Financial Aid for Engineering Programs
Financial aid can reduce the cost of engineering programs. The mix of grants, loans, scholarships, and employer support varies by school.
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, and institutional options
- Eligibility: Depends on school accreditation and enrollment status
- Key metric: Net price is more useful than sticker price
- Employer aid: Some employers offer tuition assistance for engineering employees
- Median debt context: Bachelor’s graduates carry $23,177 median debt against $72,832 median first-year earnings (College Scorecard)
For a full overview of program options, start with the Engineering Program Guide.
Common financial aid types
| Aid Type | Repayment Required | Typical Source | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Federal Pell Grant | No | U.S. Department of Education | Based on financial need |
| Federal Subsidized Loans | Yes | U.S. Department of Education | Interest deferred while enrolled |
| Federal Unsubsidized Loans | Yes | U.S. Department of Education | Available regardless of need |
| Institutional Scholarships | No | The school itself | Merit or need-based |
| Employer Tuition Assistance | No | Your employer | Often requires continued employment |
| State Aid Programs | Varies | State agencies | Eligibility varies by state |
Debt and earnings by degree level
| Level | Median Debt | 1yr Median Earnings | 5yr Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certificate | $7,825 | $34,375 | $65,568 |
| Associate | $10,928 | $48,263 | $72,251 |
| Bachelor’s | $23,177 | $72,832 | $94,224 |
| Master’s | $27,988 | $93,343 | $112,814 |
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, latest academic year.
Cost elements to review
When comparing aid packages, ask about:
- Total credits required for the degree
- Mandatory fees (technology, lab, engineering software, or practicum)
- Scholarship renewal requirements
- Payment plan options
Compare total program cost, net price after aid, and any fees not covered by tuition.
For cost comparison strategies, see: Affordable Engineering Programs
Back to Online Engineering Degrees: Programs and Curriculum
Return to Online Engineering Degrees: Programs and Curriculum