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Pharmacy school student loans are one way for potential pharmacists to subsidize some or all of the costs associated with attending pharmacy school.

There are several pros and cons to taking out a pharmacy school loan, from the opportunity to receive student loan forgiveness to potential fees for late payments or a drop in credit score.

Keep reading to learn how much it costs to attend pharmacy school, a few different ways to pay for it, what a pharmacy school loan covers, and the ins and outs of pharmacy school student loans.

Average Cost of Pharmacy School

The average cost of attending pharmacy school spans anywhere from $65,000 to $200,000.

It’s a wide range but, generally speaking, in-state, public schools are on the lower end of the scale, costing around $14,800 to $82,000 per year, while pharmacy programs at private institutions can run between $74,800 and $160,000.

Average Student Loan Debt Pharmacy School

The American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP)’s 2021 survey of pharmacy school graduates found that about 85% of PharmD degree holders had to borrow money to get through school.

And the average student loan debt for pharmacy graduates, according to that same report, is $173,561.

There’s good news, though: The return on investment can be promising for pharmacists, whose median pay is around $128,710 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

What Can You Use a Pharmacy School Student Loan on?

There are several ways a student loan can be used to cover the cost of a pharmacy school education:

Tuition

As evidenced above, tuition is one of the biggest pharmacy school expenses that can be covered by a pharmacy school student loan. Since it can cost upwards of $200,000 to complete a pharmacy program, student loans can be helpful in covering that cost.

Fees

The term “fees” can sound a little bit elusive, and you typically see it thrown alongside the word “tuition.” The fees associated with attending pharmacy college vary based on the type of program the student attends, how many credit hours the student completes, and whether or not they’re an in-state or out-of-state student. In some cases, a pharmacy school may charge “comprehensive fees” that cover tuition, fees and room and board.

Books and Supplies

Pharmacy school student loans can be used to pay for books, supplies and other education-related expenses. To acquire the funds for books and supplies, pharmacy school student loans are first applied to a student’s tuition, required fees, and room and board bills. Then, any remaining funds get refunded to the borrower, either in the form of a check or through direct deposit. From there, the money can be used to pay for books and supplies.

Recommended: How to Pay for College Textbooks

Living Costs

Room and board is another expense that can be paid for with pharmacy school loans. Students can use their borrowed funds to pay for student housing — whether that’s in a dorm room or an off-campus apartment with roommates.

Pharmacy School Student Loans: Pros & Cons

Pros of Using Pharmacy School Student Loans	Cons of Using Pharmacy School Student Loans
Help people pay for pharmacy school when they don’t otherwise have the financial resources to do so.	Can be expensive to repay.
Open up more possibilities for the type of pharmacy school a person can attend, regardless of the cost.	Can put borrowers into substantial amounts of debt.
Cover a wide range of expenses — from tuition and fees to school supplies, room and board.	Borrowers might have to forego other financial goals to pay off pharmacy school student loans.
Paying off pharmacy school student loans can help build credit.	Late payments or defaulting on a pharmacy school student loan can damage credit.

Pros of Using a Pharmacy School Student Loan

Using a pharmacy school loan comes with a few pros:

Student Loans for Pharmacy School Can Be Forgiven

In terms of pharmacists student loan forgiveness, there are several options for newly graduated pharmacists who need some help paying off their pharmacy school loans.

Typically, these forgiveness programs are available on a state or federal level.

A few different pharmacy student loan forgiveness options include:

•   Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

•   HRSA’s Faculty Loan Repayment Program

•   National Institutes of Health Loan Repayment Programs

•   Substance Use Disorder Workforce Loan Repayment Program

•   State-based student loan forgiveness programs

Salary

As mentioned above, the median pay for a pharmacist is around $128,710 per year. For a pharmacy school graduate with student loan debt, this salary range could mean the difference between paying off loans and still having money left in the budget for living expenses, an emergency fund, and other types of savings.

Credit Score

Paying off pharmacy school student loans can be one way for a borrower to boost their credit score. When building credit history, making on-time payments is a prominent factor, which can potentially have a beneficial effect on a borrower’s credit score. Although their credit score could face a minor dip right after paying off the loan, it should subsequently level out and eventually rise.

Pharmacy school student loans appear as “installment loans” on a person’s credit report, which can diversify the types of credit they manage, thus potentially improving their “credit mix.” Which could also help enhance their credit score.

Cons of Using a Pharmacy School Student Loan

Pharmacy school student loans can also come with a few cons:

Debt

Since a pharmacy school loan is an installment loan, it’s considered a form of debt. As such, potential pharmacists are signing a long-term contract to repay a lender for the money they borrow. Should they find themselves on uneven financial ground, they may end up missing a payment or defaulting on the loan altogether, which could have a damaging effect on their credit report.

