Financing your MBAEarning your MBA is an investment in your future, but that doesn’t mean it has to be financially overwhelming. At the University of Houston-Downtown (UHD), we provide several financial aid options to help you achieve your educational and career goals without excessive financial stress.

Here’s how you can make your UHD MBA affordable.

1. Federal and State Financial Aid: FAFSA & TASFA

If you’re a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen, you can apply for federal financial aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at studentaid.gov. Make sure to indicate that you are seeking a graduate degree, as graduate students qualify for different types of aid than undergraduates. The UHD FAFSA Code is 003612.

For Texas residents who are undocumented but qualify under SB1528, the Texas Application for State Financial Aid (TASFA) is available at collegeforalltexans.com. These applications open in December for the following academic year, so be sure to apply early to maximize your aid opportunities.

2. UHD Scholarships and Tuition Grants

UHD offers a variety of scholarships to MBA students based on academic merit, financial need, and other criteria. Some of these include:

  • MDCOB Graduate Business Program Tuition Grant: UHD Domestic Applicants for the MBA, MSM, and MPAC may be eligible for a tuition grant based on enrollment status and financial need. Read more information on the criteria for this one-time grant award. 
  • Marilyn Davies College of Business Scholarships: The College of Business offers a variety of financial support opportunities to graduate students, Learn more about these scholarships.
  • University of Houston-Downtown Gator Scholarship Center: This centralized portal provides one application for many scholarship opportunities available at UHD. The Scholarship Portal has a May 1 deadline.
  • Graduate Assistantships: Allow students to work part-time in academic departments while earning tuition benefits. International students may also qualify for a Non-Resident Tuition Waiver for the term of their employment. For additional details, please email mba@uhd.edu.
  • Employer Tuition Assistance: Many companies offer tuition reimbursement—check with your HR department to see if your employer supports graduate education.

3. External Scholarships

UHD MBA students are encouraged to research and apply for external scholarships. Below is a starting point for various scholarships that may be available to MBA students. Each scholarship has different eligibility criteria, required documents, and deadlines, so research is highly recommended.

Scholarships by Program of Choice/Business Sector:

Scholarships for Women:

  • AAUW Fellowships and Grants – For women pursuing graduate education, including international applicants. Learn More
  • DAR Mary Elizabeth Lockwood Beneventi MBA Scholarship – For female MBA students with a GPA of 3.25+. More info here
  • WIIT Scholarship – For women studying international trade. Learn more

Scholarships for Minority Students:

  • AICPA Minority Accounting Students Scholarship – For CPA candidates. Details here
  • ALPFA Scholarships – For Latino professionals in business. Explore here
  • Hispanic Scholarship Fund – Provides up to $5,000 in financial support. Apply here
  • NABA Scholarships – For Black business students. More info
  • National Black MBA Association Scholarship – Supports business students. Check eligibility

Scholarships for LGBTQ+ Students:

  • Point Foundation Flagship Scholarship – Provides financial support, mentorship, and networking. Learn more

MDCOB Internal Scholarships UHD offers various scholarships across different business majors and classifications. International students are encouraged to apply as well. Once you submit an application, you’ll be considered for every scholarship for which you qualify. 

4. Payment Plans and Cost Management

UHD provides flexible payment plans to help you manage tuition costs by spreading payments across the semester. You can also check UHD’s estimated tuition costs at Cashiers Office or contact cashiers@uhd.edu for specific tuition questions.

As a Texas resident, your tuition is approximately $511.25 per credit hour, while non-residents pay $871.25 per credit hour. Understanding your cost structure and planning accordingly can help reduce financial surprises.

5. Maintaining Financial Aid Eligibility

Once you receive financial aid, it’s essential to maintain eligibility by:

  • Keeping a minimum 3.0 GPA (UHD GPA only).
  • Completing at least 73% of attempted courses to remain in good standing.
  • Completing your degree within 54 credit hours to avoid exceeding financial aid limits.

Invest in Your Future Without the Financial Burden

At UHD, we believe that finances shouldn’t be a barrier to earning your MBA. By leveraging financial aid, scholarships, and payment plans, you can make your MBA experience both accessible and affordable.

Want to learn more about financing your MBA? Contact UHD’s financial aid office and start planning your future today!

Office of Scholarships & Financial Aid
One Main Street, S350
Houston, TX 77002

In Person Office Hours:
Monday - Thursday: 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Friday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Email Address: uhdfinaid@uhd.edu
Phone: 713-221-8041
Fax: 713-223-7483