
financial AID + scholarships
Adler offers scholarships, grants, and other resources to help you fund your education and focus on what matters most — gaining real-world skills to drive meaningful change.
Funding your studies
Adler University’s range of scholarships, grants, and other financial aid options help reduce barriers and ease the cost of your studies. Our goal is to ensure you can focus on gaining real-world skills and experience without being held back by financial stress.
Our financial aid team is here to guide you through your options, explain requirements, and help you plan ahead. From application steps to exploring the best funding mix for your situation, we’re ready to support you every step of the way. Explore the resources available and connect with us to build a plan that makes sense for you.
U.S. | NOTICE ABOUT GRADPLUS LOAN ELIGIBILITY
The GradPLUS loan program is being phased out. New borrowers will no longer be eligible to take out GradPLUS loans beginning July 1, 2026. However, students who borrowed a GradPLUS loan for their current program before that date may continue to use GradPLUS loans for up to three additional academic years or until they complete the program — whichever comes first.
This means that even if you begin your academic career with just one course prior to July 1, 2026, you will remain eligible to borrow through the GradPLUS program under this provision.
U.S. | STUDENT EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM
Student employment at Adler is designed to help offset the cost of your education while providing opportunities to build professional skills and connect with the community. Positions are available on campus, remotely, and with partner organizations.
Scholarships + benefits
Adler University offers scholarships to support students’ educational goals. Scholarships don’t need to be repaid and are awarded based on factors like academics, mission fit, and community service.
Chicago scholarships + funding
Entrance Merit Scholarship
*Please note that this information is being updated to reflect changes for the 2025-2026 academic year, and the totals currently displayed may not reflect the new adjustments.
Adler University is pleased to offer merit scholarships to all academically accomplished first-year students who are admitted and enroll at the Chicago campus. All admitted applicants are automatically considered for merit scholarships; no additional scholarship application is required. Merit scholarships are awarded based on the applicant’s undergraduate GPA at time of application submission. Students may also be awarded additional merit scholarship funding based on a holistic review of the application for admission and other factors including (but not limited to): admissions interview, relevant work/volunteer experience, and demonstrated commitment to Adler University’s mission. Admission to Adler University is highly competitive and applicants are encouraged to complete the application process as soon as possible.
NOTE: With exception of the Military scholarship, Master’s and Doctoral Merit Scholarships cannot be combined with any other Adler University Scholarship.
Adler Alumni Merit Scholarship Guarantee
Adler University recognizes the achievements of our alumni and support their ongoing career growth through a doctoral Merit scholarship guarantee. Graduates of any Adler University master’s program who are admitted to a doctoral program will receive a minimum scholarship package of $9,990 through the Merit Scholarship program.
Military Scholarship
Adler University acknowledges the sacrifices made by those who serve our country in the military. As a way of saying “thank you” for your service, all active-duty, veteran, or retired U.S. military service members, Reservist or National Guard (and their spouses or civil partners) who enroll in any Chicago degree program may qualify for a $1,000 Military Scholarship. Recipients may be asked to provide the appropriate documentation.
This product or service has not been approved or endorsed by any governmental agency, and this offer is not being made by an agency of the government.
Current student scholarships
Scholarship Application Instructions and Deadlines
Continuing Chicago Campus students are notified of the availability of scholarship opportunities during spring semester each year. Instructions for applying for awards are included in the announcement.
The Alfred Adler Scholarship
Current, full-time, Chicago Campus students are invited to apply for the Alfred Adler Scholarship. Recipients are selected based on academic performance at Adler University and on a 500-word essay demonstrating commitment to the Adlerian value of social interest through either a history of or an articulated plan to provide service to their community. Required materials: scholarship application and 500-word essay.
Award amount: $5,000, disbursed over two terms (Fall and Spring)
The Seymour Schneider Scholarship
Current, full-time, Chicago Campus students are invited to apply for the Seymour Schneider Scholarship. This scholarship was established in memory of Dr. Seymour Schneider, who taught at Adler until his death in 1996. Scholarship recipients will be selected based on academic performance at Adler University and on a 500-word essay that discusses the influence of Adlerian training on the student’s current and future work as a practitioner. Required materials: scholarship application and 500-word essay.
Award amount: $5,000, disbursed over two terms (Fall and Spring)
The Sadie “Tee” Dreikurs Art Therapy Scholarship
Current, full-time, Chicago Campus students pursuing an M.A. in Art Therapy are invited to apply for the Sadie “Tee” Dreikurs Art Therapy Scholarship. This scholarship is in memory of Ms. Dreikurs, who established art therapy training at Adler University and taught until her death in 1996. Scholarship recipients will be selected based on academic performance at Adler University and on a 500-word essay that discusses why they chose the field of art therapy, and how the training received relates to their future professional goals. Required materials: scholarship application and 500-word essay.
Award amount: $5,000, disbursed over two terms (Fall and Spring)
Scholarships from outside organizations
Unlike student loans, scholarships do not need to be repaid. Hundreds of thousands of scholarships and fellowships are awarded annually by private companies, community organizations, and many other sponsors. These scholarships have varying eligibility criteria and often require an essay submission; however, dedicating time to researching and applying to scholarships can reduce your overall cost or loan debt.
