Tuition and Financial Aid

Eligibility for US-sponsored loans requires US citizenship and enrollment in at least two courses per quarter (not including summer). If you are interested in financial aid to help cover the costs of attendance, you can find the necessary forms and information on how to get started at The Graduate School (TGS) of Northwestern University's financial aid website. MSLOC is housed within the School of Education and Social Policy and is not officially part of TGS. However, we adhere to many TGS policies and make use of their resources and sources of information.

To ensure timely receipt of financial aid, applicants should submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as early as possible after Jan. 1 for the upcoming year. The FAFSA is available from many libraries and financial aid offices or by calling 800/4FED-AID or visiting the FAFSA website. If you have further questions, please contact the Evanston Graduate Financial Aid office.

Private loans offered through Northwestern University are available for US citizens (taking less than 2 courses/quarter) and international students (generally a US citizen is required to co-sign international loans).

The Alumnae of Northwestern University offers the Alumnae Graduate Fellowship (AGF) to Northwestern alumni (those who earned their undergraduate degree at Northwestern University), preferably women, who show promise of achieving distinction in their field and bringing credit to the University. The award is valued at up to $20,000.

Criteria for selection include quality of scholarship, leadership, community service, professional experience, and financial need. Students who plan to pursue a career that serves the public good receive special consideration. The application is available through the Fellowship Office from January through April.

Students are encouraged to investigate scholarships offered through various civic and professional organizations, foundations and state agencies. One place to search for scholarships is the financial aid information web page sponsored by the National Association of Student Aid Administration. Another useful resource is Northwestern University's Office of Fellowships.

Students in approved programs at Northwestern may use VA educational benefits.

• VA Benefit Overview provides information regarding VA benefits and how they are processed at Northwestern.
• Whether you are a current or prospective student, you may have questions about VA Benefits, so be sure to review the VA Benefit Contacts to help you determine how you can find out more information.
• For students eligible for the Yellow Ribbon program, the School of Education and Social Policy has 3 partial tuition scholarships per year of up to $15,000 per student. Please indicate your interest on your application and contact your financial aid representative if you have any questions.

To maximize scholarship and aid opportunities, apply early and consult the financial aid office for personalized guidance.

The estimated total cost for 2025-2026 is $67,330–$68,265, depending on fees and course selections.

Yes, several merit-based and need-based scholarships are offered, including the Northwestern Alumnae Scholarship.

Eligible students may apply for federal and private loans to help cover tuition and fees.

Some scholarships and aid options are open to international students. Contact the admissions or financial aid office for details.