It’s a given: going to graduate school can be expensive. Earning a master’s degree from a reputable university can be crucial to professional and financial growth, but that does not mean it is easily affordable. If you are considering an advanced degree, these options will help you pursue a graduate degree with affordability in mind, without compromising the quality of the degree you earn.

Tuition Assistance

Many companies offer tuition assistance to employees who are pursuing an online education. It doesn’t hurt to investigate or ask what your company offers in terms of corporate assistance, especially if it’s framed in terms that benefit the company. Many companies offering corporate assistance are looking to boost their collective skill set without hiring new workers. In 2012, 58% of the 550 employers responding to a survey conducted by the Society for Human Resource Management offered some form of financial assistance for grad school.

You may be surprised to find that your company already has formal policies in place regarding tuition benefits. Verizon, AT&T, Chipotle, and Bank of America are just some of the companies that offer tuition reimbursement for employees. Make an appointment with your HR representative to find out if your employer offers tuition reimbursement, and the details regarding these benefits.

Keep in mind that you may need to talk to or convince your supervisor that an advanced degree can help further your knowledge in your field, and therefore, better serve your company. Helping your boss to understand the benefits your master’s degree will have on the company is essential. Be sure to find out what commitments your company may require of you in return for corporate assistance. Think like your employer: make it clear that a new degree does not mean you want to leave your current job. With the option of distance learning, attendance can remain stellar and performance will improve as you begin to apply the additional skills you learn in your graduate courses.

Consult your employer about the availability of tuition reimbursement or tuition assistance programs.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Even if your employer gives you tuition assistance, it may not be enough to cover all your grad school expenses. Luckily, you may still qualify for financial aid or scholarships. Remember to fill out FAFSA as you apply to schools.

Graduate programs typically award scholarships and fellowships based on merit, though offerings depend on the school. A graduate admissions official or graduate advisor in your desired program can help you sort through the options. Apply for funds as early as possible for best consideration.

A range of private and public organizations also offer money for graduate school, though these are typically very competitive. For instance, Zonta International offers the Jane M. Klausman Women in Business Scholarship. Women of any age, pursuing a business or business-related program who demonstrate outstanding potential in the field are eligible to win the $1,000 scholarship.

Visit the Office of Student Financial Aid for information about financial assistance.

Military Assistance

The Military Tuition Assistance program is available to active duty, National Guard and Reserve Component service members. The program can help lessen financial concerns considerably, since it now pays up to 100 percent of tuition expenses for semester hours costing $250 or less. Courses and degree programs may be academic or technical and can be taken from accredited institutions.

While the Tuition Assistance program is offered by the services, the Department of Veterans Affairs administers a variety of education benefit programs. Some of the VA programs, such as the Post-9/11 GI Bill, can work well with the TA program, as it can supplement fees not covered by TA. In addition, the Post-9/11 GI Bill funds are available to you for up to 15 years after you leave the military. The TA program is a benefit that is available only while you’re in the service. Each military branch has its own TA application form and procedures, so it is important to check their websites for the correct application procedures.

The University of Georgia is recognized for our commitment to providing veterans and their families the unique support they need. UGA offers service members, veterans and their families access to flexible, convenient degree programs and courses delivered online.

Active duty military, veterans, and military families should visit Veterans Educational Benefits to take full advantage of available financial assistance and educational benefits.