
Graduate Financial Aid
Make an APU Education Work for You
Azusa Pacific University excels—on a national level—at removing financial barriers for those seeking a graduate degree. Our affordability and return on investment are well respected, with Money ranking our education and nursing programs among the 2025 Best Graduate School Programs. Whether you’re looking to change careers, get paid more, or add to your skill set, we provide direct access to those goals through an affordable, high-quality Christian education. There are many financial aid options available, including graduate assistantships for research or teaching, stipends designed to strengthen the workforce in your field, alumni and partner discounts that can reduce tuition costs by up to 15%, and traditional loans. There are also scholarships, tuition assistance, and credit transfer opportunities for military-connected students.
Bottom line: The final cost of your education is often much less than the full tuition price and fees. View the tabs below to learn more about available financial aid opportunities.
Your Graduate Financial Aid Options
Azusa Pacific University offers a variety of financial aid opportunities for graduate students. These include a limited number of competitive scholarships available to graduate students in specific academic programs, as well as federal and state programs through which most graduate and professional students receive financial aid. Students are also encouraged to seek outside aid resources that can help reduce the amount of loans needed to finance your education.
Based on your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) information and remaining eligibility, you can be awarded up to the cost of attendance for your program. This includes tuition, books and supplies, room, board, transportation, personal expenses, and loan fees, where relevant.
Some employers offer education incentives, including programs to subsidize all or part of the cost of continuing education for an eligible employee. You should check with your organization’s human resources division to learn if company reimbursement is an option where you work. Students whose employers cover the partial or full cost of tuition and fees must submit documentation for the appropriate academic year. Contact the Student Services Center to learn more.
Tuition Discounts and Program-Specific Aid
Select tuition discounts (ranging from academic practice agreements to alumni discounts to MOU partner discounts) as well as program-specific scholarships are available to qualifying APU graduate students in the academic areas below. Other aid may be available. Contact your department for aid relating to your specific program.
Thanks to generous APU donors, students can apply for a wide range of scholarships through Scholarship Universe, a single hub where one profile matches you with every award you qualify for.
Clinical Psychology Scholarships
PsyD Teaching and Research Assistantships
Funds are allocated to provide two Teaching-Research Assistantships (TRAs) each academic year per cohort throughout the program. TRAs receive a $9,000 scholarship per year, available up to four years for a total of $36,000. As part of the assistantship, TRAs provide 8 hours of service per week in the Department of Clinical Psychology from September through June of each academic year.
Preference is given to applicants who evidence cultural knowledge and language skills that facilitate the provision of psychological services in underresourced and marginalized communities, and a commitment to provide psychological services in underresourced communities following graduation. In addition, strong academic credentials (e.g., GPA) and financial need are taken into account. Applications for the assistantships and criteria for evaluation of applications are available in the Department of Clinical Psychology.
Higher Education Scholarships
College Counseling and Student Development Assistantships
A number of scholarships are available to CCSD students on an annual basis. Scholarships are awarded based on financial need and/or merit and in amounts typically ranging from $1,000 to $6,000. Scholarship applicants are strongly encouraged to meet the CCSD program application priority deadline of January 31. The CCSD Scholarship Application is due by March 14. For more information, contact the program coordinator at (626) 815-5485 or [email protected].
School of Behavioral Sciences Alumni Tuition Discounts
APU’s School of Behavioral Sciences offers an alumni tuition discount for APU alumni starting in the following graduate programs:
- Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology: Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT)1
- Master of Science in Counseling Psychology with Specialization in Children and Adolescents
Students must be in good academic standing and maintain satisfactory academic progress with a minimum cumulative grade-point average (GPA) of 3.0. Students must be enrolled at least half-time. If qualifications are met, the discount may be renewed each term. APU will pay $500 per term (up to $2,000 over the course of the program). This discount cannot be combined with other institutional aid. Contact Student Financial Services for complete eligibility details.
Note: The discount is subject to change.
Discount only applies to Inland Empire, Orange County, and San Diego regional campuses.
Law Enforcement Discount
The School of Behavioral Sciences offers a tuition discount for eligible law enforcement employees, their spouses, and their dependents (up to age 26) starting in the following professional bachelor’s completion program:
Students fill out the Graduate and Professional Discount Form and provide proof of employment for the relevant academic year. APU will pay $500 per term (up to $2,000 over the course of the program). This tuition discount cannot be combined with other institutional aid and only applies to core courses (general education courses are not covered by discount). Contact Student Financial Services for complete eligibility details.
