Overview
Graduate school funding is unique when compared to the undergraduate process due primarily to the differences in federal funding programs. For one, graduate students are not eligible for federal grants. However, graduate students are eligible for up to $20,500/yr in Stafford funding (up to $38,500 for medical students).

Graduate Students can augment scholarships by applying for private or institutional fellowships. Some graduate students have the opportunity to apply for assistantships. Assistantships frequently provide more funding than undergraduate work-study programs.

FAFSA
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid must be filed in order to receive any federal funding. In the case of graduate students, this consists solely of the Graduate Stafford. Some schools use the results to distribute institutional aid as well, so even if you do not plan on using the Stafford, it is still a good idea to complete the FAFSA.

You must file the FAFSA in order to receive any Federal loan money under the Graduate Stafford program. To file your FAFSA on-line go to www.fafsa.ed.gov

Graduate Stafford
Graduate students can qualify for a Stafford loan without any prior credit history. The application process starts with filing the FAFSA. You will then be notified about your eligibility by way of an award letter generated by your school's financial aid office. To complete the process, you need to fill out a Promissory Note in conjunction with your school and a participating lender.

Private loans
For many students, Federal Financial Aid will not cover all expenses, particularly when the PLUS does not apply. If this is the case, you may want to look into alternative loans. Our lenders offer a number of alternative loan programs. For more information regarding alternative loans and to locate one that may be right for you,

Fellowships
Graduate students may qualify for fellowships, but in order to have a chance at receiving any such funding, you need to be pro-active in applying. You will also want to check with your department head(s) and the financial aid office at your school.

Other Sources
Some other great sources for finding aid are institutions and businesses specializing within your area of study. Additionally, you may also want to check into minority and/or community organizations.