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More Financial Aid for Incoming Students from Cleveland, Philadelphia Areas

Case Western Reserve aims to enroll more students from the cities of Cleveland and East Cleveland, thanks to two programs making the university more accessible.

CWRU's Cleveland Scholars program is undergoing a major expansion to cover the total cost of attendance as well as a mentored, paid research or internship experience on campus.

The new model starts this fall and eliminates initial financial uncertainties.

"Cost will not keep these terrific students from attending Case Western Reserve," President Eric W. Kaler said of the program, which also eliminates student loans. "We are committed to our community and committed to these promising students. We want them to have every opportunity to thrive on our campus."

The Howley Foundation and the university also began a partnership that allows low-income admitted graduates from select Cleveland and Philadelphia parochial schools to attend the university at little to no cost—and without loans.

"We have always believed that the best practical way to create social and economic mobility is to provide high quality educational opportunities," said Nick and Lorie Howley, who launched their foundation in 2003. "This collaboration creates an opportunity for students to learn and excel at a leading national university—without incurring debt." Education has long been a priority for them, and Nick Howley is a native of Greater Philadelphia.

Participating students from both programs also will be matched with campus internships or opportunities to work in faculty labs based on their interests.

Overall, "we're hoping these programs bring more students into the [applicant] pool," said Rick Bischoff, vice president for enrollment management.