MOU Partner Tuition Discounts
Bachelor’s Degree Completion Programs
The School of Behavioral Sciences offers a tuition discount for eligible employees, their spouses, and their dependents up to age 26 of the following organizations who will start in APU’s professional bachelor’s degree completion program in psychology.
- County of Riverside
- San Bernardino County
Students fill out the PartnerPlus MOU Form and provide proof of employment along with a form every year of enrollment. This tuition discount cannot be combined with other institutional aid and only applies to core courses (general education courses are not covered by discount). Contact Student Financial Services for complete eligibility details.
Note: School and district MOU partners are subject to change. Contact the Student Services Center at [email protected] or (626) 815-2020 to work with a student account specialist and confirm current eligibility.
Veteran Discount
The School of Behavioral Sciences offers a tuition discount for eligible veterans, their spouses, and dependents starting in APU’s Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (bachelor’s completion).
Applicants must fill out the PartnerPlus MOU Form and provide proof of military service with the application. APU will pay $500 per term (up to $2,000 over the course of the program). This tuition discount cannot be combined with other institutional aid and only applies to core courses (general education courses are not covered by discount). Contact Student Financial Services for complete eligibility details.
Footnotes
School of Business and Management Alumni Tuition Discounts
APU’s School of Business and Management offers an alumni tuition discount for APU alumni starting in the following graduate programs:
- Master of Arts in Leadership
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Business Management (MBM)
- Master of Science in Organizational Psychology
Students must be in good academic standing and maintain satisfactory academic progress with a minimum cumulative grade-point average (GPA) of 3.0. Students must be enrolled at least half-time. If qualifications are met, the discount may be renewed each term. APU will pay $500 per term (up to $2,000 over the course of the program). This discount cannot be combined with other institutional aid. Contact Student Financial Services for complete eligibility details.
Alice V. Watkins Scholarship
This scholarship honors the late Dr. Alice V. Watkins, former dean of APU’s School of Education. Dr. Watkins was passionate in encouraging students in their teacher preparation goals. This scholarship assists students enrolled in an APU teaching credential program. Awards are based on the endowed fund amount and may vary year to year. Awards range from $500 to $1,000 and are available each fall and spring. Apply for the Alice V. Watkins Scholarship.
Dan and Judy Watkins Scholarship
This scholarship honors Dan and Judy Watkins’ appreciation of adult learners who are transitioning into a teaching career. This scholarship assists students who completed their undergraduate degree in a nontraditional format and who are currently enrolled in the APU Multiple Subject Teaching Credential program. Preference is given to full-time Christian workers and/or their family member(s). Awards are based on the endowed fund amount and may vary year to year. Awards range from $100 to $1,500 and are available each fall and spring. Apply for the Dan and Judy Watkins Scholarship.
Ernest L. Boyer Sr. Teacher Scholarship
This scholarship is in memory of the late Ernest Boyer, the noted educator who served as president of the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. His friends and family established a fund to provide awards for students who are planning careers as teachers. Azusa Pacific University is honored to be one of five institutions selected to provide two annual awards (one in fall and one in spring). Students enrolled in a teaching credential program are eligible to apply. Criteria include Dr. Boyer’s values, including commitments to community, character, and service, and creating a climate for learning. Apply for the Ernest L Boyer Sr. Teacher Scholarship.
Henck Endowed Scholarship
Dr. Anita and Mr. William Henck have funded this scholarship rooted in their deep belief that educators help transform the lives of individuals, families, and communities. The Henck Endowed Scholarship is designed to extend that transformation by making access to educator preparation more achievable for first-generation college students with a record of strong academic success who are enrolled in an APU School of Education educator preparation program. Apply for the Henck Endowed Scholarship.
Lillian B. Wehmeyer Scholarship
This scholarship is in memory of the late Dr. Lillian B. Wehmeyer, former faculty in the School of Education doctoral program, who lived with a passion for assisting doctoral students in successful research. APU School of Education doctoral program students who are attending on a half- or full-time basis and who demonstrate satisfactory academic progress, evidence a commitment to service, and show financial need may apply for an award ranging from $1,000 to $3,000. Awards are based on the endowed fund amount, may vary year to year, and are available each fall and spring. Apply for the Lilian B. Wehmeyer Scholarship.
