parent PLUS loans
The Federal Direct PLUS Loan program is a non-need-based source of loan funds for the parent(s) of dependent students. Federal Direct PLUS Loans may be used in conjunction with Federal Direct Stafford Loans. Each year, parents of dependent students may borrow an amount not to exceed the cost of attendance less any financial aid (including Federal Direct Stafford Loans). Repayment begins 60 days after the final disbursement is made unless the parent borrower makes other arrangements with their lender to defer repayment. The interest rate is currently fixed at 7.9%. The Federal Direct PLUS Loan on the undergraduate level is only available to parents. Guardians are ineligible. A credit check is performed on all parental borrowers, and pre-approval is required.
PLEASE NOTE: This loan is in the parent's name and the parent will be responsible for repayment of the loan.
How to Apply for a Federal PLUS Loan
If you are an eligible parent interested in applying for a Federal Direct PLUS Loan, you will need to complete the following steps:
- Ensure that your student has applied for admission to the College, been placed into an eligible academic curriculum, and is making Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP).
- Obtain and complete the Federal Direct PLUS Loan Request Form.
- Complete your Master E-Promissory Note (MPN). The website to complete the E-Promissory Note electronically is https://www.studentloans.gov. Make sure to choose the “Complete New MPN for Parent PLUS Loans” link
- Ensure that the student enrolls for, attends, and maintains at least six credit hours to maintain loan eligibility. Students must stay active in at least six credit hours each semester. Students who drop or withdraw below half-time status risk having Federal Direct PLUS Loans canceled.
- Finally, allow four to six weeks for College processing, depending on the time of the year.
