Gardner-Webb University Launches Open Door Guarantee, Expanding Access to Private Christian Education

Free Tuition, Mandatory Fees Available to Qualifying Students from Families Earning $100,000 or Less Beginning in Fall 2027

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.— Gardner-Webb University is opening new pathways to affordability through its Open Door Guarantee, which will provide eligible students with free tuition and coverage of specified university fees beginning in Fall 2027. Eligible new first-time freshmen and transfer students from families with an annual household income of $100,000 or less, as determined through the FAFSA, may qualify.

The program reflects the University’s commitment to ensuring that a private, Christ-centered education is within reach for more students and families.

“The Open Door Guarantee is about making the path to a Gardner-Webb education clearer and more accessible for students and families,” noted Gardner-Webb President Nate Evans. “We want more students to have access to a high-quality Christian university where they can discover their calling, prepare for their future, and grow in their faith. This is about opening doors, expanding opportunity, and ensuring that finances do not stand in the way.”

The Open Door Guarantee combines federal, state and Gardner-Webb scholarships and grants to cover eligible tuition and mandatory fees. Gardner-Webb will provide additional institutional funding when needed to close the remaining gap. Loans will not be used to fulfill the guarantee.

“We are incredibly excited to offer the Open Door Guarantee to prospective students and their families,” said Lauren Gullett, vice president of Enrollment. “Too often, students may rule out a private, Christian education because of the published cost without realizing what may actually be affordable for their family. The Open Door Guarantee removes some of that uncertainty by giving qualifying families a clear commitment: tuition and mandatory fees will be covered. This opens the door for more students to receive an exceptional Gardner-Webb education and find a community where they belong while pursuing their goals with greater confidence in what is financially possible.”

How the Open Door Guarantee Works

Students entering in Fall 2027 or Spring 2028 should apply to Gardner-Webb and complete the 2027–2028 FAFSA by March 1, 2027, for priority consideration. Gardner-Webb’s FAFSA school code is 002929.

Eligible students must enroll full time in a traditional undergraduate degree program, pursue their first bachelor’s degree, live on campus and complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). No separate Open Door Guarantee application is required. The program is open to eligible students from every U.S. state and territory.

The guarantee covers standard tuition and mandatory university fees, including fees for student activities, digital learning, the Student Health Clinic, residential amenities and orientation. It does not cover housing, meals, books, transportation or personal expenses, although students may qualify for additional aid for those costs.

Eligible first-time freshmen may receive the guarantee for up to eight consecutive fall and spring semesters if they continue to meet annual requirements. Transfer students’ eligibility will be based on accepted credits, academic standing and the time needed to complete their first bachelor’s degree.

More Than One Path to Affordability

The Open Door Guarantee is one part of Gardner-Webb’s broader approach to college affordability. In addition, qualifying first-time freshmen with a weighted high school GPA of 3.5 or higher may receive a merit scholarship equal to 50% of tuition. The University also offers academic scholarships, grants and competitive awards based on achievement, leadership, service and financial need.

For additional information, eligibility requirements and FAQs about the Open Door Guarantee, visit gardner-webb.edu/opendoor.

Gardner-Webb University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., Gardner-Webb prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Become More at gardner-webb.edu.