Loans
The U.S. Department of Education administers and oversees several loan programs designed to offer low-interest funding to students and their parents who need to borrow money to cover the costs of education - including Federal Direct subsidized and unsubsidized loans, and Federal Direct PLUS loans. These federal loans have fixed interest rates, consumer protections, and flexible repayment options not available with any other loan program. Loans must be accepted through PAWS by the end of the semester in order to be dispersed.
Financial Awareness Counseling Tool
The Financial Awareness Counseling Tool allows students to personalize five interactive modules about loans, budgeting, repayment, default, and financial planning. To import your personal information you will need to log in with your Federal Student Aid ID & password. Once logged into the site, select "Complete Counseling" and follow the prompts. FACT is not required, but is encouraged to provide you with additional information regarding successful repayment of your federal student loans.
Before You Borrow
It is also important to take starting salaries into account when determining how much student loan to utilize. Take the time to research and utilize resources available to help make a reasonable assumption as to what potential earnings could be in a chosen field or profession.
National Student Loan Data System
Students can view their federal loan history at any time 24/7 through the National Student Loan Data System. You will need your Federal Student Aid ID & password (the same used to sign your FAFSA and Master Promissory Note) to log into the system. For questions regarding NSLDS, please contact the Federal Student Aid Center at 1-800-4FED-AID.
Other (non-federal Title IV) Loan Programs
Private or Alternative Loans
Private loans are available to all students regardless of financial aid eligibility. These loans are made through banks, credit unions, or other financial institutions and are subject to the lending institution’s terms. Many private lenders allow students to be the primary borrower with a creditworthy cosigner. We encourage you to consider first apply for Title IV aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) since the terms and conditions of federal student loans will be significantly better than those for private loans.
Private loan lenders set their own rates, fees, and terms based on borrower and/or cosigner credit worthiness. When you enter into an agreement with a private loan provider, you should review all loan disclosures for a complete understanding of your loan and repayment options.
- Alaska Student Loans - May offer competitive alternatives to other student loan programs for residents of Alaska: http://acpe.alaska.gov/FINANCIAL_AID/Loans/State_Education_Loans
- The Nurse Faculty Loan Program - Assists registered nurses pursuing graduate education to become qualified nurse faculty: https://www.hrsa.gov/grants/find-funding/hrsa-20-004
- Contact the CSU-Pueblo Nursing Department for more information.
