One of the biggest questions families face when preparing for college is how to make higher education affordable. At UW-Stout, we support students and families through both financial aid and scholarships, as well as clear information about costs and value.
We’ve added new resources to make planning even easier: a YouTube playlist explaining financial aid and a Net Price Calculator to estimate personalized costs. Here’s how families can help their students get started:
Step 1: Apply for Financial Aid
File the FAFSA to Access Grants, Loans, and Work-Study
The 2026–2027 FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is now open. This is the first and most important step in securing financial support for college.
- The FAFSA is the gateway to grants, federal loans, and work-study opportunities that can help offset costs.
- Tip: Filing early gives students the best chance to receive the maximum aid available.
YouTube Playlist: Financial Aid at UW-Stout
We’ve created a new YouTube playlist that explains financial aid at UW-Stout and answers common questions. Families are encouraged to watch these short videos together.
Step 2: Apply for Foundation Scholarships
One Application, Multiple Awards
UW-Stout students – including current students and admitted students for Fall 2026 – are encouraged to apply for Foundation Scholarships.
- Universal form: Automatically matches students to all scholarships they qualify for in our database.
- Annual application: Students complete one application each year.
- Award timeline: Scholarship applications are due by the February 1 deadline and are reviewed and announced in the spring.
Important for Fall 2026 Admits
Families should ensure their student activates their UW-Stout Microsoft account so the application pre-populates with their information. Admissions may also award merit scholarships separately from the Foundation Scholarship process.
Don’t Forget External Scholarships
Families are also encouraged to search and apply for external scholarships – local, regional, or national – as these awards can often be combined with aid and UW-Stout Foundation Scholarships.
Step 3: Understand Costs and Value
See what your Tuition Covers and Estimate Costs
Paying for college is only half of the equation – the other half is understanding the true cost of attendance.
The Value of a UW-Stout Education
At UW-Stout, tuition includes many benefits that other universities charge extra for – such as a laptop, textbooks, career support, and more. Families can explore these details on our Paying for College webpage.
Estimated Your Costs
We also recommend using the Net Price Calculator, available on that page, to get a personalized estimate of a student’s costs after scholarships and financial aid are applied.
Financial Wellness Support
In addition, students have access to the Financial Wellness & Literacy Center, which provides tools and one-on-one guidance to help them build financial skills, manage money, and plan for the future.
Questions? We’re Here to Help
The Financial Aid Office is here to guide families every step of the way. Whether students are completing the FAFSA, applying for scholarships, or using our planning tools, families are encouraged to reach out with any questions.
Contact the Financial Aid Office
Important deadlines and applications are listed on the Financial Aid page.
