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How to Get Student Loans for Past Due Tuition
Budgeting for college can be challenging, and past-due tuition balances can add stress to your plate. Even with the best planning, life can throw a curveball that compromises your ability to pay your tuition expenses before the deadline. Loans for past-due tuition balances may help address the needs of students who have encountered unexpected financial hurdles on their college journey. In times of need, these loans may provide students with a safety net to help ensure that a temporary financial setback does not derail their long-term educational goals. This article will review loan options for past-due tuition, how to access them, and explain the terms these loans typically come with so you can make decisions supporting both your academic and financial well-being. Key Takeaways Student loans for past-due balances are designed to help students cover unpaid tuition instead of upcoming tuition. Falling behind on tuition can trigger serious consequences, including blocked enrollment, transcript or graduation holds, late fees, loss of financial aid, and potential credit damage if the balance goes to collections. Remember to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) every year to take advantage of all types of financial aid, including grants, scholarships, and federal student loans. If you’re behind on tuition, reach out to your school’s financial aid office. It may offer emergency loans, flexible payment plans, or other support. Private student loans can also cover past-due balances, but this requires meeting specific credit and income requirements. Compare lenders, rates, and terms before applying. What are Student Loans for Past-Due Tuition? Student loans for past-due tuition are financial tools designed to assist students facing unsettled tuition fees. Unlike conventional student loans intended to fund upcoming educational expenses, these specialized loans address the immediate needs of past-due tuition payments. Like traditional college loans, loans for past-due tuition can help you continue your academic pursuits if you need to catch up on your tuition payments. Of course, there are many options to help students pay for college. However, in certain scenarios, these loans may serve as a lifeline to help you pursue your academic goals while you get your finances back on track. Consequences of Falling Behind on Tuition Delayed or missed tuition payments can disrupt your academic progress and have consequences that impact your financial future. Here are some key reasons to avoid falling behind on your payments: Blocked Enrollment: Many institutions won't allow students with outstanding balances to enroll for the next semester or academic year. This can defer or interrupt your attendance, extending your time to complete your education. Withheld Transcripts: Colleges and universities may refuse to release academic transcripts, which can be challenging if you plan to apply or transfer to a graduate program. Denied Access to Campus Resources: Some colleges may only allow students access to campus facilities, resources, or services once the debt is paid. Late Fees or Interest Accumulation: Overdue balances often accrue late fees, increasing the total amount you owe. If the balance is linked to a loan, interest might accumulate, increasing the amount you need to repay. Graduation Holds: Some colleges may only allow students to graduate or receive their diplomas once all dues are paid. Credit Score Impact: Any time you fail to pay back a loan, there is a chance your unpaid balance can get sent to collections. Unsettled debts can negatively impact your credit score and limit your financial possibilities for years. Loss of Financial Aid: Falling behind on payments can jeopardize your eligibility for future financial aid or scholarships. How to Pay Back Past-Due Tuition Whether it's tapping into federal resources, seeking assistance from your school, or considering private student loans, there are multiple options you can explore to help cover the cost of past-due tuition. Here's a closer look at some strategies to consider: 1. Fill out the FAFSA for Federal Aid The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) should be your starting point. Completing this form opens doors to various financial aid like grants, scholarships, and federal student loans. Head to StudentAid.gov, create an FSA ID and complete the required details. If you’re a dependent student, you must also provide financial information about your parents or guardians. 2. Stay Engaged with your Financial Aid Office Many colleges can help secure emergency student loans for those facing temporary financial setbacks. If you're waiting for expected financial aid or have an overdue account, your school's financial aid office might have a solution. Communication is key. Instead of avoiding the issue, actively engage with the financial aid office. They can guide you to resources tailored for students in your situation, including grants, scholarships, and work-study programs. 