For many students, finding ways to fund college other than out of pocket is essential. There are different types of financial aid, or funding for college including scholarships, work-study jobs, grants, and loans.
Federal vs. Private Student Loans
Federal student loans are provided by the government and often include fixed interest rates that are generally lower than private loans. Federal loans offer more flexible repayment options. Private loans are provided by banks or state-affiliated agencies and often require a co-signer. Private student loans should be the last resort option to cover college costs.
Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans
Subsidized and unsubsidized loans are the primary loans offered by the federal government. Subsidized loans are only offered to undergraduate students in financial need. Need is determined by the federal government with the FAFSA application. Unsubsidized loans are available to all students and are not based on financial need.
Direct PLUS Loans
Direct PLUS loans are offered to parents of undergraduate students and can be useful if subsidized and unsubsidized loans or other forms of financial aid do not cover all cost of attendance. These should be a last resort next to private student loans.
Completing a FAFSA
Students wishing to receive federal financial aid such as grants, loans, or work-study must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). FAFSA information is also used to determine eligibility for certain state and school financial aid. Completing the FAFSA does not obligate you to accept any financial aid offered, you will be able to review and decide what aid you need and want to accept. Please make sure to list our school code: 002943.
Method and Frequency of Title IV Disbursements, Loan Terms, and Loan Information
All federal student aid will be disbursed to the student’s account 30 calendar days after the first day of classes. The financial aid office will disburse the student’s aid via the Common Origination and Disbursement System (COD) and will be reflected on the student’s account.
Federal Direct Loans can be subsidized, unsubsidized or the optional Parent PLUS for parents of dependent students. All Federal Direct Loans charge an origination fee. View more information on fees and interest rates.
Although you may be assigned a repayment plan when you first begin repaying your student loan, you can change your repayment plans at any time- for free. View more information on repayment plans.