Late Payment Penalties

Many pharmacy school student loan lenders dole out fees for late payments. The terms of the loan are outlined by the lender before the borrower signs the agreement, but it’s important to read the fine print because loan servicers can charge a late payment penalty of up to 6% of the missed payment amount.

Interest Rates

Student loans for graduate and doctoral degrees like pharmacy school have some of the highest interest rates of any type of student loan.

Even federally subsidized Grad PLUS Loans have a fixed interest rate of 7.05% for the 2023-2024 school year, which could cause a pharmacy school student loan balance to climb high over time.

Recommended: Grad PLUS Loans, Explained

Average Interest Rates for Pharmacy School Student Loans

Pharmacy students have a variety of student loan options available to them. This table details the interest rate on different types of federal student loans that might be used to pay for a portion of pharmacy school.

Loan Type	Interest Rate for the 2023-2024 School Year
Direct Loans for Undergraduate Students	5.50%
Direct Loans for Graduate and Professional Students	7.05%
Direct PLUS Loans for Graduate Students	8.05%

Private student loans are another option that may help pharmacy students pay for their college education. The interest rates on private student loans are determined by the lender based on factors specific to the individual borrower, such as their credit and income history.

Paying for Pharmacy School

Before looking into an undergraduate student loan option or a graduate student loan option, potential pharmacists might be able to secure other sources of funding to help them pay for pharmacy school.

Scholarships

Scholarships are funds used to pay for undergraduate or graduate school that do not need to be repaid to the provider.

They can be awarded based on many different types of criteria, from grade point average (GPA) to athletic performance to acts of service, chosen field of study, and more. Scholarships might be offered by a college or university, organization, or institution.

For potential pharmacy school students, there are several available options for scholarships through their individual states and other providers. The American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP) is a great resource for finding a pharmacy school scholarship.

Grants

Unlike scholarships or loans, grants are sources of financial aid from colleges, universities, state/federal government, and other private or nonprofit organizations that do not generally need to be repaid.

The AACP breaks down grants and awards for health profession students and government subsidized grants for pharmacy school students on their website.

Recommended: The Differences Between Grants, Scholarships, and Loans

State Pharmacy School Loans

Some potential pharmacists may be eligible to participate in a state student loan program. The cost of attending a state pharmacy school will vary depending on whether or not the student lives in the same state as the school, so researching the accredited pharmacy programs by state can help them determine how much they’ll need to borrow.

Federal Pharmacy School Loans

The U.S. Department of Education offers Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans to undergraduate and graduate pharmacy school students. The school will determine the loan type(s) and amount a pharmacy school student can receive each academic year, based on information provided by the student on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) form.

PLUS Loans are another federal pharmacy school loan option, eligible to graduate or professional students through schools that participate in the federal Direct Loan Program.

Recommended: Types of Federal Student Loans

Private Pharmacy School Loans

A private student loan is another way for students to pay for pharmacy school. When comparing private student loans vs. federal student loans, it’s important to note that because private loans are not associated with the federal government, interest rates, repayment terms. Benefits also vary depending on the lender. For these reasons, private student loans are considered an option only after all other financing sources have been exhausted.

When applying for a private pharmacy school loan, a lender will usually review the borrower’s credit score and financial history, among other factors.

Private pharmacy school student loans can help bridge the gap between other payment options like the ones listed above, and give potential pharmacists the opportunity to shop around for the option that works best for them.

Income-Driven Repayment Plans

Income-driven repayment plans in particular help borrowers qualify for lower monthly payments on their pharmacy school loans if their total debt at graduation exceeds their annual income.

Here are the four income-driven repayment plans available for federal student loans:

•   Income-Based Repayment (IBR

•   Pay As You Earn (PAYE)

•   Revised Pay As You Earn (REPAYE)

•   Income-Contingent Repayment (ICR)

The Takeaway

Nearly 85% of pharmacy school graduates have student loans, according to the AACP. Pharmacy school loans can be used to pay for tuition and fees, living expenses, and supplies like books or required lab equipment. Federal student loans can be used in combination with any scholarships and grants the student may qualify for. If you find yourself still looking for a way to pay for your pharmacy school education after exhausting scholarships, grants, and federal student loans, a private student loan option might be an option to consider.

With SoFi’s private student loans, you get a six-month grace period post-graduation before you start thinking about repayment. Interested applicants can find out their rate in just a few minutes.

Learn more about borrowing a SoFi private student loan.

FAQ

How long does it take to pay off pharmacy school loans?

Depending on the type of pharmacy school loan you take out (private vs. federal) and when the funds were distributed, it can take between five and 30 years to repay a pharmacy school student loan.

How can I pay for pharmacy school?

There are several ways to pay for pharmacy school, including federal student loans, private pharmacy school loans, scholarships, grants, and personal savings.

What is the average student loan debt for pharmacy school?

