Federal School Code: 003425
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The GRAD PLUS Program is designed to help graduate or professional students pay the cost of their education expenses. This loan fills the gap between the cost of education and the funding received through Stafford Loans and other financial aid including graduate assistantship waivers and fellowships.

Student borrowers are eligible for up to the cost of attendance less any other received financial aid, as determined by the Financial Aid Office. Payments are not required while the student is enrolled on a half time or greater basis. Students must be enrolled at least half-time to be eligible for this program. Students must complete a FAFSA - Free Application for Federal Student Aid and have their eligibility for the Stafford Loan program determined before a Grad Plus loan can be processed. This loan is based on credit and may require a co-signer.

How to Apply for a PLUS Loan

First-time Borrowers:

  • Step 1: Select a lender and complete the Grad PLUS loan application online. Follow the instructions provided by the lender in completing the application. The South Carolina Student Loan Corporation is our primary lender.

If you wish to obtain a Grad PLUS loan from another lender, you will need to contact your lender of choice and request them to send an electronic certification request through the Electronic Loan Management (ELM) system to Clemson.

  • Step 2: Clemson will process the loan when we are electronically notified by the lender that they possess a valid promissory note. You will then be notified of final loan approval by the lender. Please note that a favorable pre-screening for a Grad PLUS loan does not guarantee that the loan will be approved by the lender.

 

Promissory Notes

First-time Grad PLUS loan borrowers must complete a Master Promissory Note. This note will remain in effect through the student's graduate career at Clemson. The promissory note is a legal, binding document whereby you agree to repay the loan.

Disbursement

Most Grad PLUS loan disbursements are made via Electronic Funds Transfer from your lender to Clemson University. These funds are applied to the student's account with any excess being released to either the student.

Changing Loan Amounts

You are encouraged to only borrow needed funds. If the loan approval is more than you desire, you may reduce the amount by calling the Financial Aid Office at 864-656-2280, emailing the Financial Aid Office at finaid@clemson.edu, or following the directions provided by the lender on the disclosure statement you receive.

Paper PLUS Loan Applications

If you prefer to not use the electronic loan process, you may obtain a paper loan application from your lender of choice and submit it to our office. Please note that it takes longer to process a paper application.

Attendance at Prior Institutions

We strongly encourage students who have borrowed through the Grad PLUS Loan program at other institutions prior to attendance at Clemson to retain their previous lenders. This will avoid making multiple loan repayments in the future. Note: Clemson University does not participate in the Federal Direct Loan Program.

 

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