10 Online Colleges That Accept FAFSA in Wisconsin

For many students, online college is the only way to earn a degree, especially if they have jobs or dependents to care for. Some online colleges aren't accredited, so financial aid through FAFSA isn't available. However, many online colleges accept FAFSA funds.

Students in Wisconsin can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to obtain monetary help at several online schools. Keep reading to learn more about online colleges that accept FAFSA in Wisconsin.

10 Best Online Colleges That Accept FAFSA in Wisconsin

Several colleges and universities in Wisconsin offer online programs and also accept FAFSA. We've featured ten below and all universities listed hold regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.

1. Concordia University Wisconsin

Concordia University Wisconsin is a private, nonprofit Lutheran university based in Mequon, WI. It's part of the national Concordia University system and offers flexible online programs in a variety of fields:

• art
• business
• education
• health professions
• science

CUW accepts FAFSA, and the school's FAFSA code is 003842. After filing FAFSA, you'll be able to receive federal and state grants and apply for a variety of scholarships.

2. Herzing University

Herzing University is a private, nonprofit university system. It's based in Milwaukee, but has campuses across the country and also offers several online bachelor's degrees and graduate degrees in areas such as:

• behavioral health
• business
• healthcare and nursing
• legal studies
• public safety
• technology

Both online and on-campus students can use FAFSA at Herzing University, regardless of the campus. The school's code is 009621 no matter what campus or mode of study you're pursuing.

3. Lakeland University

Lakeland University is a private, nonprofit Christian university in Herman, WI. It offers bachelor's programs and master's programs on campus and online in fields like:

• business
• criminal justice
• education
• technology

Lakeland University accepts FAFSA for online degrees. Its FAFSA code is 003854. Additional discounts and scholarships are available to help students pay for their online education.

4. Marian University

Marian University is a private, nonprofit Roman Catholic university in Fond du Lac, WI. It offers programs in-person as well as through distance learning in areas such as:

• business
• criminal justice
• healthcare
• psychology

Undergraduate and graduate students studying online can use FAFSA to help finance their tuition costs. The school's code is 003861, and the university offers several scholarships to college students.

5. Ottawa University Milwaukee

Ottawa University is a Baptist private college based in Ottawa, KS, with multiple campuses including one in Milwaukee. It also offers online learning, including degree programs in:

• business administration
• computer science
• humanities
• healthcare and nursing

Ottawa University accepts FAFSA for distance education students with the FAFSA code 001937. Multiple scholarships and awards are available through the university.

6. University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

The University of Wisconsin (UW)-Milwaukee is a public research university in Milwaukee. It's part of the University of Wisconsin system, and while the Madison campus is the flagship campus, the Milwaukee campus has the highest enrollment.

UW Milwaukee has multiple online undergraduate degrees, online master's degrees, and online doctoral degrees in fields like:

• art and humanities
• business
• healthcare and nursing
• technology

Students who choose online coursework can still use FAFSA at UW Milwaukee with the code 003896. Multiple grants and scholarships are available for students, and out-of-state students get a discount on online tuition.

7. University of Wisconsin Oshkosh

The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh is another public school in Wisconsin. It offers in-person and online associate degrees, bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and doctoral degrees in areas such as:

• business
• criminal justice
• education
• nursing

UW Oshkosh accepts FAFSA for online students, and the FAFSA code is 003920. The university also offers scholarship and grant programs and tuition reciprocity for Minnesota students.

8. University of Wisconsin-Stout

The University of Wisconsin-Stout is a public university in Menomonie, WI. It offers several programs through distance education and online courses, like programs in:

• business
• education
• psychology
• technology

Online learners at UW Stout can use the FAFSA with the code 003915. Multiple scholarships are available through the university and grants through the state of Wisconsin.

9. University of Wisconsin-Superior

The University of Wisconsin-Superior is a public college in Superior, WI. It focuses on liberal arts programs and offers online degrees in areas such as:

• business
• computer science
• education
• humanities

Students learning through online educational programs can use FAFSA, and the code for UW Superior is 003925. Scholarship and grant programs are available to help students cover their tuition costs.

