Frequently Asked Questions



Business Office

How much does it cost to attend Lewis University?

For 2008-09 academic year:

Undergraduate Tuition (12-18 hours per semester)
• $21,990/per year

Undergraduate Tuition (less than 12 hours/more than 18 hours)
• $705.00/credit hour

Graduate Tuition (MA Program)
• $535.00/credit hour to $710.00/credit hour

Graduate Tuition (MBA/MS Programs)
• $720.00/credit hour

Adult Degree Completion (Accelerated)
• $565.00/credit hour

ESL (English as a Second Language)
• $315.00/credit hour

Please Note - for specific questions regarding tuition costs and fees please contact the Business Office at (815) 836-5210.

For housing costs please contact Student Services at (815) 836-5275.

How much does it cost to live on-campus?

On-campus costs vary depending on room and meal plan options for more specific information please contact student services at (815) 836-5275..

2008-09 on-campus rates:

  • Housing costs: $2,425.00 -- $3,250.00 per semester
  • Meal plan costs: $975.00 -- $1,575.00 per semester

I received my award letter but it was not enough to cover my tuition/expenses – what are my options?

Payment Plan – Please visit the Business Office website regarding Payment Plan options , or contact the Business Office at (815) 836-5210.

Parent PLUS loan – This is a non-need based loan program for parents of dependent undergraduate students who do not qualify for other programs. The parent(s) may borrow up to the amount of the student's cost of attending Lewis University. Repayment begins 60 days after the second disbursement is made. Interest rates vary, and will cap at 10%. Parents can obtain a PLUS loan application through the Office of Financial Aid, a local bank, credit union, or savings and loan institution.

Private/Alternative loan – Alternative loans are not federally sponsored loans, they are generally more expensive than federal government loans and should only be considered after all other options have been exhausted. Private/Alternative loans do not require a FAFSA to be completed, however, they are determined on credit history, may require a co-signer, and have no cap on interest rates.

I have a credit balance on my account, how do I receive this refund?

Students may request a Credit Balance Refund , through the Business Office, when there is a credit balance on their account. Credits will be applied to any outstanding accounts with the University before a refund is issued. Refund requests will be processed within 14 working days upon account credit balance.

I would like to set up a payment plan – how would I do that?

Payment Plans are set up through the Business Office. Please visit the Business Office website regarding Payment Plan options , or contact the Business Office at (815) 836-5210.

Why do I have to sign a Billing/Loan Information form?

Per Federal Regulations, every student who receives federal aid is required to complete the Billing/Loan Information form . The form’s intent is to authorize or not authorize the University to use a student’s financial aid towards fees other than tuition, fees, and room and board, such as - books and supplies, payment fees, parking fines, etc.  This form is also where the student will select their Stafford student loan lender.