Graduate Financial Aid Options

Graduate and Professional students can finance their education using a variety of resources, including scholarships, fellowships, assistantships, payment plans and loans. Please know that you can reach out to us in Graduate Admissions to visit with us about program costs and the many different ways that Gonzaga students finance their graduate education.


Assistantships – Many programs at Gonzaga University offer assistantships to graduate students. Each specific program determines the criteria and recipients for each offer. In the School of Education, you will be able to apply for assistantships directly through the department once you have been accepted.

Scholarships – It is also a good idea to search for scholarships not affiliated with Gonzaga University. Some corporations, employers, churches and other organizations provide opportunities for graduate students. Free scholarship database websites are available online. Check our Financial Aid website for more resources: www.gonzaga.edu/financialaid.

Outside Avenues — These may exist through community organizations and we encourage you to pursue them whenever possible. Check with service organizations like the Knights of Columbus, Rotary Club, and Elks Club. Other possible sponsors include employers, parent/spouse employers, trade associations, banks, credit unions, corporations, schools, and churches.

Payment Plans – Gonzaga University is proud to offer payment plans to assist you in financing your education. Typical options include paying your balance in full each semester or paying your balance in monthly installments to make your payments more manageable.

Loans – Loans are borrowed funds that must be repaid. Many graduate students take advantage of loans to help finance their education as well as living expenses. Borrowing options typically are divided into two categories: federal student loans and private, alternative loans. Your loan eligibility will be determined once you have filed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online at www.fafsa.gov. Gonzaga's school code is 003778. Depending on your course load, you may be eligible to receive up to $20,500 in federal loans each academic year.

Loan Forgiveness options – Depending on the route your career takes you, loan forgiveness programs may become an opportunity. Your federal loans may qualify through the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program (more info at www.studentaid.ed.gov). Also, your employer may offer this opportunity. Do your research now and you may be pleasantly surprised by what you find.

Applying to a Canadian site-based program? Check out our resources for our Canadian aid options.