Scholarship Facts
Can everyone afford St. Ambrose?
Frankly, the answer is no. A continuing major challenge that St. Ambrose faces is making adequate financial assistance available to students. Not all students who are academically qualified can afford to attend St. Ambrose. Sadly, many of these students would thrive on the small classes, individualized attention and supportive campus community that St. Ambrose provides. But costs often force these students either to choose less desirable schools or not consider a higher education at all. That is why St. Ambrose seeks help from those who believe that all qualified students should have access to higher education.
Why it is vital?
Although St. Ambrose’s tuition ranks in the lower half among Iowa’s 25 private colleges and universities, an overwhelming 92 percent of our undergraduate students are eligible for, and receive, some form of tuition assistance.
Who does the fund assist?
Most St. Ambrose students come from lower to middle income households whose families cannot afford to pay even as much as one-third of the cost of their child’s education. About 60 percent of St. Ambrose students are the first in their family to earn a college degree. Nearly one-third qualify for a federal Pell Grant, designed for students with the most extreme need whose annual family income averages $18,000.
What about the budget?
Nearly one-fifth of the St. Ambrose operating budget—or $8.4 million annually—is earmarked for financial aid. The average full-time student receives $6,000 in financial aid, and part-time undergraduates receive an average financial aid award of $1,800. With escalating costs and cuts in government aid, the need for student assistance continues to grow.
How can supporters help?
Proceeds from the St. Ambrose University Winefest will benefit the St. Ambrose University Scholarship Fund, allowing more students to afford a quality education.