Loans
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Educational loans come from a variety of sources. The federal government, for example, sponsors several loan programs that offer below-market interest rates and other beneficial features. Other loan options, such as private bank loans, provide valuable help to students who may not qualify for federal loans. Even our own Dean of Students Office offers short-term emergency loans to current students.
Our Federal School Code: 003652
Virtual Advising is now available
Questions? Contact the Financial Aid Office by emailing sfa@central.uh.edu or calling (713-743-1010, option 5). Financial Aid Advisors are also available by virtual advising appointments (schedule via the Navigate app) to help you with questions about your financial aid process. If you do not have a CougarNet account, you can call us to make an appointment.
Consumer Reporting Agency Notification
Federal educational loans are reported to the National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS) where they are accessible by authorized agencies, lenders, and Higher Educational Institutions. You may access this information by logging on to StudentAid.gov using your FSA ID.
Loan Options
The following loan options are available to most students:
- Alternative Loans
B-On-Time (BOT) Loan
College Access Loan (CAL)
Federal Parent PLUS Loans
Federal Perkins Loans Program
William D. Ford Direct Loan Program
Forms
In addition to completing a FAFSA, most loans require you to complete these additional forms:
| Form | Explanation |
|---|---|
| E-Sign Promissory Note | This must be completed to receive Federal Direct Loan funds. The signature is good for 10 years. |
| This must be completed once while at the University of Houston to receive Federal Direct Loan funds. Please click here to access the Federal Direct Loan Entrance Counseling Guide. | |
| Exit Counseling | This is required for Federal Direct Loan borrowers when a student leaves or graduates from the university or is no longer at least half-time status. This does not include summer sessions. Students do not have to enroll in summer sessions as long as they resume classes the following fall. Please click here to access the Federal Direct Loan Exit Counseling Guide. |
Items to Consider
- Before you take out a loan, make sure you fully understand your options and responsibilities. A student loan can be a valuable tool to help you realize your educational and career dreams, however, it should be the last option you exercise. You should explore and use scholarships, grants, work-study, part-time jobs and family contributions first to finance your education.
- Don't borrow more than you need or more than you expect to be able to repay. Develop a sound, and realistic, financial plan.
- Make your loan payments on time, and notify your lender or servicer when you move or change your address.
- Contact your lender or servicer immediately if you start to have problems repaying your loan. They may be able to provide you with some financing options and give you information about deferments and forbearance.
- Keep a record regarding your loan. Make copies of letters, canceled checks and any forms you sign.
