Types and Sources of Aid for Graduate Students

Graduate students can use AmeriCorps benefits, employer assistance, VA benefits or private scholarships to help pay educational costs.  The Financial Aid Office wants to work with any student who needs to determine the options available to cover the cost of education.

Students enrolling half-time may be eligible for a Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan.  Students will need a FAFSA for the current academic year and intend to enroll in at least 6 credits for the semester.  No credit check is required for the unsubsidized loan.  You should complete a Master Promissory Note and Entrance Counseling online at www.studentloans.gov   This is a one-time requirement for graduate students.  No credit check is required for the unsubsidized loan.  The annual loan amount of $20,500 covers fall, spring and summer.  MFA candidates may have loans processed for summer, fall and spring.

Graduate students who need to borrow additional funds may use the Direct Graduate PLUS Loan.  Borrowers will need to complete the Direct Graduate PLUS MPN online and the Grad PLUS application.  A credit check is part of the Grad PLUS application process.

Repayment of federal loans will be deferred while the student is enrolled at least half-time.  Any additional educational costs beyond the program charges must be documented for loan eligibility.