For those students who need assistance in meeting the expenses of a Gonzaga graduate education, the University strives to provide as much financial aid as possible on an equitable basis.
Applying for Admission
A student must be admitted to a graduate program before financial aid can be offered; however, a student may apply for admission and financial aid concurrently in order to expedite the process.
Financial Aid Application
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the required application for financial aid programs. In order for Gonzaga to receive FAFSA data to determine eligibility for financial aid, applicants must list Gonzaga University, Spokane, Washington, federal school code “003778” in the School section of the FAFSA. The FAFSA is available online at https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa
Application Deadlines
There is no established financial aid deadline for graduate students; however, it is recommended that a student complete the FAFSA by March 1st each year for the following fall semester.
The Financial Aid Package
Once financial need has been established and the student is accepted for admission, the Financial Aid Office makes an award offer to the student via email. This offer generally includes loan funds and any scholarships or graduate assistantships of which the Financial Aid Office has been notified.
Loans
Federal Direct Unsubsidized Student Loans: The Unsubsidized Stafford Loan is a non-need based loan where the student is responsible for interest that accrues. The interest may be paid while in school or capitalized by adding it to the principal balance. The maximum loan is $20,500 per year, but may be adjusted due to receiving other financial aid, or by the student’s total cost of attendance. The FAFSA and a separate promissory note are required. The interest rate for the Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan is established each June, and starts accruing from the time funds are disbursed. The promissory note can be completed online at www.studentaid.gov.
Graduate Direct PLUS Loan: A federal loan available to graduate students who show an absence of a negative credit history. The maximum amount of a Graduate PLUS is the total cost of attendance less any other aid received for the academic year. The Graduate PLUS loan accrues interest from the date of disbursement at a rate established each June. Monthly payments may be deferred while the student borrower is enrolled as at least a half-time student. Students must first borrow from the Federal Direct Loan program before applying for a Graduate PLUS loan. The FAFSA and a separate application and promissory note are required. Students can apply for this loan and complete the promissory note at www.studentaid.gov around mid-April.
Federal Nursing Loans: These loans are available to graduate nursing students with financial need. The Federal Nursing loan carries a fixed interest rate of five percent, with no accrual of interest while enrolled at least half-time. Students have a nine month grace period after their enrollment drops below less than half-time before monthly payments are required. Minimum monthly payments of at least $40 per month and interest begin after the grace period.
Alternative Loans: There are several non-need-based private loan programs for graduate students. These loan programs offer a choice of variable interest rates and repayment plans tailored to meet the student’s needs. Approval is subject to lender credit criteria. Approval of the private loans by the lender is based upon the creditworthiness of the student. For a list of lenders that have helped Gonzaga students in the past, please see our website.
Graduate Assistantship Awards
Graduate assistantships are offered in several departments and schools. Each department or school determines if the assistantship is paid as a scholarship (which reduces tuition charges), or as a work award (that is paid as wages).
Satisfactory Academic Progress
The Higher Education Amendments of 1992 require that a student receiving federal assistance must demonstrate satisfactory academic progress (SAP). In general, SAP is defined as “proceeding toward successful completion of degree within a specified period.” The policies and procedures governing SAP and its relationship to financial aid are available online at www.gonzaga.edu/SAP.