According to the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy, the average student loan debt for pharmacy graduates is $173,561.

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Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

Checking Your Rates: To check the rates and terms you may qualify for, SoFi conducts a soft credit pull that will not affect your credit score. However, if you choose a product and continue your application, we will request your full credit report from one or more consumer reporting agencies, which is considered a hard credit pull and may affect your credit.

Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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According to EducationData.org, the average cost of a master’s degree at a public state college is $29,150, and $62,100 at private school.

To help pay for this expense, graduate-level students sometimes turn to federal graduate loans for assistance. Grad students no longer qualify for federal Direct Subsidized Loans but they may be eligible to borrow Direct Unsubsidized Loans or Graduate PLUS Loans.

Unlike most other loans in the Direct Loan program, Direct PLUS loans require a credit check. If you’re exploring loans to help fund your graduate program, here’s what to know about Grad PLUS Loan credit score requirements and eligibility.

What Are Grad PLUS Loans?

As alluded to previously, subsidized loans are for undergraduate students. In addition to Direct Unsubsidized loans, graduate students may also be able to borrow PLUS Loans. There are two options for PLUS Loans, Grad PLUS Loans are available to graduate or professional student borrowers while Parent PLUS Loans are options for parents with undergraduate students. Grad PLUS Loans are non-need based financial aid option.

Grad PLUS loans have a fixed interest rate. You can borrow up to the cost of attendance that’s certified by the school, minus existing financial aid you’ve received. Payments can be deferred while you’re enrolled at least half-time in school, and an automatic six-month grace period occurs after leaving school before you’re required to enter repayment. Note that while the loan is in deferment, interest will continue to accrue.

Who Is Eligible for Grad PLUS Loans?

Students don’t have to demonstrate financial need to be eligible for a Grad PLUS Loan. However, in addition to meeting basic federal aid requirements, applicants must be enrolled in a certificate- or degree-issuing program at least half-time, and the program must be at an eligible school.

Upon meeting these academic requirements, graduate applicants must also agree to a credit check. If you don’t satisfy the Department of Education’s credit requirement, you’ll need to meet additional Grad PLUS Loan requirements to receive funding.

Grad PLUS Loan Minimum Credit Score

Unlike a traditional consumer loan through a private lender, the Department of Education doesn’t set a minimum Grad PLUS Loan credit score to qualify. Instead, the program states that borrowers can’t have an adverse credit history.

It determines adverse credit as:

•   Having 90- or more day delinquent balance of $2,085 across one or more accounts.

•   Having a collection or charge-off in the past two years.

•   Having a foreclosure, repossession, bankruptcy discharge, tax lien, wage garnishment, or default within the past five years.

•   Having federal student debt charged- or written-off within five years.

Although primary borrowers with adverse credit aren’t eligible on their own, they might still be approved if they meet extra Grad PLUS Loan requirements.

How to Check Your Credit Score

There are a couple of options for those interested in finding their credit score. Check in with your credit card company or bank, many financial institutions now offer credit scores to their customers.

Since there is no minimum credit score for a Grad PLUS loan, you may also want to review your credit history. You can review your credit report from all three credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.

Your credit reports include details for every credit account under your name, and their payment status.

You can request a copy of each credit report in one sitting through AnnualCreditReport.com, the central website of the national credit bureaus. You can also request your credit reports by mailing an Annual Credit Report request form or by calling its toll-free number: 1-877-322-8228.

You’re entitled to a free credit report from each bureau every 12 months. Additionally, you can request up to six free Equifax credit reports every year until 2026; this can be requested directly on Equifax’s website.

Tips for Maintaining a Good Credit Score

Although there isn’t a minimum credit score for Grad PLUS loans, maintaining a positive credit profile today can be advantageous if you need loans for future academic years, or decide on a student loan refinance later on.

Some ways to keep your credit in good standing are by:

•   Making payments on time. Payment history accounts for 35% of your FICO® credit score. Make sure to pay at least the minimum payment by the due date every month.

•   Keeping your credit utilization low. If you have revolving credit, like a credit card, avoid using a high percentage of your available credit limit. As much as 30% of your score is based on credit utilization ratio.

•   Reviewing your credit report for mistakes. Although it’s rare, errors may come up on credit reports that can bring your score down. Regularly check your credit report and notify the bureaus of the error if you find one.

•   Keeping your longest credit account in good standing. The age of your credit accounts affect your overall credit score by 15%.

•   Having a mix of credit types. Keeping a mix of credit types could potentially help your credit score by 10%. For example, installment credit (student loan, auto loan, etc.) verus revolving credit (credit cards, Home Equity Lines of Credit, etc.).

What to Do if You Have Adverse Credit

For students with an adverse credit history, the Grad PLUS Loan program offers two options:

1.    Secure an endorser. This person must not have adverse credit and will be liable to repay the debt if you, as the primary borrower, are unable to do so.