Marvin O. Johnson Scholarship
This scholarship honors the memory of the late Marvin O. Johnson who was a passionate educator throughout his lifetime teaching career. This scholarship assists serious-minded and spiritually-sensitive students who are enrolled full-time in a teaching credential and/or master’s degree program preparing for classroom education (K-12). Applicants must maintain a 3.0 GPA, be enrolled in consecutive fall and spring terms, and desire to teach in the public school system. Awards are based on the endowed fund amount and may vary year to year. The award is typically $2,500 and applications are accepted fall and spring. Apply for the Marvin O. Johnson Scholarship.
School of Education Student Teaching Scholarship
Application to the School of Education Student Teaching Scholarship is by invitation only to students with demonstrated financial hardship who are enrolled in a combined degree and teaching credential program (Multiple Subject, Single Subject, or Special Education) with a GPA of 3.7 or higher. Applicants must be cleared for clinical practice (student teaching) in the upcoming term for which they are applying. Awards are typically $4,000 each, and five scholarships are available each fall and spring. Apply for the School of Education Student Teaching Scholarship.
Simmerok Family Encouragement Scholarship
This scholarship represents Dr. Bruce Simmerok’s vision of encouraging graduate students. As a faculty member and administrator at APU, Dr. Simmerok had a heart for helping others succeed, particularly those in online programs. The scholarship is available to School of Education students in degree programs who demonstrate financial need. Awards are based on the endowed fund amount, may vary year to year, and are available each fall and spring. Apply for the Simmerok Family Encouragement Scholarship.
Victress Bower Scholarship
Residents of Riverside or San Bernardino counties may qualify for this externally funded scholarship. Students must be admitted to the Special Education program and enrolled in the term of award at Azusa Pacific University’s Inland Empire Regional Campus, Murrieta Regional Campus, or High Desert Regional Campus. Awards are based on the external funds available, may vary year to year, and are available each fall and spring. Apply for the Victress Bower Scholarship.
School of Education Alumni Tuition Discounts
APU’s School of Education offers an alumni tuition discount for Azusa Pacific alumni starting in a graduate program.
Students must be in good academic standing and maintain satisfactory academic progress with a minimum cumulative grade-point average (GPA) of 3.0. Students must be enrolled at least half-time. If qualifications are met, the discount may be renewed each term. APU will pay $500 per term (up to $2,000 over the course of the program). This discount cannot be combined with other institutional aid. Contact Student Financial Services for complete eligibility details.
Notes on Eligibility: The School of Education’s doctoral program (Ed.D. in Educational Leadership) is not eligible for the alumni tuition discount. APU doctoral alumni are also not eligible for the School of Education alumni discount. Additionally, the alumni discount cannot be combined with other institutional aid, such as School of Education scholarships. Students who are eligible for both may choose to receive either the alumni discount or an APU scholarship. Contact Student Financial Services for complete eligibility details.
MOU Partner Tuition Discounts
The School of Education offers a tuition discount for eligible employees of the following districts, counties, and charter schools who will start in a graduate education program through the School of Education.
- County of Orange
- Etiwanda School District
- Menifee Unified School District
- San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools
- San Diego County Superintendent of Schools
- San Jacinto Unified School District
- Snowline Joint Unified School District
Note: School and district MOU partners are subject to change. Contact the Student Services Center at [email protected] or (626) 815-2020 to work with a student account specialist and confirm current eligibility.
Physical Education Scholarships
Kyle Ian MacDonald Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship is in honor of Kyle Ian MacDonald, MS ’15, a graduate of APU’s MS in Physical Education program (now MS in Kinesiology). The intent of this scholarship is to financially support students in the pursuit of teaching and mentoring students through coaching, physical education, and exercise science. Awards range from $2,000-$2,500. Please visit apu.scholarshipuniverse.com to apply for this scholarship by August 1.
Physical Therapy Scholarships
Physical Therapy Graduate Student Assistantships
Third-year Doctor of Physical Therapy students are eligible to apply for one of five graduate assistantships valued at $6,000 plus 50% remission of the third year’s tuition. Students awarded graduate assistantships are expected to work an average of 15 hours/week for one full year, assisting instructors with classroom and research duties. Applications for the assistantships are available in the Department of Physical Therapy.
