Student Loans

College graduates make an average of one million dollars more than those without college degrees (www.studentloanfacts.org). However, the cost of getting a college education can be overwhelming for both students and parents.

Smart Option Student Loans

Now you can pay for college the smart way with three great repayment options and competitive interest rates! The Smart Option Student Loan^® by Sallie Mae^® is for EPFCU members attending degree-granting institutions. This loan is an ideal solution to help you pay for college expenses not covered by scholarships and federal loans.

The Smart Option Student Loan features and benefits:

• Multiple in-school repayment options plus a choice of competitive fixed and variable interest rates, providing even more flexibility
• No origination fee and no prepayment penalty
• Benefits and an interest rate reduction available
• Rates that reward creditworthy borrowers
• Applying with a creditworthy cosigner may help you qualify
• 100% US-based Student Loan Specialists

Get Started Today!

• Learn More & Apply Online for the Smart Option Student Loan
  
• Learn more about Funding an Education
• Consider a Coverdell Education Savings Account
  

Government Loan Options

The federal government has several options to put your education within reach. Although we do not make federal student loans at EPFCU, you can learn more about them below. The first step is for students and parents of dependent undergraduates to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine federal loan eligibility. There are three federal loan options to fit every need:

Stafford Loans

• The subsidized Federal Stafford Loan is based on financial need. The government pays the interest while you are in school.
• The unsubsidized Federal Stafford Loan is not based on need but family income is a determining factor. You pay all the interest, although you can have the payments deferred until after graduation. Learn more about Stafford Loans.
  

Parent PLUS Loans

• Parents and stepparents may borrow for post-secondary education of dependent, undergraduate children.
• Credit based.
• Parents can borrow up to the cost of education minus any other financial aid the student is receiving. Learn more about Parent PLUS Loans.

Grad PLUS Loans

• Available to graduate or professional students.
• Credit based.
• Payments can be deferred while in school. Learn more about Grad PLUS Loans.
  

Helpful Student Loan Information

• www.studentaid.ed.gov — Detailed student aid and student loan information from the U.S. Dept. of Education.
• www.collegeplan.org — Information on college selection, admissions, financial aid and scholarships.
• www.collegeboard.com — Scholarship information
• www.mappingyourfuture.biz — Detailed information about career planning, selecting a school and paying for college.