Should You Pay for Graduate School? Exploring the Reasons Behind Not Paying

In summary, it is common for people to advise against paying for graduate school due to the financial burden. However, there are also other reasons to consider, such as the potential for being accepted with support at a different school, and the possibility that a lack of support may indicate a lower level of academic success. This advice may not apply to everyone, but it is important to consider alternatives and financial constraints when deciding on a graduate school.
  • #1
glyvin
4
0
It seems common that people say you shouldn't pay for graduate school. Besides the financial burden, are there any other reasons why this is the case? I am just curious. Thank you!
 
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  • #2
Some reasons of the top of my head.
1) Obviously you would rather not pay, especially with how much grad school costs unsupported.
2) If some grad school accepts you, but without support, then it is likely that some other grad school at about the same level would accept you with support. At the graduate level there is not really as much of a difference as there seems to be for undergrad colleges in the US. It seems that when people talk about top colleges in the US (where I assume you study) they mean ivy league + MIT and maybe a couple others depending on interests, but for grad school there are a ton of colleges at about the same level just specializing in various different areas.
3) If the school will not pay it may be a sign that you are not really wanted. You are obviously not their top candidate because those get support. Thus you may find that you are not really strong enough academically, have a hard time getting the "top advisors", etc.

(3) I have only heard about from others so I don't know how much truth there is to it. Take it with a grain of salt, but it makes sense that it applies at least to some extent.

Obviously if it is your only choice and money is not a problem, then it will not be a big problem, but money is a problem for most people and most have alternatives available.
 

What is the average cost of graduate school?

The average cost of graduate school varies depending on the program and school, but it can range from $30,000 to over $100,000 per year.

Are there any scholarships or grants available for graduate school?

Yes, there are many scholarships and grants available for graduate students. These can be merit-based, need-based, or specific to certain fields of study. It is important to research and apply for these opportunities early on in the application process.

Is it worth taking out loans to pay for graduate school?

This depends on individual circumstances and career goals. It is important to carefully consider the potential return on investment and how long it will take to pay off the loans. Additionally, exploring other options such as scholarships, grants, and assistantships can help minimize the need for loans.

Are there any alternatives to traditional graduate school programs?

Yes, there are alternative options such as online programs, part-time programs, and certificate programs that may be more affordable and flexible. It is important to research and weigh the pros and cons of each option before making a decision.

What are some tips for managing the cost of graduate school?

Some tips for managing the cost of graduate school include applying for scholarships and grants, working part-time or finding a graduate assistantship, creating a budget and sticking to it, and exploring loan repayment programs or forgiveness options after graduation.

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