3. Consider Private Student Loans If you've exhausted your options for federal aid, private student loans can supplement your remaining tuition costs. Private loans may offer competitive interest rates and flexible repayment terms if you are struggling to pay back past-due tuition. One key advantage of private loans is their flexibility in application timing. Unlike federal loans with strict annual deadlines, you may apply for private student loans as needed. Keep in mind that the approval and disbursement process can take time. [cross_promotion_banner] How to Obtain Loans for Past-Due Tuition If you need a loan to cover a past-due tuition balance, you can begin by consulting your school's financial aid office. They can guide you toward loan options or government-backed loan programs. Once you've identified potential lenders, assess the eligibility criteria. Some lenders may evaluate your credit score or require a cosigner. When ready to apply, gather the necessary documentation and complete the application form accurately. Ensuring your application information is correct can streamline the process, increasing your chances of securing the needed financial support. Remember, obtaining a loan for past-due tuition involves practical steps guided by informed decisions. Types of Student Loans for Past-Due Tuition Balances When looking for loans to cover past-due tuition, you can typically apply for federal loans or loans from private lenders. Let's break down the features of each: Federal Loans, like Direct Unsubsidized Loans Eligibility: Federal loans have specific eligibility requirements, including being enrolled at least half-time in a school that participates in the federal loan program. Interest Rates: Generally, federal loan interest rates are fixed, which means they stay the same over the life of the loan. Benefits: Federal loans often offer flexible repayment plans and forgiveness options, easing your financial journey. Private Loans from Private Lenders Eligibility: Private loans might have varying criteria set by the lender, including a credit check or proof of income. Interest Rates: Private loans can have both fixed and variable interest rates. Customization: Private lenders sometimes offer more tailored options, so you might find a loan that fits your budget and needs. Applying for Loans to Cover Past-Due Tuition When you're ready to apply for loans to cover past-due tuition, follow these detailed steps to navigate the process effectively: Gather Required Documents: Ensure you have all the essential documents in place. This may include proof of enrollment at your school, detailed information about the past-due tuition amount, and any relevant financial records that might support your application. Check Eligibility Criteria: Qualifying for college loans will require different criteria, depending on the type of loan and the lender you choose. The application process can include a credit score check, income, or the need for a student loan cosigner. Double-check the requirements before applying for a loan. Research Loan Options: Understand the available loan options. This could include federal, private, or specialized loans to cover past-due tuition. Each type comes with its features, benefits, and eligibility criteria. Complete Application Forms: Once you've selected a loan option, complete the application form accurately. Be thorough and honest in providing the requested information. For federal loans, this often starts with the FAFSA. Submit Documentation: You should submit any required documentation and the application form. This can include proof of enrollment, information about the past-due amount, and any financial records that support your application. Learn More with Ascent At Ascent, we want to equip you with the financial knowledge and resources to thrive in college–and beyond. Whether exploring undergraduate loans, learning how to budget, or looking for financial wellness tips, we support your goals at every step. FAQs What options do I have if I have past-due tuition and need financial assistance? If you're grappling with past-due tuition, several options can offer relief. Some schools might provide payment plans or grants. It's also worth exploring external scholarships or grants for past-due tuition as potential solutions in addition to student loans. How do student loans for past-due tuition differ from regular student loans? While both types of loans aim to finance education, loans for past-due tuition specifically address outstanding tuition balances. Their disbursement is often directed to the school, ensuring the overdue amount is resolved. The terms, interest rates, and repayment schedules may differ based on the loan's specific requirements and the lender. Can I use student loans to cover other expenses in addition to past-due tuition? Typically, student loans for past-due tuition can clear the outstanding balance. However, if the approved loan amount exceeds the overdue balance, the excess might be disbursed to the student to cover other educational expenses. It's essential to clarify this with your lender during the application process. Are there any deadlines or timeframes to consider when applying for these loans? Deadlines can vary based on the lender and the educational institution. While some lenders might have specific application windows, others offer more flexibility. It's crucial to be proactive and address the past-due balance to prevent additional fees or academic complications.

