Finances for graduate programs
All graduate degrees
We understand that finances can be one of the main challenges when making decisions about graduate school, and we want to encourage you that this can be done!
The information and resources below will help you get started, and we invite you to contact Student Finance with your questions and concerns.
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You may download our brochure for a handy summary |
This is an estimated budget for a typical semester (or summer) with a full-time load of 9 hours.
Budget Estimates for one semester in 2024-2025
MASTER'S |
DOCTORAL |
|
| Tuition | $6,840 | $8,820 |
| General Fee | $40 | $40 |
| Books and supplies | $500 | $500 |
TOTALS |
$7,380 |
$9,360 |
View additional information for international students »
Southern offers a monthly installment plan so you may spread the cost of tuition over the semester. Sign up for a payment plan »
The first step in exploring financial assistance options is to fill out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid), online at www.fafsa.ed.gov »
Stafford Loans
Graduate students registered for a minimum of five credit hours per semester may qualify
for a Stafford Loan. Two types of loans are available.
GradPLUS Loan
These are low-interest, federally backed student loans that are guaranteed by the
U.S. government. These loans are similar to private student loans (below), but with
the benefit of having fixed interest rates.
Private Loans
Personal loans are available from lending institutions nationwide. For advice on which
loans may be right for you, you may talk with Southern’s graduate finance counselor
at 1.800.SOUTHERN or 423.236.2877.
The first step in exploring financial assistance options is to fill out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid), online at www.fafsa.ed.gov »
The following departments offer graduate assistantships. If you have questions, please contact the graduate counselor for your school.
You may find that Southern’s location helps you save on the overall costs for graduate school because Chattanooga’s cost of living is less than the national average. You can learn more about living expenses in the Chattanooga area at bestplaces.net/Col »
We have a team of Student Finance Counselors who are ready to help you find solutions and make paying for graduate school as easy as possible. Please feel free to call or email with questions anytime.