2.    Provide proof of an extenuating circumstance. If your adverse credit history was due to an extenuating circumstance, you can appeal a denied application by providing supporting documentation. Approval isn’t guaranteed.

Regardless of which path you choose, if approved, you’ll also need to undergo PLUS Credit Counseling.

Alternatives to Grad PLUS Loans

Although you have access to apply for Grad PLUS Loans as a graduate or professional student, you’re not guaranteed for approval. For example, if you have adverse credit, but can’t secure an endorser, you might not receive Grad PLUS funding.

Below are some other graduate school loan options and financial aid ideas if you need alternatives.

Grants, Scholarships, and Work-Study

Grants, scholarships, and work-study are financial aid opportunities that can help bridge the gap for your graduate education.

The first step to seeing whether you’re eligible for these programs is completing a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®). If you’re eligible for federal-, state-, or school-sponsored programs, you’ll be notified through your FAFSA award letter.

You can also apply for need- or merit-based grants and scholarships through private organizations, professional associations, or other nonprofit community groups.

Personal Loans

If you’ve exhausted federal student aid options, a personal loan from a private lender could be an option to consider. Generally, you can use personal loans for nearly any large, upcoming expense, including costs associated with graduate school, like transportation or supplies.

Personal loans are available through private entities, like banks, credit unions, online lenders, and also through community groups and associations.

Recommended: Common Reasons to Apply for a Personal Loan

Private Student Loans

Another financial aid option that operates outside of the federal student loan system are private student loans. Private student loans are specifically for use toward educational expenses, like tuition and fees, and textbooks.

These loans are provided by private banks, credit unions, and financial institutions. Some states and schools also offer private student loan options.

A private student loan is an installment loan, and can have fixed- or variable interest rates. Each lender has its own eligibility requirements and loan terms. Since these loans aren’t federally owned they don’t offer the same benefits that federal loans provide, like access to loan forgiveness and extended deferment. For this reason, federal student loans are generally prioritized over private student loan options when evaluating financing options.

Explore Private Student Loan Rates

If after accessing your financial aid situation, you find you need more education funds, SoFi can help. SoFi’s private student loan lets you borrow up to your school’s certified cost of attendance at competitive rates. Plus, checking your rate online takes only three minutes.

Interested in learning more about SoFi’s private student loans? Find out if you prequalify and at what rates in just a few minutes.

FAQ

Can you be denied a Grad PLUS loan?

Yes, you can be denied a Grad PLUS Loan if you don’t meet the Department of Education’s eligibility requirements. You must be a graduate or professional student who’s enrolled in a degree- or certificate-granting program at an eligible school. You also must not have adverse credit, and must meet the general requirements for federal student aid.

Do Grad PLUS loans check your credit score?

Yes, Direct PLUS Loans, which include Grad PLUS Loans, require a credit check. The credit checks reviews a borrower’s credit history for adverse marks. Despite having adverse credit, however, borrowers might still be able to receive Grad PLUS funding by adding an endorser or by providing proof of extenuating circumstances.

Are cosigners required for Grad PLUS loans?

Cosigners are not required to qualify for a Grad PLUS Loan. However, if the primary borrower has adverse credit, having a cosigner (also known as an endorser), might help the primary borrower qualify.

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SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

Checking Your Rates: To check the rates and terms you may qualify for, SoFi conducts a soft credit pull that will not affect your credit score. However, if you choose a product and continue your application, we will request your full credit report from one or more consumer reporting agencies, which is considered a hard credit pull and may affect your credit.

Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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College is expensive and costs continue to rise. In 1989, the average cost of a 4-year degree school term was $1,730. As of 2023, the average annual cost increased to an average of $9,377 for in-state students at a public four-year college.

With college costs continuing to skyrocket, many parents apply for federal Parent PLUS loans. Since these loans are issued in the parent’s name, it is important that parents understand the details of what these loans entail and how often you have to apply to ensure students receive proper funding.

So, to avoid missing an application deadline, here’s some helpful information about Parent PLUS loans and their application process.

Parent PLUS Loan Recap

A Parent PLUS loan is a type of Direct PLUS loan, which is offered to parents who have a student enrolled at least part-time in an eligible education program.

Borrowers may be able to borrow an amount that equals but does not exceed the full cost of attendance, minus any other financial aid such as scholarships and grants that your child has received.

These loans are federally-funded and not subsidized. This means that the loan will accrue interest while the student is in school. Parent PLUS loans offer fixed interest rates and won’t change throughout the life of the loan.

The interest rate for Parent PLUS loans disbursed for the 2023-24 academic year is 8.05%. It’s also important to note that as of October 1, 2019, Direct PLUS Loans have a fee of about 4.228% of the loan amount (which is deducted from each loan disbursement proportionately).

