Federal Graduate PLUS Loan
- Maximum amount that can be borrowed is the Cost of Education (tuition and living expenses) less other financial aid including scholarships.
- Approval is not based on credit score; however, adverse credit may affect the student's ability to qualify.
- Interest rate is fixed. The current rate can be found on the federal website for direct lending.
- Can be consolidated with Federal Direct Stafford Student Loans.
Private Education Loans
The Office of Student Financial Services strongly encourages all students eligible for federal loans to maximize their eligibility before borrowing any private education loans. Private education loans are not for everyone. They should only be utilized when all other federal resources, such as Federal Direct Stafford and Federal Direct PLUS Loan for graduate or professional students, have been exhausted.
Because private education loans are based on credit, as well as other criteria as determined by the lending institution, it is recommended that students contact at least one of the following national credit agencies to receive a copy and verify the accuracy of their individualized credit report prior to applying for a private education loan.
- Experian: 1-888-397-3742
- Trans-Union: 1-800-888-4213
- CBI/Equifax: 1-800-997-2493