10 Online Christian Colleges That Accept FAFSA 2026

Choosing an online Christian college that accepts the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) can make higher education more affordable. With access to federal grants, loans, and work-study, you’ll have more options to cover tuition and fees. 

These schools below provide programs at every level–from associate to doctoral–and flexible online formats that work well for busy adults or ministry leaders. Below, you’ll find 10 accredited Christian universities that combine affordability, flexibility, and a Christ-centered mission.

Can You Use FAFSA for an Online Christian College?

Yes, you can use FAFSA at accredited online Christian colleges as long as the school is Title IV eligible. What matters most is accreditation, whether regional or faith-based, because it ensures the school meets federal standards for financial aid. To confirm eligibility, you should check the school’s financial aid office or use the FAFSA school code search before applying.

10 Online Christian Colleges That Accept FAFSA

If you’re looking for a Christ-centered education that’s also affordable, FAFSA can help cover the cost of online programs. Below are 10 accredited Christian universities where you can combine flexible learning with federal financial aid support.

1. Liberty University

Liberty University stands out as one of the largest online Christian schools in the nation, offering more than 600 degree options at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. Every program is taught from a biblical worldview, aligning academics with the school’s mission to “Train Champions for Christ.” Students can study fully online through flexible eight-week courses with multiple start dates each year.

The university also keeps affordability at the forefront. Tuition rates for undergraduate online programs have remained steady for over a decade, and discounts are available for military families and first responders. With resources like a digital library, academic advising, and tech support, Liberty makes online learning both accessible and supportive.

• Estimated tuition cost: $390 per credit hour (undergraduate); $580 per credit hour (graduate); $610 per credit hour (doctoral)
• Financial aid: Grants, scholarships, loans, and Federal Work-Study are available; FAFSA support, book vouchers, payment plans, and external aid resources are also offered.
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

2. Concordia University, St. Paul

Concordia University, St. Paul (CSP) combines a Christ-centered mission with career-focused education through more than 100 degree programs. Many are offered online through CSP Global, the university’s branch dedicated to flexible and accessible learning. Students can choose from undergraduate to doctoral programs that teach practical, marketable skills.

CSP has also made affordability a priority. By lowering tuition, the university became one of the more affordable private institutions in Minnesota. Partnerships with employers and educators further strengthen its programs, while high job placement rates show graduates are entering the workforce or graduate school quickly and successfully.

• Estimated tuition cost: $420 per credit hour (undergraduate); $7,125 per year (graduate)
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study are available; FAFSA guidance and tuition payment options are provided.
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

3. Biola University

Biola University is recognized for its integration of biblical teaching into every aspect of its academics. Online students can choose from bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs, all designed to help them think biblically and apply faith in their careers and daily lives. Courses are offered in short, flexible seven-week terms and taught by the same Christian faculty who teach on campus.

The university also works to keep education accessible, offering online bachelor’s degrees at a reduced tuition rate compared to traditional programs. With national recognition for academic quality and a reputation for strong student support, Biola provides an affordable way for you to earn a respected Christian education online.

• Estimated tuition cost: $425 per credit hour (undergraduate); $730 per credit hour (graduate, varies by program)
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, loans, and student work-study are available.
• Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

4. Houston Christian University

Houston Christian University (HCU) offers online programs that blend faith with academics, preparing you for leadership in both professional and community settings. Degrees are available at every level–undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral–built on a liberal arts foundation and taught from a Christ-centered perspective.

The flexible eight-week terms will allow you to fit classes into your schedule without sacrificing quality. The university also provides unique opportunities, such as dual enrollment programs for high school students who want to earn college credit early. 

• Estimated tuition cost: $445 per credit hour (undergraduate); $620 per credit hour (graduate); $680 per credit hour (doctoral)
• Financial aid: FAFSA help, scholarships, grants, loans, and student work opportunities are available.
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

5. Ohio Christian University

At Ohio Christian University (OCU), you can pursue degrees designed with working adults in mind. All courses are 100% online, with no required login times, and most are completed in short five-week sessions. This flexible setup allows you to balance classes with work and family while still making steady progress toward your degree.