Qualifying For a Parent Plus Loan

To qualify for a Parent PLUS loan, borrowers must:

•   Be the biological or adoptive parent, or in some cases, the stepparent, of an undergraduate student enrolled part-time at an eligible school
•   Have poor credit history (unless the parent meets additional criteria). More information on what is considered an adverse credit history can be found on the Student Aid website .
•   Meet general eligibility requirements for federally-funded student aid

Keep in mind that even if a grandparent is primarily responsible for a student they are not eligible for a Parent PLUS loan, unless, grandparents have legally adopted their grandchildren and are legal guardians.

Applying for a Parent PLUS Loan

The first step to apply for a Parent PLUS Loan is to complete the FAFSA® form with the student. Then, parents can log in at StudentLoans.gov , choose the Parent Borrowers tab, and the “Apply for a PLUS Loan” link.

Most schools require you to apply for Direct PLUS Loans online, however, some may have different application processes that you must follow. Studentaid.gov provides a list of schools that allow you to apply online. If your school is not on this list, check with the school’s financial aid office to verify the application process you must follow.

Those who qualify for a Parent PLUS loan, will have to sign a Direct PLUS Loan Master Promissory Note (MPN) . This document verifies that the borrower agrees to the terms of the loan. Each school may have a different process, double check with the financial aid office to ensure you understand the specific process for your student’s school of choice.

Keep in mind, those borrowing more than one parent PLUS loan for separate children, will need to sign multiple MPNs.

Apply for A Parent Plus Loan Every Year

When you complete the FAFSA form , you are applying for financial aid for one school year. Therefore, to receive financial aid for the next year, you will have to submit a new FAFSA form to get new aid.

However, the website allows you to select a Renewal FAFSA form that remembers your information from the previous years, making it earlier to submit a new financial aid application.

Additionally, it’s important to pay attention to the FAFSA deadlines to avoid missing out on any financial aid opportunities. General recommendations suggest submitting the FAFSA form by the earliest financial aid deadline of the schools to which you are applying, usually by early February.

Each state may have their own deadlines, so it can help to verify your state’s specific date.

Pros of Parent PLUS Loans

First, eligible borrowers can take out a generous Parent PLUS loan, as long as it doesn’t exceed the total cost of attendance at the student’s school of choosing (minus other financial aid they qualify for).

Another advantage of the Parent PLUS loan is that the interest rates are fixed. This means that even if rates increase nationally, the interest rate on the loan is locked in at the rate determined at the time the loan was disbursed.

Having a fixed interest rate can make it easier to budget for the monthly payments when they become due since borrowers know exactly what to expect.

Additionally, when it comes to loan repayment, there are several flexible repayment options . For example, you could select a standard repayment plan with fixed monthly payments for 10 years or an extended repayment plan with either a fixed or graduated payment schedule over a 25-year term.

Parent PLUS loans are not eligible for income-driven repayment plans, unless they have been consolidated with a Direct Consolidation Loan . This is when multiple federal loans are consolidated into one single Direct Consolidation Loans. These loans are still federal loans and the new interest rate is the weighted average of the existing loans.

Borrowers can select the best repayment option based on the plans they qualify for and their goals for repayment. Whether the goal is to keep payments low or pay off the loan balance as soon as possible, borrowers can select a plan that best fits their needs. Generally, selecting a repayment plan that helps pay off the loan quickly will result in paying less interest over the term of the loan.

Cons of Parent PLUS Loans

Not everyone qualifies for a Parent PLUS loan. Although this isn’t necessarily a disadvantage to a Parent PLUS loan, it’s important to understand that you will have to meet all eligibility requirements to qualify. This includes passing a credit check.

Adverse credit indicators include defaults of debt, foreclosures, repossessions, debts discharged through bankruptcy, tax liens, wage garnishments, or previous write-offs of federal student debt.

However, you might be able to qualify if you apply with an endorser or a cosigner. Keep in mind, you also need to be a United States citizen or national.

Alternative Financing Options

If your application is denied due to poor or “adverse credit history,” there are still other financing options. Here are a few to consider:

Enlisting an Endorser

If a parent doesn’t qualify based on their own credit history, they can try to enlist a co-signer , called an endorser, on the Parent PLUS loan. The endorser agrees to take responsibility for the loan if the borrower fails to repay, and the loan will show up on the endorser’s credit report as his or her own debt. If you apply with an endorser, you will be required to complete PLUS credit counseling .

Looking for Free Money

It can be wise to continue to apply and look for scholarships, work-study, or grant rewards. There’s a myriad of ways to find reward opportunities such as contacting the school’s federal aid office, federal agencies , state grant agencies , or other organizations a student or parent is involved with.

New opportunities may become available every year, so it can be wise to continue to stay out on the look for funding opportunities.

Applying for Unsubsidized Federal Loans

If a parent is ineligible for a Parent PLUS loan, the student may be eligible to receive additional Direct Unsubsidized Loan funds up to the loan limits for independent students.

