additional unsubsidized loans if their parent is denied.
Alternative Student Loans
Alternative loans are loans from private companies that specialize in student loans. The terms and conditions of these loans can vary from lender to lender and we recommend shopping around if going this route. While Boise State does not endorse any specific loan the Alternative Loan Tool can help narrow down the loan type you are looking for.