Church Matching Grants - Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for a Church Matching Grant?

Any students accepted and enrolled fulltime at Cedarville University who receive a scholarship from their local church. The Church Matching Grant application must be received along with the church's scholarship gift.

What amount will Cedarville match?

Cedarville University will match the church's scholarship gift dollar for dollar up to a maximum match of $1,000 per year.

Can a church contribute more than $1,000?

Yes, churches are encouraged to contribute generously in helping their students. However, the maximum Cedarville University match will be $1,000 per student per year. There is no minimum or maximum amount that a church can give for the church scholarship.

How do churches fund these types of scholarships?

Churches handle their students' scholarships in a variety of ways. Some fund scholarships from their annual budget; others take a special offering in conjunction with a Cedarville or Christian education emphasis in a church service. For additional information about these options, churches may contact our church and school relations staff at 1-866-CEDARVILLE (233-2784).

Are students eligible for a Church Matching Grant every year?

Yes. A new Church Matching Grant application must be completed and accompany the church's scholarship gift each academic year.

Can church members, parents, or relatives designate their gifts for particular students?

No, only the church can select the students as recipients. All church contributions must meet IRS guidelines for charitable deductions. To find out more, refer to IRS publication 526.

What are the deadlines for the application form and the church's scholarship gift?

The Church Matching Grant will be processed when both the grant application and the church's scholarship gift are received. For students enrolling in the Fall Term, the application and the church's scholarship gift should be received by September 1. For Spring Term, the application and gift should arrive by January 15.

How are scholarship dollars applied?

Both the church's scholarship gift and Cedarville's matching grant will be applied directly to the student's account. The scholarship and grant may be applied entirely to the Fall Semester or split equally between Fall and Spring Semester.

What is the process for obtaining a Church Matching Grant?

The process begins with a quick and easy grant application. The student completes step one of the application. The church completes step two, then sends the application along with the scholarship gift to the University.

Where may I obtain an application?

Stop by the financial aid office on campus, or access the application online.

Where should a church send the application and check?

Churches should make their check payable to Cedarville University and mail the check and application to:

Cedarville University
Financial Aid Office
251 N. Main St.
Cedarville, OH 45314

Whom do I contact if I have questions?

The financial aid office administers the Church Matching Grant program. Call 1-800-444-2433 or send an e-mail with any questions. The church and school relations staff (1-866-CEDARVILLE) also provides information and services for churches that participate in the program.