Financial Aid for Combination Programs

A combined degree program offers an accelerated path to obtaining two degrees simultaneously, typically involving a coordinated sequence of undergraduate and graduate coursework. These programs are structured to save both time and money, allowing students to complete both degrees faster than if they were pursued separately. For example, a common format is the 3+2 program, where students complete their bachelor’s degree in three years instead of the usual four, and then earn a master’s degree in two years instead of the typical additional two years. Similarly, a 4+1 program allows students to finish their bachelor's degree in four years and complete the master's degree in just one extra year.

Treatment of Financial Aid - Undergraduate

You will be offered financial aid as an undergraduate student for as long as you are classified as mainly participating in undergraduate coursework. This means that if at least 50% of your coursework is at the undergraduate level, and your academic advisor has not reclassified you as a graduate student, you will retain your undergraduate status for financial aid purposes. To qualify for federal student loans, you must be enrolled at least half-time (6 credit hours) in courses that count toward your undergraduate degree. You may be eligible for the Federal Pell Grant, depending on your financial need. Courses that do not apply to your undergraduate degree, typically graduate-level courses, cannot be used to determine your enrollment status for federal financial aid.

If you have questions about graduate courses counting for your undergraduate degree, please reach out to your academic advisor for assistance.

Treatment of Financial Aid - Graduate/Professional

If more than 50% of your coursework is determined to be at the graduate level or you have completed the undergraduate portion of your combination program, you will be classified as a graduate student and your financial aid eligibility will change.

When your status is updated and you are offered financial aid as a graduate student, you must be enrolled at least half-time (5 credit hours) in courses that count toward your degree to be eligible for federal student loans. Graduate students are not eligible for federal grant programs (i.e., Pell Grant and Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant) as well as certain state aid programs including, but not limited to, the TEXAS Grant and Texas Public Education Grant. Courses that do not apply to your graduate degree cannot be utilized to meet financial aid eligibility requirements.

If you would like more details concerning what aid you qualify for as an undergraduate student versus what aid you qualify for as a graduate student, please contact  Aggie One Stop.

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