How to Apply
Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online at www.fafsa.gov prior to the start of your academic program.
- The federal school code for Saint Mary's is 001302.
- The FAFSA is the only form needed to apply for graduate financial aid.
After completing your FAFSA, go to www.studentloans.gov and complete:
- Graduate Entrance Counseling
- Graduate Loan Agreement (Master Promissory Note)
If needed, additional federal student aid is available:
-
Direct Graduate PLUS (up to cost of attendance minus Direct unsubsidized Loan of $20,500) is a credit based loan with option to add an endorser
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Must complete PLUS Master Promissory Note
- Eligibility of these loans is based on completing the FAFSA and enrolling in a degree program based on at least half time status. Credential-only students not eligible.
If needed, private loans may be available:
- Credit based loans through private lending institutions that can be applied for through www.elmselect.com
- Do not require a FAFSA and certain lenders will offer a loan for students enrolled less than half time
- Not eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness
Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) policy re: federal financial aid:
- Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy (SAP) - SAP policy per federal and instutitional regulations.
Determining Graduate Course Load:
School of Economics and Business
- Half time status is defined as 4 units per quarter
- Full-time status is defined as 8 units per quarter
Kalmanovitz School of Education
Graduate Students:
- Half-time is defined as 3 units in Summer, 5 units in Fall and Spring semesters.
- Full-time is defined as 6 units in Summer, 9 units in Fall and Spring semesters.
Credential Only Students are considered undergraduate students per federal regulations for Title IV financial aid funding:
- Half-time is defined as 6 units in Summer, Fall and Spring semesters.
- Full-time is defined as 12 units in in Summer, Fall and Spring semesters.
Masters in Kinesiology
- Half-time is defined as 3 units in Summer, 5 units in Fall and Spring semesters.
- Full-time is defined as 6 units in Summer, 9 units in Fall, and Spring semesters.
Masters of Fine Arts
- Full-time is defined as 9 units in Fall and Spring semesters.
Masters in Leadership
- Half-time is defined as 6 units per trimester.
- Full-time is defined as 12 units per trimester.
PSM in Biotechnology
- Half-time is defined as 3 units in Summer, 5 units in Fall and Spring semesters.
- Full-time is defined as 6 units in Summer, 9 units in Fall, and Spring semesters.