Direct Plus Loan Guide

Financing an education is possibly the greatest investment one can make for the future. For those with lower incomes, however, it can seem impossible to cover the cost of tuition, books, campus lodging, and other costs. The Federal government has made it possible for many millions of Americans to attend colleges and universities at the undergraduate and graduate levels.

One of the loan programs offered through the federal government is the Parent PLUS loan. These loans are specifically designed to provide parents of undergraduate students as well as personal expenses related to education at the graduate level. There are a number of questions one might have when considering Direct Plus Loans.

AM I ELIGIBLE?

This is, for good reason, the first question out of most potential borrower's mouths. According to www.direct.ed.gov, an individual is eligible to take out a Plus loan if one is the parent, biological or adoptive, of the student. Exceptions may be made in certain circumstances.
A borrower must have an acceptable credit history and be a US citizen. Eligible noncitizens can also apply. If one has defaulted on any government loans in the past, it is not likely that one will be eligible to obtain a Direct Plus Loan.

IS THERE A LIMIT TO HOW MUCH I CAN BORROW?

Though there is no limit to the amount one can borrow, a Plus loan is based on the cost of tuition. Other financial aid types including grants, subsidized and unsubsidized loans, and scholarships will lower the amount one can borrow during a particular loan period. If other financial aid sources cover the cost of tuition, one cannot borrow a Plus loan for that semester.

WHAT ABOUT DISBURSEMENT?

Typically, the funds are sent to the academic institution. A full year of financial aid will be sent to the school and, usually, the school will make at least two disbursements. However, not all academic institutions encourage a student to recieve disbursements. Many trade and career schools will advise that any excess funds be sent back to the lender to minimize the amount of money their student's borrow. It would be wise to check with the financial aid department in a college or university to learn what the educational institution will do with excess loan funds.

WHAT CAN I USE THE MONEY FOR?

If it applies to one's education in any way, it is usually an allowed purchase. Indirect student expenses include purchasing or renting a vehicle, purchasing or renting a computer, laptop, etc. Typically, entertainment devices such as video game consoles are not allowed.

For more information, visit http://www.direct.ed.gov/parent.html

If You are Looking For Student Loan. We Suggest Simpletuition: