Finances are the biggest roadblock for many people considering returning to college to earn a graduate degree. Taking classes online reduces the burden by allowing you to remain in your current job and take classes on your schedule, but you may still need help to cover tuition. Try these avenues to find the money you need to invest in your future.

1. 4 WAYS TO FINANCE YOUR
GRADUATE DEGREE
onlinemasters.jou.ufl.edu

2. FINDING THE FUNDS
Funding is often the biggest obstacle for most
people hoping to earn a graduate degree or
certificate. It can be daunting to save for tuition,
even for a high-value degree. Still, it’s an
absolutely critical investment in your future.
So, where do you turn? Try these avenues to help
make your grad school dreams come true.
College of Journalism
and Communications
UNIVERSITY of FLORIDA

3. 1.
FEDERAL FINANCIAL AID
The federal government offers need-based
options for professionals returning to grad school.
Simply fill out the Free Application for Federal
Student Aid (FAFSA). It’s quick and easy.
There are also several student grant and loan
programs available. Check out this brochure from
the U.S. Department of Education for a list of
resources. These options are only available to
students seeking a postgraduate degree, not a
graduate certificate.
College of Journalism
and Communications
UNIVERSITY of FLORIDA

4. 2.
EMPLOYER SUPPORT
Many companies now offer tuition reimbursement
for employees seeking graduate degrees. It’s an
investment that pays off. Verizon Wireless
reported a 50-60% reduction in employee
turnover by investing in employee education.
Ask your company’s human resources
representative, and make a case for why they
should invest in you. Send your supervisor a
link to our Employer Support page as a
helpful nudge in the right direction.
College of Journalism
and Communications
UNIVERSITY of FLORIDA

5. 3.
MILITARY PROGRAMS
The federal government empowers veterans
and active duty military to expand their horizons
through the G.I. Bill. Military service members can
receive tuition assistance up to $250 per credit
hour with a $4,500 annual limit.
Visit University of Florida’s G.I. Bill page for
details specific to your branch of service,
or go to the Veteran’s Affairs website to
apply online for benefits today.
College of Journalism
and Communications
UNIVERSITY of FLORIDA

6. 4.
PRIVATE LOANS
Many banks and financial institutions offer loans
specifically designed for grad students. If your
credit is reasonable, there’s a good chance you’ll
qualify for private graduate education loans
without even needing a cosigner, even if you
recently completed undergrad.
These loans are generally set up so that you
don’t make payments for at least six months after
graduation. At the time of this writing, we found
very competitive rates of 3% and lower.
College of Journalism
and Communications
UNIVERSITY of FLORIDA

7. FOLLOW YOUR DREAM
Graduate school could be the key to the career of
your dreams, so don’t let finances stand in your
way. The return on investment is well worth it.
Visit us online today to find out how a Master of
Arts in Mass Communication can open doors to
launch your exciting new career.
College of Journalism
and Communications
UNIVERSITY of FLORIDA

8. 4 WAYS TO FINANCE YOUR
GRADUATE DEGREE
Learn How Earning a Master of Arts in Mass Communication
Can Lead You to New Opportunities…
College of Journalism
and Communications
UNIVERSITY of FLORIDA
onlinemasters.jou.ufl.edu