Review finaid.org for more information on how to explore scholarship opportunities from outside organizations, as well as the opportunities we have listed below.
Division 45 Student Travel Award
Scholarships will be awarded to five Div. 45 students to assist attendance to the APA Annual Convention.
$1,000
Division 37 Student Dissertation Award
Div. 37 gives this award annually for a completed doctoral dissertation concerning issues of social policy, service delivery, welfare and/or advocacy for children, youth and families that best exemplifies the mission of the division.
$500
Valuing Difference Award
Students currently enrolled or about to begin graduate programs in any of the following disciplines: Social Work, Clinical Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, Art Therapy, Dance/Movement Therapy, Psychology, or a related field.
From $1,250 to $2,500
Division 45 Richard Moreland Dissertation of the Year Award
This award honors a recent dissertation by someone whose research on small groups seems especially promising.
$1,000
Elizabeth Munsterberg Koppitz Child Psychology Graduate Fellowships
American Psychological Foundation (APF) fellowships for graduate students in child psychology.
$25,000
Violet and Cyril Franks Scholarship
The APF Violet and Cyril Franks Scholarship promotes the application of psychology toward the mitigation of the stigma of mental illness through the support of promising graduate students whose work is consistent with this objective.
$5,000
Division 18 Student Award
This award is for a graduate student and member of Div. 18 who demonstrates commitment to public service psychology and underserved populations.
Division 20 Doctoral Dissertation Award in the Psychology of Aging
This award recognizes a doctoral student or recent graduate for exemplary research contributing to theory or practice of adult development and aging.
CGP Outstanding Dissertation Award
The Committee for Global Psychology sponsors an award for the most outstanding psychology dissertation on international and global communities.
Division 2 Early Career Travel Grant Program
The grant program is open only to Div. 2 members who are an early career psychologist. Society for the Teaching of Psychology defines an early career psychologist as a member who is within 10 years of beginning teaching of psychology and who is not a student.
Using Veterans Education Benefits or Military Assistance
U.S Military Veterans or those who are on active duty/reserve may qualify for education benefits to help fund their Adler education. A student must be admitted prior to applying for Veterans Education or Military benefits. Once admitted, the student can start the process of applying for benefits by following the steps below.
GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.
Veterans Education Benefits
Veterans education benefits are approved by the Illinois State Approving Agency. These programs offer a variety of benefits for students based on their individual Military Enlistment history. Below are the different benefits that are approved by the Illinois State Approving Agency. Use the GI Bill® Comparison Tool to determine which benefit program is the right one for you. Payment rates for each type of benefit are also available online.
The Post-9/11 GI Bill® (Ch. 33) provides the following benefits to, or on behalf of, the student:
- A scaled tuition and fee payment ranging between 40 and 100 percent of billed mandatory charges, which is dependent on length of active service. The payment is made directly to Adler. The 40 percent benefit level will be eliminated on August 1, 2020.
- A monthly housing allowance (MHA) paid to the student and payable for the zip code of the campus where the student physically attends the majority of classes. This applies to the first enrollment in an educational program on or after August 1, 2018.
Note: Students in Adler’s Online Campus will be paid at one-half the BAH national average. Students on active duty or who are enrolled half-time or less are not eligible for the MHA.
- A books and supplies stipend of up to $1,000 per year which is paid proportionally based on enrollment.
- Some Veterans may be able to transfer their benefits to a spouse or dependent.
- Adler participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program, which entitles Veterans at the 100 percent Tier Level to receive full payment of their mandatory charges in excess of the annual cap.
Active duty Service Members and their spouses are not currently eligible for Yellow Ribbon consideration.
- The Montgomery GI Bill® Active Duty (MGIB-AD, Ch. 30) provides a monthly benefit paid directly to the student.
- The Montgomery GI Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR, Ch. 1606) provides a monthly benefit paid directly to the student.
- The Reserve Educational Assistance Program (REAP, Ch. 1607) provides a monthly benefit paid directly to the student.
- The Veterans Educational Assistance Program (VEAP, Ch. 32) provides a monthly benefit paid directly to the student.
- The Survivors and Dependents Assistance Program (Ch. 35) provides a monthly benefit paid directly to the student who is a survivor or dependent of the Veteran.
- Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E, Ch. 31) benefits provide payments to Adler for mandatory tuition and fees.
Applying for Veterans Education Benefits
To begin using VA Education Benefits, the student must submit the appropriate forms to the VA.
- First-time users of VA Education Benefits must apply to use their benefits with the VA.
- Veterans who have used their benefits before and who wish to transfer those benefits to Adler must submit form 22-1995 or form 22-5495 (as appropriate) to the VA.
After applying for or transferring benefits, the Department of Veterans Affairs will determine the student’s eligibility and issue a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) to the student. The student must provide a copy of the COE to the Financial Aid Office before benefits can be certified.
Students wishing to use Veteran Readiness and Employment benefits can begin the application process on the VA’s website. If you have additional questions about using the benefits at Adler University, contact the Office of Financial Aid for specific information at 844.459.3710 or financialaid@adler.edu.
