Graduate Financial Aid

Grants for Credential-Only Students

Students pursuing a teaching credential only may be eligible for federal and state grant programs. Unlike loans, grants do not need to be repaid — however, they include teaching service commitments.

Grant (Federal)

The Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant provides up to $4,000 per year to eligible students.

This grant is designed for students who plan to:

• Teach in a middle or high school
• Serve students from low-income families
• Teach in a high-need subject area, such as:
  • Mathematics
  • Science
  • Foreign Language
  • Special Education

Important: Service Commitment

Recipients must agree to teach in a qualifying school and subject area for a required period after completing their program.

If the service obligation is not fulfilled, the grant converts to a Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan, which must be repaid with interest.

View TEACH Grant Program Overview
Learn About Service Requirements

Golden State Teacher Grant (GSTG) (State of California)

The Golden State Teacher Grant (GSTG) provides up to $20,000 to students enrolled in an approved California teacher preparation program.

Program Requirements

Recipients must:

• Teach or provide counseling services in a high-need field
• Work at a priority school in California
• Complete four years of service
• Fulfill the service commitment within eight years after completing the program

Failure to meet service requirements may result in repayment obligations.

View Golden State Teacher Grant Program Overview
Apply for the Golden State Teacher Grant

These grants may be a good fit if you:

• Plan to teach in high-need communities
• Are committed to serving in California public schools (GSTG)
• Are comfortable signing a service agreement

Eligibility may require enrollment at least half-time and completion of required financial aid documentation. Students are encouraged to apply early.

Graduate Student Scholarships

Graduate Scholarships & Funding Opportunities

Graduate students at Saint Mary’s College have access to a wide range of scholarships, fellowships, assistantships, and external funding opportunities. This page outlines funding options by academic program and provides campus and external resources to help reduce the cost of your graduate education.

New to Graduate Scholarships? Start Here

1. Apply for admission to your graduate program.
2. Submit required financial aid forms by the stated deadlines.
3. Review program-specific and external scholarship opportunities below.
4. Contact your program office or the Career Development Center with questions.

Program-Specific Scholarships

Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing (MFA)

Students pursuing the MFA may apply for a variety of scholarships and fellowships. Awards are typically merit-based and offered during the admissions process.

What’s available: - Scholarships – Fellowships - Assistantships

Next steps: - Review funding opportunities through the MFA program - Contact the program office for current award details and timelines

Kalmanovitz School of Education (KSOE)

All admitted KSOE students who submit required financial aid forms by the deadline receive equal consideration for Saint Mary’s College Kalmanovitz School of Education scholarships.

Selection criteria may include: - Financial need - Academic standing - Content of the application essay

Scholarship applications are reviewed by the KSOE Scholarship Committee each fall and spring.

Next steps: - View current KSOE scholarships - Contact the KSOE office for additional guidance

School of Economics & Business Administration (SEBA)

Each year, numerous scholarships are available to qualified students enrolled in Saint Mary’s College graduate business programs. Awards are based on criteria established by donors and are designed to help offset the cost of graduate education.

Next steps: - All applicants are strongly encouraged to apply for available scholarships 

Master of Arts in Kinesiology (MA)

Students pursuing the MA in Kinesiology may be eligible for scholarships and graduate assistantships. Availability and eligibility vary by academic year.

Next steps: - Contact the Kinesiology program for current funding opportunities and application details

International Student Scholarships

International Merit-Based Scholarships

Beginning Summer 2023, incoming international master’s students may qualify for the Provost’s International Master’s Merit-Based Scholarships. Award amounts vary by academic program.

Next steps: - Contact your graduate program to confirm eligibility and award details

External Scholarships for Graduate and Professional Studies (GPS)

Prospective and current students may explore external scholarship opportunities independently. Please note that these external websites are not endorsed or recommended by Saint Mary’s College.

External resources include: - General External Scholarships for GPS Students - External Scholarships for Minority GPS Students - External Scholarships for International GPS Students

Career Development Center

The Career Development Center provides information on graduate scholarships, fellowships, and grants.

Need help? - Schedule an appointment or learn more by calling 925-631-4600

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do I need to apply separately for scholarships?
Some scholarships are awarded automatically during the admissions process, while others require a separate application. Review each opportunity carefully.

When are scholarships awarded?
Many scholarships are reviewed and awarded during fall and spring cycles, often at the time of admission.

Can I apply for scholarships before being admitted?
Some opportunities require admission, while others allow prospective students to apply. Check individual requirements.

Are scholarships renewable?
Renewability varies by scholarship. Some awards are one-time, while others may be renewed based on academic progress.

Are international students eligible for scholarships?
Yes. Saint Mary’s College offers merit-based scholarships for international students, and external funding options may also be available.

Who can help me if I have questions?
Your graduate program office and the Career Development Center are great starting points for scholarship guidance.

Tuition Assistance Programs

Tuition Assistance Programs are designed to reimburse all or part of your tuition expenses. Tuition  Assistance Programs are offered for the following academic programs. 