10. University of Wisconsin-Whitewater

The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater is a public university in Whitewater, WI. It offers online bachelor's and online master's degrees in fields like:

• business
• communication
• education
• social sciences

UW-Whitewater accepts the FAFSA. Its school code is 003926.

Applying for FAFSA in Wisconsin

All students, whether they live in Wisconsin or elsewhere, can access the FAFSA application through StudentAid.gov. On average, this application takes about an hour to complete.

Eligibility

All students, regardless of family income, should apply for the FAFSA if they are hoping to access financial aid for their higher education. Even if you don't think you'll be eligible for state or federal grants, many scholarship programs require you to have completed FAFSA.

Steps To Apply

Applying for FAFSA can be overwhelming but isn't too complicated. First, you'll want to gather the information you'll need, including:

• your FAFSA username and passwords
• information on anyone who contributes to your household income, like your parents or spouse
• income and asset information for your household

After that, you must complete the application on the Student Aid website.

Other Financial Aid Options for Online College in Wisconsin

Wisconsin residents can access several state-based programs that complement FAFSA and help make online education more affordable. These initiatives provide support for students of all backgrounds, from recent graduates to adult learners returning to school.

Wisconsin Grant Program

The Wisconsin Grant Program offers need-based financial assistance to eligible state residents attending public or private colleges. To apply, you must complete the FAFSA, which automatically determines your eligibility.

Online students at participating institutions can use Wisconsin Grant funds toward tuition and mandatory fees. This program is renewable for multiple years, provided you maintain satisfactory academic progress and meet financial need criteria.

Wisconsin Tuition Promise

The Wisconsin Tuition Promise helps low-income residents cover the remaining tuition costs after other grants and scholarships are applied. Students at eligible University of Wisconsin campuses, including Eau Claire, Green Bay, and La Crosse, may qualify by completing the FAFSA.

Online learners at these universities can also benefit from this program if enrolled in qualifying degree programs. It’s designed to make higher education more accessible to families across the state.

Bucky’s Tuition Promise

Bucky’s Tuition Promise is the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s commitment to providing free tuition to in-state students from families earning below a certain income level. FAFSA completion is required to verify eligibility.

Eligible students can use this funding for online or on-campus programs offered through UW-Madison. The initiative reflects the university’s goal of making education affordable and attainable for all Wisconsin residents.

FAQs About Using FAFSA for College in Wisconsin

If you’re planning to attend an online college in Wisconsin, completing the FAFSA opens the door to multiple federal and state financial aid programs. Below are answers to common questions about how these funds work.

Do I Need To Be a Wisconsin Resident To Qualify for Financial Aid in Wisconsin?

You don’t have to be a Wisconsin resident to receive federal aid through FAFSA, but state-funded programs are generally reserved for in-state students. Residency determines whether you qualify for Wisconsin-specific grants and scholarships.

If you’re an out-of-state student attending a Wisconsin college online, you can still receive federal aid like Pell Grants and student loans. However, state-based aid will depend on your residency status.

What Types of Financial Aid Are Available Through FAFSA for Wisconsin Students?

Wisconsin students can access both federal and state financial aid through FAFSA. State-funded options include the Wisconsin Grant Program, Wisconsin Tuition Promise, and Bucky’s Tuition Promise for UW–Madison students.

These programs can significantly reduce tuition costs for qualifying residents. Completing the FAFSA early ensures your eligibility for the widest range of aid opportunities available.

What Happens After I Submit My FAFSA for Wisconsin Colleges?

After submitting your FAFSA, your information is sent to the colleges you listed and the Wisconsin Higher Educational Aids Board. They review your application to determine eligibility for grants, scholarships, and federal aid.

You’ll receive an official financial aid award letter outlining your options. Reviewing this document carefully helps you understand your funding breakdown and any next steps for accepting aid.

Find an Affordable Online College in Wisconsin

Wisconsin offers a variety of financial aid opportunities that make earning an online degree more accessible. Explore accredited online programs on Learn.org to compare schools, discover aid options, and take the next step toward your educational goals.