Before applying for a private student loan, we recommend that you consider all your other options, including a payment plan and federal loans. While private loans may have higher interest rates, they are an alternative for students otherwise ineligible for federal student loans, including:

  • non-degree students
  • students taking prerequisite courses
  • graduate certificate students
  • students enrolled in fewer than 6 units per semester
  • international students

Boston University’s Financial Assistance office provides complete information regarding private loan financing options on their Credit-Based Loans page for students in graduate and professional degree programs. You will find tips on selecting a credit-based private loan as well as a BU specific link to Credible.com.

For general questions on private student loans or the status of an active application, please contact the financial aid office.