What are the eligibility requirements for a Direct PLUS Loan?
To qualify for a Direct PLUS Loan (whether you're a graduate/professional student or a parent borrowing for a dependent undergraduate student), you must meet these basic requirements:
- Be enrolled at least half-time at an eligible school like UMGC.
- Meet general federal student aid requirements (U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen, valid Social Security number, satisfactory academic progress, etc.).
- Pass a credit check. The U.S. Department of Education will check your credit history.
If you have an adverse credit history, you may still qualify if:
- You get an endorser (a credit-worthy co-signer), or
- You provide documentation of extenuating circumstances to the U.S. Department of Education.
For the most up-to-date eligibility details and application steps, visit the official Federal Student Aid PLUS Loan page.