Applying for Student Loans

Before you apply

A variety of financial assistance programs are available to help Missouri students finance their dreams of a college education. Before you commit to the financial obligations that come with a student loan, investigate other alternatives that do not have to be paid back.  Look into all forms of financial aid from state, federal, institutional and local sources each year you are in school.

Applying for a Student Loan

To apply for a Federal Student Loan, first complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You can complete the FAFSA online or you can obtain a paper copy by calling (800) 4FED-AID (1-800-433-3243). Once you have submitted your FAFSA, your school will determine the types and amounts of federal student loans you are eligible to receive.

If you have not previously received a federal student loan, you will be required to complete a Master Promissory Note, and Entrance Counseling before your first student loan disbursement.

The Master Promissory Note is a legal document that explains the repayment terms and conditions for your federal student loan(s). To complete a MPN Online, you will need to know your FSA ID.

Entrance counseling can be conducted either in person, through presentations (individually or in a group) or online to help you understand your rights and responsibilities as a student borrower. Check with your school’s financial aid office to determine the specific entrance counseling process you need to complete.

Remember

Repaying your student loans is a responsibility that will not go away until loans are paid in full. Borrowing for your education has long-term effects, but there is no reason the outcome should not be positive. Your loan servicer should inform you of your repayment options before you enter repayment. Your account will be placed on the 10-year Standard Repayment plan unless you request a different plan from your loan servicer. There are a variety of repayment plans available from which you can choose.