Graduate PLUS Loan

Graduate students enrolled in a degree seeking program and enrolled at least half time are eligible to borrow up to $20,500 in Unsubsidized Direct Loans over the course of an academic year. The academic year at UW Eau Claire includes Fall, Spring, Winterim and Summer terms. If additional funds are needed after receiving a financial aid offer, students may be eligible to borrow a Graduate PLUS Loan. It is best to apply for a Graduate PLUS Loan after borrowing the full amount of Unsubsidized Direct Loan for the year as the interest rate on the graduate Unsubsidized Direct Loan is lower.  

Step 1

You must first have completed a FAFSA, received an award letter, and be enrolled at least half time for the loan period the Graduate PLUS Loan is intended for. 

Step 2

Print and complete the current Graduate PLUS loan application. Return the completed application to Blugold Central. Any credit holds must be removed so the credit check can be processed.

2024-25 Graduate PLUS Loan Application

Step 3

Once the Graduate PLUS loan has been approved or denied, an email is sent to the borrower using the email address provided on the PLUS application. The student will also receive an email to their campus email account in reference to the PLUS loan decision at this time.

Step 4

If the PLUS Loan is approved, a Master Promissory Note (MPN) must be completed online at Studentaid.gov.

Step 5

In some cases, the PLUS Loan is denied due to adverse credit. In that situation,

1. The applicant can appeal the denial
2. The applicant can obtain an endorser to co-sign the loan.
   1. The endorser will complete the necessary information online at Studentaid.gov 
   2. The applicant will complete Adverse Credit Counseling online at Studentaid.gov 

Step 6

When all requirements are met, the funds will be sent to the school and applied directly to a student's university bill.  If excess funds remain, they will be refunded to the student.