Pending Tuition and Fee Payments
Students utilizing Post 9/11 G.I. Bill® (Ch. 33) or Veteran Readiness and Employment (Ch. 31) education benefits may have a tuition and fees payment sent directly to Adler University. While the tuition and fee payment is pending from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Adler will not take any of the following actions:
- Prevent enrollment;
- Assess a late payment fee;
- Require alternative or additional funding; or
- Deny access to any resources (access to classes, libraries, or other Adler facilities) available to other students who have satisfied their tuition and fee bills.
This pending payment provision supersedes other policies listed elsewhere in the Course Catalog.
To qualify for this provision, Ch. 31 and 33 students may be required to submit the following to the Office of Financial Aid:
- Provide a Certificate of Eligibility by the first day of class;
- Submit a written request to be certified;
- Provide additional information needed in order for the Office of Financial Aid to properly certify enrollment to the VA.
Military Tuition Assistance
Each branch of the US Military offers a Tuition Assistance (TA) program to Active and/or Reserve Military Service members. TA can cover up to $250 per credit hour, not to exceed the amount per Military Fiscal Year based on branch of service. For more information on TA, including a breakdown of Tuition Assistance dollar amounts by branch, please see below.
Applying for Military Tuition Assistance
- Complete the correct enrollment form associated with your branch of the US Military for approval by your Military Education Officer.
- Submit the APPROVED TA form to Adler University’s Student Accounts Office.
Note: Army TA users will need to complete the TA process through the Go Army Ed website.
More Information
If you have questions about using your Veterans and/or Military benefits at Adler University, do not hesitate to reach out to Adler University staff.
Veterans Education Benefits Questions
Office of Financial Aid
Doris Valarezo, Senior Financial Aid Specialist
844.459.3710
financialaid@adler.edu
Veteran Readiness and Employment Benefit Questions
Office of Financial Aid
Zach Weber, Associate Director of Financial Aid
844.459.3710
financialaid@adler.edu
Military Tuition Assistance Questions
Office of Student Accounts
312.662.4135
studentaccounts@adler.edu
Vancouver scholarships + funding
Entrance Merit Scholarship
Admitted Vancouver Campus students may be eligible for merit-based scholarships through the Office of Admissions. Applicants are encouraged to connect with their admissions advisor to discuss eligibility and scholarship application processes.
Students are eligible to receive only one entrance scholarship. Scholarship disbursement varies based on the award amount. Most scholarships, are awarded across your first two terms in the program. Scholarships are awarded at time of acceptance after review by committee and are non-renewable. Applicants who are offered a scholarship and defer admission from the original term of acceptance are ineligible to retain the scholarship.
Merit Scholarship
Preference may be given to individuals with a strong academic record, including GPA.
Award Amount: $1,000-$5,000
Specific scholarships + tuition initiatives
In addition to entrance scholarships Adler University Vancouver also offers tuition incentives and awards to students who meet specific criteria outlined below. Admitted Vancouver Campus students should be in touch with the Vancouver Campus Office of Admissions to obtain full details about these unique scholarship opportunities.
Indigenous Student Scholarship
Newly admitted indigenous students receive this award upon acceptance to any program. Please contact your admissions advisor to discuss eligibility and resources available.
Award Amount: $5,000 (non-renewable)
Adler Alumni Psy.D. Scholarship
Adler University recognizes the achievements of our alumni and support their ongoing career growth. The Adler Alumni Psy.D. Scholarship is for graduates of any Adler University master’s program who are admitted to the PsyD program at the Vancouver campus.
Award Amount: $10,000
The Kelty & Riley Dennehy Scholarship
Established in 2020 as an endowment gift for the Vancouver campus, this annual gift of $1,000 will be awarded to a first-year student who is passionately invested in the mental health care of vulnerable youth. Applicants must be enrolled in Counselling Psychology, Counselling Art Therapy, and Clinical Psychology. This scholarship was generously donated by Ginny and Kerry Dennehy in honour of their, children Kelty and Riley.
The Emergency Relief Scholarship Fund
The Emergency Response Scholarship Fund (ERSF) was created by Adler University as a response to an urgent student need for financial assistance due to COVID-19. This fund provides support to students who have experienced financial hardship during the pandemic by providing one-time awards to help obtain essentials such as food, housing, course materials, and health care. Students across all three campuses and programs are eligible to apply for these one-time awards as they become available. This scholarship was generously funded by individual donors and government grants.
Current student scholarships
Current Student Bursaries
Adler University, Vancouver Campus offers a select number of bursaries in the amount of $1,000 for continuing students each academic year. These bursaries are need-based. Individuals who can receive tuition reimbursement through an employer or who are part of our Community Partner Scholarship Program are not eligible for bursary assistance.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Demonstrate a significant financial need.
- Plan to be enrolled full-time at Adler in the upcoming term. Full-time status is defined as enrollment in six-credits and/or practicum, practicum continuation, thesis, dissertation, full-time internship, internship continuation, or externship satisfy the full-time enrollment definition.
- Have completed at least one semester in a Vancouver-based program.
- Be in good academic standing at Adler with a minimum GPA of 3.5.
- Demonstrate a commitment to the Mission, Vision and Values of Adler University.
- Have not been awarded an Adler University bursary in the past academic year.
