Are you thinking about going to graduate school and wondering how you're going to pay for it? Rising tuition costs and paying for graduate school are a barrier to many students thinking about beginning or even returning to grad school, but there are options for you as a new or returning student. Graduate and Continuing Education at Fitchburg State (GCE) offers scholarship opportunities, loans, payment plans, and graduate assistantships. Read more to learn about options that may be right for you!

Do I need to be accepted to apply for financial aid?
No, you don’t need to be admitted into a graduate program to apply for financial aid.

What are the eligibility requirements for Financial Aid?
To qualify for financial aid, you must meet all of the following criteria:

• Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen;
• Be enrolled in, or accepted for enrollment in a degree granting program;
• Be making Satisfactory Academic Progress in your program of study;
• Not be in default on a federal student loan;
• Not owe a refund on any federal financial aid grant to any institution;
• Be registered for selective service, if required to do so;
• Have a high school diploma or GED

Can I receive financial aid if I’m not admitted to a program?
No, you must be admitted into a graduate program at Fitchburg State University to receive federal financial aid. You can learn details on the application process on our website.

When should I submit my FAFSA?
You may begin your FAFSA when you begin your application to the graduate program of your choice. Our school code is 002184.

Yes, Fitchburg State offers payment plans. Register early to stretch your payments further!

What about scholarships for graduate students?
We've got them. Just click on the "Apply for scholarships" button and search for the scholarships listed below. Remember the deadline to apply is 02/20/16.

• Dean's Graduate Scholarship
• Dorothy Holmes Toporeck Graduate Scholarship
• Jack and Lou Leamy Scholarship

Do you offer Graduate Assistantships?
If you're willing to work 20 hours a week for 43 weeks, do we have a deal for you! Fitchburg State has a limited number of paid graduate assistant positions available for students pursuing their graduate degrees. Graduate assistants are paid $6,880/year AND have their tuition and fees waived for 18 semester hours during the year of their assistantship!

I have tuition assistance from my employer, who do I speak with about my options?
Contact our Student Accounts office at 978-665-4126 for answers to your questions about tuition assistance.

Looking for more information? Visit Financing Your Education or contact the Financial Aid Office at 978-665-3156.