Federal Direct Parent PLUS Loans

The Federal Direct PLUS loan program is designed to assist parents of dependent undergraduate students who are unable to meet their expected parental contribution or have additional financial need that is not met with other financial aid resources. Your parents may borrow up to the cost of your education for the academic year, minus any estimated financial aid you receive each academic year. Loans that are identified as "replacing Expected Family Share" are offered to you as an option to replace the contribution expected from you or your family. Loans that are identified as "replacing need" are offered to you to help meet your financial need. The application for a Direct Loan will not be processed through a bank but rather through UCI and the U.S. Department of Education.

Who Can Apply

Biological or adoptive parents and, in some cases, stepparents of dependent undergraduate students who are eligible to file a FAFSA.

Parents must meet some citizenship eligibility requirements. Visit the Federal Student Aid website to learn more.

Annual Loan Limits

How much you can borrow is based on the cost of your education for the academic year, minus any estimated financial aid you receive each academic year.

When Repayment Starts

PLUS loan repayment begins 60 days after the loan is fully disbursed for an academic year. Visit the Federal Student Aid website to review repayment and deferment options.

Interest Rates and Fees

Fixed rates are based on first disbursement.

Origination fees are fixed annually and subtracted by the Department of Education prior to disbursing the funds to your Zot Account.

For current interest rates and fees, visit the Student Aid website.

Promissory Note

First-time borrowers must complete a Master Promissory Note (MPN). Visit the U.S. Department of Education to learn more.

Parents with Adverse Credit

A credit check will be performed during the application process. If parents have an adverse credit history, they may still receive a loan.

Parents with adverse credit history are required to complete PLUS Credit Counseling. Contact our office or visit the Federal Student Aid website for further information.

More Information on Eligibility

Visit the U.S. Department of Education (PDF).

Parents Unable to Borrow

If your parents were denied credit for a Parent PLUS Loan and are unable to find a co-signer or are unable to borrow, you may request an additional unsubsidized Federal Direct Stafford Loan award. Contact a Financial Aid Counselor for additional information.