Financial Aid
Federal aid has no age limit.
One of the most common misconceptions about returning to school later in life is that financial aid is only for young students. Nearly every graduate student qualifies, regardless of age, retirement status, or Social Security income.
Federal Direct Loans
Direct Unsubsidized Loans
Available to all graduate students regardless of financial need. Interest accrues from the date of disbursement, but payments can be deferred while you are enrolled at least half-time. Borrow up to $20,500 per academic year.
Grad PLUS Loans
Federal loans that can cover the remaining cost of attendance — tuition, fees, books, and reasonable living expenses — not covered by other aid. A credit check is required, but options exist even with adverse credit history.
What does not disqualify you
- Being over 60, 70, or 80
- Being retired
- Receiving Social Security or pension income
- Owning a home outright
- Having taken loans decades ago that are now paid off
What you’ll need
- An FSA ID from studentaid.gov
- Your most recent federal tax return or statement of non-filing
- Records of untaxed income such as SSA or pension income
- About thirty minutes for the FAFSA itself