Alternative financing is used to bridge the gap between the costs of your program minus your financial aid. The loans in your financial aid package are your best option. NSCC strongly encourages you to fill out a Free Application For Federal Aid (FAFSA) form to find out your federal and state eligibility before considering these options.
Federal Direct PLUS Loan
The Direct PLUS Loan is a loan a parent can take out through the Federal government to
supplement the cost of attending school. The parent borrower has a maximum of 10 years
to repay the loan. The interest rate is fixed at 5.30% for 2020 - 2021 Academic year. There is an origination fee of 4.228% deducted from the loan prior to the funds being disbursed to a student's account. There
is a credit check for the loan and a student must submit a FAFSA form. If a parent is denied the Direct PLUS loan the student maybe eligible for an additional
$4,000 in the unsubsidized loan. For more information and to apply for the PLUS loan
visit, studentaid.gov.
Private Student Loans
Private student loans provide another option to help fund your education. North Shore
Community College highly encourages you to explore your eligibility through federal
and state financial aid by completing the FAFSA before considering a private loan.
These loans are applied for directly with the lender; however, NSCC is required to
certify your loan eligibility. Private loans are not based on financial need, but
the borrower and co-signer must meet credit and other eligibility requirements set
by the lenders. You may use any lender you choose. We encourage you to carefully compare
rates and terms before making any decision on what loan program is best for you.