A loan is a type of financial aid that is available to students and/or parents to help fund educational expenses that are not otherwise covered by scholarships and grants. Loans can be broken up into two categories: federal and private student loans.
Please read below for quick facts about each type of loan available. For more detailed information about the different loan options available to you, please click on the link of the type(s) of loan you wish to learn more about. You can also use the links located in the navigation bar.
Guaranteed federal loans available to students who have completed a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Federal Direct Loans offer low, fixed interest rates to students. The student is the borrower and responsible for repayment.
A loan through an outside private lender. The student is the borrower but will likely need a credit-worthy co-signer. Variable and fixed interest rates are available based on credit. Both student and co-signer are responsible for repayment.
A loan through the Department of Education that is available to parents of dependent, undergraduate students who have completed a FAFSA. The parent is the borrower and responsible for repayment.
The Parent PLUS Loan is a credit-based loan which means your credit is a factor in determining eligibility and not everyone will be approved. Learn more about your options and next steps if you were denied.
A loan through the Department of Education that is available to independent students in a Graduate (Master's Degree) program and who have completed a FAFSA. The student is the borrower and responsible for repayment.
Are you confused about how to keep track of your federal loans? As a borrower, you may have several different repayment options available to you that can help to make your payments more affordable or extend your payments.