Stafford Loans

The Federal Family Educational Loan (FFEL) provides low interest loans (6.8%) through participating lenders. Students must first complete the Free Application for Federal Financial Aid. If the student is eligible for a Stafford Loan, he/she will be notified with a financial aid award notice. First time borrowers must complete entrance loan counseling and sign the necessary forms and promissory note.

• Subsidized Stafford Loan
• Must demonstrate financial need
• Not based on credit
• Repayment begins 6 months after ceasing half-time enrollment
• Maximum award: $3,500
• Unsubsidized Stafford Loan
• Non-need based
• Not based on credit
• Repayment begins 6 months after ceasing half-time enrollment
• Maximum award: $3,500 for dependent students; $7,500 for independent students.
• PLUS Loan (for Parents)
• Non-need based
• Based on credit
• Repayment begin date is determined by lender
• Maximum award: Cost of attendance less any other financial aid received.

How Do I Get a Student Loan?

Step 1- Do you have your Federal PIN?
Yes, I already have a PIN, but I have forgotten what it is and I need to retrieve it now.
No, I have never had a Federal PIN and I need to get a new PIN now.
Not exactly sure... what is a Federal PIN and why would I need one?

Step 2- Application for Student Loans/ Federal Stafford Loan
Student Loans (Federal Stafford Loan) is a form of financial aid that require students to first complete the FAFSA form and be admitted and enrolled at least half-time in an eligible program. The FAFSA serves as the "application" for the student loan.
Begin FAFSA Application Process Now 

Step 3- Entrance Counseling
This interactive counseling session will help you to understand the responsibilities that come with your student loan. This is required for all first time borrowers and must be completed prior to student receiving their loan monies.
Begin Entrance Counseling Process Now

Step 4- Master Promissory Note
An MPN is a legally binding contract you sign, agreeing to repay the Stafford Loan money you have borrowed. This must be done prior to any monies being disbursed. Note: Your Federal PIN is needed as a signature for your MPN (see step 1).
Begin Master Promissory Note Process Now

Step 5- Exit Counseling
When you graduate, or drop below half-time attendance, you are required to complete exit counseling. This interactive counseling session will help you plan for the repayment of your student loans.
Begin Exit Counseling Process Now