Financial aid options at GMU

I'm looking into George Mason University for college, and I'm really concerned about the cost. Can anyone share information about financial aid opportunities there? Any scholarships or grant options that are worth exploring?

As a prospective student to George Mason University (GMU), you are correct to explore the school's financial aid options. GMU offers aid in a variety of formats, including merit-based scholarships, need-based grants, work-study programs, and student loans.

Firstly, GMU offers several merit-based scholarships. These are based on a student's academic record, and you don't need to exhibit financial need to qualify. For instance, the University Scholars Program provides a full ride to the top 20 incoming freshmen each year. There's also the GMU Honors College Scholarship which provides $2,500 per year for a select number of Honors College students.

Secondly, you may qualify for need-based financial aid, which could include federal and state grants, institutional grants, or work-study programs. The Mason Grant, for example, is awarded to Virginia residents with significant financial need. The specific amount varies year to year. There's also the Federal Pell Grant and Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) for eligible students. Remember, you'll need to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to be considered for these opportunities.

Then, there's the Federal Work-Study program (FWS), where you can work part-time on or off-campus while earning a regular paycheck to contribute towards your college costs.

In addition, GMU has aid for specific constituencies like transfer students, international students, and veterans. For example, the Mason Transfer Scholarship can provide an award of $1,000 to $2,000 per year for eligible transfer students.

Lastly, you'll want to check out external scholarship opportunities, which may be awarded by private companies, nonprofit organizations, or community groups. Resources like Appily can be a great place to start.

As you navigate the financial aid process, don't hesitate to reach out to GMU's Office of Student Financial Aid—they can be a great resource for you along the way. Good luck!