Federal student loans can be reliable borrowing options because they often have lower interest rates and could have better repayment terms than other loans available to students. However, it’s worth making sure that a student isn’t taking out more debt than they can handle after graduation.

Considering Private Loans

Lastly, if all other options fail, some families may want to consider private loans. These loans are offered through financial institutions such as banks, credit unions, and online lenders.

Keep in mind, private student loans tend to have less flexible repayment terms and higher interest rates than federal student loans.

For example, private lenders may require you to begin making payments before your child graduates. Conversely, with a Parent PLUS loan, parents can wait to make repayments until after their child has graduated.

Additionally, when applying for a private loan, the interest rate is generally based on factors like the borrower’s income and credit score.

If you think you may need to use private loans, don’t be discouraged, and instead, be informed about your options. First, it’s worth shopping around and comparing lenders for private loans.

Lenders’ terms will vary, so it can be helpful to get several quotes and ask about the interest rate (and whether it’s fixed or variable), the loan’s repayment terms, and what happens in the event there are financial difficulties that make it difficult to stick to the repayment plan.

If you do determine a private student loan is right for you, check out SoFi, where parent student loans are built to help you pay for your child’s education. SoFi loans have no fees, and qualifying borrowers can secure a competitive interest rate.

Check out what kind of rates and terms you can get in just a few minutes.

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External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

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Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

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For many students, financial aid is the only reason they can afford to go to college. Unfortunately, getting approved for aid (which may include scholarships and federal loans), isn’t a guarantee that you will have it throughout all your years in college. Schools can suspend — or even cut-off — financial aid for a number of different reasons, including poor academic performance.

Fortunately, a financial aid suspension typically doesn’t disqualify you from getting aid in the future. You will, however, need to take some steps to appeal the suspension and get your aid reinstated.

Read on to learn why federal financial aid can get suspended and what you can do to get it back.

What Is Financial Aid Suspension?

Financial aid suspension occurs when the federal financial assistance you qualified for stops coming in.

Financial aid can come in the form of scholarships, loans, grants, and work-study programs. When you fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), you are applying for federal student aid.

After your application is reviewed, you will generally receive information on what aid you are eligible for, if any. When financial aid is being suspended, you will be notified as well, generally by the financial aid office at the school where you are enrolled.


💡 Quick Tip: When shopping for a private student loan lender, look for benefits that help lower your monthly payment

Common Reasons for Financial Aid Suspension

Financial aid suspensions can occur for a variety of reasons. Here’s a closer look at why a student may find there are issues with their aid.

Not Making Satisfactory Academic Progress

In order to be eligible for certain financial aid, you need to be making Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP).

This means you must be enrolled in a certain number of credit hours and be earning grades that are considered good enough to be working towards completing a degree or certificate in a certain time period.

SAP policies will often vary by school. Typically, SAP rules require students to maintain at least a 2.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale, which is a “C” average in classes.

If students receive scholarships, they may have to maintain a higher GPA than 2.0. To find out the SAP policy at a specific school, take a look at their website or contact the financial aid office.

Taking Too Long to Complete Degree

A student may experience financial aid suspension if they’ve been in school for too long. Federal financial aid is generally restricted to a time limit that is based on the length of the program the student is enrolled in.

This information is generally listed in a school’s catalog. For example, federal aid is generally limited to six years for a bachelor’s degree and three years for an associate degree.

Not Applying for Aid Each Year

You must apply for federal student aid by submitting a FAFSA each year that you are enrolled in school. Failing to submit the FAFSA means you may not receive federal aid for that year.

Also keep in mind that when you fill out the FAFSA annually, you might not receive the same amount or type of aid you received previously if your family’s financial situation has changed.

Making a Change to Your Course of Study

You could also lose federal aid if you switched majors and the aid was tied to your original major. Other changes that can lead to loss of financial aid include switching schools, not taking enough credits to qualify for the aid, and defaulting on other student loans.

Not Meeting General Eligibility Requirements

In order to continue receiving federal aid, you need to continue meeting the general eligibility requirements set by the Department of Education.

For example, if a student is not a U.S. citizen and their eligible noncitizen status expired or was revoked, then they would need to reinstate their status to keep receiving aid.

A student could also potentially lose federal financial aid if they were convicted for a drug offense or became incarcerated.

If it comes to light that a student’s high school diploma is not valid, or they have property subject to a judgment lien, that could also cause financial aid suspension.

Even though it can be frustrating and worrisome to lose financial aid, there are steps that students can take to hopefully get it back.


💡 Quick Tip: Parents and sponsors with strong credit and income may find much lower rates on no-fee private parent student loans than federal parent PLUS loans. Federal PLUS loans also come with an origination fee.

