Step-by-step guide to financial aid for graduate students

Figuring out how to pay for grad school? We've got you. Follow these simple steps to explore funding options, stay on top of important deadlines, and feel confident from start to finish.

Step 1: Start with the FAFSA

Your first move is completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). It’s the best way to unlock federal aid, loans, and more (and it’s easier than you might think!). Head to FAFSA.gov to get started.

Here are a few important things to know about completing your FAFSA:

  • You will file your FAFSA every year you are in graduate school.
  • FAFSA opens for filing every October 1.
  • NAU’s priority deadline is April 1.
  • You can file your FAFSA before you're officially admitted to NAU.
  • Use NAU's school code: 001082.

Not eligible for the FAFSA? File the CSS Profile instead (NAU code: 4006).

Learn more about FAFSA
Start your FAFSA now

Step 2: Estimate your total cost

Curious what grad school might cost with financial aid factored in? Our Net Price Calculator gives you a personalized estimate and even suggests additional scholarships and aid you might qualify for.

Calculate your cost

Step 3: Review your financial aid offer

Once your aid has been awarded, log into LOUIE to see what you’ve received and following these important steps:

  • Accept or decline your Graduate Unsubsidized Loan under “Finances.”
  • If you need additional aid, apply for a Graduate PLUS Loan through StudentAid.gov (this one requires a separate application).
  • Complete entrance counseling and sign your Master Promissory Note (MPN) via StudentAid.gov to receive loan funds before classes start. (These will appear as tasks on your LOUIE To-Do List.)

Step 4: Apply for even more financial aid

Graduate waivers

These may cover tuition and health insurance, based on info from your academic program. Reach out to the Office of Graduate and Professional Studies to learn more.

Scholarships

Use ScholarshipUniverse to find and apply for graduate-specific scholarships.

Graduate assistantships

Earn funding while gaining professional experience. GA roles come with tuition support and a stipend. Learn more on the graduate scholarships page.

Health Professions students

Talk to your advisor about eligibility for HRSA scholarships.

Western Regional Graduate Program (WRGP)

Out-of-state grad students from eligible states may qualify for in-state rates. Visit the graduate scholarships page to learn more. (This financial aid program is only available to eligible graduate students attending classes at the Flagstaff campus.)

A few final reminders

Stay in the loop. Your LOUIE To Do List and NAU/personal email will have important reminders. Check them regularly.

Know the requirements. Federal aid comes with a few rules. Make sure you meet the eligibility criteria and stay on track.

Watch your deadlines. Financial aid and scholarship deadlines sneak up fast. Set reminders to stay ahead.

Know when aid arrives. Most aid is disbursed right before classes begin. Learn how and when you’ll receive your funds.

Keep your aid. Your Satisfactory Academic Progress SAP status matters. Keep your grades up to stay eligible.

Questions? 

Contact us at 928-523-4951 or financial.aid@nau.edu. We're here to help!

Haven’t applied to NAU yet?

You can still file the FAFSA now and apply to NAU when you're ready. The earlier you start, the more aid you might qualify for.