Gawenda Seminars and Consulting Scholarship
This scholarship honors Gawenda’s appreciation of the Christian student in financial need in the incoming class of the Doctor of Physical Therapy program. One scholarship approximating $2,000-$3,000 is awarded annually to an incoming DPT student.
Kathy Kumagai Shimamura Scholarship Endowment
This scholarship is given to a 3rd year Doctorate of Physical Therapy student who demonstrates leadership potential, excellent skills, and an attitude of Christian service in engagement with colleagues, faculty, patients, and the community.
School of Health Sciences Alumni Tuition Discounts
APU’s School of Health Sciences offers an alumni tuition discount for APU alumni starting in the following graduate programs:
- Adapted Physical Education Specialist Credential
- Master of Arts in Physical Education
- Master of Science in Child Life
- Master of Science in Kinesiology
Students must be in good academic standing and maintain satisfactory academic progress with a minimum cumulative grade-point average (GPA) of 3.0. Students must be enrolled at least half-time. If qualifications are met, the discount may be renewed each term. APU will pay $500 per term (up to $2,000 over the course of the program). This discount cannot be combined with other institutional aid. Contact Student Financial Services for complete eligibility details.
Note: The discount is subject to change.
Discount applies only to Inland Empire, Orange County, and San Diego regional campuses.
MOU PartnerPlus MOU Tuition Discounts
The School of Health Sciences offers a 10% tuition discount for eligible employees of the following districts, counties, and charter schools who will start in a graduate physical education program through the School of Health Sciences.
- Etiwanda School District
- Lake Elsinore Unified School District
- Menifee Unified School District
- San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools
- San Diego County Superintendent of Schools
- San Jacinto Unified School District
- Snowline Joint Unified School District
Note: School and district MOU partners are subject to change. Contact the Student Services Center at [email protected] or (626) 815-2020 to work with a student account specialist and confirm current eligibility.
Don’t See Your District?
If your district is not listed, have your district office email [email protected] to express an interest in establishing an MOU with Azusa Pacific University.
Students fill out the PartnerPlus MOU Form and provide proof of employment every year of enrollment. Contact Student Financial Services for complete eligibility details.
Boyd Clarke International TESOL Student Scholarship
This scholarship is open to new and current students in APU’s on-campus and online TESOL programs. Each year, up to $1,000 is awarded to two different recipients. Applicants must be enrolled full-time and should be in good standing with the program and university (not on academic probation or conditionally admitted). Scholarship applications are due November 30 and June 30 and include a 500-word essay. Download the Boyd Clarke International TESOL Student Scholarship Application (PDF) for more information.
Charles and Shirley Stapleton Graduate Endowed Scholarship
This scholarship is open to new and current students in APU’s on-campus and online TESOL programs. Each year, up to $500 is awarded to two different recipients. Applicants must be enrolled full-time and should be in good standing with the program and university (not on academic probation or conditionally admitted). Scholarship applications are due November 30 and June 30 and include a 500-word essay. Download the Charles and Shirley Stapleton Graduate Endowed Scholarship Application (PDF) for more information.
Tsern Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) Scholarship
The Tsern TEFL Scholarship is open to new and current graduate students in APU’s on-campus and online TESOL programs who are committed to serving Christ by teaching English. Each year, up to $2,000 is awarded to eligible recipients. This award recognizes Christian scholars who will perpetuate the mission of Azusa Pacific University during their academic studies and later as language educators. Applicants must be enrolled as full-time students and should be in good standing with the program and university (not on academic probation or conditionally admitted). Recipients will be distinguished by the rigor and dedication they apply to their graduate studies, the skill and effort they apply to their craft of teaching, and the integrity and Christ-like compassion they demonstrate to their students and colleagues. Scholarship applications are due November 30 and June 30 and include a 1,000-word essay. Download and complete the Tsern TEFL Scholarship Application (PDF). Please note that for the Tsern award, in addition to the questions on the application form, also discuss how your integrity and Christ-like compassion will be demonstrated to your students and colleagues.
School of Humanities and Sciences Alumni Tuition Discounts
APU’s School of Humanities and Sciences offers an alumni tuition discount for APU alumni starting in the following graduate programs:
Students must be in good academic standing and maintain satisfactory academic progress with a minimum cumulative grade-point average (GPA) of 3.0. Students must be enrolled at least half-time. If qualifications are met, the discount may be renewed each term. APU will pay $500 per term (up to $2,000 over the course of the program). This discount cannot be combined with other institutional aid. Contact Student Financial Services for complete eligibility details.
