Yes, out-of-state students can receive financial aid — though their options may be limited. In most cases, you will have to rely on federal assistance as an out-of-state student. Additionally, many online programs offer out-of-state students in-state tuition rates through reciprocity agreements. The following agreements allow students from specific regions who are pursuing approved programs to attend schools outside their state at discounted rates. The Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education serves students in the states of Alaska, Hawaii, North Dakota, and South Dakota. The Midwest Student Exchange Program is for students attending college in the upper midwest, from Nebraska and Kansas to Ohio. For students in the northeast, the New England Regional Student Program qualifies students in six states to pay reduced rates at certain schools. The Southern Regional Education Board serves students in southern and southeastern states, from Texas to Virginia through its Academic Common Market.  Apply for scholarships. Out-of-state students can apply for a range of need- and merit-based scholarships and grants awarded by institutions as well as various professional organizations.
Check with your employer. More than half of employers offer tuition assistance for employees to go back to school, and out-of-state students typically qualify for these programs.