Our List of the Most Affordable Online MFT Programs

How much financial aid you can get

The most significant ways to offset the cost of your online MFT program is through grants and scholarships, which you don’t have to replay, and student loans, which must be repaid. You can also apply for grants and scholarships while you’re in school, not just before entering a program. For more information, consult our guide detailing available financial aid opportunities.

Whether you live in-state or-out-of-state

Many colleges and universities offer online students a special rate for distance learning classes. Some schools have in-state or out-of-state tuition rates, but others do not. Look for online programs offering all their MFT distance learners in-state tuition rates, which is often substantially less expensive than out-of-state rates.

Whether the college is private or public

Public institutions typically offer lower tuition rates than private schools. The average 2018-2019 tuition at private schools for full-time learners was $35,700. For public institutions during the same academic year, average tuition was $9,700 for in-state learners and $21,600 for out-of-state students.

How much of the MFT program coursework is offered online

If your MFT program offers courses entirely online with few or no on-campus obligations, you’ll save money by avoiding costly commutes. Even if you live close to campus, don’t forget about parking fees, potential parking tickets, and gas. Students spending more time on campus also tend to spend cash at coffee shops, restaurants, and bookstores, which remote students can more easily avoid.

If the MFT program has a class schedule that allows you to continue working while you complete your master’s

MFT online programs offer a flexible schedule that most working professionals need. Even a part-time job while enrolled in a master’s program with asynchronous, self-paced courses can help you earn income while you move toward graduation.

How much the college charges for you to apply

The cost of applying to schools may seem somewhat insignificant. If you’re applying to several schools, however, you could be looking at $500 or more in application fees alone. Keep an eye out for programs that have minimal or no application fee. If you are an active duty service member or a veteran, many schools waive the application fee.

1. Look into all the scholarship options you may be eligible for.

Scholarships are essentially free money you do not need to pay back and are available at local, regional, and national levels. Many are also reserved for particular demographics of students, like those for BIPOC students, those pursuing degrees in certain academic areas, and students residing in a specific area. There are also often scholarships available directly through your graduate school or department. Check out EduMed’s scholarship page for a look at 50 of the best scholarships available.

2. Ask about employer tuition reimbursement

If you are currently a working professional, tuition assistance may be available through your employer. Federal tax law allows you to receive up to $5,250 in tuition reimbursement every academic year that you don’t need to claim on your federal taxes. Funds can be used for tuition, books, miscellaneous campus and technology fees, and some school-related supplies.

3. Consider tuition payment plans

Many schools offer short-term installment plans that allow you to split the total amount you owe into smaller monthly payments. Many schools offer these plans at no interest. There might be a one-time sign-up fee, but it’s less than what you would be charged for a late or unpaid balance.