Graduate Financial Aid

Graduate Student Financial Aid Summary

Funding for graduate studies is available for most students. Following are the most common sources of funding for U.S. citizens and qualified noncitizens (U.S. permanent resident with a Permanent Resident Card).

The information below lists the types of programs, basic information and how to apply.

Federal William D. Ford Direct Loan - Unsubsidized

These are low interest loans (Up to $20,500 per academic year).  First-time Direct loan borrowers must complete a loan counseling session. Repayment begins six (6) months after a student is no longer enrolled for at least half-time (6 credits). 

https://www.ccny.cuny.edu/financialaid/loans_federal

• At the time you accept/decline your loan, ensure you are admitted to a degree granting program and are/or will be registered for a minimum of 6 credits/units.

Federal William D. Ford Direct Grad PLUS loan

A graduate student may apply for this loan after the maximum Unsubsidized loans have been received. There must be remaining unmet educational expenses (based on the CUNY “Cost of Attendance”) to qualify.  

Direct Grad PLUS Loan application can be printed under forms or at the financial aid office.

• At the time of submission of your loan request, ensure you are admitted to a degree granting program and are/or will be registered for a minimum of 6 credits/units.

Federal Work-Study

This is a need-based program providing part-time jobs on and off campus. You are paid for the hours worked up to the maximum award.

https://www.ccny.cuny.edu/financialaid/federal-work-study-at-ccny

The Federal Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH Grant)
A total of $8,000 is allowed for Grad. Study

This is a federal program that provides grants of up to $4,000 per year to graduate students. Recipients must agree to fulfill a service obligation as a full-time teacher in a high-need field, at a public or private elementary or secondary school that serves low-income families.

Submit a TEACH Grant Application and Entrance Counseling to the School of Education.
Stacia Pusey | spusey@ccny.cuny.edu | Room NAC 3/223A.

Scholarship and Assistantships

Some graduate programs offer scholarships and assistantships. Contact your program director or advisor for more information. Free scholarship searches are available at: www.fastweb.com and www.brokescholar.com

A completed FAFSA is needed for most forms of scholarship aid.

Veteran’s Benefits

Qualifications are determined by the U.S. Department of Veteran’s Affairs

Go to Wingate Hall, room 107 or call 212-650-5374. https://www.ccny.cuny.edu/veterans

Aid to Native American Indians

This is a grant for students who are at least ¼ American Indian, Eskimo, or Aleut, and/or certified as a member in a tribe served by the BIA.

To apply, contact the U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs Office of Education at: www.bie.edu/ParentsStudents/Grants/ or call 1(202) 208-6123.

Alternative Loans

Alternative Loans (Private Education Loans) are offered through private lenders. These loans are not guaranteed by the federal government and may carry high interest rates and origination fees. CUNY does not recommend any specific lender/programs. If you are paying your tuition with an Alternative loan, you must inform the Bursar’s Office and provide documentation prior to your bill due date to avoid class cancellation.

Contact the lender of your choice for details about their program and application process.