Financial Aid for Education Programs
Financial aid can reduce the cost of education programs. The mix of grants, loans, scholarships, and employer support varies by school.
$12,695Median Debt (Associate)College Scorecard
$23,352Median Debt (Bachelor's)College Scorecard
$29,724Median Debt (Master's)College Scorecard
Quick Answers
What types of aid are common?
Common options include federal grants, student loans, scholarships, and employer assistance.
Do online students qualify for aid?
Eligible online students may qualify for the same federal aid as campus students.
What should I compare between schools?
Compare total cost, net price, and available aid packages.
At a Glance
- Aid sources: Federal, state, institutional, and employer options
- Eligibility: Depends on school accreditation and enrollment status
- Key metric: Net price is more useful than sticker price
- Education-specific: TEACH Grants and PSLF available for qualifying educators
- Median debt range: $12,695 (associate) to $29,724 (master’s) (College Scorecard)
For a full overview of program options, start with the Education Program Guide.
Common financial aid types
| Aid Type | Repayment Required | Typical Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Federal Pell Grant | No | Up to $7,395/year | Need-based; undergraduate only |
| TEACH Grant | No (with service commitment) | Up to $4,000/year | Must teach in high-need field for 4 years |
| Federal Direct Loans | Yes | $5,500-$20,500/year | Fixed rates; varies by level |
| Institutional Scholarships | No | Varies | Merit or need-based; school-specific |
| Employer Tuition Assistance | No | Varies | Many school districts offer this |
| State Aid Programs | Varies | Varies | State-specific eligibility |
Education majors have unique financial aid options. The TEACH Grant provides up to $4,000 per year for students who commit to teaching in a high-need field at a low-income school for at least four years after graduation. Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) can forgive remaining federal loan balances after 120 qualifying payments for educators at public schools or nonprofits.
Cost elements to review
When comparing aid packages, ask about:
- Total credits required for the degree
- Mandatory fees (technology, lab, or practicum)
- Student teaching costs (background checks, travel)
- Scholarship renewal requirements
- Payment plan options
Compare total program cost, net price after aid, and any fees not covered by tuition.
Debt and earnings comparison by degree level
| Level | Median Debt | 1yr Median Earnings | 5yr Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certificate | $15,762 | $28,038 | $28,396 |
| Associate | $12,695 | $24,507 | $33,878 |
| Bachelor’s | $23,352 | $42,026 | $47,588 |
| Master’s | $29,724 | $56,255 | $63,222 |
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, latest academic year.
For cost comparison strategies, see: Affordable Education Programs