Types of aid offered include Federal Direct Loans and Work-Study, Scholarships, VA Education Benefits and Programs, and Other Aid. To be eligible for federal financial aid at AOMA, a student must be enrolled in a degree-seeking program or the certificate program (half-time) and maintain satisfactory progress. More information regarding eligibility, to apply for aid, application dates, and federal financial aid and other financial assistance is available in the current FA Manual.
AOMA awards a number of scholarships each year to new students and to students who have completed at least one year of study. Scholarships include the President’s Award (one award of $500); the AOMA Scholarship (up to 2 awards of $500); the Golden Flower Chinese Herbs Scholarship (up to eight awards ranging from $500 - $1,000); and the DAOM Scholarship (one award of $1,000). The number and amount of scholarships awarded vary based on the funds available each year.
Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans are the primary form of federal aid available to graduate students. Direct Unsubsidized Loans accrue interest during the grace period and during periods of deferment, and the borrower is responsible for paying this interest. Payments on Direct Unsubsidized Loans may be deferred while the borrower is enrolled in an eligible program at least half time (six credits); however, the interest on deferred Direct Unsubsidized Loans will be capitalized (added to the principal balance) once loans go into repayment status. Repayment of Direct Unsubsidized Loans begins at the end of the grace period. Direct Unsubsidized Loans are non-need-based loans and most borrowers qualify for them.
The AOMA Financial Aid Office is committed to helping students acquire as much financial support as may be available. The Federal Work-Study Program is one such resource. If a student is interested in the FWS program, he/she is awarded funds based on the Federal total funding made available to AOMA each award year and on that student’s individual financial need and eligibility. FWS awards amounts vary and are subject to change based on position needs, eligibility changes, and/or funds available. Awards are made for the financial aid year (e.g. July 1, 2013 – June 30, 2014), and are updated annually at a minimum. An FWS award does not constitute a guarantee of funds. Under the FWS program, students are paid only for hours worked. These positions help to offset educational expenses.
Individuals eligible for benefits under the Post 911 GI Bill® include those who serve on active duty for at least 90 aggregate days beginning on or after September 11, 2001, or individuals discharged with a service-connected disability after 30 days of continuous service. (Discharged individuals must have received an honorable discharge to be eligible, or have a discharge or release for a medical condition Existing Prior to Service (EPTS), Hardship (HDSP), or Condition Interfering with Duty (CIWD).) Educational benefits will only be paid to eligible individuals enrolled in approved education programs at a college or university. For more information regarding eligibility, please the VA's GI Bill® website.
AOMA is committed to providing educational resources and support to qualified individuals who are rethinking their career goals. In line with this objective, AOMA is an approved provider of training for clients of the Texas Workforce Commission Vocational Rehabilitation Services (TWC). TWC may assist qualified Texas citizens needing rehabilitation training with the cost of education, supplies, and equipment in order to complete AOMA’s graduate program.
Americorps members who are eligible to receive an education award may apply that award to AOMA tuition.