2026 Brings Big Changes
To paying for grad school
When Grad PLUS disappears in July◊◊, your options shouldn’t. Credit unions have got you covered — with a smart, affordable graduate line of credit.
Fixed Rates
2.99% – 14.74%APR*
Variable Rates
3.99% – 15.00%APR*
Rates shown include a 0.25% rate discount.**
Compare Credit Union Options
Not A Member? Not A Problem!
Apply now, join later. Once your application is approved, setting up your credit union account to receive funding is fast and easy. Check out the benefits of being a credit union member to learn more after you apply.
2026 Changes to Federal Student Loans
Before July 1, 2026
- Federal Direct Loans:
Borrow up to an aggregate maximum of $138,500
Including loans used in your undergraduate study. ($20,500 annually) - Grad PLUS:
Borrow up to cost of attendance - Private Loans:
Borrow up to the max amount offered by lender
July 1, 2026 and After
- Federal Direct Loans:
Borrow up to an aggregate maximum of $100,000
Including loans used in your undergraduate study. ($20,500 annually) - Grad PLUS:
Not Available for New Borrowers - Private Loans:
No change! Still here to help you pay for college.
What Borrowers Are Saying
I have easy access if I need more money instead of having to submit a new app every time.
Compared to the loan my son got from another lender, this was much faster and easier.
The process was very easy and all of the staff members were helpful, kind, and professional.
A line of credit is so much simpler than having to reapply every year for another loan.
Real Lenders. Real Rates. Real Easy.
Repayment Options
Deferred
Make no payments until you graduate.Deferred
Delay payments while you’re in college plus a 6-month grace period.
Will incur the most interest over time.
Interest-only
Pay just the interest while you’re in school.Interest-only
Make partial payments that cover just the interest on your loan.
Will incur less interest over time.
Immediate
Pay the full amount while you’re in school.Immediate
Begin making full payments as soon as your loan is disbursed.
Will incur the least interest over time.
* APR = Annual Percentage Rate. For Private Student Loans: Rates shown include a 0.25% rate discount available during full repayment of principal and interest by electing to make automatic electronic payments.** For Student Loan Refinance: Rates shown include a 0.25% discount for optional enrollment in automatic electronic payments.** Variable rates subject to increase after consummation. Rates vary by credit union and depend on credit union membership eligibility. Please use our search tool to find the lowest rate for which you may be eligible.
** The APR will not fall below the floor rate regardless of the index or any additional rate discount.
◊ Subject to annual review and credit qualification. Must meet school’s Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) requirements.
◊◊ The OBBB Act currently outlines that Grad PLUS will be unavailable for new borrowers on July 1, 2026. For the most up-to-date information or to learn more, visit studentaid.gov.
