Private Loans Considering a Private Loan?

A private loan for education should be utilized only after the student has applied for other forms of aid from the federal government, including federal loan programs, with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.

What is a Private Student Loan?

Private loans are non-federal educational loans through a private lender that are processed and issued in a student's name. Since they are not federally backed loans, a credit check and credit worthy co-signer are usually required by the lender.

Selecting a Lender

A student may choose any lender when borrowing a private student loan. It is crucial though that you do your homework and select a lender and a loan that best suits your academic and financial needs as a borrower, since there may be differences in interest rates, fees, credit evaluation, academic progress requirements, repayment terms and borrower benefits.

The list of lenders is available through a variety of websites. This summary information is intended only as a guide for comparison purposes. Many other options exist for supplemental borrowing. You are NOT required to use any of the loans or lenders listed on this guide.

What is a Private Loan?

Private loans are non-federal educational loans through a private lender that are processed and issued in a parent's name. Since they are not federally backed loans, a credit check and credit worthy co-signer are usually required by the lender. The lenders who offer a private parent loan are listed at ELMSelect. 

Student Lending Code of Conduct

Point Park University is committed to providing students and their families with the best information and processing alternatives available regarding student borrowing. In support of this and in an effort to rule out any perceived or actual conflict of interest between Point Park University officers, employees or agents and education loan lenders, Point Park University has adopted the Lender Code of Conduct.