Rosemary Brown Human Rights Scholarship
The Rosemary Brown Human Rights Scholarship is awarded annually to a current student at Adler University’s Vancouver Campus. The recipient of this scholarship will be selected based on a demonstrated commitment to human rights issues as illustrated in a 500-word or less essay, or a 5-minute or less video. Priority will be given to Black students and is open to both Canadian and international students.
Award Amount: $5,000
Social Justice Impact Scholarship
This fund provides an award to second-year students who can demonstrate a significant impact made during their first year Social Justice Practicum (SJP) placement. Following the completion of their SJP, applicants will need to submit a letter of interest as well as a recommendation letter from the practicum Supervisor at the community partner site. This scholarship was generously funded by individual donors.
Clair Ladner Hawes Memorial Scholarship
Each Fall, one full-time, second-year student enrolled in the Master of Counselling Psychology (MCP) or Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology (MACP) programs will be awarded a $1,000 gift in honour of Adlerian Psychologist, Dr. Clair Ladner Hawes. Applicants must demonstrate their knowledge of special interests in one-on-one counselling, family therapy and PTSD treatment and submit a 500-word essay relating to Dr. Hawes’ work. This scholarship was generously donated by Dr. David Cowan Kirkpatrick.
The Alan & Catherine Younger Scholarship
The Alan and Catherine Younger Scholarship was established in 2019 and is an annual gift of $5,000 awarded to a continuing Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.) student with demonstrated financial need. Alan and Catherine Younger were dedicated advocates of access to education and actively involved in supporting social justice issues. This scholarship was generously donated by the Younger Family.
Indigenous Student Funding Tips
Adler University’s Vancouver Campus recommends that Indigenous applicants follow the steps listed below when pursuing educational funding.
- An Indigenous student’s first step is to reach out to their First Nation for band funding and other related scholarships/awards. They will have an application process that the student must go through and specific deadlines determined by the post-secondary funding administrator. Bands will sometimes fund partial amounts if the cost of tuition is too high for their yearly budget.
- If the student receives a band denial letter or is not a member of a band/nation, this can grant them access to external Indigenous sources of funding. Federal and Provincial agencies that fund students for post-secondary education outside of band funding look for band denial letters to proceed with their sponsorship process. These agencies may also offer funding to Metis, Inuit, and non-status Indigenous students.
- Students can also apply for a student loan through their province of residency at the point of acceptance.
- Students can also check out external scholarships, bursaries, and awards for Indigenous students.
External Indigenous Sources of Funding
These sponsors are outside of band funding and assist Indigenous students in their post-secondary financial aid.
Scholarships, Bursaries and Awards
Scholarships are a great way to ease the financial strain of a school year. Students can apply to multiple scholarships.
Search Tools
Funding is also available to Indigenous students based on location, financial status, and age, among other criteria. They can also sign up for https://yconic.com/ and http://www.scholarshipscanada.com/ to apply for other scholarship opportunities.
Online scholarships + funding
Entrance Merit Scholarship
*Please note that this information is being updated to reflect changes for the 2025-2026 academic year, and the totals currently displayed may not reflect the new adjustments.
Adler University is pleased to offer merit scholarships to all academically accomplished first-year students who are admitted and enroll. All admitted applicants are automatically considered for merit scholarships; no additional scholarship application is required. Merit scholarships are awarded based on the applicant’s undergraduate GPA at time of application submission. Students may also be awarded additional merit scholarship funding based on a holistic review of the application for admission and other factors including (but not limited to): admissions interview, relevant work/volunteer experience, and demonstrated commitment to Adler University’s mission. Admission to Adler University is highly competitive and applicants are encouraged to complete the application process as soon as possible.
NOTE: With the exception of the Military scholarship, Master’s and Doctoral Merit Scholarships cannot be combined with any other Adler University Scholarship.
Military Scholarship
Adler University acknowledges the sacrifices made by those who serve our country in the military. As a way of saying “thank you” for your service, all active-duty, veteran, or retired U.S. military service members, Reservist or National Guard (and their spouses or civil partners) who enroll in any Chicago degree program may qualify for a $1,000 Military Scholarship. Recipients may be asked to provide the appropriate documentation.
This product or service has not been approved or endorsed by any governmental agency, and this offer is not being made by an agency of the government.
Scholarships from outside organizations
Unlike student loans, scholarships do not need to be repaid. Hundreds of thousands of scholarships and fellowships are awarded annually by private companies, community organizations, and many other sponsors. These scholarships have varying eligibility criteria and often require an essay submission; however, dedicating time to researching and applying to scholarships can reduce your overall cost or loan debt.
Review finaid.org for more information on how to explore scholarship opportunities from outside organizations.
Using Veterans Education Benefits or Military Assistance
U.S Military Veterans or those who are on active duty/reserve may qualify for education benefits to help fund their Adler education. A student must be admitted prior to applying for Veterans Education or Military benefits. Once admitted, the student can start the process of applying for benefits by following the steps below.
GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.
Veterans Education Benefits
Veterans education benefits are approved by the Illinois State Approving Agency. These programs offer a variety of benefits for students based on their individual Military Enlistment history. Below are the different benefits that are approved by the Illinois State Approving Agency. Use the GI Bill® Comparison Tool to determine which benefit program is the right one for you. Payment rates for each type of benefit are also available online.
