Federal Parent PLUS Loan

Federal Parent PLUS Loan

If you are a dependent undergraduate student, a PLUS loan enables your parents or stepparents (but not your legal guardians or grandparents) to borrow money that can be applied to your educational expenses. Parent PLUS Loans are loans directly from the federal government to the borrower. This loan is not based on your family's income or asset information on the FAFSA, but does require a credit check.  

Steps to applying for the Parent PLUS Loan: 

  1. Parent completes PLUS Loan Application online at: www.studentaid.gov
  2. Parent completes PLUS Loan  Loan Agreement (MPN) online at: www.studentaid.gov
  3. The loan will be added to your student's financial aid award

Frequently Asked Questions

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  • Please visit this link for the most updated Federal Loan interest rates. 

  • The Parent PLUS Loan requires a consumer credit check that expires in 180 days. If you apply before July 1, your credit check may expire before we certify your Parent PLUS Loan. If your credit check expires, we will ask you to reapply for your PLUS Loan.

  • Provide us with documentation from the bankruptcy court stating that as a condition of your bankruptcy, you may not incur additional debt.

  • Your undergraduate student can request additional loan funds (maximum $4,000 for freshmen and sophomores, $5,000 for juniors and seniors). The additional loan is available to your student only if your PLUS Loan is denied due to an adverse credit check. If you are denied a PLUS Loan, you may indicate you want your student to receive additional Unsubsidized Direct Loan.

  • If you can't apply for a PLUS because you are not a citizen or permanent resident with a Social Security number, please submit a written statement to the Financial Aid office explaining your status. The address is:

    Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships
    California State University, East Bay
    25800 Carlos Bee Blvd.
    Hayward, CA 94542

  • To learn more about Parent PLUS Loans, visit studentaid.gov.