BA in Liberal Education for Arts Professional (LEAP)

• LEAP Tuition Fund                                                                                       
• Call 925-631-4538 for more information.

Kalmanovitz School of Education

Reduced Tuition Program for Catholic School Teachers, Counselors and Administrators
The Kalmanovitz School of Education offers a reduced tuition program for teachers, counselors and administrators who have been employed full-time for the past year in a Catholic elementary or secondary school, or who have a contract for such service for the coming year. A 50% reduction in tuition is available for the first six KSOE units taken in the given year; the reduction does not apply to any other Saint Mary's course or programs.

To claim the tuition reduction, a 'Catholic School Educator Tuition Waiver Application' form, obtained from KSOE, must be signed by the respective Catholic school pastor or principal, and filed at the time of registration. A new application must be filed each year the student wishes to claim the tuition reduction.

Veterans/Dependents Benefits

Saint Mary's College of California is a Yellow Ribbon School and is approved for the training of Veterans and their eligible dependents under the Department of Veteran Affairs.

Information on Veterans/Dependents Benefits can be found on the Registrar Office web page here.

If any questions please contact our Veteran Affairs School Certifying Official: va@stmarys-ca.edu, (925) 631-8382

Graduate Student Loans

Graduate students at Saint Mary’s College may use federal and private student loans to help cover educational expenses, including tuition, fees, and living costs.

Loans must be repaid with interest, so we encourage students to borrow responsibly and review all terms carefully.

Before You Borrow: Start Here

Step 1: Complete the FAFSA

All federal student loans require the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

• Saint Mary’s FAFSA School Code: 001302
• Complete FAFSA before your program begins

Federal Loan Options for Graduate Students

1. Federal Direct Unsubsidized Graduate Loan

This is the primary federal loan available to graduate students.

Key Features:

• Borrow up to $20,500 per academic year
• Interest accrues while enrolled
• No credit check required
• Enrollment required at least half-time

How to Receive This Loan:

1. Complete FAFSA
2. Accept the loan in your student portal
3. Complete:
   • Entrance Counseling
   • Master Promissory Note (MPN)

2. Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan

This loan may be used if additional funding is needed beyond the Federal Direct Graduate Loan.

Key Features:

• Credit-based approval
• Borrow up to the Cost of Attendance, minus other financial aid
• Enrollment required at least half-time

Required Steps:

1. Complete FAFSA
2. Submit Graduate PLUS Loan Application
3. Complete PLUS Loan MPN

Apply for Graduate PLUS Loan

Important Notice About Graduate PLUS Loans: The Federal Graduate PLUS Loan Program is scheduled to end on July 1, 2026.

Students enrolling after this date will not be eligible for this loan. Federal guidance regarding replacement options is pending.

Students are encouraged to consult with the Financial Aid Office when planning long-term borrowing.

Special Loan Information for Teaching Credential-Only Students

Students pursuing a teaching credential only are considered undergraduate students for federal aid purposes.

Eligible loan types may include:

• Federal Direct Subsidized Loan (up to $5,500 per year)
• Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan (up to $7,500 per year)

Loan limits are based on federal undergraduate borrowing caps.

Private (Alternative) Education Loans

Private education loans are offered through banks and private lenders.

Key Details:

• Credit-based approval
• FAFSA not required
• May be available for less than half-time enrollment
• Not eligible for federal loan protections (such as income-driven repayment or Public Service Loan Forgiveness)

Students may compare lenders at:

elmselect.com

We recommend reviewing interest rates, repayment terms, and borrower benefits carefully before choosing a private loan.

Enrollment Requirements for Federal Loans

To receive federal graduate loans, students must:

• Be admitted to a degree-seeking program
• Be enrolled at least half-time
• Meet Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) standards

Dropping below half-time enrollment may impact loan eligibility and repayment status.

View Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) Policy

Borrowing Responsibly

Before accepting any loan, consider:

• How much you truly need to borrow
• Your total projected debt at graduation
• Expected repayment options
• Your future employment plans

Students can review federal loan history and repayment estimates at studentaid.gov

Graduate Loan Comparison

Questions?

Financial aid policies can be complex, especially if your enrollment status changes.

Contact the Financial Aid Office
Schedule an appointment for personalized assistance

We are here to help you make informed borrowing decisions.

Student Employment

Hiring Saint Mary’s Students

This page provides guidance for:

• SMC departments and hiring managers
• Local community members
• Employers
• Prospective student workers

All student job postings must be submitted through Handshake, the College’s official job platform.

For SMC Departments & Hiring Managers

Before posting a student worker position:

1. Review the Supervisor Information provided by Payroll.
2. Ensure you understand student employment policies and hiring procedures.
3. Post your position in Handshake.

 Post a Student Worker Job in Handshake

Student Worker positions must be posted in Handshake to ensure:

• Consistency
• Equity and access for all students
• Compliance with institutional policies

Handshake is the only approved job board at Saint Mary’s College.