OCU offers associate, bachelor’s, and master’s programs in areas like business, healthcare, ministry, and criminal justice. You’ll also have access to mentoring, tutoring, and a personal success coach who helps you stay on track.

• Estimated tuition cost: $450 per credit hour (undergraduate, certificate, and MA programs)
• Financial aid: FAFSA support, scholarships, grants, and student loans are available. Payment options and on-campus jobs are also offered through the financial aid office.
• Accreditation: HLC

6. Regent University

Regent University gives you the chance to choose from more than 150 areas of study, all taught from an evangelical Christian perspective. If you’re a busy professional, the eight-week courses and multiple start dates throughout the year make it easier to start your degree when it works best for you.

You’ll also find that Regent pairs academic quality with flexibility. Online programs in fields like business, cybersecurity, psychology, and law are consistently recognized in national rankings, and generous aid packages, including special benefits for military families, can help keep costs down while you pursue your goals.

• Estimated tuition cost: $450 per credit hour (undergraduate); $565 per credit hour (graduate)
• Financial aid: Federal, state, private, and school-funded scholarships are available alongside student employment and loan resources.
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

7. University of Northwestern – St. Paul

The University of Northwestern – St. Paul offers online degrees that help you connect your faith with your professional life. Courses are taught by faculty who not only bring academic expertise but also real-world experience in their fields. With flexible options for adult undergraduates and graduate students, you can fit your education into a busy schedule.

Every program is taught from a biblical worldview, so you’ll learn how to approach your career with both competence and conviction. Support services like advising and a connected online community give you encouragement along the way, making your education feel both personal and practical.

• Estimated tuition cost: $480 per credit hour (adult undergraduate); $595 per credit hour (graduate)
• Financial aid: Scholarships, discounts, grants, and loan options are available.
• Accreditation: HLC

8. Dallas Baptist University

Dallas Baptist University (DBU) has been a leader in Christian online education since 1998, making it one of the earliest schools to embrace distance learning. Today, DBU offers more than 75 online programs at the certificate, associate, bachelor’s, and master’s levels, with options in ministry, business, education, and more.

As an online student, you’ll find that courses are designed to keep a personal connection with professors, even in a virtual format. With a 94% course completion rate, DBU shows that its Christ-centered approach to education and student support works.

• Estimated tuition cost: $495 per credit hour (undergraduate); $550 per credit hour (graduate); $795 per credit hour (doctoral)
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, loans, and federal/state work-study are available.
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

9. Belhaven University

Belhaven University is nationally recognized for offering one of America’s top Christian online programs, with degrees that offer flexibility, academic quality, and a faith-centered approach. Whether you’re interested in business, education, nursing, or biblical studies, Belhaven provides options at every level, from associate through doctoral degrees.

You’ll also find unique programs in areas like applied artificial intelligence and counseling, which combine career relevance with Christian values. Belhaven’s military-friendly designation highlights its strong support for service members and veterans, and its recognition as a College of Distinction shows its commitment to both academic and spiritual growth.

• Estimated tuition cost: $499 per credit hour (varies by degree)
• Financial aid: Scholarships, federal and state grants, loans, and work-study are available.
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

10. California Baptist University

California Baptist University (CBU) offers more than 40 fully online degree programs, making it one of the more comprehensive Christian options for distance learners. Programs are available at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels, all taught from a Christian perspective and structured on a year-round semester schedule to help you finish sooner.

CBU’s online programs have been recognized by U.S. News & World Report, especially for their strength at the undergraduate level. With WSCUC accreditation and a curriculum designed to merge faith and professional preparation, you’ll graduate ready to step confidently into your chosen career path.

• Estimated tuition cost: $520 per unit (undergraduate)
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, and educational loans are available.
• Accreditation: WSCUC

How We Rank Schools

To create this list, we review data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), along with program-level details published by each university.

We focus on schools that balance affordability, academic credibility, and access to federal aid so you can make an informed choice about where to study. The criteria below highlight what we look for in every online Christian college included on this list.

