How a DUI Can Affect Your College Financial Aid or Scholarships

A DUI or DWI charge doesn’t just result in legal consequences—it can disrupt your education, financial aid, and future plans. If you’re a college student or a parent trying to understand how DUI and DWI charges impact scholarships or financial aid, this guide explains what you need to know and how to take proactive steps to protect your opportunities.

DUI and DWI Charges: More Than Just Legal Trouble

Driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a criminal offense in Indiana. While DUI laws vary slightly by state, Indiana enforces strict penalties for alcohol- or drug-related offenses. For students, these charges can have far-reaching effects—especially when it comes to:

• Federal financial aid eligibility
• Institutional scholarships
• Athletic scholarships
• Academic standing
• Campus disciplinary action

In other words, the impact extends beyond the courtroom and into your college career.

Will a DUI Affect Federal Financial Aid?

The short answer: usually not directly—but it depends.

Under current FAFSA guidelines, a DUI or DWI charge does not automatically disqualify you from federal financial aid such as Pell Grants, Stafford Loans, or work-study programs. However, there are exceptions:

• If your DUI involved drug charges (possession, trafficking, etc.), it could make you temporarily ineligible for aid.
• If you’re incarcerated at the time you’re applying for aid, that can also limit your options.

Always be truthful on your FAFSA and be prepared to explain any criminal history if required. Schools may also ask for more details during financial aid reviews.

How a DUI Can Jeopardize College Scholarships

While federal aid might not be affected, institutional and private scholarships often are. Many scholarship programs include conduct clauses or morality standards that allow them to revoke aid if a student is charged with or convicted of a crime.

Common ways a DUI can affect scholarships:

• Loss of athletic scholarships: Most athletic programs have codes of conduct. A DUI could lead to suspension or removal from the team.
• Loss of academic scholarships: Some merit-based awards have character clauses that include behavior off-campus.
• Private or donor-based scholarships: Many require ongoing good standing. A DUI conviction could violate their terms.

Some schools even reserve the right to revoke or suspend scholarships after an arrest, not just a conviction.

Disciplinary Action from the College

Most colleges and universities have student codes of conduct that apply on and off campus. Even if you were arrested miles away from campus, your school may take disciplinary action.

This could include:

• Probation or academic holds
• Loss of campus privileges or housing
• Mandatory counseling or courses
• Temporary suspension or expulsion

These penalties could affect your ability to stay enrolled—and by extension, keep your aid.

How Expungement Can Help Protect Your Future

In Indiana, many first-time offenders—especially young adults—may be eligible to expunge a DUI from their record. Expungement is a legal process that seals or removes a criminal conviction from public view. Once sealed, it no longer appears in most background checks, and you may be able to answer “no” when asked if you’ve been convicted of a crime.

Benefits of expungement for students:

• Cleaner background checks for graduate school, jobs, or internships
• Easier housing and loan applications
• Less risk of financial aid review or denial

If you’ve already been convicted or are worried about how a current charge could impact your record, speaking with an experienced Indiana DUI lawyer can help you explore your options.

What You Should Do if You’re a Student Facing DUI or DWI Charges

1. Don’t assume it’s no big deal. Even a first offense can create long-term damage.
2. Call an experienced DUI attorney. The sooner you take action, the better your chances of protecting your record and aid.
3. Avoid further violations. Additional charges can dramatically reduce your options.
4. Explore expungement. Even if it’s not immediate, plan for how to clean up your record in the future.

Final Thoughts

DUI and DWI charges are serious—but they don’t have to define your future. For college students, the impact on scholarships and financial aid can be real and long-lasting. But with legal support, smart decisions, and—when possible—expungement, you can protect your education and stay on track.

If you or your child is facing DUI charges in Indiana, we’re here to help you understand your options and protect what’s next.

FAQ: DUI and DWI Charges & Student Aid

Q: Will my college find out about my DUI?
A: Likely, yes. Many schools perform background checks or require disclosure. Some police departments also notify universities of student arrests.

Q: Can I still get into grad school with a DUI?
A: Possibly, but it may require disclosure during the application process. Expungement can help reduce its impact.

Q: Does a DUI automatically cancel my scholarship?
A: Not automatically—but many schools reserve the right to revoke aid based on conduct.

Q: How long will a DUI stay on my record in Indiana?
A: It depends on the outcome of your case, but many DUI charges are eligible for expungement after a set period.

Q: Can I still live in student housing after a DUI?
A: That’s up to the college. Some schools place students on probation or limit housing access after conduct violations.