Department website: https://www.vanguard.edu/admissions/financial-aid

Graduate students are eligible to receive federal and/or state financial aid if enrolled at least half-time in graduate level coursework. Only courses numbered in the 500s, 600s and 700s are considered graduate level.

GRANTS AND SCHOLARSHIPS

ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIPS FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS:

Awarded by Vanguard University and available to Graduate Education, Psychology, and Religion students who demonstrate the required cumulative GPA during their undergraduate studies. Renewable annually, no FAFSA is required.

• Silver Award (10% discount), 3.50-3.74 GPA
• Gold Award (15% discount), 3.75-4.0 GPA

GRADUATE RELIGION MINISTRY GRANT:

Vanguard University offers awards of $75 per unit is available to those enrolled at least half-time (5 units per semester) who are involved in full-time Christian service as ordained or licensed ministers and missionaries. The Office of Undergraduate Admission and the Financial Aid Office confirm eligibility at the point of admission. Supporting documentation must be provided each by the Financial Registration deadline or the grant will be removed. Renewable annually, FAFSA not required. 

CHRISTIAN EDUCATOR’S GRANT:

Awarded by Vanguard University to students teaching full-time in a Christian school receive a 15% tuition grant. They must be employed in the same field or specialty in which the teaching credential or degree will be obtained. Cannot be combined with academic scholarships. Questions about eligibility should be directed to Graduate Education. Renewable annually, FAFSA not required.

STUDENT LOANS

FEDERAL UNSUBSIDIZED DIRECT LOAN:

Graduate students who complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) may be eligible to borrow up to $20,500 annually through the Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan Program, not to exceed their cost of attendance when combined with other financial aid. Students must be enrolled at least half-time to receive a Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan. Beginning with the 2026–2027 award year, annual loan eligibility for students enrolled less than full-time will be determined in accordance with applicable federal regulations. Repayment begins six months after the student is no longer enrolled at least half-time. An origination fee applies. Students must complete Entrance Counseling and a Master Promissory Note before loan funds can be disbursed at www.studentaig.gov.

FEDERAL DIRECT GRADUATE PLUS LOAN:

Beginning July 1, 2026, the Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan is no longer available to new borrowers. Students who previously received a Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan before July 1, 2026, may remain eligible under the applicable federal transition ("legacy") provisions while completing their current program, subject to federal eligibility requirements. Students with questions regarding these changes or their eligibility should contact the Financial Aid Office for additional information and guidance.

PRIVATE LOANS

Private educational loans are available to creditworthy students who complete the application process with the lender of their choice. Loan eligibility, terms, and approval are determined by the lender. Private loans may be used to assist with educational expenses, including eligible prior balances, subject to institutional and lender requirements. Completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is not required; however, students are encouraged to complete the FAFSA to determine eligibility for federal, state, and institutional financial aid before applying for a private loan.