How do I qualify for graduate student loans?

Cover all Semester Costs

Graduate Stafford loans

Graduate Stafford loans require you to complete the FAFSA financial aid form.

Unsubsidized graduate Stafford loans

  • Be enrolled at least half time or better in an approved, accredited program
  • Be current and in good standing on any other federal student loans including undergraduate loans
  • Be a US citizen or eligible non-citizen

Subsidized graduate Stafford loans

  • All requirements of the unsubsidized graduate Stafford loan plus
  • Demonstrated need based on FAFSA EFC

Graduate PLUS loans

Graduate PLUS loans require you to complete the FAFSA financial aid form. Graduate PLUS loans are not need-based, however. Additionally:

  • Be enrolled at least half time or better in an approved, accredited program
  • Be current and in good standing on any other federal student loans including undergraduate loans
  • Pass a credit check free of serious delinquencies, defaults, and other serious credit problems

Graduate Private loans

Graduate private loans do not require a FAFSA. Additionally:

  • Be enrolled at least half time or better in an approved, accredited program
  • Pass a credit check free of delinquencies, defaults, or other credit problems
  • Be a US citizen or eligible non-citizen
  • Have a qualified cosigner

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