Pursuing a master’s degree in counseling is a noble goal, but the cost can be a major hurdle. You’re likely wondering if it’s possible to earn your degree without accumulating massive debt. The good news is that fully funded programs exist, and this guide will walk you through exactly how to find and apply for them.
When you see the term “fully funded,” it’s important to understand that it usually means more than just free tuition. While less common for master’s degrees than for PhDs, a truly fully funded program is a comprehensive financial package that allows you to focus on your studies without worrying about tuition or basic living costs.
A typical funding package often includes:
In exchange for this support, you are usually required to work for the university in some capacity, typically for 10 to 20 hours per week. This work is not just a job; it’s a valuable part of your professional training.
Funding comes from several sources, and most packages are a combination of one or more of these opportunities. Understanding them is key to finding the right program for you.
This is the most common way master’s students receive funding. As a Graduate Assistant, you work for the university in a role that supports your academic development. There are three primary types:
Unlike assistantships, fellowships and scholarships are direct monetary awards with no work requirement.
Grants are another form of funding that you don’t have to repay. Some are tied to specific career paths. For example, the federal TEACH Grant provides funds to students who agree to teach in a high-need field at a low-income school. This can be a great option for those entering school counseling programs.
There isn’t a single database of all funded programs, so finding them requires some strategic research. Here is a step-by-step approach to locate these opportunities.
Universities classified as “R1” or “R2” (the highest research activity) often have more funding available. They receive more external grants, which in turn support more research assistantships for graduate students. While not a guarantee, these institutions are a great place to start your search.
This is the most important step. Do not just look at the university’s main financial aid page. Go directly to the website for the specific Counseling or Educational Psychology department you’re interested in. Look for a section labeled “Funding,” “Financial Aid,” “Graduate Studies,” or “Assistantships.” This is where they will list the specific opportunities available for their master’s students.
If you can’t find clear information on the website, don’t be afraid to reach out. Find the email for the Graduate Program Coordinator or Director. Write a polite and professional email introducing yourself, expressing your strong interest in their program, and inquiring about the typical funding opportunities available for incoming master’s students.
Master’s programs that offer a thesis track often have more research assistantships available. Faculty members leading these research projects need students to help them, creating more funded positions.
While funding changes every year, certain universities have historically offered strong funding packages for their counseling master’s students. Use these as a starting point for your research:
Important Note: Always verify current funding opportunities directly with the program, as packages and availability change annually.
Since funded spots are limited, your application needs to stand out. Funding decisions are often made based on who the faculty believes will be the best “investment” for the program.
Are fully funded master’s programs more competitive? Yes, significantly. Because you are competing not just for admission but also for a limited number of paid positions, the applicant pool is often stronger and the acceptance rates are lower.
Does my counseling specialization matter for funding? It can. Specializations with a strong research component, like Counselor Education and Supervision, or those aligned with major university grants, like School Counseling, may have more dedicated funding lines. However, opportunities can exist across all specializations, including Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling.
Can I work another job while in a funded program? Usually, the terms of your assistantship or fellowship contract will prohibit or limit outside employment. The stipend is intended to allow you to fully immerse yourself in your studies and your assistantship duties, which are typically capped at 20 hours per week.