Student Financial Services

Student Financial Services

Financial Aid Information

Application forms and guidelines are available in the Office of Graduate and Professional Admissions and online at graduate.mercyhurst.edu.

Mercyhurst Graduate Assistantships

A limited number of graduate assistantships (GAs) are available for eligible students who can accept employment on the Mercyhurst campus. Graduate assistants receive a full or partial waiver of tuition and a stipend in return for a minimum of 25 hours of work weekly. There is no waiver provided fees.

 In the event of a closure or reduction in campus-based operations, the stipend associated with a GA may be reduced if the GA is unable to continue to perform normal duties during any period of closure or reduction in operations.  These determinations will be made by area vice presidents, in consultation with Human Resources.  GAs will continue to receive any tuition benefits during the period of closure or reduction in operations.

 Mercyhurst Graduate Employment

Qualified students may be offered graduate employment opportunities at Mercyhurst University. Graduate employees (GEs) typically receive up to $9,000 in annual earnings.

In the event of a closure or reduction in campus-based operations, the stipend associated with a GE may be reduced if the GE is unable to continue to perform normal duties during any period of closure or reduction in operations.  These determinations will be made by area vice presidents, in consultation with Human Resources. 

Veterans Benefits

Information regarding veterans benefits can be obtained by contacting the Veterans Enrollment and Outreach Coordinator at 814-824-2617.

Federal Direct Loan Program

Graduate students are eligible for Direct Unsubsidized Loans. These loans are not need-based. To apply for a Direct Loan, students must first complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Students receiving a Direct Loan for the first time will be required to complete entrance counseling, to ensure they understand their obligation to repay the loan, and sign a Master Promissory Note, agreeing to the terms of the loan. These steps can be completed at studentaid.gov.

Loan funds will first be applied to a student’s school account to pay for tuition, fees, and any other school charges. If any additional loan funds remain, they will be returned to the student. Should additional funding be necessary, Federal Direct Grad PLUS Loans and Private Alternative Education Loans can also be available. If students have federal loans from undergraduate studies, they can request an in-school deferment from the Direct Loan Program or loan servicer.