Financial Aid Resources for Graduate Students
Exploring Private Education Loan Options
Private (alternative) education loans are offered by banks and lending institutions rather than the federal government. These loans may help cover:
- Tuition and fees
- Books and supplies
- Housing and living expenses
- Other education-related costs
Before pursuing a private loan, we strongly encourage you to:
- Complete the FAFSA to determine your eligibility for federal student loans.
- Review your federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan eligibility.
- Consider all available federal aid before borrowing through a private lender.
Federal student loans often provide borrower protections, fixed interest rates, and flexible repayment options that private loans may not offer.
What to Know About Private Loans
Private education loans:
- Require a credit check.
- May require a creditworthy co-signer.
- Offer fixed or variable interest rate options.
- Have repayment terms set by the lender.
Approval and loan terms are based on creditworthiness and lender-specific criteria. We encourage students to compare lenders carefully and borrow only what is needed.
Our loan lender comparison for D’Youville is at www.elmselect.com.
Compare Lenders and Prequalify
Below you will find links to lender prequalification tools that allow you to:
- Review estimated interest rates.
- Compare repayment terms.
- Explore borrower benefits.
- Prequalify without impacting your credit score (in most cases).
Prequalifying does not obligate you to borrow, it simply helps you understand your options.
Citizens Bank Prequalification
Frequently Asked Questions
Changes in federal lending programs can feel uncertain, but you are not navigating this alone. Our Financial Aid Office is available to help you review your funding plan, understand your borrowing options, and make informed decisions that support your long-term financial wellness.
What is happening with the Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan?
Beginning July 1, 2026, the Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan will no longer be available for new borrowers. Students who previously borrowed a Graduate PLUS Loan should review their individual eligibility with the Financial Aid Office.
We understand this change may raise questions, and we are committed to helping you understand how it may affect your financial plan.
*For new borrowers beginning in Summer 2026, you will have the opportunity to apply for the Graduate PLUS loan.
Will I still be eligible for federal student loans?
Yes. Graduate students may still be eligible for the Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan, up to annual and lifetime borrowing limits.
We encourage all students to complete the FAFSA each year to determine eligibility for federal aid.
What if my federal loans do not cover my full cost of attendance?
If your federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan does not cover your full educational expenses, you may consider:
- Adjusting your budget or payment plan
- Employer tuition benefits (if applicable)
- Scholarships or external funding opportunities
- Private (alternative) education loans
Our office can help you review your remaining balance and determine what options may be appropriate.
How do private loans differ from federal loans?
Private education loans:
- Are credit-based
- May require a co-signer
- Have lender-determined interest rates and repayment terms
- Do not offer federal income-driven repayment or federal loan forgiveness options
Because terms vary by lender, we encourage you to compare options carefully before borrowing.
Does prequalifying with a lender affect my credit score?
In most cases, lender prequalification tools use a soft credit inquiry, which does not impact your credit score. However, you should always confirm this with the lender before proceeding.
How much should I borrow?
We recommend borrowing only what you need to cover your direct and necessary educational expenses. Loans accrue interest and must be repaid, so thoughtful borrowing now can support long-term financial wellness.
If you are unsure how much to borrow, we are happy to review your cost of attendance and budget with you.
Who can I contact if I have questions?
The D’Youville Financial Aid Office is here to support you. If you have questions about federal loans, private loans, or how to build a funding plan that works for you, please reach out to our team.
You are not navigating these changes alone, we are committed to helping you make informed, confident financial decisions as you continue your graduate journey.
Contact Us
If you would like personalized guidance, please contact us. We are committed to supporting your success academically and financially.