Types of Aid Available to Off-Campus Graduate Students

Loans

Federal Stafford Loans (Subsidized and Unsubsidized):

The federally subsidized Stafford Loan is a need-based loan program available to eligible aid applicants. The unsubsidized Stafford Loan is available to those students who do not qualify for the subsidized Stafford Loan. The interest for subsidized Stafford Loans is paid by the government while the student is enrolled on at least a half-time basis. The interest for unsubsidized loans is paid by the student while enrolled on at least a half-time basis or it may be deferred (capitalized onto the principal loan balance) until repayment begins. For both loan programs, the current interest rate for new borrowers is fixed at 6.8%. Graduate and professional degree candidates may qualify for up to $20,500 per academic year. Repayment begins six months after the student is no longer enrolled at least half-time.

Additional Sources of Aid

The Financial Aid Office can assist students who do not receive enough aid through a variety of "non-need-based" resources including loans, monthly payment plans, and/or employment. For more information, contact the Financial Aid Office at (617) 349-8581 or (800) 999-1959, ext. 8581.

Private Grants/Scholarships: Students may conduct research for private grants/scholarships at the Higher Education Information Center at the Boston Public Library, 666 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02116, (800) 442-1171.

World Wide Web: The Internet can be a useful tool for students interested in exploring resources available from private organizations. A few web sites you may find helpful:

• The College Board's Fund Finder
• Financial Aid Information Page
• Fastweb Scholarship Sources
• The SallieMae Fund

Special Loan Programs

The Evalee C. Schwartz Charitable Trust for Education awards interest-free loans to undergraduate and graduate students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance and significant financial need.

Tuition Payment Plans

Lesley participates in several graduate and undergraduate payment plans that are administered through the Student Accounts Office. These plans enable students and families to pay all or part of their annual fees in monthly installments without interest charges. The only additional charge is an application fee ($55-$75). These plans may be used to supplement all other forms of financial aid such as grants, loans, and scholarships. Most plans require students to begin payment one or two months prior to the start of classes, so it is important to investigate these options early. Additional information about monthly payment options and application forms are available from the Student Accounts Office at (617) 349-8760.