Federal Direct Parent PLUS Loan

 

This parent loan is available to credit-worthy* parents of undergraduate students regardless of income. This loan program allows parents to borrow the difference between the cost of education and the financial assistance the student is scheduled to receive.

Applying for the Parent PLUS Loan

Step 1: Read the facts to the right for information on accounting for the mandatory federal fees. When you have decided you wish to apply for the PLUS Loan, and know how much you wish to borrow, please login to http://studentloans.gov and choose "Parent Borrowers" and then "Apply for a PLUS Loan".  

Please note: To apply online you must have your parent login with their own FSA ID Username and Password. The FSA ID has replaced what was previously the PIN number and you will need to create an FSA ID if you have not done so already.

Step 2: After you have completed your PLUS Application and credit-check, make sure you continue the process on the studentloans.gov website to take the final step of completing your Direct Parent PLUS Loan Master Promissory Note (MPN).

If you encounter any problems completing the above requirements on the studentloans.gov website feel free to contact Applicant Services at the Department of Education at 800-557-7394 for general website support and assistance in completing your PLUS application requirements in Steps 1 and 2.

If you obtain an endorser on the loan, or successfully appeal, you will also need to complete the PLUS Counseling.

*To meet the credit worthiness requirements, an applicant cannot be 90 days or more delinquent on the repayment of any debt, the subject of a default determination, bankruptcy discharge, foreclosure, repossession, tax lien, wage garnishment or write off of a Title IV debt during the last five years.

What happens if my parent is denied?

If a parent fails the credit test, they can choose to obtain an endorser on the loan, appeal the credit decision, or the student may borrow additional unsubsidized loan money. Additional unsubsidized loan is up to $4,000 for freshman and sophomores, and up to $5,000 more for juniors and seniors.