Appealing a Financial Aid Decision

One of the first things you can do after being notified that your financial aid is being suspended is to call or visit your school’s financial aid office. The office can likely tell you more about why you are losing financial aid and if there is anything you can do about it, like file an appeal.

The appeals process can vary based on the school. In general, you can fill out a form and write an appeal letter to your college. In the appeals letter, you may consider sharing details about the circumstances surrounding your financial aid suspension.

For example, if you lost a loved one that semester, you might have become upset and unable to concentrate on your grades. Sometimes, students experience tough circumstances that have nothing to do with school, but their grades suffer. Schools understand that this happens and they may be willing to work with students who show they are still dedicated to their studies.

After writing the appeal letter, you can mail it or hand it into your financial aid office, depending on preferences and the process determined by the school. It can help to confirm that the office received it. In addition to writing an appeal letter, there are other ways you may be able to qualify for aid again, depending on the issue that caused the suspension of aid.

You may be able to study harder and bring your grades up, for instance. Or, you might enroll in more classes and get back on track to graduate in a certain amount of time. If you are an eligible noncitizen, you could figure out how to reinstate your status.

If you switched majors, you could look into other forms of financial aid for your new course of study. There are many ways to go about it — asking your financial office for guidance can provide insight to help you get back on track.

In some scenarios, you might lose financial aid for the year and then be able to reapply through FAFSA the next year. If you still don’t receive aid, you may need to look into alternative options to pay for your education.

Recommended: I Didn’t Get Enough Financial Aid: Now What?

Avoiding Financial Mistakes in College

If you went through financial aid suspension and couldn’t appeal the decision, you’ll need to figure out ways in which you can pay for school without hurting your financial future.

For instance, you may want to reconsider staying in the dorms and on an expensive college meal plan if you can’t afford it. If you do continue to live and eat on campus, you could run up a huge bill that in and of itself could take years to pay off.

While it may be tempting to put extra expenses on a credit card, debt can add up quickly. If you use a credit card but are unable to pay off your balance every month, you could end up graduating with student loan debt and credit card debt. Credit card debt can have relatively high interest rates which can make it difficult to pay off.

Also keep in mind that, while going to an expensive private school may seem more prestigious, state schools can also be solid options, offering rigorous programs as well.

I Lost My Financial Aid — How Do I Pay For School?

There are many students wondering how to pay for school if they no longer have financial aid — and thankfully, there are a number of ways to cover the cost of college.

One option is to consider transferring to a school that offers a lower tuition or where you can qualify for a more competitive aid package or scholarship.

If you aren’t able to transfer, or already go to a less expensive school, you might try to find a job on or off campus and start earning money to pay for your education.

You might also consider budgeting and cutting costs as needed. A few options to cut expenses might include opting to use public transportation instead of driving, moving to cheaper housing off-campus, cooking meals at home instead of eating out, or limiting how much you spend on entertainment.

You might also consider turning to family members for help. If your parents are able to help pay for your tuition or take out loans to pay for it, this could be a solution.

Another option you might consider is taking out a private student loan. Before applying for a private student loan, however, it’s important to compare different lenders and loan rates and terms. Each lender will also have their own eligibility requirements, so it’s worth looking around at different options.

Unlike federal student loans, private student loans generally require a credit check. If you don’t have much (or any) credit history, you will typically need a cosigner, such as a parent or other adult who has strong credit. With some lenders, you can quickly find out if you qualify, and at what rate, online. Just keep in mind that private student loans don’t offer the same protections, like forbearance and income-driven repayment plans, that come with federal student loans.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

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SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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College tuition can be costly whether you are seeking an undergraduate and graduate degree, attending an out-of-state public university, or taking classes at a private university.

If you do not have adequate savings to pay for classes, room and board, food, travel and other necessities, then you may be considering how to pay for college.

The costs of attending college continue to rise each year for both public and private colleges and universities. In 2023, average annual tuition and fees came to $9,377 at public in-state colleges, and $38,768 at private universities. Obtaining financial aid is one way students can afford to attend college.

One common type of financial aid is called gift aid and typically comes in the form of federal and state grants and a wide range of scholarships that are given by private donors, foundations, non-profit organizations and even the universities themselves.

These grants and scholarships do not have to be paid back, which is helpful for students who are on a tight budget or are considering obtaining a graduate degree.

Another type of aid is called self help aid and usually comes in a form of work study programs and student loans. Some work study programs are sponsored by the federal government and they provide part-time jobs for students who need help paying their tuition. These jobs can be either on the campus of the college or university or off campus nearby.

Self help aid also includes federal student loans which have to be paid back after a student graduates.

There are advantages and disadvantages of both gift aid and self help aid. Undergraduate and graduate students may only qualify for one type of aid, depending on their financial circumstances, where they are obtaining their college degree or other factors.

What Are The Pros and Cons of Gift Aid?