The Post-9/11 GI Bill® (Ch. 33) provides the following benefits to, or on behalf of, the student:
- A scaled tuition and fee payment ranging between 40 and 100 percent of billed mandatory charges, which is dependent on length of active service. The payment is made directly to Adler. The 40 percent benefit level will be eliminated on August 1, 2020.
- A monthly housing allowance (MHA) paid to the student and payable for the zip code of the campus where the student physically attends the majority of classes. This applies to the first enrollment in an educational program on or after August 1, 2018.
Note: Students in Adler’s Online Campus will be paid at one-half the BAH national average. Students on active duty or who are enrolled half-time or less are not eligible for the MHA.
- A books and supplies stipend of up to $1,000 per year which is paid proportionally based on enrollment.
- Some Veterans may be able to transfer their benefits to a spouse or dependent.
- Adler participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program, which entitles Veterans at the 100 percent Tier Level to receive full payment of their mandatory charges in excess of the annual cap.
Active duty Service Members and their spouses are not currently eligible for Yellow Ribbon consideration.
- The Montgomery GI Bill® Active Duty (MGIB-AD, Ch. 30) provides a monthly benefit paid directly to the student.
- The Montgomery GI Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR, Ch. 1606) provides a monthly benefit paid directly to the student.
- The Reserve Educational Assistance Program (REAP, Ch. 1607) provides a monthly benefit paid directly to the student.
- The Veterans Educational Assistance Program (VEAP, Ch. 32) provides a monthly benefit paid directly to the student.
- The Survivors and Dependents Assistance Program (Ch. 35) provides a monthly benefit paid directly to the student who is a survivor or dependent of the Veteran.
- Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E, Ch. 31) benefits provide payments to Adler for mandatory tuition and fees.
Applying for Veterans Education Benefits
To begin using VA Education Benefits, the student must submit the appropriate forms to the VA.
- First-time users of VA Education Benefits must apply to use their benefits with the VA.
- Veterans who have used their benefits before and who wish to transfer those benefits to Adler must submit form 22-1995 or form 22-5495 (as appropriate) to the VA.
After applying for or transferring benefits, the Department of Veterans Affairs will determine the student’s eligibility and issue a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) to the student. The student must provide a copy of the COE to the Financial Aid Office before benefits can be certified.
Students wishing to use Veteran Readiness and Employment benefits can begin the application process on the VA’s website. If you have additional questions about using the benefits at Adler University, contact the Office of Financial Aid for specific information at 844.459.3710 or financialaid@adler.edu.
Pending Tuition and Fee Payments
Students utilizing Post 9/11 G.I. Bill® (Ch. 33) or Veteran Readiness and Employment (Ch. 31) education benefits may have a tuition and fees payment sent directly to Adler University. While the tuition and fee payment is pending from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Adler will not take any of the following actions:
- Prevent enrollment;
- Assess a late payment fee;
- Require alternative or additional funding; or
- Deny access to any resources (access to classes, libraries, or other Adler facilities) available to other students who have satisfied their tuition and fee bills.
This pending payment provision supersedes other policies listed elsewhere in the Course Catalog.
To qualify for this provision, Ch. 31 and 33 students may be required to submit the following to the Office of Financial Aid:
- Provide a Certificate of Eligibility by the first day of class;
- Submit a written request to be certified;
- Provide additional information needed in order for the Office of Financial Aid to properly certify enrollment to the VA.
Military Tuition Assistance
Each branch of the US Military offers a Tuition Assistance (TA) program to Active and/or Reserve Military Service members. TA can cover up to $250 per credit hour, not to exceed the amount per Military Fiscal Year based on branch of service. For more information on TA, including a breakdown of Tuition Assistance dollar amounts by branch, please see below.
Applying for Military Tuition Assistance
- Complete the correct enrollment form associated with your branch of the US Military for approval by your Military Education Officer.
- Submit the APPROVED TA form to Adler University’s Student Accounts Office.
Note: Army TA users will need to complete the TA process through the Go Army Ed website.
More Information
If you have questions about using your Veterans and/or Military benefits at Adler University, do not hesitate to reach out to Adler University staff.
Veterans Education Benefits Questions
Office of Financial Aid
Doris Valarezo, Senior Financial Aid Specialist
844.459.3710
financialaid@adler.edu
Veteran Readiness and Employment Benefit Questions
Office of Financial Aid
Zach Weber, Associate Director of Financial Aid
844.459.3710
financialaid@adler.edu
Military Tuition Assistance Questions
Office of Student Accounts
312.662.4135
studentaccounts@adler.edu
Loans + aid
Adler offers financial aid and loans to help make your graduate studies possible. Learn about funding options, eligibility, and how our team can support you every step of the way.
Chicago loans + financial aid
Loans
Money that must be repaid at some point in the future, with interest. Graduate student federal loans are not need-based, but there may be a credit check required.
