Funding Your Graduate Education at the University of Memphis

students at white board Embarking on a graduate education journey can be a transformative experience, but the financial aspect can be a significant concern. The University of Memphis Graduate School understands this and is committed to providing access to outstanding graduate programs at an affordable price. In this blog post, we'll explore various funding options available to prospective graduate students.

Understanding the Costs

Before delving into funding options, it's essential to grasp the actual cost of graduate school. The University of Memphis provides detailed information on the Cost + Aid page. Additionally, you can utilize the Cost of Attendance calculator to estimate your expenses.

Full-time graduate study at UofM typically requires a minimum of 9 credit hours per semester, and meeting this requirement is crucial for most funding opportunities.

Federal Financial Aid

For domestic students, exploring federal financial aid is a key step. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form is a gateway to grants and loans. Ensure you fill out the FAFSA to determine your eligibility. For more information on financial aid and graduate school visit the University of Memphis Financial Aid website here.

UofM Graduate Scholarships

Some graduate programs offer merit-based scholarships for graduate students. These scholarships, either department or donor-funded, are competitive and awarded to individuals with exceptional academic records. To discover if your program offers such scholarships, contact your department directly.

Graduate Non-Resident Merit Scholarship

Award amount: $2,100 per semester for fall and spring semesters ($4,200 academic year)

Eligibility Requirements:
• Not a resident of the State of Tennessee (U.S. citizen or permanent resident or F-1 or J-1 Visa holder) Only students who are charged the Non-Resident or International tuition rates are eligible for the non-resident scholarship.

• Admitted to a graduate degree program at the University of Memphis (excluding law school). Graduate Certificate students are not eligible for this scholarship

• 3.25/4.0 U.S.A. equivalent cumulative undergraduate GPA or completed master’s degree GPA; or 310 GRE with at least 150 in GRE Verbal AND 150 in GRE Quantitative AND 2.5 AWA or equivalent GMAT scores

To maintain this scholarship award, students must be continuously enrolled in full-time credit hours each fall and spring semester. If students go below full-time status during their last semester, the award amount will be prorated for the last semester only. Additionally, students must earn a 3.0 UofM GPA or higher every semester to maintain this scholarship.
This is an admissions-based scholarship, that is, awarded to entering applicants only. Eligibility is determined at the time of admission.

There is no application required beyond the admission application. Continuing or enrolled students are not eligible for this scholarship.

Students receiving graduate assistantships or other university funding (including non-resident tuition waivers, such as the non-resident work waiver or border county waiver) are not eligible for this scholarship.

Graduate Assistantships

Graduate assistantships are invaluable opportunities that offer both financial support and valuable work experience. Full-time assistantships cover tuition, fees, health insurance, and provide a stipend. Part-time assistantships are also available, though health insurance is not included. Check with your department for availability and eligibility.

Graduate School Awards and Fellowships

The Graduate School offers a limited number of competitive awards and fellowships. Nomination by your department is typically required.

Student Worker Positions

On-campus student worker positions are open to both graduate and undergraduate students. Visit the employment software (Handshake) after admission to explore job opportunities.

External Grants and Fellowships

Explore external funding sources, including grants and fellowships, through resources like:

Employment Benefits

Check with your employer's human resources office for potential tuition assistance benefits. Many companies offer educational benefits to support their employees' pursuit of higher education.

Additional Resources

For further insights into graduate school scholarships and grants, explore additional resources such as Forbes.

In conclusion, funding your graduate education at the University of Memphis involves a combination of resources. By leveraging these options, you can make your graduate education financially viable and focus on achieving academic success.