The only way to qualify for these types of financial aid (with the exception of some scholarships) is to fill out the FAFSA, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. You'll read more about that in your next step.
Scholarships
Scholarships are awarded based on all kinds of things — your program or whether you're in the military. You don't have to repay scholarships.
Loans
A loan is money you borrow and pay back with interest. Generally, federal government loans have lower interest and offer more flexibility than loans from banks or other sources. Graduate students are eligible for higher loan amounts than undergraduates. Always — and we can't stress this enough — do your homework. Know the terms and conditions and who is making the loan.
Grants
Grants are usually need-based. No repayment required. Graduate students are eligible only for the federal TEACH grant. The grant is for those who intend to teach full-time for at least four years in schools that serve low-income students.
Work-study
You may qualify for a federal work-study job based on your financial need. Many of our campus employers hire work-study students.
Other Ways To Lower Your Costs
Graduate assistantships. Many of our colleges offer assistantships to their graduate students. You receive a stipend and a tuition scholarship in exchange for working for the college as a:
- Teaching assistant
- Research assistant
- Administrative assistant
Apply through your college, not the Office of Financial Aid. Your program director should be able to answer questions.
Graduate assistantships are NOT listed as part of your financial aid in your financial aid offer. If you receive an assistantship, the Office of Financial Aid is notified and reviews your financial aid. Graduate assistantships may result in a reduction in loans offered in your aid package.
On- or off-campus jobs. There are plenty of jobs available for students. Employers will often work around your school schedule. If you have a graduate assistantship, your college has to approve another on-campus job.
Need Some Extra Financial Help?
Sometimes your financial circumstances change mid-year. You may lose a job or have an unexpected emergency. Or we could be in the middle of a pandemic!
Don't be afraid to ask for help. We are here to support each other.
- Rocket Aid is an emergency financial assistance fund available to those experiencing financial hardship.
Summer Financial Aid
Most financial aid can be used for summer semesters. If you would like to use your aid for the summer, you need to fill out a summer aid application.
Learn more about summer aid requirements and eligibility
Are You a Member of The Military?
You may be eligible for the Military Tuition Assistance program. It’s available for active duty, reserve and National Guard members. UToledo also offers military scholarships. Search our scholarship database.