As an adult student, there are many resources to help you pay for your online education. You can get help through tuition assistance programs, from the Federal Government, through scholarships, and also through the tuition payment plan offered by Saint Joseph's College.
Tuition Assistance Programs
If you are currently working, you may be eligible for a Tuition Assistance Program through your current employer. Some employers will pay for tuition costs up front and others will reimburse the cost upon completion of a course. Saint Joseph's College also has partnership agreements with many employers, which can allow for tuition and fee discounts. Check with your Human Resource Office for more information.
Government Aid
The Federal Government awards financial aid through grants and loans. Grants are typically awarded to undergraduate students based upon financial need, and loans are available to all students and must be repaid. Visit our financial aid page for more information on how to apply.
Most states have scholarship, grant and loan programs administered by agencies, foundations and loan authorities. For example, many of Saint Joseph's College online courses are included in the Maine OnLine Learning Initiative, which provides funding for workers to complete online training. Check with your local state career center to see what is available where you live.
Active-duty military and veterans have excellent education benefits. In addition, Saint Joseph's is a military-friendly institution and offers tuition discounts to both active duty military members and their spouses. If you are serving in the military, or are married to an active duty service member, check with the education counselor at your base. The new Post 9/11 GI Bill® offers additional funding levels to not only veterans, but their dependents. Veterans should contact the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs.
Scholarships
Many organizations provide educational funds and yet have a small number of applicants requesting assistance. Some scholarships are based on financial need, while others are based on academic and professional accomplishments, religious affiliation, your family's genealogy, memberships, hobbies or even special interests. Some places to start searching for scholarships would be your local library, chambers of commerce, and community organizations. At the library and the bookstore, there are many resource guides that can provide advice about paying for college. You can also visit our scholarship opportunities page for several resources. Please note that the sites listed are not affiliated with or endorsed by Saint Joseph’s College.
Tuition Payment Plan
In addition to very affordable tuition, Saint Joseph's College also offers a convenient Tuition Payment Plan for online students. For students using this plan, a deposit equal to one credit hour of tuition per course is required upon registration, in addition to a small fee. The remaining obligation is made in two scheduled payments. Students using financial aid or using tuition assistance from their employer may be limited from using this plan. Contact an admissions counselor for details.
GI Bill®
GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site at www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.