For Community Members Hiring SMC Students

Local residents frequently hire SMC students for opportunities such as:

• Babysitting
• Dog walking
• Tutoring
• Moving assistance
• Yard work
• Other short-term or occasional jobs

Community members must follow the same process as all employers and post positions in Handshake.

How to Post as a Community Member

1. Create an employer account in Handshake.
2. Associate your account with a business or company name.

If you are not hiring through a registered business, you may use a name such as:

• “Smith Family”
• “Johnson Household”

Handshake is structured for employers and companies, so community members may need to creatively complete required fields during account setup.

Please note:

• HR and Career and Professional Development Services (CPDS) cannot create accounts or post jobs on your behalf.
• All postings must be submitted directly through Handshake.

 Create an Employer Account on Handshake
 Post a Job on Handshake

Posting & Viewing Student Jobs on Handshake

Career and Professional Development Services (CPDS) manages student job postings through Handshake.

This ensures a:

• Convenient experience
• Centralized job board
• Fair and equitable access for all students

All on-campus Student Worker positions are posted in Handshake.

Handshake is the only authorized job board for Saint Mary’s College student employment.

For Prospective Student Workers

Students seeking employment should:

1. Visit Handshake to view available jobs.
2. Apply directly through the platform.
3. Review Student Payroll information for hiring steps and paperwork requirements.

Visit the Student Payroll Page

Employment with Contracted Service Providers

Some campus employers operate independently from Saint Mary’s College.

Examples include:

• Good Eats (Dining Services)
• Barnes & Noble (Bookstore)

These organizations have separate hiring procedures.

Students interested in employment with these providers should contact them directly.

Student Employment FAQ

For Students

How do I find on-campus student jobs?

All on-campus student employment opportunities are posted in Handshake, the official job platform of Saint Mary’s College. Log in, search for Student Worker positions, and apply directly through the system.

Do I need to complete FAFSA to get a student job?

No. FAFSA is not required to apply for most student worker positions unless the job is part of the Federal Work-Study program.

What is Federal Work-Study?

Federal Work-Study (FWS) is a need-based financial aid program that allows eligible students to earn wages through approved campus jobs. If you qualify, it will be listed in your financial aid offer.

Can I work more than one student job?

Possibly. Students must comply with maximum weekly hour limits and payroll policies. Speak with your supervisor and Payroll before accepting multiple positions.

How many hours can I work?

During the academic year, students are generally limited to a maximum number of hours per week (as defined by College policy). Working beyond approved limits may not be permitted.

Check with Payroll or your supervisor for current limits.

When do I get paid?

Student employees are paid on a regular payroll schedule. Students must submit timesheets on time and ensure all hiring paperwork is completed to avoid pay delays.

What paperwork is required before I start working?

Before beginning work, you must complete:

• New hire paperwork
• I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification
• Tax forms
• Any required payroll documentation

You cannot begin working until all required documentation is approved.

Can I work if I am enrolled less than full-time?

Possibly. Eligibility may depend on enrollment status and job type. Contact Payroll or Financial Aid if you have questions about eligibility requirements.

Can international students work on campus?

International students should consult International Student Services regarding employment eligibility and hour limitations before accepting a position.

For SMC Hiring Managers

Do I need to post every student job in Handshake?

Yes. All student employment positions must be posted in Handshake to ensure equitable access and compliance with institutional procedures.

Can I hire a student without posting the job?

No. Positions must be posted and reviewed through the approved process before hiring.

How long does job approval take?

Approval times may vary. Managers are encouraged to submit postings early to avoid delays.

Who determines student wage rates?

Wage rates must align with College guidelines and applicable wage laws. Consult Payroll before finalizing compensation.

What if a student exceeds hour limits?

Supervisors are responsible for monitoring student hours. Students working beyond allowed limits may be subject to payroll or compliance issues.

For Community Members & External Employers

How do I post a job for SMC students?

All job postings must be submitted through Handshake. You must create an employer account and associate it with a business or company name.

If hiring for personal or household work, you may use a name such as “Smith Family” as your company name.

Can the College post a job for me?

No. Employers must create and manage their own Handshake accounts. The College does not post jobs on behalf of employers.

Does SMC screen or endorse off-campus employers?

No. Off-campus job postings are not endorsements. Students are encouraged to exercise personal judgment and conduct appropriate due diligence.

Are community employers required to carry insurance?

Community employers are responsible for complying with all applicable employment laws and regulations.

Important Compliance Note

All student employment opportunities are subject to review and must comply with:

• Institutional policies
• Federal and state employment regulations
• Wage and hour laws

Saint Mary’s College reserves the right to decline or remove job postings that do not meet policy standards.

Still have questions?

• Student Payroll: payroll@stmarys.ca.edu
• Career and Professional Development Services (CPDS): careers@stmarys-ca.edu
• Financial Aid (for Work-Study questions): finaid@stmarys-ca.edu