Apply for a Graduate Loan

How do I qualify for graduate student loans?

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

  • This need-based option is no longer available to graduate students as of July 1, 2012.

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

Apply now for a graduate student loan »

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