Applying for a Private Student Loan
The application process for most private student loans is completed online at the lender's website. Visit the Student Finance website for a list of lenders. Our office will process loans from all lenders. Northwestern University adheres to the Code of Conduct as established by the Higher Education Opportunity Act as well as the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators' (NASFAA) Statement of Ethical Principles and Code of Conduct for Institutional Financial Aid Professionals.
Please check directly with the lender regarding the eligibility requirements for their private student loans. IMPORTANT: If you are not a citizen or Permanent Resident of the United States, most lenders will require a creditworthy cosigner who is either a citizen or Permanent Resident of the United States.
When to contact us
When all requirements are complete and the loan is approved, please provide our office with the loan amount, the loan period and the lender's name. Most lenders require the school's certification to confirm your enrollment and eligibility for the loan amount requested. Note: If the lender approved a loan amount that exceeds your Cost of Attendance, our office will certify the loan for a lower amount. Your lender may also require you to complete a Private Education Loan Applicant Self-Certification Form.