Funding Graduate Study

Finances are a concern for most graduate students and their families. There is no denying that graduate education at Stanford is expensive. This section of our Web site provides some information about expenses and sources of funding.

Expenses

Most students find it helpful to plan their budgets for the year so that they are not unduly surprised.

Sources of Funding

Graduate students generally finance their graduate studies and living expenses from a combination of sources. Students are expected to actively seek out and apply for funding.

What Does Stanford Provide?

Financial support varies considerably among departments, schools, and programs. Academic merit and availability of funds are the primary considerations in the awarding of graduate financial support. Ask in your department about how similarly situated students fund their graduate studies.

Generally:

  • Master’s students usually do not receive funding. Most fund tuition and expenses through savings or loans.
  • Professional students’ (J.D, M.B.A., M.D.) financial aid is managed through the financial aid offices of the law, business, and medical schools.
  • Doctoral students are usually offered a funding package that includes tuition and a stipend for living expenses for four to five years.

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