Note: The discount is subject to change.
TeachBeyond Employee Tuition Discount
APU’s School of Humanities and Sciences offers a 15% tuition discount (savings of over $2,700) to employees of TeachBeyond for the following online or on-campus programs:
Students fill out the MOU Discount Form and provide proof of employment every year of enrollment. Contact Student Financial Services for complete eligibility details.
Additionally, TESOL programs are also available to TeachBeyond employees at an already-discounted tuition rate.
School of the Arts
For questions about School of the Arts scholarships, contact the Student Services Center at [email protected] or (626) 815-2020 to work with a Student Account Specialist.
Graduate Music Assistantships
Graduate music assistantships strengthen and support the development of graduate students, allowing them to work as leaders in performance, music education, conducting, or composition as they earn a graduate music degree at Azusa Pacific University. These assistantships are managed by the School of the Arts graduate office and awarded by the Department of Music based on a student’s application, audition, departmental recommendation, and the needs of the Department of Music. The amounts of the awards and the associated leadership roles vary.
For more information, contact [email protected].
Academic Agreements and Scholarships
APU’s School of Nursing offers preferential pricing to Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) graduates from community colleges that have entered into an academic agreement with APU for that purpose. Learn more about academic agreements and scholarships.
Nurse Faculty Loan Program
The Nurse Faculty Loan Program is a government loan program set up to increase the number of qualified nursing faculty by providing loans to students in advanced nursing education programs. Students must be pursuing a MSN or doctoral nursing degree. The NFLP loans will be forgiven—up to 85% of the amount received—over a consecutive 10-year period if the student commits to serve as full-time faculty at a school of nursing following graduation for four years. Faculty at private universities, state schools, and community colleges are eligible. Students receiving these loans must also complete the nursing education courses prior to graduation.
Kaiser Permanente Southern California Institute of Nursing Excellence (IONE)
The Institute of Nursing Excellence (IONE) promotes nursing education, including enabling nursing staff and leadership to obtain advanced degrees and the expansion of the nursing workforce in Southern California. The program is available to Kaiser Permanente employees who work full-time at a Kaiser Foundation Hospital and are seeking a degree in one of the following programs: RN to BSN, MSN in Nursing Education, MSN in Healthcare Administration and Leadership, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Doctor of Nursing Practice, or Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing.
Academic Agreements
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) students and graduates can advance their nursing education with the help of a partial tuition scholarship for Azusa Pacific’s accelerated RN to BSN program.
APU’s School of Nursing offers this preferential pricing to ADN graduates from community colleges that have entered into an academic agreement with APU for that purpose.
Through these academic agreements, ADN graduates of qualifying schools who enroll in the RN to BSN program receive a 10% partial tuition scholarship. View the list of eligible colleges below, and include the name of your school when you apply to the RN to BSN program.
Current Eligible Community Colleges
- Antelope Valley College
- Chaffey College
- Citrus College
- Cypress College
- Glendale Community College
- Imperial Valley College
- Los Angeles City College
- MiraCosta College
- Moorpark College
- Mt. San Jacinto College
- Palomar College
- Pasadena City College
- Rio Hondo College
- Riverside City College
- San Bernardino Community College District
- Southwestern College
- Ventura College
- Victor Valley College
Don’t see your school on the list? Have your school officials contact Ethel MacGregor, academic partnership specialist, at [email protected] for details on setting up an academic agreement. This discount cannot be combined with other institutional aid.
Academic Practice Partner Discount
For employees of Children’s Hospital Los Angeles and Rady Children’s Hospital, Azusa Pacific pays 10% of tuition for the RN to BSN program or 15% for the MSN in Healthcare Administration and Leadership, MSN in Nursing Education, Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), or Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD) programs (limited to three doctoral DNP or PhD students) for the duration of the agreement with the employer. Employees of Children’s Hospital Los Angeles enrolled in the MSN in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner or the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Certificate also qualify for a 15% tuition discount.
Students must maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress, be continuously enrolled in fall and spring terms at least half-time, and must submit an MOU Discount Form along with verification of employment. This discount cannot be combined with other institutional aid. Contact student financial services for complete eligibility details.
