Financing Your Degree
Scholarship and Financial Aid Opportunities
Scholarships are mostly tax-free financial awards given to students with the intention to pursue a specific area of study or research. They are usually awarded based on certain qualifying traits.
The following categories contain scholarship opportunities available to students. These broad opportunities were collected from external sources and are sorted based on specific qualifying criteria. Please take some time to search this list, keeping in mind that it is not exhaustive.
Citizenship-Based Criteria
Minority & Underserved
Applicant-Specific Criteria
State & Federal Aid
Financial Need
Area of Study
Tips and Tricks to Obtaining Scholarships
Scholarships for graduate work are often more limited than those for undergraduate degrees. Students successful at obtaining funding say they designate approximately two hours per week to financial aid search. Start the process early. Many scholarship deadline dates are in October, November and December prior to the application deadline dates. Other tools—including search engines and smartphone apps—can provide additional opportunities.
When searching for scholarships, it is best to start with the broadest definition of your goals. From there, you can narrow down your personal attributes, geographic location, area of study, and other qualifying traits. Utilize the terminology listed in the description of potential scholarships to identify further search terms.
Additionally, it is helpful to create a comprehensive list of keywords—both general and specific—that applies to you. Keywords can include, gender, race or ethnicity, citizenship, volunteer or community service activities, research interests, or involvement in other organizations. Remember to view your work from its largest perspective.
Chances are faculty and current students have applied to similar scholarship opportunities: utilize their expertise! Have faculty, peers, and other professionals review the quality of your ideas and your scholarship applications.
Ask your friends and family to help you in the search process. Solicit organizations or groups with whom you affiliate (e.g., religious, social, and service) to inquire about potential scholarship opportunities.
Sponsors like to support recipients of other awards, no matter how small. Even the smallest award brings prestige to the applicant, demonstrating your potential for success.
After reviewing outside funding options, talk with your financial aid or admissions officer to see if they can provide additional suggestions or award institutional funds to help close the gap.
If you’re employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, you might be eligible for the PSLF Program. The PSLF Program forgives the remaining balance on your Direct Loans. For more information visit the PSLF government website.