The application process for student loans varies depending on the lender and the loan type. The method may seem very overwhelming to the applicant. Outlined below are the steps that will assist in finding the money needed for you to fulfill your academic needs.

First Step – Creating Your Budget

When you start applying and you have received a feedback from the schools of your choice, check on their tuition, board and room costs including other fees. Ensure that you understand completely of what exactly you’re required. Also, include to the budget your daily costs of living that are beyond the basics.

For instance, although you could be signing up for a meal plan, you still require some money that enable you eat out. When you have completed your budget, ensure that you have gathered up all the resources such as; college fund, contributions by the parents, salary and savings. Calculate any shortfall.

Second Step – The FAFSA

The moment you complete choosing the schools that you’ll be applying to, you can henceforth start filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You will be given a report that has details on the exact amount you’ll be expected to add toward your education program based on the current financial status of your parents.

You’re needed to collect all pertinent financial information that include the you and your parents’ tax returns and documentation concerning any assets. Ensure that you finish the FAFSA application in time so that you can be eligible for additional funds from the need-based grants.

Third Step – Accepting Federal Loans

When you finish applying for FAFSA, you’ll get a confirmation of any federal loans or grants that you’re eligible for. It’s advisable that you take any grant that is being offered. This is federal government’s money that you can utilize for payment of qualifying tuition expenses with no commitment of paying back the money.

Some of your schools at this point may also decide to offer you grants. You should however re-assess the cost of attending each school basing on the budgets you’ve created. You can also consider accepting your school’s loan money, federal loans, and/or private student loans applications.

Fourth Step– Examining Loan Documents

Before you sign any of the documents of school or federal loans, ensure you analyze them to have an understanding of how you’re going to repay the loans. Check on the loan repayment schedules and the interest rates offered.

Loans having interest rates that are low and fixed interest rates are more appealing compared to the ones having higher and varying interest rates. it’s a great choice In case you have a choice of deferring the repayment of your loan for any period after graduating without earning any penalties.

Fifth Step – Apply for the Private Student Loans

This is the best time to look for the best student loans option. Ensure you first consider visiting your current bank and check the competing institutions to get a better rates and repayment plans that suit you. Ensure that your choice suits you the most.

This is the loan that will hopefully cater for all the financial needs that remain, and presents a low, fixed interest rate, and also never imposes significant penalties.

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