Association of California Nurse Leaders (ACNL) Discount Partial Tuition Scholarship
For members of the Association of California Nurse Leaders (ACNL), Azusa Pacific pays the following amounts for the duration of the agreement with the association:
- Partial tuition scholarships of 10% for eligible ACNL members who meet criteria for admission and enrollment to the Accelerated RN to BSN program at APU;
- Partial tuition scholarships of 15% for eligible ACNL members who meet criteria for admission and enrollment to the MSN in Nursing Education, MSN in Healthcare Administration and Leadership, MSN in Pediatric or Adult/Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist, or its Post-Master's Certificate Clinical Nurse Specialist tracks at APU, and;
- Partial tuition scholarships of 15% for eligible ACNL members who meet criteria for admission and enrollment to the Doctor of Nursing Practice or Nursing PhD program at the APU School of Nursing.
Students must maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress, be continuously enrolled in fall and spring terms at least half-time, and must submit an MOU Discount Form along with verification of membership. This discount cannot be combined with other institutional aid. Contact Student Financial Services for complete eligibility details.
School of Nursing Alumni Tuition Discounts
APU’s School of Nursing offers an alumni tuition discount for APU alumni starting in the following graduate programs:
- MSN in Healthcare Administration and Leadership
- MSN in Nursing Education
- PhD in Nursing
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Students must be in good academic standing and maintain satisfactory academic progress with a minimum cumulative grade-point average (GPA) of 3.0. Students must be enrolled at least half-time. If qualifications are met, the discount may be renewed each term. APU will pay $500 per term (up to $2,000 over the course of the program). This discount cannot be combined with other institutional aid. Contact Student Financial Services for complete eligibility details.
To be eligible for all the scholarships listed herein, students must fill out the FAFSA form. For more information, contact the seminary at (626) 815-5448.
Pastoral Scholarship
Students admitted to the Master of Divinity (MDiv) program may qualify for a Pastoral Scholarship up to $4,000.
Students admitted to the Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies (MAPS) program may qualify for a Pastoral Scholarship up to $2,500.
This scholarship is applicable to the first year of full-time study. The Pastoral Scholarship is not stackable with any other Azusa Pacific Seminary scholarship. In following years, needs-based scholarships may be available based on availability of funds.
Eligibility Requirements
- Acceptance into the MDiv or MAPS program.
- A minimum 3.4 grade-point average from a regionally accredited undergraduate program.
- Recipients must complete at least 8 units in the fall and 8 units in the spring semester of their first year, and maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA.
- The decision of the Scholarship Committee is final.
How to Apply
To learn more about the Pastoral Scholarship or to apply, contact Yanina Espinoza at (626) 815-5448 or [email protected].
Campus Ministry Internship and Scholarship Program
The Campus Ministry Internship and Scholarship Program exists for two reasons. First, by recruiting and training intentional, prospective workers in college ministry, the program furthers the discipling of undergraduate students on APU’s campus through internship positions in the Spiritual Life office. Over the program’s three years, interns work one year each in the areas of (1) chapel, (2) small-group discipleship and service, and (3) pastoral counseling. Second, interns graduate equipped with the experience and education to serve in fast-paced campus ministries, chaplain’s offices, or related ministries with a college or young-adult focus. All of this is achieved through a combination of high-level work experience and financial aid in the form of an internship and partial scholarship for the Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree program.
Each year for the full three years of the MDiv program, successful applicants receive up to $5,700 in graduate internship funds (earned by working 20 hours per week for approximately 8 months of the year) plus a $10,200 scholarship.
Eligibility Requirements and How to Apply
Interested students must meet the following criteria:
- Full (noncontingent) admittance into Azusa Pacific Seminary and the MDiv program (apply online).
- Completion of the Campus Ministry Internship and Scholarship Program application.
- For consideration in the first round of review, submit all materials—including completed general application, résumé/CV, personal statement, two letters of reference, and the Statements of Faith and Identity Agreement—by the deadline. Top candidates may receive an invitation for an in-person or video interview.
Questions? Contact the program administrative team at [email protected] or (626) 815-3855.
Choong Min Kang Scholarship
This scholarship is awarded to students in the Korean master’s theology program.
Chung Scholarship
This scholarship is awarded to students in the Korean master’s theology program who wish to provide pastoral leadership to Korean churches.
Daniel Kim Scholarship
This scholarship is awarded to students in the Korean master’s theology program.