• FAFSA eligibility: Each program must be offered through a Title IV school so students can apply for federal financial aid.
• Accreditation: Schools must hold regional or faith-based accreditation to ensure the degree meets recognized academic standards.
• Affordability: Preference is given to institutions with lower tuition rates to keep Christian education within reach.
• Online format: Programs must be available fully online or in hybrid formats that allow coursework to be completed remotely.

How To Find Affordable Online Christian Colleges

Online Christian colleges typically charge between $350 and $600 per credit hour, though tuition varies by school and degree level. FAFSA can help cover tuition, required fees, books, and in some cases, living expenses if you qualify. Beyond federal aid, you’ll want to explore church-based scholarships, denominational support, and state grant opportunities to lower your overall costs. 

Accreditation is key–it not only makes FAFSA funding possible but also ensures your credits transfer smoothly if you continue your education later on. Checking all of these options can make an online Christian degree far more affordable.

What To Look for in an Affordable Online Bible College

When you’re comparing options for an affordable online bible college, start by checking accreditation to confirm both FAFSA eligibility and credit transfer. Flexibility is another factor, since schools may offer short course formats or multiple start dates that fit your schedule. 

Consider denominational alignment to see if a program reflects your faith tradition, and weigh affordability against the quality of student support. Look for majors that match your goals–whether theology, counseling, education, or business–and confirm that the degree prepares you for the career or ministry path you have in mind.

FAQs About Online Christian Colleges and FAFSA

Sorting out financial aid details can feel confusing, especially when you’re comparing tuition costs across different schools. These FAQs address common questions about using FAFSA at Christian colleges so you know what to expect.

How Do I Know If a Christian College Accepts FAFSA?

You’ll know a Christian college accepts FAFSA if it’s a Title IV school, which means it meets federal requirements for financial aid. The easiest way to check is by searching the school’s FAFSA code through the FAFSA website or asking the financial aid office directly. 

If the school is regionally or faith-based accredited, that’s a good sign it participates in federal aid programs. Confirming this early ensures you can plan ahead for grants, loans, and work-study.

Does FAFSA Cover the Entire Cost of a Christian College?

FAFSA can help you pay for tuition, fees, books, and sometimes even living expenses, but it usually won’t cover the entire bill. The total aid you receive depends on your financial need, the cost of attendance, and how much federal funding is available. 

Many students combine FAFSA with scholarships, church or denominational support, and state grants to fill the gap. Asking about institutional aid from the college itself is also a smart move, since some schools offer special awards for online or ministry-focused students.

Are Online Christian Colleges Accredited and Legitimate?

Many online Christian colleges are fully accredited, which makes them legitimate and eligible for FAFSA. Accreditation ensures the programs meet quality standards and that your credits can transfer to other schools if needed. When choosing a college, look for regional accreditation or recognized faith-based accreditation along with Title IV eligibility. 

Accredited Christian schools typically provide degrees that employers respect and that can prepare you for both career and ministry opportunities. Always double-check accreditation status on the school’s website or the U.S. Department of Education database before enrolling.

What’s the Cheapest Way to Attend an Online Christian College?

The cheapest online Christian colleges usually pair lower tuition rates with generous financial aid options, including FAFSA, scholarships, and church-based support. To save the most, consider enrolling at a Title IV school with regional accreditation, since this makes you eligible for federal aid. 

You may also want to explore schools that offer tuition discounts for military families, ministry workers, or corporate partnerships. Comparing tuition per credit hour, fees, and available aid will help you find the most affordable path forward.

Do Online Christian Colleges Offer Both Ministry and Non-Ministry Degrees?

Yes, online Christian colleges often provide a mix of ministry-focused and career-focused degrees. You can study theology, ministry, or biblical studies if your goal is church leadership, but many schools also offer degrees in business, education, counseling, and healthcare. 

This variety allows you to pursue a program that matches both your calling and your career goals. Programs are typically designed to integrate a biblical worldview across disciplines, so even non-ministry majors benefit from a faith-centered education that prepares you to apply Christian values in your profession.

Explore Affordable Christian Colleges

If you’re ready to take the next step, start comparing FAFSA-eligible Christian colleges that fit your goals and budget. Check each school’s eligibility requirements, complete your FAFSA, and explore programs featured on Learn.org.