Graduate PLUS Loans

Returning graduate and doctoral students within their published program length who need financing in addition to the Federal Direct Unsubsidized loan may apply for a Federal Direct Graduate PLUS (Grad PLUS) loan. Students must submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to the University and complete a separate online application. The student borrower can not have adverse credit history.

New students who have not borrowed a loan in the program of study before July 1, 2026 and returning students who have exceeded their time to credential are no longer eligible for the Grad PLUS Loan. Students who are ineligible to apply for the Grad PLUS Loan may use Alternative Student Loans to cover the remainder of their educational costs, including living expenses.  

Click here to review detailed eligibility requirements.

The annual maximum for the Grad PLUS Loan is based on the student’s cost of attendance as determined by the University. Most students can borrow funding in excess of their billed costs to assist with educational related expenses, such as living costs. Contact our office with any questions related to borrowing to cover living expenses.

How Do I Apply?

The University of Saint Joseph requests that graduate or professional students complete the Direct PLUS Loan application online via studentaid.gov. All borrowers must also complete the following items:

Credit Check

The U.S. Department of Education requires that borrowers meet certain criteria in order to be eligible for the Direct PLUS Loan. These requirements are not based on your credit score, but on your overall credit repayment history.

To be eligible for a PLUS loan, you must NOT*:

  • have one or more debts with a total combined outstanding balance greater than $2,085 that are 90 days or more delinquent as of the date of the credit report, or that have been placed in collection or written off during the two years; or
  • in the previous five years been subject to the following: default determination, discharge of debts in bankruptcy, foreclosure, repossession, tax lien, wage garnishment, or write-off of a federal student aid debt.

*PLUS borrowers are able to appeal extenuating circumstances if denied.

Additional Information

  • Your credit check is valid for 180 days. Each time you apply for a PLUS loan, your credit will be checked if it has been longer than 180 days since your previous application.
  • To facilitate your application, review your credit reports in advance and make sure all information is accurate and all outstanding issues have been resolved.
  • If you believe you are ineligible due to your credit history, you may apply with an endorser (co-signer).
  • All Direct PLUS Loan approvals are added to the student’s financial aid package based on the criteria listed on the application – confirm you are applying for the correct amount and timeframe.