August 11, 2025 | By: Ascent
Student Aid Index (SAI) vs. EFC - What's the Difference?
Understanding your financial aid options is one of the most challenging steps for students and families when applying to colleges. For most, this process begins by applying for federal financial aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®). The FAFSA has included the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) for many years. This metric indicates the financial strength of a prospective student and their family and is used to help determine how much financial aid the student is eligible to receive. As of 2023, the EFC was replaced by the Student Aid Index, or SAI. The SAI was introduced as part of a larger series of changes designed to improve the FAFSA and the financial aid process overall. The SAI was specifically developed to eliminate some of the confusion regarding the EFC and to improve the calculation to more accurately identify students who are truly in most need of aid. This article will examine the differences between EFC vs. SAI and their role in applying for federal financial aid through the FAFSA. Key Takeaways The Student Aid Index (SAI) replaced Expected Family Contribution (EFC) beginning with the 2024-2025 FAFSA application cycle. SAI was introduced as part of the FAFSA Simplification Act in 2020 to make financial aid easier to understand for students and their families. While SAI and EFC both measure a student’s financial need, they are not the same. Under SAI, small-business and family-farm assets are counted rather than excluded, and the number of students in college at the same time is no longer factored in—both of which were part of the EFC calculation. The main advantage of the SAI over the EFC is that it requires less information from families, making the FAFSA process easier and more straightforward. What is Expected Family Contribution (EFC)? The EFC, or Expected Family Contribution, was previously used in the FAFSA application process to indicate a student and family’s financial strength. Prior to being replaced by the SAI, the EFC was used by colleges and financial aid offices to help determine financial aid eligibility. While its name has been changed, its function in the financial aid application process is the same. The EFC is an index used to compare a student’s financial needs against those of other students. The calculation is based on the financial information provided in the FAFSA and includes factors such as family income, family assets, family size, and other criteria. The EFC is not a dollar amount nor a reflection of the amount a family will be required to contribute toward tuition. It’s used by colleges and universities to compare students’ financial needs in relation to one another. A lower EFC correlates to greater financial need and eligibility for aid, while a higher EFC correlates to lower financial need and financial aid eligibility. What is the Student Aid Index (SAI)? Similar to the EFC (which it has now replaced), the SAI is a number the federal government provides after the FAFSA is submitted. This number is then used to help colleges and financial aid offices determine a student’s eligibility for federal financial aid. Like its predecessor, the SAI is calculated based on information provided in the FAFSA, including the income, assets, taxes, and demographics of the prospective student and their family. The SAI is not a dollar amount, and it does not represent the amount the student or their family must contribute. Instead, the SAI categorizes and compares students' financial abilities and needs. How Student Aid Index is replacing Expected Family Contribution In December 2020, the United States Congress passed the FAFSA Simplification Act, which mandated many changes to federal financial aid programs. For example, the act greatly simplified the FAFSA form, which will now be several dozen questions instead of over 100, and expanded eligibility for Pell Grants. One of the biggest changes the act mandates is the replacement of the EFC with the SAI. The FAFSA Simplification Act set deadlines for when different portions of the act were to go into effect. The initial change from the EFC to the SAI took place in 2023. Schools must switch from using the EFC to the SAI by the 2024-2025 award year when EFC will be discontinued entirely. The application process will be very similar for most students. Prospective students will apply for the newly modified FAFSA using the new form. The government will then provide them with their SAI in the same manner that they provided the EFC. [cross_promotion_banner] Student Aid Index vs. EFC: Key Differences The Student Aid Index was designed to provide more clarity around the meaning of the EFC, but not to completely change its function in the FAFSA process. In fact, the SAI is very similar to the EFC and is calculated almost identically. However, there are some key differences between EFC and SAI. Name Change – The term ‘Estimated Family Contribution’ was confusing in the FAFSA process, as many families assumed it was the estimated amount the family would be required to contribute. The Student Aid Index is less confusing and accurately reflects the