Affording Graduate School

At Aquinas Institute of Theology, we work closely with accepted graduate students to assess the availability of merit- and need-based scholarships to fund their studies.

Tuition at Aquinas Institute of Theology is affordable and covers only a portion of actual instructional costs. The generosity of our benefactors, including religious orders, trustees, alumni, friends and foundations, bridges the gap between tuition and actual instructional costs.

We are aware of the differing financial situations of our students and offer various plans to complete your individual financial aid package. You may be eligible for Aquinas Institute Scholarships, board grants, and Federal Stafford Loans.

Scholarships & Awards

Aquinas Institute is proud to offer several merit-based scholarship awards for academically qualified lay men and women who have demonstrated a commitment to theological studies and ministerial service. 

Whether you are just embarking on your journey toward ministry in the Church or currently serving in a ministerial role, you may be eligible for financial support for your Aquinas education. 

We welcome applications from lay students who have demonstrated potential for academic achievement,  theological scholarship, and ministerial leadership. We encourage those from underserved populations to apply. 

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Need Based Financial Aid

Aquinas offers need-based financial aid to both new applicants and current students in degree or certificate programs.

In order to be considered for need based financial aid, students should submit their FAFSA and Aquinas Institute aid application with their program application. For Fall semester, priority deadline is January 28th, final deadline is August 1. Spring semester priority deadline is October 15th, final deadline is December 1. 

Click here for information and application forms.  

Federal Direct Student Loans

Aquinas Institute of Theology’s financial aid and loan policy reflects our commitment to helping students pursue graduate theological study and careers of ministry and service to the Church. Although it may be necessary to borrow money, Aquinas urges students to do so with great care and only apply for loans that are financially necessary. Both new and returning students may be eligible to apply for and receive Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans. 

Click here for more information. 

Covid-19 Financial Assistance

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act - Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) provides emergency financial assistance to eligible Aquinas Institute of Theology students who are experiencing financial hardship related to COVID-19 that could adversely affect their academic success.

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Cost of Attendance

In addition to tuition, students should budget additional costs, such as fees, books, and living expenses.

How much will it cost?

To help you budget the cost of your graduate program, an estimated breakdown of expenses is available on each degree program page. These are only estimates.

The Assistant Coordinator of Enrollment Management has resources to help you calculate an approximate cost of attendance, which includes both tuition and living expenses. Contact them at finaid@ai.edu

Tuition and Fees

The full list of tuition and fees is available here

Tuition Per Hour 2022-2023 2023-2024
Regular Tuition (excluding DMin) $825 $850
Doctoral $850 $875
Human & Spiritual Formation $825 $850
Pastoral Year $400 $425
Audit  $400 $425
Alumni Audit Rate* $200 $212.50

*Alumni Audit Rate is available for graduates of Aquinas Institute of Theology who are taking classes as a non-degree seeking audit student. Returning students taking classes as a non-degree for-credit student or those enrolled in a degree or certificate program are ineligible for this rate. 

Questions?

We're always here to help.

314-256-8800

admissions@ai.edu

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Frequently Asked Questions