Ask your college or university's financial aid office or the department you are studying in, what funding options are available to you. Many Ph.D. students receive full funding from their university. This is particularly the case for competitive programs. Students are often funded through a graduate assistantship they are offered. Ph.D. programs at public universities are often competitive because they will only accept as many Ph.D. students as they can fund. If you are not offered an assistantship, you may still be able to get one by finding a position on campus and applying for it.
Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, the FAFSA. Graduate students, including Ph.D. students are eligible for federal student loan programs when financial need is established. Federal Stafford loans are available in both subsidized and non-subsidized amounts. Students relying on federal loans whose need exceeds borrowing limits for Stafford loans can also apply for Graduate PLUS loans which require a lenient credit check that looks for specific adverse information that can result in a denial, but does not require a particular credit score.
Research scholarships, fellowships and grants that may be available to you. There are many comprehensive scholarship databases available online. Your university's financial aid office also provides information on scholarships, including many government and national forms of funding that are available for meeting specified conditions. You may also qualify for research grants. The majority of funding at the graduate level is competitive and the application process is lengthy. Allow yourself enough time to apply for scholarships before the deadlines.
Apply for a part-time job. Many students can find part-time employment, either on campus or in the community. Keep in mind that students receiving an assistantship often have restrictions on other activities including working. Students who fall short on their funding may be able to supplement their income through work while gaining valuable experience. Campus jobs often will accommodate student schedules and student needs, making them a great option.
Apply for a paid summer internship. Graduate students often have valuable skills that attract companies to hire them for the summer. Internships pay differently, but can often provide income during the summer when students do not receive other funding and have the time to invest. Some students are able to save money from their summer internship to help pay for some expenses during the academic year as well. Internships often provide experience students would not otherwise obtain and become valuable in finding future funding opportunities.
Apply for social services in states that allow students to qualify for benefits, traditionally available to low income individuals or families. Students who are struggling to survive during graduate school can inquire with their local health and welfare office to see if they qualify for any programs. Examples of programs students may qualify for are: subsidized daycare programs, free or reduced health care for individuals or families, WIC, food stamps, energy assistance or other public benefits.