Bethel University’s Pilot Promise offers FREE tuition for eligible low-income Indiana students.
As an academic community that seeks to serve Christ in all we do, we are committed to increasing college access in Indiana. Through the Pilot Promise, we are helping make Christ-centered higher education accessible to many more students in the years to come.
Deadline: Apply and complete FAFSA by April 15, 2025
April 15
Application & FAFSA
Indiana
Residents
100%
tuition covered, up to 8 semesters
“I am so thrilled Bethel is offering this opportunity for eligible Indiana students. This opens doors to many who may not have considered Bethel an option before.”
Pilot Promise Criteria
To qualify for Pilot Promise, you must:
- Be an incoming Fall 2025 first-year or transfer traditional undergraduate student
- Apply for admission by April 15, 2025
- Be an Indiana state resident
- Complete the 2025-26 FAFSA by April 15, 2025
- Be eligible for the maximum Federal Pell Grant and Indiana State Grant
No additional application is required for this program.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are commuter students considered for Pilot Promise?
Yes, commuter students qualify for Pilot Promise beginning with the Fall 2025 incoming class.
Are students who take a gap year eligible?
Students who are taking a gap year qualify for Pilot Promise if enrolling for Fall 2025.
What is the Federal Pell Grant?
Federal Pell Grants usually are awarded to undergraduate students who display exceptional financial need and have not earned a bachelor’s, graduate, or professional degree. The Federal Pell Grant is free federal aid dependent on a completed 2025-26 FAFSA.
What is the Indiana State Grant?
Indiana Commission for Higher Education offers need-based grants based on information provided on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Indiana offers two primary awards:
- Frank O’Bannon (also known as Freedom of Choice for private universities)
- 21st Century Scholarship
Both awards are limited to tuition and regular assessed fees. Visit in.gov for more information.
What if my family just moved to Indiana in the past year?
You must be an Indiana resident as outlined in the Indiana State Grant eligibility requirements. More information can be found at in.gov.
What if my FAFSA eligibility changes in the future?
Consideration for Pilot Promise is at time of admission for Fall 2025. If your family’s eligibility changes in a subsequent year, and you are no longer eligible for Pilot Promise, we will renew only your scholarships and grants that were applicable at the time of admission. Students are encouraged to file a financial aid appeal to review eligibility for additional funding.
Do I qualify for Pilot Promise if I enrolled at Bethel before fall of 2024?
Traditional students who meet all other criteria but enrolled before fall 2024 already qualify for the Pilot Supplemental Grant (a similar program). For those who qualify for the full Federal Pell Grant and full Indiana State Grant, tuition is covered when combined with the academic scholarship, other Bethel aid, outside scholarships and the Pilot Supplemental Grant.
What if my family’s financial situation has changed since filing the 2025-26 FAFSA?
If your family’s circumstances have changed, such as job loss, death of parent/spouse, or change in parent’s marital status, please contact the Financial Aid Office to review for a professional judgment review.
May I use loan eligibility and other outside aid toward fees, food and housing expenses?
If you are eligible for Pilot Promise, your Bethel aid, Federal and Indiana State Grants will apply directly to tuition and fees. You may utilize federal direct loan eligibility towards additional expenses. Outside scholarships and grants may be used towards additional expenses, if specified within the guidelines of the funding institution.
How does this impact my Veteran Education and Training Benefits?
Veteran Education and Training Benefits that are paid directly to the university are paid up to the cost of tuition. Bethel’s School Certifying Official, Jeanne Fox, will help you determine your VA educational benefits and how they can apply to your educational expenses.
What if I receive additional Bethel aid, including athletic scholarships?
Bethel scholarships and grants, including Pilot Promise, are limited to tuition and fees. Students are limited to 3 Bethel institutional awards up to the cost of tuition and fees.
Terms & Conditions
The following conditions are considered when determining eligibility:
- For new incoming first-year or transfer students enrolling for Fall 2025
- Must complete an application for Admission and FAFSA by April 15, 2025
- Must qualify for the maximum Federal Pell Grant and maximum Indiana State Grant
- Must be registered as a full-time student
- Students can be eligible for up to 8 consecutive semesters (excluding summer terms)
- Must maintain satisfactory academic progress
- Must meet all eligibility requirements to renew in subsequent years
- Pilot Promise eligibility for athletes and fine arts will be determined after all athletic and fine arts aid is determined
- Loans and outside scholarships may be used towards additional expenses if specified within the guidelines of the funding institution
- Students are limited to 3 institutional awards and will be awarded the highest of all eligible awards up to tuition and fees
Take the Next Step
Take the first step toward your Bethel University degree.
Visit campus, apply, request information or ask questions about financial aid.