International Student Costs and Funding Options
International students are eligible for merit and need-based financial aid. Our admission process for international students is need-aware, which means we take your family’s ability to afford your education into consideration.
Tuition and Fees
Before issuing your I-20, the US Citizen and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires that we obtain proof of financial responsibility. Please review the educational costs for international students for the upcoming academic year and provide the required information that reflects your ability to cover the costs.
2023-24 Education Costs per Year for International Students
- Tuition: $31,700
- Service and Activity Fee: $490
- Technology Fee: $700
- Room and Board (varies depending on plan): $7,600
- International Student Fee: $200
TOTAL: $40,690
*Students are responsible for travel, books and personal expenses.
*Fees are subject to change without notice. - Students planning to enroll are required to make a nonrefundable enrollment deposit of $200 to confirm housing and registration.
- All international students are required to live on campus, obtain a meal plan and show proof of health insurance while enrolled in DWU.
It is recommended to have your finances in order before you arrive.
For billing information or payment plan options, please contact our business office at 800-333-8506 or via email.
Athletic Scholarships
If you are considering participation in intercollegiate athletics, please note that consideration for eligibility to play requires evaluation and assessment. Contact the appropriate athletic coach to learn more.
Talent Scholarships
Talent scholarships may be available in the performing arts. The department chairperson determines eligibility for talent scholarships. An audition may be required. Contact the appropriate department for more information.
Talent scholarships may be available in vocal and instrumental music, theatre, and esports.
Awards for United Methodist Students
United Methodist Recognition Award
You must be a member of the United Methodist Church for at least one year. Certification form required.
United Methodist GBHEM and the United Methodist Higher Education Foundation Scholarships
Funded through the United Methodist General Board of Higher Education and Ministry and the United Methodist Higher Education Foundation. Applicants must have been an active member of The United Methodist Church for at least one year. These Methodist Scholarships do not automatically renew each year. For more information, please contact us.
Awards for Christian Leadership
Students are eligible for an award of up to $4,000 if you demonstrate a strong commitment to youth leadership in your local church and commit to being active in student ministry at DWU. You are not required to be United Methodist.
Alumni Legacy Scholarship
The Alumni Legacy Scholarship is available to new undergraduate degree-seeking students whose parent(s), legal guardian(s), or grandparent(s) have graduated from Dakota Wesleyan University. Scholarship are $500 per year and are renewable for up to 10 semesters. Please let the admissions office know if you are eligible.
DWU Impact Scholarship
The DWU Impact Scholarship is available for eligible students who intend to enrich our campus community through their academic and leadership gifts. It is awarded to high school seniors with a minimum 3.0 GPA who plan to participate in student organization(s) on campus, but who do not wish to participate in athletics, esports, student ministry or the performing arts. Please ask your admissions counselor for eligibility and more information.
On-campus Work Program Awards
International students may be eligible for on-campus employment. These monies are earned as work is performed. The student will receive monthly paychecks, which may be used to pay for personal expenses. Contact the Academic and Career Services Center for more information.
Job opportunities are available at Fresh Ideas Food Service and Starbucks Tiger Café.
Estimated indirect costs and living expenses
The following are annual estimated costs and are subject to differences based on extracurricular activities a student is involved in.
- Books and supplies $1000
- Transportation $1,260
- Other education costs $1,250
Federal Financial Assistance
Federal Financial Aid is only available to US citizens and eligible noncitizens. If you're in the US on an F-1 student visa, you're not eligible for federal financial aid. For details regarding eligible noncitizens see the Student Guide for Financial Aid from the US Department of Education.