number used. Elimination of the Small Business Exclusion – The EFC included a Small Business Exclusion, which allowed families to exclude certain small business assets from the assets reported on the FAFSA. The SAI no longer allows this exclusion. Modification of the Family Farm Exclusion – The EFC contained the family farm exclusion, allowing families to exclude certain family farm assets from the assets reported on the FAFSA. The SAI does not allow for this exclusion, but in some circumstances, the net worth of the family farm can still be excluded as an asset. Allowing of Negative Numbers – The EFC did not allow negative numbers. Instead, the lowest possible EFC was 0. The SAI does allow for negative results. The lowest possible EFC is -1,500. Elimination of Counting Children Currently in College – The EFC allowed parents to consider how many children they had in college. At one point in the calculation, the EFC allowed parents to divide by the number of children in college that they had. The SAI has entirely eliminated the number of students a parent currently has in college from the calculations. This is likely the most significant change for many families. There are also a number of benefits of the SAI vs. the EFC. Some of the most important include: Simplified Calculation – The SAI’s formula is simpler than the EFC, with fewer possible exclusions and steps. This makes it easier for families to understand and can reduce opportunities for misinterpretation. Increased Accuracy – Because there are fewer exclusions and steps to the SAI calculations, families have fewer opportunities to make mistakes about what can and should be included and what can’t and shouldn’t. Perhaps most importantly, the SAI results more accurately represent which students are truly in most need of aid. Easy Input – The SAI requires families to input less information. This makes the process easier, faster, and less likely to result in confusion or mistakes. Reduced Confusion – The EFC caused confusion because many people thought it was the amount the family would pay. The SAI eliminates this confusion, and more accurately represents its intended purpose. EFC vs. SAI: Adapting to changes in financial aid calculation If you’ve never applied for financial aid before, transitioning from the SAI to the EFC will not impact your FAFSA application process. It will impact only the terminology you see on your Student Aid Report (SAR), which you will receive after your FAFSA is submitted and processed. The biggest difference is that your SAI number is less likely to confuse you and more likely to accurately reflect your financial needs. Due to the modifications in how the SAI is calculated, some scenarios exist in which students may be eligible for less financial aid using the new SAI vs. the EFC. This is especially true for families with multiple children currently enrolled in college and those with small business or family farm assets. Learn more about SAI vs. EFC with Ascent Ascent is determined to support students in achieving their financial goals to succeed in college and beyond. Whether you’re looking to get ahead of FAFSA deadlines or are ready for a deep dive into FAFSA 101, we have the resources to help you navigate the college application process from start to finish. If your federal aid isn’t enough to fully cover your expenses, Ascent offers cosigned student loans and non-cosigned student loans to meet your unique needs. Check your rates today without impacting your credit score or contact us for more information. FAQs What Is replacing EFC? The SAI is replacing the EFC effective in the 2024-2025 award year, although it’s probably more accurate to say that the SAI is modifying and improving the EFC. EFC and SAI serve the same purpose in the federal financial aid process: to help the government and educational institutions determine which students most need financial aid. The SAI has refined the calculation and adjusted the verbiage to accurately reflect its purpose. Is EFC the same as SAI? The Expected Family Contribution (EFC) is not the same thing as the Student Aid Index (SAI). While the two are very similar, the SAI was introduced to replace the EFC, and there are a few key differences between the two. The SAI is calculated slightly differently from the EFC, especially regarding what families can exclude as assets and if families can consider the number of children they currently have in college. These changes make the SAI a more accurate reflection of which students actually have the greatest need for financial aid. The SAI has also been rebranded to eliminate confusion caused by the EFC. These differences will be minimal for most families, and their EFC and SAI will similarly impact what financial aid is available. Is EFC going away? The EFC will be retired in 2023. Beginning in the 2024-2025 school year, the federal government and schools that accept federal aid must fully replace the EFC with the SAI. Although the SAI is replacing and modifying the EFC, the two calculations are very similar, and the results will be very similar for most families. In fact, much of the EFC is included within the SAI, although some parts have been moderately changed.

