Student Loans for Certificate Students
While we encourage students to avoid borrowing when possible, there are loan opportunities available to help bridge the gap.
Types of Aid
Costs & Aid
Certificate Costs & Aid
Learn about certificate program tuition and which programs are eligible for financial aid.
MassArt’s Office of Student Financial Assistance strives to provide students with support as they navigate the financial aid process, and to work with them to make sure they understand the options available to them. If you are enrolled in a Certification Program at MassArt, you may qualify for federal student loans depending on your program.
Certificate Program Costs
The cost of each certificate program varies — you can find the total estimated cost on each program page linked below. Please note that tuition may increase each year based on credit and fee rates.
Because of their format, the Communication Design certificate and non-credit certificate programs aren’t eligible for federal financial aid.
2026-2027 Cost of Attendance
Your Cost of Attendance (COA) is not the amount you will be billed for by the college, but rather the estimated cost of completing a full academic year. While it includes direct costs billed by the college, such as tuition, it also reflects indirect costs such as art supplies, books or personal living expenses.
If you’re in the Fashion Design certificate, Furniture Design certificate, or a Postbaccalaureate certificate program, and you apply for financial aid, your Cost of Attendance (COA) represents the maximum amount of student loans you may borrow.
Fashion Design Certificate Cost of Attendance
Furniture Design Certificate Cost of Attendance
*Student charges are based on the tuition cost per credit and the average number of credits taken in one academic year.
**Non-billed expense
If you apply for financial aid and are accepted to MassArt, you will receive a personalized COA in your financial aid offer.
The following expenses may be added to a student’s Cost of Attendance, if applicable:
- Federal loan fees
- Professional Licensure, or certification costs
- Health Insurance
- Dependent care expenses
- Disability-related costs
- Study Abroad expenses
- Cooperative education costs
| Charge | Description |
| Tuition & Fees | Certificate students are charged a flat per-credit cost, regardless of residency. |
| Health Insurance | Required unless waived (for students enrolled in 9+ credits) |
| Housing Charge | Charged if residing in college housing for the semester. Rates vary according to residence hall & room configuration |
| Dining Charge | Charged if residing in college housing for the semester. Plan based on residency hall & room enrollment |
| Late Fee | $200 for late registration or unpaid balances Charged to all students going through late registration, regardless of the cause and/or failure to properly pay or satisfy student accounts by due date |
| Returned Check Fee | $30 per returned check |
How to Apply for Financial Aid
- Submit the FAFSA: Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for federal and institutional aid.
- Review Your Student Aid Report (SAR). Make sure your information is accurate
- Respond to Any Requests: We may need additional documentation to complete your file.
Questions? We're Here to Help
Navigating the financial aspects of your education can be complex, but our Office of Student Financial Assistance is here to support you every step of the way.
Financial Aid Counseling