federal direct PLUS loans

The Federal Direct PLUS loans are for parents or step-parents of dependent undergraduate students and for graduate and professional students. Interest rates are higher than Stafford loans.
 

• PLUS Loans – Granted to eligible parents of undergraduate college students based on creditworthiness. Under this loan, parents may borrow the difference between the amount of all financial aid received in the student’s name and the cost of education at a particular institution.

• Graduate PLUS Loans – Granted to eligible graduate and professional students rather than to parents. You may borrow up to the cost of your education less any other financial aid awarded. Eligibility is not based on need or income, and credit guidelines apply.