Dean’s Scholarship
This scholarship is available to all students admitted to any program at Azusa Pacific Seminary. Contact the seminary for more information.
Denominational Scholarship Funds
Several denominations provide scholarships for students who attend Azusa Pacific Seminary.
- Brethren in Christ
Azusa Pacific Seminary, (626) 815-5448 - Church of God, Anderson
Azusa Pacific Seminary, (626) 815-5448 - Friends Church
Kent Walkemeyer, DMin, director, Friends Center, Azusa Pacific Seminary, (626) 815-5077 - Wesleyan Church
Azusa Pacific Seminary, (626) 815-5448
Earl E. Grant Scholarship
This scholarship is granted to students attending classes at the San Diego Regional Campus.
Greenwald Scholarship
This scholarship is awarded to School of Theology students who are of Latin American descent and preparing for Christian service.
Hausman Scholarship
This scholarship offers $900 and is divided between two or three students, with varying amounts.
John and Dorothy Hartley Scholarship
This scholarship is granted to students whose area of interest is biblical studies and who have a desire to minister in overseas or inner-city missions.
Kyung Chul Kam Scholarship
This scholarship is awarded to students in the Korean master’s theology program.
Lou Ann Scott Scholarship
This scholarship is awarded to an outstanding Azusa Pacific Seminary student.
Samuel Pambakian Scholarship
This scholarship is awarded to School of Theology students who have a calling and intent to minister to the Armenian community within the U.S. and internationally.
Sun Ja Kang Scholarship
This scholarship is awarded to Korean students who wish to provide pastoral leadership to Korean churches.
Watson-Wong Scholarship
This scholarship in honor of William Joseph Watson and Sic Way Wong benefits APU graduate students studying theology. In order to qualify for the scholarship, the applicant must be a single parent (due to divorce or death) with at least one child under the age of 18 OR the child of a single parent (due to divorce or death).
Won Kyu Shin Scholarship
This scholarship is awarded to students in the Korean master’s theology program.
Youn Sung Lee Scholarship
This scholarship is awarded to students preparing for Korean ministry.
Azusa Pacific Seminary Alumni Tuition Discounts
Azusa Pacific Seminary offers an alumni tuition discount for APU alumni who will start in the following programs:
Students must be in good academic standing and maintain satisfactory academic progress with a minimum cumulative grade-point average (GPA) of 3.0 (2.7 for the MDiv and MAPS programs). Students must be enrolled at least half-time. If qualifications are met, the discount may be renewed each term. APU will pay $500 per term (up to $2,000 over the course of the program). This discount cannot be combined with other institutional aid. Contact Student Financial Services for complete eligibility details.
Note: The discount is subject to change.
Wesleyan Holiness Connection Discount
In recognition of its Wesleyan heritage and to support advanced preparation for individuals pursuing the call to ministry, Azusa Pacific Seminary offers a $2,000 maximum for eligible Wesleyan Holiness Connection church members, along with their spouses and dependents up to age 26. To see if your church is part of the Wesleyan Holiness Connection, view participating denominations.
The following APU programs are eligible for the discount:
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for this discount, students must maintain continuous enrollment at least half time. Students must be in good academic standing and maintain satisfactory academic progress. If qualifications are met, the discount may be renewed each year until graduation, but not longer than four years. The discount cannot be combined with other institutional aid.
How to Apply
To apply for the discount, complete the MOU Discount Form and provide proof of church membership along with a form every year of enrollment.
For more information, contact APU’s Student Services Center (SSC) at (626) 815-2020 or [email protected].
Federal Loans
If you’re a new graduate student or didn’t have loans previously, you may be eligible for the unsubsidized loan through the federal government. The unsubsidized loan accrues interest while you are in school, but does not require a credit check.
Note: If you took out loans prior to July 1, 2026, in your current program, you may qualify for “legacy” status in the Department of Education, and could be eligible for the unsubsidized and Graduate PLUS loans. Contact the Student Services Center if you have questions about whether you qualify for legacy status.
- For Non-Legacy students
- Unsubsidized Loan: up to $20,500 per academic year, max of $100,000 in lifetime
- For Legacy students:
- Unsubsidized Loan: up to $20,500 per academic year
- Graduate PLUS Loan: up to cost of attendance per academic year
- Complete the FAFSA.
- Keep an eye on your home.apu.edu student portal to-do list and resolve any items that populate there.
