Your undergraduate years may have taught you how to secure financial aid, but the process can be different for graduate or doctoral students. However, you should still fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) every year. Your eligibility for Federal and institutional aid is determined by the information you submit on the FAFSA. Get started by checking out the following types of financial aid for which you might be eligible.

Grants
As a graduate or doctoral student, campus and research grants may be your best bet. Look for grants related to your research or major, and ask your professors for advice on where to apply. You can use grants to pay for any of your educational expenses, and you don't need to repay grants as long as you continue to make satisfactory progress in your degree program. See grants for more information.

Assistantships
Research and teaching assistantships give you a chance to work closely in your field of study and gain experience for careers both in and out of academia. Assistantships can come with tuition waivers or stipends, which allows you to study and work without worrying about financing.

Work-Study
Work-Study awards may be available to provide funding for part-time jobs for graduate students with financial need. Work-Study jobs are normally available on campus or off campus at advocacy groups or non-profit organizations in the community.

Loans 
When it comes to educational loans, you have a number of choices. The Federal government offers a number of educational loan programs that allow you to repay the loan after you graduate or leave school for any reason. A private loan secured through a bank or educational lender provides even more financial flexibility while you're in school. See loans for more information.

Scholarships 
Scholarships give you more financial flexibility as a graduate or doctoral student. You can find scholarships through a cultural or community group in your area. You can also find employers who offer scholarships as a recruiting tool. Start your scholarship search for free through your school's financial aid office, online, in your community, and at the public library. See scholarships for more information.