<p>These are probably dumb questions, but here goes---
Is there ever merit aid available for grad school (poli sci, IR, etc -- not sciences)?
Since students are probably on their own for the first time (and probably broke), and over 21, wouldn't most of them qualify for need-based aid? Or is it even offered in grad school programs?
Just wondering.</p>
<p>often for phds, rarely for masters.</p>
<p>there are other ways to defray cost as a grad student like becoming a Community DIrector supervising RAs which will provide free housing. I agree with huskem55, if your student is applying for a masters program, some schools may throw a nominal amount of scholarship aid this way (ususally enough to cover one class) but the bulk of FA will be in the form of loans (subsidized/unsubsidized stafford loans up to 20k). </p>
<p>Some programs allow you to do work for americorps (tutoring) where you may be able to get $5000 per term in tuition remissions. You may have to check with each school.</p>