- Accept loan(s) through the Student Services Center tab at home.apu.edu.
Once aid has been accepted, all to-do list items are completed, and you’re enrolled in the proper classes, financial aid will begin disbursing after the add/drop period each term. Be sure to check your financial aid offer to ensure that all the terms you're attending for the academic year are listed. If you need to add a term to your financial aid package, reach out to the Student Services Center.
Students must have remaining eligibility in the Direct Loan program, meaning they have not reached their lifetime (aggregate) limit, and must be enrolled at least half-time per semester. Students must also maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress. For Legacy students, there are additional stipulations in order to maintain your status.
Repayment usually begins six months after a student either drops below half-time (6 units), withdraws, or graduates.
Other Financial Aid Resources
APU scholarships are typically merit-based, meaning they are awarded depending on demonstrated academic ability or other specific talents, and do not require any form of repayment. Thanks to generous APU donors, students can apply for a wide range of scholarships through Scholarship Universe, a single hub where one profile matches you with every award you qualify for.
Private Education Loans
In addition to external scholarships, if you need additional funding on top of the federal loans, you can look into private education loans.
Department of Rehabilitation
The California Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) works in partnership with consumers and other stakeholders to provide services and advocacy resulting in employment, independent living, and equality for individuals with disabilities. Services include financial assistance in tuition expenses, books and supplies and transportation. The state Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agency has VR counselors who can help a person with a disability determine eligibility for services.
DOR may provide funding for a student’s educational expenses. At Azusa Pacific University, we accept payments from DOR on behalf of students for tuition and fees. Once approved for DOR funding, the student’s VR counselor will send APU an authorization form for their benefits. Upon receipt of the authorization form, APU will send an invoice directly to the DOR district so that payment can be sent to APU for the student’s tuition and fees. This process can take up to 45 days.
For students who receive DOR funding that does not cover the full cost of tuition, a payment plan for the remainder of tuition can be set up through the home.apu.edu portal. To access the payment plan, log in to the home.apu.edu student portal, select ‘Financials,’ then ‘Billing and Payment’. This will take you to the PayMyTuition website to self-enroll in your payment plan. This process will need to be completed each semester if there is a balance due.
Post-9/11 GI Bill® and VA Yellow Ribbon
For up-to-date information regarding eligibility requirements, award amounts offered by the government, and specific details, contact the VA. You may also contact the Office of Military and Veteran Education Benefits at (626) 815-3837 or [email protected].
‘‘GI Bill®’’ is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
I think my apprehensions were primarily surrounding a balance between family, work, and my personal ambitions. In the end, the APU program emerged as the most doable—the format of the program allowed me the opportunity to continue working and was a better fit for my family.Joseph Womack, EdD ’09
Apply for Financial Aid
Step 1: Apply to Azusa Pacific
Step 2: Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)
APU’s School Code is 001117. Apply for a Federal Student Aid (FSA) ID. The FSA ID acts as your electronic signature for the FAFSA and as your password to federal websites. Do not share it or lose it. After you have submitted your FAFSA, you will receive a Student Aid Report (SAR). Review your SAR for any incorrect information. Make any necessary corrections online for faster processing.
- The Federal deadline to submit a FAFSA is June 30th of the current school year. However, to qualify for most types of federal aid you must submit the FAFSA prior to your last day of enrollment in the school year.
Step 3: Verification (selected students only) + To-Do Items
The Department of Education randomly selects students who have completed the FAFSA for a process called verification. If you are selected for verification, it will populate in your home.apu.edu To-Do List and you’ll be required to submit additional documentation to the Student Services Center.
You must complete all To-Do List items to receive financial aid.
Step 4: APU Sends a Financial Aid Offer Letter
When your financial aid offer has been prepared, you’ll receive a notification that your Financial Aid Offer Letter is available in your Message Center on home.apu.edu. Accept your loan offer (if you choose). Grants and scholarships are automatically accepted on your behalf.
Note: First-time student loan borrowers must also complete:
Step 5: Enroll at Least Half-time
Federal regulations require you to be enrolled at least half-time per term in order to receive financial aid. APU defines a term as all sessions within a traditional semester. For example, Fall Session, Fall Session 1, and Fall Session 2 together comprise the fall term.
Step 6: Ask Questions
- New Students: Contact your admissions representative or email [email protected].
- Returning Students: Email Student Services Center, [email protected].