When you first receive your financial aid offer, it will most likely contain a grant, a federal loan, and work study. If you later receive other types of aid, like outside scholarships, they will affect your original aid offer. Read on to learn more about all the types of aid.
The three most common forms of aid are grants, loans, and work study.
Grants are funds you don't have to pay back. Grants can come from Duke, the federal government, or other sources, and all grants managed by our office are based only on your family's financial circumstances (need). All students who apply for aid are considered for need-based grant funding.
Grant AidLoans are funds you have to pay back. You can find loans in the student's or parent's name, and they are offered by the federal government and a variety of lenders.
LoansWork study is a job; you'll find a position and work hours, and your paycheck will be deposited into your bank account. There's an incredible variety of work-study jobs out there, and you can gain valuable experience and networking opportunities!
Work StudyOutside scholarships are offered by a wide variety of organizations. Learn more about how to find them and how they affect your financial aid.
Outside ScholarshipsTuition benefits are typically offered as a benefit to a student's parent by their employer. Tuition benefits replace Duke grants dollar for dollar.
Tuition BenefitsIf you're eligible for veterans benefits either through your own service or that of a parent, learn more about how you can use these benefits here at Duke.
Veterans BenefitsAll students who apply to Duke are considered for merit scholarships. The Office of University Scholars and Fellows selects merit scholars.
Merit ScholarshipsIf you're a Resident Assistant, your RA award will affect your financial aid. Read on to learn how.
Being a Resident AssistantRead on about less common types of aid like Americorps and ROTC scholarships.
Other Types of Aid