Student loan financing options
Many Adler University students elect to borrow student loans to finance all or a portion of their costs. The Office of Financial Aid strongly encourages those who qualify to explore U.S. federal student loan options first. Federal student loans that a student took out prior to enrolling with Adler University are eligible for in-school deferment as long as the student maintains at least half-time enrollment.
Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans
The Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan is the basic component of a student’s financial aid award offer. A student must be enrolled at least half-time to be eligible for federal loans. The interest rate on the Unsubsidized loan is fixed annually; a fee is assessed by the government when the loan is disbursed. There are several repayment plans available. Direct Unsubsidized Loans are not need-based and are available to degree and certificate students at all academic levels. The amount awarded for the year cannot exceed the annual loan limit and is based on the student’s academic level and/or program.
To qualify for a Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan, a student must:
- File the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) each academic year;
- Accept or reject each Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan offered; and
- Complete both a master promissory note (MPN) and an entrance counseling session (new borrowers).
Students are held to annual and lifetime aggregate maximums for Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans. These amounts are based on a student’s academic level and/or program.
Program
Graduate Students (Except Chicago Campus Psy.D. Students)
- Annual Loan Limit: $20,500 (Unsubsidized Only)
- Lifetime Aggregate Loan Limit: $138,500
Psy.D. Graduate Students (Chicago Campus only)
- Annual Loan Limit: $37,167 in a 12-month academic year (Unsubsidized Only, Prorated for academic year less than 12 months)
- Lifetime Aggregate Loan Limit: $224,000
Federal Direct Graduate PLUS loans
The Grad PLUS loan program is being phased out. New borrowers will no longer be eligible to take out Grad PLUS loans beginning July 1, 2026. However, students who borrowed a Grad PLUS loan for their current program before that date may continue to use Grad PLUS loans for up to three additional academic years or until they complete the program — whichever comes first.
This means that even if you begin your academic career with just one course prior to July 1, 2026, you will remain eligible to borrow through the Grad PLUS program under this provision.
To qualify for a Federal Direct Grad PLUS loan, a student must:
- File the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) each academic year
- Complete a loan application with the U.S. federal government
- Complete a Master Promissory Note (MPN) and entrance counseling
- Should the student not meet the credit criteria, an endorser (cosigner) may be added; an endorser addendum must then also be on file with the government
Withdrawing + financial aid
Students who withdraw or take a leave of absence may no longer be eligible for the entire amount of financial aid they were awarded and/or received. Review Adler University’s Withdrawing and Financial Aid policy for more information about the impact to financial aid when a semester is not completed.
Loan repayment
Borrowers of Federal Student Loans are required to complete Exit Counseling whenever they graduate, withdraw from school (including taking a leave of absence), or cease to maintain at least half-time enrollment. If Exit Counseling is required, the student will be notified by the Office of Financial Aid.
- Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans — repayment does not begin until the conclusion of a six-month grace period. This grace period begins after a student graduates, withdraws from school (including taking a leave of absence), or ceases to maintain at least half-time enrollment.
- Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loans — repayment begins as soon as the loan is fully disbursed. Students have the option of deferring repayment while enrolled at least half-time
There are several repayment options for Direct Loans, including loan forgiveness, cancellation and discharge. Borrowers have the option of a standard, 10-year repayment or other extended repayment options based on time to repayment or the borrower’s income. These loans also allow for specific deferments or forbearances, time periods when the government-designated loan servicer will temporarily suspend collection activity on the loan. Borrowers requiring a temporary postponement or partial reduction in monthly payment may request a forbearance if deferment is not available.
Alternative loans
Alternative loans are private, credit-based loans the student applies for directly with a financial institution. These loans cannot be combined with Federal Direct Loans into a Federal Consolidation Loan following graduation. Alternative loans may be available to international students who have U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident co-borrower, or borrowers who are not able to file a FAFSA. Interest rates on alternative loans are typically not fixed and may vary based on the lender and the borrower’s credit rating.
Students who are eligible for Federal Direct Loans are encouraged to explore federal loans first as there are many benefits that may be unavailable through an alternative loan program.
Apply for Financial Aid
Students who are U.S. citizens, nationals, or permanent residents begin the U.S. financial aid process by completing and submitting a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at studentaid.gov using Adler’s school code (G20681). Financial aid applications are year-specific and must be renewed each academic year in order to continue funding.
Current students should complete the applicable FAFSA based on the following:
- For the Fall 2021, Spring 2022, and Summer 2022 semesters, complete the 2021-2022 FAFSA
- For the Fall 2022, Spring 2023, and Summer 2023 semesters complete the 2022-2023 FAFSA
Prospective students should complete the applicable FAFSA based on the following:
- Prospective students applying to start during the Spring 2022 or Summer 2022 semesters should complete both the 2021-2022 FAFSA and the 2022-2023 FAFSA.
- Prospective students applying to start during the Fall 2022, Spring 2023, or Summer 2023 semesters should complete the 2022-2023 FAFSA.
Students who are Canadian citizens may be eligible to apply for student aid through their province or territory; more information can be found on the Canadian government website. We encourage you to contact your province or territory’s student aid office with any questions about determining your eligibility for Canadian aid programs.
Vancouver loans + financial aid
Student loan options
Pursuing a graduate degree at Adler University is one of the most important steps you can take to make a difference in your community. It’s not a surprise, however, that many people question whether they can afford to invest in higher education. A number of financial aid options exist to support your graduate school education. To begin, please read about the different loan options below.
