When you're sitting down and starting to plan out your graduate school career, sooner or later you're going remember, "Oh, yeah... I have to pay MONEY to get my EDUCATION."

We here at Fitchburg State feel your pain. Many of us have been in the same boat, and no one wants more debt and all of the stress that's associated with it. That's why we've collected several things that you can do to help make paying for your graduate education easier and less of a financial impact.

But first, you'll need to...

1) Apply to Fitchburg State (and be accepted)

Okay... this one's not as much a financial tip, but just a reminder that you actually have to become a student at Fitchburg State in order to be in the position to have to pay for the courses in which you enroll.

Here's our program listing, and when you're ready, here's a page that describes what you need to do to apply.

2) Don't worry about where you're from

All signed up? Ready to learn about the program of your choice? Great!

Now, when it's time to figure out how much the courses that you sign up for cost, you don't have to worry about your address when doing the math. In-state and out-of-state students are billed the same rate for graduate courses, for both tuition and fees!

Wouldn't it be nice if someone else could help you pay for all of that, though?

3) Fill out your FAFSA

Scholarships and financial aid are available from many organizations who want to help you reach your educational goals. But for many (if not all) of these organizations (including Fitchburg State), you need to fill out a FAFSA form.

What's FAFSA? Forms Any Friends Sign Always? Nope! FAFSA is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, and is used not only by the federal government for qualifications for grants and loans, but also by many organizations that supply scholarships.

To fill out your FAFSA online, simply visit the website. Note that some scholarships may require you to have to this form filled out and submitted no later than March 1 to meet eligibility requirements.

4) Review and apply for scholarships

After you've submitted your FAFSA, it's time to look for people who want to give you money! There are tons of websites out there that you can search for scholarships, but before you start your search, know that there are scholarships available right here at Fitchburg State!

Simply apply and complete any additional requirements (if required.) You will automatically be considered for any scholarships you are eligible for. We have our fingers crossed for you!

Scholarships for graduate students include:

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

5) Apply for a Graduate Assistantship

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 waved for 18 semester hours during the year of their assistantship!

6) Check with your employer about tuition reimbursement

Everyone's aware of sick time, personal time, and health insurance... but did you know that some employers will reimburse some tuition expenses for higher education?

While these things are all very important, there's much more we can help you with, especially once we know your specific situation. Contact our Financial Aid Office for more info!