August 11, 2025 | By: Ascent
FAFSA Simplification Act: Changes to the FAFSA
Ascent Funding walks you through the changes that will be happening to the FAFSA with the FAFSA Simplification Act.

December 20, 2024 | By: Ascent
School Codes in FAFSA: Adding, Removing & Editing
Need to update your school information on the FAFSA? Learn more about the process of adding, editing, or deleting a school on your FAFSA even after submission.

January 13, 2025 | By: Ascent
Can International Students Apply for FAFSA?
Even though international students can't receive aid from the U.S government, it's still important to complete the FAFSA. Learn more from Ascent Funding.

August 11, 2025 | By: Ascent
What is a Stafford Loan?
Understanding Stafford loans & how to apply From scholarships to grants, a whole range of financial aid options are available to students pursuing higher education. But when navigating the world of college financing, Stafford Loans have become a go-to resource for many eligible students. Learn about Stafford loans and how they can help you reach your academic goals today. What is a Stafford loan? Stafford Loans, named after U.S. Senator Robert Stafford, are a type of college loan offered to eligible students enrolled in accredited American institutions to help finance their education. These loans are part of the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program, the largest federal student loan program in the United States. Understanding what a Stafford Loan is can help you make informed decisions about financing your education. How Stafford loans differ from typical loans Unlike other types of personal loans, Stafford Loans are specifically designed for students and come with several benefits that make them a popular choice for financing higher education. To start, they generally offer lower interest rates compared to private student loans. Additionally, they provide flexible repayment plans and loan forgiveness programs. Most importantly, the government pays interest on some Stafford Loans while the student is in school, during the grace period, or in periods of deferment. (Note: a grace period is defined as the first six months after leaving school.) Exploring the types of Stafford loans When it comes to Stafford Loans, it's important to understand the difference between subsidized and unsubsidized loans. Here’s a look at their key differences: Subsidized Stafford loans Subsidized Stafford Loans, now commonly known as Direct Subsidized Loans, are a great option for students with demonstrated financial need. These loans come with an added benefit—the government covers the interest while you are enrolled at least part-time, during the grace period, and any deferment periods. This means you won't have to worry about interest piling up during these periods, which can make the loan more affordable long term. Unsubsidized Stafford loans Unsubsidized Stafford Loans, also known as Direct Unsubsidized Loans, are available to all students regardless of financial need. With these loans, interest starts accruing when the funds are disbursed. If you defer interest payments while in school, it's important to note that the accumulated interest will be added to the loan balance. As a result, capitalization will increase the overall repayment amount. It is crucial to consider the long-term implications of accruing interest and make an informed decision based on your specific financial circumstances. How to apply for a Stafford loan Considering a Stafford Loan to help finance your education? The first step is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®). This application collects important information about your financial situation. Your school can then use this information to determine your eligibility for various forms of financial aid, including Stafford Loans. Make sure to provide accurate and thorough details on the FAFSA to ensure an accurate assessment of your aid eligibility. Once your FAFSA is processed, your school will include any Stafford Loan you're eligible for in your financial aid offer. Are Stafford loans the right choice for me? Determining whether Stafford Loans are the right fit for you requires careful consideration of your circumstances. Consider factors such as your financial need, your projected future income, whether or not you’ll be applying with a cosigner, and your comfort level with taking on debt. While loans can provide valuable financial support for your college education, it's crucial to understand that they come with the responsibility of repayment, often with interest. Assess your financial situation and weigh the benefits and potential drawbacks of Stafford Loans before deciding. Exploring other sources of financial aid, such as scholarships and grants, can also be beneficial in reducing the overall amount of debt you may incur. Stay informed with Ascent From financial wellness resources to scholarship opportunities, Ascent is committed to helping students and their families make informed financial decisions—in college and beyond. Learn more about how our cosigned student loan options can help supplement your federal loans to cover more of your education costs. Frequently Asked Questions Are Stafford loans federal loans? Stafford Loans are federal loans administered by the U.S. Department of Education. As part of the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program, the federal government provides these loans directly to eligible students. The government acts as the lender, offering the loan funds and managing the loan throughout its lifecycle. As with other federal loans, Stafford Loans come with certain advantages. They typically offer more favorable terms and borrower protections compared to private loans. Additionally, federal loans provide access to various repayment plans, forgiveness options, and potential deferment or forbearance opportunities in case you face financial hardship. Do Stafford loans have to be repaid? Yes, like all student loans, Stafford Loans do require repayment. However, repayment typically starts six months after you graduate, leave school, or drop below half-time enrollment. This grace period gives you a transition period to find employment and establish your financial footing before you begin making loan payments. Interest may still accrue during this grace period for unsubsidized Stafford Loans, so it's worth considering whether making interest payments during this time would benefit you in the long run. Understanding the repayment terms and options for Stafford Loans is crucial for planning your financial future and ensuring timely repayment without undue burden. Can you get denied for a Stafford loan? Although Stafford Loans are designed to benefit most students, they have some eligibility requirements. For instance, you must be enrolled at least half-time in a program that leads to a degree or certificate. You also need to maintain satisfactory academic progress. Your financial situation could also affect your eligibility for subsidized Stafford Loans based on financial need. It's important to understand these requirements before you apply for a Stafford Loan. How much can you borrow with a Stafford loan? The amount you can borrow with a Stafford Loan depends on several factors, including your year in school, whether you are a dependent or independent student, and whether the loan is subsidized or unsubsidized. For dependent students, the annual borrowing limit for subsidized loans ranges from $3,500 for first-year undergraduate students to $5,500 for third- and fourth-year undergraduate students. The total loan limit for dependent students is $31,000, of which at most $23,000 can be in subsidized loans. For independent students, the annual borrowing limit for subsidized loans is the same as for dependent students. However, independent students can borrow more in unsubsidized loans, with the total annual borrowing limit ranging from $9,500 for first-year undergraduate students to $12,500 for third- and fourth-year students. The total loan limit for independent students is $57,500, of which at most $23,000 can be in subsidized loans. Graduate or professional students, considered independent, can borrow up to $20,500 per year in unsubsidized loans, with an aggregate limit of $138,500, including loans received for undergraduate studies. Planning your borrowing carefully ensures you only hit these limits after you complete your education. What is the interest rate on a Stafford loan? The federal government determines the interest rate on a Stafford Loan, which is fixed for the life of the loan. For loans first disbursed on or after July 1, 2023, and before July 1, 2024, the interest rate for undergraduate unsubsidized and subsidized Stafford Loans is 5.50%. For graduate or professional unsubsidized Stafford Loans, the rate is 7.05%. These rates are often lower than those for private student loans, making Stafford Loans a potentially more affordable option for students. Can Stafford loans be forgiven? Yes, your Stafford Loans can be forgiven under certain circumstances, meaning you won't have to repay some or all of the loan. For instance, the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program forgives the remaining balance on your Direct Loans after you have made 120 qualifying payments while working full-time for a qualifying employer, typically a government or non-profit organization. There are also loan forgiveness programs for teachers and for those serving in the military. It's important to understand the requirements for these programs if you're considering pursuing loan forgiveness.

