Financing a graduate degree is somewhat more challenging than paying for undergraduate education. However, it can be done. In fact, there are options available to finance graduate education, which do not exist for undergraduates. By using a combination of financial aid resources, it is possible to pay for a master's degree.
Instructions
Financing a Graduate Degree
1. Complete or estimate your federal income taxes for the previous year. You will need this information to complete the financial aid forms, which will be used for grant and loan applications.
2. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA is a requirement for all federal student aid and for many state and institutional aid programs (See Resources). Submit the FAFSA to every school where you have applied for admission.
3. Once you have been admitted to a graduate program, apply for fellowship, grant and loan aid if no awards were made with admission. Inquire with the particular department or program for possible teaching research or teaching assistanceships.
4. Check the Internet for possible sources of aid not administered by your graduate institution. (See Resources.) For programs which interest you, check the websites for further information and application procedures.
5. Check with your workplace for reimbursement or tuition assitance programs if your degree is related to your present job. Submit a description of your graduate program along with any application materials for reimbursement.
6. Submit references and recommendations with your applications for admission, and with any materials required to apply for financial aid. The letters should come from professors who know your work well, present or former supervisors, or professional colleagues.
7. Consider part-time work, working during the summer, or both, if you are attending school full time. Alternately, you could consider attending classes part time or online while retaining your present job.
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