Graduate School

Types of Financial Aid

Financial aid comes in two categories: gift aid (grants and scholarships) and self-help aid (loans and student employment). 

Grants and Scholarships

A grant is a gift given usually on the basis of financial need. A scholarship is a gift usually given in recognition of academic achievement; special talents; or contribution to church, school, or community. Visit the Grants and Scholarships webpage for information about grants and scholarships available at the Graduate School.

Loans

Loans must be repaid. Student loan programs allow you to borrow money at low interest rates to help pay for your education. Generally the repayment of student loans is deferred until after you complete your education. Because loans must be repaid, you should plan your debt financing carefully. For detailed information regarding available loans, go to the Loans webpage.

Student Employment/Work Study

Campus work study allows a student to earn a portion of his/her college expenses by working a part-time job on campus or in an off-campus community service position. Please contact the Office of University Financial Aid for information regarding work study eligibility for students in the Graduate School.

Outside Sources

Financial aid is also available from various outside sources. You may want to explore these possibilities through your local community, employer, church, veterans or professional organizations, fraternal orders, ethnic heritage groups, and other local or state agencies. You can also visit our Helpful Links webpage for possible sources of additional aid. Financial assistance received from outside sources must be reported to the Office of University Financial Aid.