Loans

Federal Direct Loans

Federal Direct Loans are available to students who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents, regardless of the demonstration of eligibility for need-based aid.

 

Federal Direct Grad PLUS Loans

Federal Direct Grad PLUS Loans are credit-based loans available to eligible law and graduate students enrolled in an eligible degree program on at least a half-time basis (six credit hours per term).

 

Private Loans

Typically Federal Direct Loans have fixed interest rates and lower fees than private loans. However, if you believe that you would qualify for lower interest rates because of a good credit history, it could be beneficial to research private loan options.

Private loans are credit-based, educational loans from lenders such as private banks. These loans are available to students enrolled in an eligible program on at least a half-time basis. The maximum annual loan is the Cost of Attendance (COA), as established by the Financial Aid Office, minus any financial aid that the student may receive.

These are credit-based loans and a poor credit history will prevent borrowing under these programs. Interest on these loans begins to accrue on the date of disbursement, and interest and principal payments begin after graduation, withdrawal from school, or enrollment at less than a half-time course load (six credits or 1.75 units).

There are many different private loan products on the market. You may use any lender of your choice for a private loan. These loans are not inexpensive and borrowing under these programs is recommended only after other sources of financial assistance are exhausted. It is important to review and understand information about loan repayment, loan forgiveness and loan consolidation prior to borrowing. This information will help you understand your obligations and options under the federal loan programs.

For more information on private loans, contact the Financial Aid Office.

 

Federal Loan Repayment

There are various federal loan repayment plans available to borrowers. Borrowers are able to select the loan repayment plan which best suits their needs.

 

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

Direct Loan borrowers can have their Federal Direct Loans forgiven through public service.

 

Federal Loan Consolidation

Borrowers who have multiple federal loans can consolidate these loans into one loan.