Making a Lawrence Education Possible since 1847

Because of generous alumni and a strong endowment, we meet the full demonstrated need of every student—year after year.

A Partner in Your Success

At Lawrence University, we believe that a high-impact, liberal arts education should never be out of reach. That’s why we approach financial aid as a collaborative, transparent process rooted in generosity. Whether through merit scholarships, need-based grants, on-campus employment, our monthly payment plan, or all of the above, a Lawrence education is manageable.

  • Creatively Practical: We break down college costs into clear, manageable steps so families can make informed decisions.
  • Intentionally Engaged: We work one-on-one with every family—before, during, and after enrollment.
  • Fearlessly Curious: We support students pursuing bold, interdisciplinary goals without the burden of overwhelming debt.

The Value Behind these Numbers

  • In 2024–25, Lawrence awarded $58.2 million in scholarships and grants.
  • 100% of students receive financial aid.
  • And as this chart shows, based on your family’s income, your actual cost may be less than at some public universities.

Average Cost After Financial Aid (scholarships, grants & loans)

Family Income* Avg. Financial Aid Avg. Cost After Financial Aid
$0 - $39,999 $66,500 $5,500
$40,000 - $79,999 $62,500 $9,500
$80,000 - $119,999 $57,000 $15,000
$120,000 - $159,999 $51,000 $21,000
$160,000 - $199,999 $47,500 $24,500
$200,000 - $239,999 $45,000 $27,000
$240,000 - $299,999 $41,000 $31,000

*Based on families with less than $100,000 in assets

Main Hall cupola lit up at night following the Inauguration ceremony of President Laurie A. Carter
Committed to your future

An Affordable Education

75%

of Lawrentians receive need-based financial aid

20%

of Lawrentians receive merit-based scholarships only

99%

of Lawrentians receive financial aid of some kind

$71,766

comprehensive fee (includes tuition, fees, housing, & meal plan)

Main Hall cupola lit up at night following the Inauguration ceremony of President Laurie A. Carter
$44,500

Average Lawrence Grants & Scholarships

$47,300

Average Lawrence Grants & Scholarships (Lawrence + Federal + State): 

$24,500

Average direct cost after scholarships & grants: $24,500

$19,000

Average direct cost after scholarships, grants & loans.

Why a Lawrence education pays dividends

A Personalized, Mentored Education

With small class sizes and strong faculty-student connections, Lawrence offers an educational experience you just don’t get at large schools. Students enjoy close guidance across academics, music, arts, and athletics.

Career & Grad-School Readiness

  • Dedicated Career, Life & Community Engagement services
  • Faculty who mentor research and connect you with internships
  • High rates of admissions to professional and graduate programs

Scholarships

  • Merit $25k-$38k (Determined at the point of decision and is based on admission materials)
  • Main Hall Green Award (application available January 1)
  • Full-Tuition Scholarship (application available January 1)
Student in class

Need Based Aid

If your family is like most, you will draw upon a combination of savings, assets, and current income to finance your education. At Lawrence, we understand that for many people these resources are not enough. Between the FAFSA and supplemental aid applications, our need-based financial aid opportunities have designed to assist in making a Lawrence education a reality.

Learn more about the financial aid process

How do you Invest WISELY in your Future?

1. Understand the Net Price—not sticker price

After scholarships and grants, your true cost is not the sticker price.

2. Break It Down into Manageable Steps

  • Scholarships - Add up all internal and external scholarships
  • Grants - Whether federal, state or institutional…this is free money (just like scholarships).
  • Determine how much you will work - Most students earn $2K–3K/year by only working 5-7 hours per week (that’s it!)
  • Payment Options - Our monthly payment plan spreads payments over 9 months.
  • Federal loans and private loans options - Borrow only what you need!

3. Leverage Our Tools and Support

We’re committed to working with your family to make Lawrence not just possible—but the best investment in your student’s future.

Student Stories
About Lawrence

The Faces of Full Speed to Full Need

Full Speed to Full Need is a bold move to make Lawrence accessible and affordable by meeting the full demonstrated financial need of every student.