Student loans offered by the Canadian government help students pay for their post-secondary education. Canadian students (including permanent residents, landed immigrants, and protected persons) apply for loans through their home province or territory. Government student loans take into consideration many factors, including:
- Income and assets.
- Tuition, mandatory fees, and book costs.
- Living expenses.
Students from British Columbia
StudentAid BC provides assistance in the form of Canada Student Loans or a combination of Canada Student Loans, B.C. Student Loans, and possibly grant funding. The amount and type of assistance awarded is based on need as assessed by the Provincial Authority. It takes approximately six weeks to process a student loan application. Students are therefore advised to apply early. Submitting online applications can speed up the approval process. Students are reminded that this is an assistance program aimed at complementing, not replacing, their own financial resources. To be eligible for full time StudentAid BC student loan funding, students must be registered in 60% of a full course load (6 credits), or 40% for students with permanent disabilities.
Students from British Columbia can apply online through studentaidbc.ca to be considered for federal and provincial loans and grant funding.
How much loan funding will I receive?
The amount of funding you receive depends on the financial information you submit in your online application. After you have submitted your application, you will receive an assessment from SABC. This assessment will tell you how much funding you are eligible for and when you will receive it.
Students from other provinces
Students from a province or territory other than British Columbia are eligible to receive government student loan assistance, but they must apply through their home province.
Please visit the loan site based on your province of residence below:
Grants, scholarships + other financial supports
There are many programs available that can help with the cost of post-secondary education. For a list of eligible programs, visit https://studentaidbc.ca/explore/grants-scholarships or inquire through your home province.
Students from the U.S. attending the Vancouver campus
Students who are U.S. citizens, nationals, or permanent residents begin the U.S. financial aid process by completing and submitting a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at studentaid.gov using Adler’s school code (G20681). Financial aid applications are year-specific and must be renewed each academic year in order to continue funding. The 2023-2024 FAFSA covers the Fall 2023, Spring 2024, and Summer 2024 semesters and the 2024-2025 FAFSA covers the Fall 2024, Spring 2025, and Summer 2025 semesters.
- U.S. citizens, nationals, or permanent residents applying to start during the Spring 2024 or Summer 2024 semesters should complete both the 2023-2024 FAFSA and the 2024-2025 FAFSA.
- U.S. citizens, nationals, or permanent residents applying to start during the Fall 2024, Spring 2025, or Summer 2025 semesters should complete the 2024-2025 FAFSA.
International students
International students attending the Adler University in Vancouver are not eligible for Canadian federal or provincial student loans. However, international students are eligible to work off-campus through the Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) off-campus work permit program. For more information about this program, visit cic.gc.ca/english/study/work-offcampus.asp.
Apply for Financial Aid
Students who are Canadian citizens may be eligible to apply for student aid through their province or territory; more information can be found on the Canadian government website. We encourage you to contact your province or territory’s student aid office with any questions about determining your eligibility for Canadian aid programs.
Current students should complete the applicable FAFSA based on the following:
- For the Fall 2021, Spring 2022, and Summer 2022 semesters, complete the 2021-2022 FAFSA
- For the Fall 2022, Spring 2023, and Summer 2023 semesters complete the 2022-2023 FAFSA
Prospective students should complete the applicable FAFSA based on the following:
- Prospective students applying to start during the Spring 2022 or Summer 2022 semesters should complete both the 2021-2022 FAFSA and the 2022-2023 FAFSA.
- Prospective students applying to start during the Fall 2022, Spring 2023, or Summer 2023 semesters should complete the 2022-2023 FAFSA.
Online loans + financial aid
Loans
Money that must be repaid at some point in the future, with interest. Graduate student federal loans are not need-based, but there may be a credit check required.
Student loan financing options
Many Adler University students elect to borrow student loans to finance all or a portion of their costs. The Office of Financial Aid strongly encourages those who qualify to explore U.S. federal student loan options first. Federal student loans that a student took out prior to enrolling with Adler University are eligible for in-school deferment as long as the student maintains at least half-time enrollment.
Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans
The Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan is the basic component of a student’s financial aid award offer. A student must be enrolled at least half-time to be eligible for federal loans. The interest rate on the Unsubsidized loan is fixed annually; a fee is assessed by the government when the loan is disbursed. There are several repayment plans available. Direct Unsubsidized Loans are not need-based and are available to degree and certificate students at all academic levels. The amount awarded for the year cannot exceed the annual loan limit and is based on the student’s academic level and/or program.
To qualify for a Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan, a student must:
- File the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) each academic year;
- Accept or reject each Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan offered; and
- Complete both a master promissory note (MPN) and an entrance counseling session (new borrowers).
Students are held to annual and lifetime aggregate maximums for Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans. These amounts are based on a student’s academic level and/or program. Online campus graduate students are limited to $20,500 in Unsubsidized Loan funding for each academic year, and $138,500 in lifetime aggregate Unsubsidized Loan funding.
Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loans
The Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan (GradPLUS) is available to graduate/professional degree-seeking students. Students are encouraged to expend annual Direct Unsubsidized Loan eligibility prior to borrowing a GradPLUS loan; however, the GradPLUS loan is a federal student loan option to help meet costs that exceed the annual or lifetime Unsubsidized loan limits.
A student must be enrolled at least half time to be eligible for the GradPLUS loan. The interest rate on the GradPLUS loan is fixed annually; a fee is assessed by the government when the loan is disbursed. There are several repayment plans available. GradPLUS loans are not need-based but a credit-based loan application is required. The amount awarded for the year cannot exceed your specified Cost of Attendance, less all other aid. There is likewise no lifetime max on the GradPLUS loan.
To qualify for a Federal Direct GradPLUS Loan, a student must:
- File the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) each academic year
- Complete a loan application with the U.S. federal government
- Complete a Master Promissory Note (MPN) and entrance counseling
- Should the student not meet the credit criteria, an endorser (cosigner) may be added; an endorser addendum must then also be on file with the government
Withdrawing + financial aid
Students who withdraw or take a leave of absence may no longer be eligible for the entire amount of financial aid they were awarded and/or received. Review Adler University’s Withdrawing and Financial Aid policy for more information about the impact to financial aid when a semester is not completed.
Loan repayment
Borrowers of Federal Student Loans are required to complete Exit Counseling whenever they graduate, withdraw from school (including taking a leave of absence), or cease to maintain at least half-time enrollment. If Exit Counseling is required, the student will be notified by the Office of Financial Aid.
- Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans — repayment does not begin until the conclusion of a six-month grace period. This grace period begins after a student graduates, withdraws from school (including taking a leave of absence), or ceases to maintain at least half-time enrollment.
- Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loans — repayment begins as soon as the loan is fully disbursed. Students have the option of deferring repayment while enrolled at least half-time.
There are several repayment options for Direct Loans, including loan forgiveness, cancellation and discharge. Borrowers have the option of a standard, 10-year repayment or other extended repayment options based on time to repayment or the borrower’s income. These loans also allow for specific deferments or forbearances, time periods when the government designated loan servicer will temporarily suspend collection activity on the loan. Borrowers requiring a temporary postponement or partial reduction in monthly payment may request a forbearance if deferment is not available.
Alternative loans
Alternative loans are private, credit-based loans the student applies for directly with a financial institution. These loans cannot be combined with Federal Direct Loans into a Federal Consolidation Loan following graduation. Alternative loans may be available to international students who have U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident co-borrower, or borrowers who are not able to file a FAFSA. Interest rates on alternative loans are typically not fixed and may vary based on the lender and the borrower’s credit rating.
Students who are eligible for Federal Direct Loans are encouraged to explore federal loans first as there are many benefits that may be unavailable through an alternative loan program.
Apply for Financial Aid
Students who are U.S. citizens, nationals, or permanent residents begin the U.S. financial aid process by completing and submitting a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at studentaid.gov using Adler’s school code (G20681). Financial aid applications are year-specific and must be renewed each academic year in order to continue funding.
Current students should complete the applicable FAFSA based on the following:
- For the Fall 2021, Spring 2022, and Summer 2022 semesters, complete the 2021-2022 FAFSA
- For the Fall 2022, Spring 2023, and Summer 2023 semesters complete the 2022-2023 FAFSA
Prospective students should complete the applicable FAFSA based on the following:
- Prospective students applying to start during the Spring 2022 or Summer 2022 semesters should complete both the 2021-2022 FAFSA and the 2022-2023 FAFSA.
- Prospective students applying to start during the Fall 2022, Spring 2023, or Summer 2023 semesters should complete the 2022-2023 FAFSA.
Students who are Canadian citizens may be eligible to apply for student aid through their province or territory; more information can be found on the Canadian government website. We encourage you to contact your province or territory’s student aid office with any questions about determining your eligibility for Canadian aid programs.
Frequently Asked questions
When are my tuition fees due?
The due date for students paying in full is typically two weeks before the start of the term.
What do I need to do for student loans?
U.S. based students:
Graduate education is primarily funded using student loans, with federal loan programs offering extended loan limits for graduate students. Visit the Federal Student Aid site for full details.
Canada-based students:
The Government of Canada offers student loans to students who are Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or protected persons. Eligible students can apply for loan funding through their home province.
Are international students eligible for financial aid?
Financial aid options vary depending on citizenship. We recommend international students explore funding resources in their home country.
International students may qualify for scholarships at Adler and they are encouraged to speak with their Admissions Advisor to find out more.
What is the cost of tuition?
Tuition is based on the cost per credit hour and the number of credit hours needed to graduate. The number of credits needed to graduate can be found on each program’s page. Students can expect the cost per credit hour to go up on an annual basis. Learn more about Adler University tuition and fees.
How do I fund my living expenses while not working?
Our Financial Aid team is here to help. They can walk you through your options, review additional resources, and guide you in finding the best funding plan for your situation.
When will I know what my funding eligibility is? | U.S.
Provided the admitted student has met the scholarship qualifications and has completed loan applications, Financial Aid aims to send aid and scholarship qualifications to the student after their acceptance as soon as possible.
the Financial Aid team
Meet the team ready to support your financial aid journey at Adler University.