Centre Promise: Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Centre Promise? 

Centre is dedicated to making its premier liberal arts and sciences education affordable for students of all backgrounds and financial status. The Centre Promise is based upon the premise that all admitted students should have the opportunity to attend Centre regardless of their financial background. Simplifying the financial aid process reduces anxiety and confusion, allows students to explore all of their options, and helps families make educated decisions.

What does it mean that the College will meet 100% of calculated need?

The Centre Promise cuts through the confusion surrounding the college application process by distilling financial aid awarding into four simple steps: 

1. We start with the cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, food, and housing. 
2. Then we calculate the family contribution based on information provided in your FAFSA and CSS Profile questionnaire.
3. By subtracting the calculated family contribution from the total cost of attendance, each student’s financial need is determined. 
4. Centre’s financial aid experts then build a customized aid package that meets 100% of calculated financial need through a combination of scholarships, grants, work study and federal loans.

How will Centre calculate financial aid eligibility?

We will use the financial data provided by students and families in the FAFSA and CSS Profile to calculate financial need. Centre’s calculation of financial aid eligibility includes factors such as family income and assets, expenses, household size, and number of dependents in college as first-time undergraduates. Extenuating financial circumstances will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

We suggest that you use our Net Price Calculator for an estimate customized to your individual family circumstances. 

Who is eligible for the Centre Promise?

Beginning with incoming students in Fall 2025, Centre will meet 100 percent of the full calculated need for U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens (dual citizens, permanent U.S. residents, and DACA/Undocumented students) admitted to the College. Eligibility for the Centre Promise is limited to four (4) years, with additional eligibility requiring an appeal to the financial aid office for ongoing support. International applicants are not eligible for the Centre Promise due to their ineligibility for federal aid programs. Qualifying students admitted as first years and who apply for financial aid by the financial aid deadlines will have 100% of their calculated need met.

How many students will benefit? 

Approximately two-thirds of admitted students at Centre have calculated need.

Will merit scholarships continue to be available?

Yes, we will continue to provide a strong merit scholarship portfolio. Centre awards merit scholarships that range in value from $1,000 to the full cost of attendance, annually. 

Can students be eligible for and receive need-based aid and merit scholarships? 

Yes. Promising students may receive merit scholarships and have their remaining calculated need met through Centre Promise funding. The Centre Promise and merit scholarships will complement one another and ensure that cost is not a barrier for you. 

Will loans be part of my financial aid package?

Yes, a Federal Stafford Loan will be included as a component of financial aid packages meeting 100% of calculated need.

How much will students be able to borrow? 

Financial aid offers will include Federal Stafford Loans in the following amounts: First-year students $5,500; Sophomores $6,500; Juniors $7,500; and Seniors $7,500. 

Will work study be a part of aid awards? 

Yes, eligible students will be awarded student work in the amount of $2,000, with the possibility of increasing amounts annually.

What does the Centre Promise mean for me if I am a current student? 

While current students are not eligible for this specific initiative, we encourage anyone with financial aid concerns or questions to reach out to our Financial Aid Office. Our dedicated team is always here to help you navigate your financial aid package and explore any available resources to ensure you are fully supported during your time at Centre.