10 Tips to Graduate School Money

The cost of most graduate school has been rising steadily. Unfortunately, these same graduate schools have had to cut back on their financial aid for those cash strapped students. Many graduate students have no choice but to borrow the money from student loans to pay for their education. However, there are ways of keeping those costs down when scholarships and grants don't pay all the bills. Here are ten tips for the graduate student to keep their tuition costs and debts low:

1. Consider a Research Graduate School
Even in this tight economy, science and technology related fields are continuing to grow. Many graduate students in these schools are finding more grants and assistantships to help pay for college.

2. Choose a Graduate School That Wants You
Do some research and look to a graduate school that might compete for you. Find schools where your grades test scores and other good points put you at the top of their list. Many graduate schools, especially the smaller ones, will aggressively compete for the best candidates.

3. Don't Delay Graduate School Applications
The old adage of 'you snooze, you lose' works very well here. Many graduate school deans like to lock in their favorite candidates early on. By waiting, your chances are smaller and there will be less aid money left to distribute.

4. Look for an Unusual Graduate School
There are many new graduate school upstarts, and those applicants willing to take a chance on them, could save a lot of money. To kick-start their programs, some of these upstarts are offering up to half off their tuition fees. Do your research and make sure that the upstart is offering a good education that will transfer to good employment later on.

5. Check with Your College about Graduate School
Talk with your college alma mater about their graduate school opportunities. Many offer their alums discounts on some or all graduate classes.

6. Look for Price in a Graduate School
Spend some research time looking at several programs. Many are offering discounted tuitions. You may end up paying less for classes at these graduate programs.

7. Tuition Can Be Adjusted for Graduate School
If you are considering a public graduate school, the in-state tuition and out of state tuition lines are more blurred. These public graduate programs need students and are willing to negotiate with out of state candidates.

8. Your Employer and Graduate School
Even in economical bad times, some employers are still offering to support graduate study for their employees. Ask your employer if they have such a program. Also, research colleges that may offer discounts to students from certain employers.

9. Research Financial Aid for Graduate School
Even though many graduate programs offer scholarships based solely on grades and test scores, there are a few that offer them on your financial need. You will need to fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid or FAFSA.

10. Find Work at Graduate School
Most graduate programs try not to let their students work while attending school. Graduate students then end up borrowing more money to come up with tuition and living expenses. However, a few programs allow their students to work while studying. Look for one that gives you that option or a graduate school that will help you find an on-campus job such as assistantships or tutoring.