Grants and scholarships are considered gift aid. One common form of grants are called Pell grants. These are grants provided by the federal government and Pell grants are given to undergraduate students who have demonstrated financial need.

The maximum federal Pell grant award is $7,395 for the 2023-24 academic year with amounts changing annually.

The main drawback of gift aid is that you may not know what amount you will receive and you may need to supplement paying for college by seeking more scholarships and grants or getting a part-time job.

If you received a Pell grant the previous academic year, there is no guarantee that you will receive it again for the next academic year.

There are thousands of scholarships that are available to students who are obtaining various degrees. There are a variety of scholarship databases where students can search to find scholarships.

The amount of money that you can receive from scholarships can range a couple thousand dollars to larger amounts that will cover the majority of your tuition and other costs.

Scholarships may require that you reapply annually and there is no guarantee that you will receive a scholarship again the following academic year.

What Are The Pros and Cons of Self Help Aid?

Self help aid includes both work study programs and federal and private student loans.

Work Study Program

Federal work study programs are available for both undergraduate and graduate students to help them pay for tuition and other educational costs. The program’s jobs are related to the student’s course of study and also include community service work.

Both full-time or part-time students may qualify for part-time employment while they are enrolled at their university or college and it is available to undergraduate and graduate and professional students who demonstrate financial aid.

The work study programs are operated by a college and university financial aid office and you will receive at least the federal minimum wage. These jobs are available both on-campus and off-campus which can be beneficial for students who do not have other means of transportation.

Students who work off campus typically work for a nonprofit organization or a public agency and the goal of the job is geared to be in the public interest. The number of jobs is limited, so students should apply early to ensure that they have a position for the following academic year.

Federal and Private Student Loans

Another type of self-help aid are federal and private student loans. Federal student loans are based upon the financial need of a student and their family. They are either subsidized or unsubsidized direct loans and may offer lower interest rates than private loans. One drawback is that the federal government will limit how much money you can borrow.

Undergraduate students may qualify for subsidized loans that are given based on their financial need. One benefit is that the federal government will pay the interest on these loans while you are attending school or at least taking classes half-time, during your grace period or when you have deferred the loan.

Both undergraduate and graduate students may qualify for unsubsidized loans and they are not based on financial need. These loans accrue interest while students are taking classes, during the loan’s grace period, or when you have deferred the loan.

Private student loans can be used to help make up the gap in what is needed to pay the remainder of tuition or living expenses. While both federal and private student loans may help students pay for their tuition; they must be repaid once a student graduates.

If you do not complete your course study and do not receive a degree, the student loans still have to be repaid.

Federal student loans have protections that private student loans do not offer. Students who have received federal student loans can seek several options after graduation to repay their loans including income-driven repayment programs.

Federal student loans also offer borrowers’ the ability to put loans in forbearance or deferment, allowing them to temporarily pause payments in certain situations.

Some borrowers will choose to refinance student loans into new private student loans. But this option means that you lose the protection of the federal repayment plans. Private student loans have both fixed and variable interest rates.

Fixed interest rates are beneficial for people who want to know the exact amount of their loans each month helping them to budget more easily. The interest rate on variable student loans are sometimes lower than fixed rates but that means your payment amounts can fluctuate from month to month.

Shopping around can help you find the best private student loan that fits your financial needs and the amount that you can repay each month.

Qualifying For Gift Aid or Self Help Aid?

Qualifying for either gift aid or self help aid might depend on your financial circumstances. Students may want to apply early for grants, scholarships, work-study programs and student loans.

The first step in applying for federal aid, such as the Pell Grant, work study, and federal student loans is completing a FAFSA®, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid. This application must be completed every year.

Some states and colleges may have their own FAFSA deadlines , so double check to avoid missing any. Missing a deadline can mean forgoing some financial aid.

While some gift aid such as scholarships are given to students based on merit, grades or other accomplishments, grants, work study programs and student loans are typically based on your financial needs and the cost of tuition at your university.

Some universities use data from the FAFSA to determine gift aid like scholarships too. Students can also apply for scholarships and grants that aren’t associated with the FAFSA®.

Private Student Loans with SoFi

In some cases gift aid and federal aid aren’t enough to help students pay for their tuition. In that case, some students may consider private student loans.

SoFi offers private student loans with no late fees or origination fees with flexible repayment options. There are also interest rate discounts for eligible SoFi members.

Interested applicants can find out what rate and terms they could pre-qualify for in just a few minutes.

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SoFi Student Loan Refinance
If you are a federal student loan borrower, you should consider all of your repayment opportunities including the opportunity to refinance your student loan debt at a lower APR or to extend your term to achieve a lower monthly payment. Please note that once you refinance federal student loans you will no longer be eligible for current or future flexible payment options available to federal loan borrowers, including but not limited to income-based repayment plans or extended repayment plans.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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