A master’s degree from Siena will give you a competitive edge in the marketplace and greatly increase your earning potential. Graduate school is an important commitment and investment—and it pays off. On average, individuals with master’s degrees earn 17.9% more than those with a bachelor's degree. This adds up to $700,000 more in salary earnings over the course of their careers.*
FEDERAL LOANS
The Federal Direct Unsubsidized loan is available to graduate students who have filed and met the FAFSA eligibility criteria and are enrolled at least half time per semester (6 credits). This loan does not require a credit check or a certain level of income to be approved. The maximum amount awarded per academic year is $20,500. This loan can be awarded for one semester when requested. Apply for this loan by submitting the FAFSA to Siena University.
The Federal Direct Graduate PLUS loan is available to matriculated graduate students, have filed a FAFSA and pass the required credit check to determine credit worthiness. Maximum loan amount is based on the student’s cost of attendance minus all other financial aid (loans, grants, scholarships). You can apply for a PLUS loan on the Federal Student Aid website.
For both of these federal loan options, the borrower is responsible for all interest that accrues and can choose to either pay the interest while in school or it is deferred and added to the loan principal at repayment. Loan fees are deducted from the loan prior to the disbursement of the funds and borrowers are responsible for repayment of all such fees. Interest rates are determined each year and set in June of the upcoming academic year. Once set, the interest rate is locked in for the life of the loan.
Repayment on the loan begins 180 days after a student falls below part-time status, graduates or stops attending school. Students have many different repayment terms to select, some of which are income-driven.
PRIVATE EDUCATION LOANS
Private education loans, or alternative loans, are available to students when federal loans are not enough to cover the cost of attendance or for students that do not qualify for any federal loans. Before applying for a loan, make sure the loan meets your personal needs and has the most competitive rates, fees and terms available.
Blended Enrollment Policy for Undergraduate Students Taking Graduate Courses
Siena allows undergraduate students to enroll in graduate-level courses while completing their bachelor’s degree, giving eligible students structured access to advanced coursework that supports academic progress and degree completion. Learn more about the blended enrollment policy here.
*Note: This estimate is based on national average bachelor's and master's degree salaries and a 3% salary increase each year and retirement age of 65.