Program Costs
Alder GSE provides an affordable and supportive path to a rewarding and successful teaching career. As an Alder student, you will earn a Master’s Degree and Teaching Credential through a year-long apprenticeship with an excellent, trained mentor teacher. Graduates receive priority hiring, and 90% of Alder graduates secure a full-time position at one of our school partners after their program year. The residency program is a supportive investment into your future as an educator.
Costs & Financial Support
Program & Living Costs:
| 2024-2025 Tuition | General Education: $22,610 Special Education: $22,610 (net of Alder Residency SPED grant) Bilingual Placement: $22,610 (net of Alder Bilingual Placement grant) |
| Test Registration Fees | Approximately $1,000 depending on the number of tests a student takes |
| Credential & Certification Fees | $340 |
| Live Scan and TB Fees | Approximately $150 based on the provider |
| Books & Materials | $600 |
| Other Living Expenses | Varies depending on your personal circumstances |
For more information about program costs, please see the 2023-24 Cost of Attendance or 2024-25 Cost of Attendance.
Financial Support:
For more detailed information about financial aid supports and how to apply, please see our full Financial Supports Page.
Amounts of financial support vary by partner and location; below are representative ranges:
| Living Expenses Stipend (taxable) | $25,000–$50,000 |
| Golden State Teacher Grant | Up to $20,000 |
| Cal Grant Teaching Credential Program | Extra Year of Cal Grant |
| Federal TEACH Grant | Up to $5,658 |
| Federal Loans | Up to $60,000* |
| Alder Residency Scholarships (dependent on funding availability and eligibility) | Up to $10,000 |
| Test registration fee support | $200 |
| Credential test preparation support | $250 on average |
| Excellent preparation and priority consideration for a paid, full-time teaching position | PRICELESS! |
*Total financial aid (grants + scholarships + loans) cannot exceed the cost of attendance; therefore eligible loan amounts are reduced based on other aid received.
Program Benefits
- Earn a Master’s Degree and Teaching Credential in one year
- Priority hiring—90% of Alder graduates secure a full-time position at one of our school partners after their program year
- Complete a year-long apprenticeship with an excellent, trained mentor teacher
- Join a cohort of up to twenty-five peers with whom to learn and grow
- Receive academic support from an expert instructional Director dedicated to your development and to creating a strong cohort experience
- Access a financial stipend (offered by TK-12 Partner) and financial aid (federal loans and grants), scholarships, loan deferral, and other financial benefits to finance the residency year
- High touch support in completing testing, including tutoring, a 50% discount on credential test preparation courses, and free preparation materials