Direct Student Loans are low-interest loans for students to help pay for the cost of education after high school. The lender is the U.S. Department of Education rather than a bank or other financial institution.

How to apply for a Direct Student Loan:

1. The student must complete the FAFSA.
2. The student must complete Direct Loan ENTRANCE COUNSELING at www.studentloans.gov. 
3. The student must sign a MASTER PROMISSORY NOTE at www.studentloans.gov. 
4. A student loan borrower must complete EXIT COUNSELING at www.nslds.ed.gov upon graduation, transfer to another institution, or withdrawal from college.

Financial Literacy:  Determine how much you can afford to borrow.

1. Debt Wizard provided by Mapping Your Future
2. Direct Loan Repayment Calculator
3. Student Loan Repayment Chart
4. Check on your student loan at mystudentcenter.org

How to apply for a Direct Parent PLUS Loan:

1. The student must complete the FAFSA.
2. The parent must complete the 2012 - 2013 PLUS Loan Application.
3. The parent must sign a MASTER PROMISSORY NOTE at www.studentloans.gov. 

The Student Access Loan Program from the Georgia Student Finance Authority is designed to be funding of last resort for college students who have a gap in their college financing.  Students must have applied for other student financial aid including federal and state student loans, parent PLUS loans, scholarships and grants.

Private Loans are often used to supplement federal student loans, when federal loans are not sufficient to cover the full cost of education.  Private Loans are generally more expensive when entering repayment.  Before pursuing a private loan, please check with your Financial Aid Counselor to determine if you have exhausted all other Financial Aid funding options.  Be aware that private loan proceeds along with your total financial resources cannot exceed your cost of attendance, as determined by GSC.  Students who apply for a private loan at GSC must first complete the FAFSA and be eligible to receive financial aid based on Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards.  Requesting a private loan and choosing a lender is completely determined by the student.  The GSC Financial Aid Office will not assist with the choice of a lender. Private Loan Counseling is recommended for all students who are considering borrowing an alternative student loan.  The counseling will help you navigate your finances and compare the differnect options available to you.  Students must complete a Self-Certification Form to begin the process.  Click here for general information about Private Loans.