January 17, 2025 | By: Ascent
Does FAFSA® Cover Graduate School and Masters Programs?
You're reaching the final year of college, and you couldn't be happier. You have already decided to continue your education by going to graduate school and are ready to embark on this new adventure. But as you look at the potential cost of graduate school, you wonder, "Does FAFSA cover graduate school? Is that a thing?" If you're wondering, "does FAFSA pay for graduate school?" this blog will review the ins and outs of federal aid for graduate school. Can you get financial aid for graduate school? The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) covers graduate school, and if you're wondering, "Does FAFSA cover masters programs?" It does! Just like your undergraduate degree, when you apply for the FAFSA for graduate school, you may be eligible for federal grants, scholarships, and loans, including: Direct Unsubsidized Loans Direct PLUS Loans for Graduate or Professional Students Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grants Federal Work-Study Federal Pell Grants Outside of the FAFSA, you may also explore other funding opportunities, such as: Organization grants: There could be many industry-specific grants in your prospective field. Fellowships: In exchange for research activities, private organizations, government organizations, and schools may have fellowships based on your field of study and G.P.A. Employer Tuition Assistance: Some employers will pay or even reimburse some of the tuition for grad school. Scholarships: This is a traditional option available to graduate students. You can research scholarships on academic excellence, majors, and cultural diversity. Assistantships: Some schools have living stipends or even waive tuition for students in a specific trade. Military Aid: The GI Bill may help you pay for graduate school if you served in the military. Depending on where and when you did, you could also be eligible for the Iraq & Afghanistan Service Grant. How to fill out the FAFSA for graduate school Now that you know the answer to does FAFSA pay for graduate school, you're probably wondering how to fill out the application online. The submission process is almost the same for graduate students as for undergrad students. There is just one key difference. You're now considered independent. When you (and probably your parents) first filled out your FAFSA for your undergrad degree, you identified as a dependent. As a result, you submitted your parents’ financial information. Now that you're a graduate student, you'll need to apply independently and submit the following on your own: Tax return information Account balances for your bank or credit union and investment accounts if you have any Your social security number Your Federal Student Aid (F.S.A.) I.D. It can take less than an hour to complete the FAFSA if you have all the documentation handy. How much does FAFSA cover for grad school? How much FAFSA covers for graduate school depends on when you submit your application and what you may be eligible to receive. Grants and scholarships are awarded on a first-come-first-serve basis. When you submit your FAFSA and what funds are available at that time will determine how much aid you can expect to receive. When it comes to Direct Unsubsidized Loans, you'll get up to $20,500 a year. Remember that since you are applying as a dependent student, you are not eligible for the Direct PLUS loan. What is the Deadline for FAFSA? The deadline for FAFSA is the same regardless of whether you're an undergrad or graduate student is June 30th. The deadline stays the same year by year, so submitting your application as early as possible is best. As we've said before, the earlier you submit your application, the more money you could receive via scholarships and grants. Other financial aid options for grad students Don't worry if you've filled out your FAFSA, tried all the other options listed above, and still need help. There are some options to consider. Private graduate school loans can help you bridge the financial gap in your expenses and can help you pay for school.

January 17, 2025 | By: Ascent
The Different Types of Financial Aid Explained: Loans, Grants, & Work-Study Programs
Types of Financial Aid Explained: Learn about the different types of financial aid available for students, including loans, grants, and work-study programs.

June 05, 2025 | By: Ascent
How to Qualify for Student Loans & Eligibility Requirements
Confused about private student loans? Learn how to qualify for private student loans and other eligibility requirements in this blog.

May 23, 2023 | By: Ascent
How One Student is Pursuing His Dreams
Congratulations to Harsimran Sandhu, our $10,000 Pursue Your Dream Contest winner! We asked students to share their ambitions in a 30-90 second video and explain how they plan to use the money to reach their dreams.

April 13, 2023 | By: Ascent
A Q&A Interview with Cruz Sanchez
Everyone’s path to a career they love looks different.

December 19, 2024 | By: Ascent