Loans are funding that students or parents (On a student's behalf) may borrow now but must be paid back with interest in the future. Almost all Loans require a student to be enrolled in half-time status (6 units for Undergraduates / 4 units for Graduate level) and the successful completion of additional Loan items in order for it to be disbursed to them. This page highlights the different Loan options available to students within and outside the FAFSA.
Federal Direct Loans are funds borrowed from the U.S. Department of Education. Repayment of these Loans begin six months after the student graduates or ceases enrollment at least half-time. There are two types of Direct Loans offered by the Federal Government:
| Type | Availability |
|---|---|
| Subsidized Loan | Undergraduate |
| Unsubsidized Loan | Undergraduate & Graduate |
Parent PLUS Loans are funds borrowed from the U.S. Department of Education for Parents or Step-Parents of Undergraduate students who are considered a Dependent student (Ages 23 or younger) on their FAFSA.
Graduate PLUS Loans are funds borrowed from the U.S. Department of Education for Graduate students who are accepted and enrolled in a Master's or Graduate level program.
Alternative Loans are offered by banks or lending institutions outside of SF State to assist students in bridging the gap between college costs and traditional funding sources such as financial aid applications.