Parents are eligible to apply for loans to fund their child's education at Athens State University. The PLUS interest rate is currently 7.9% fixed rate. Parents can borrow a PLUS Loan to help pay education expenses for their dependent undergraduate student enrolled at least half time in an eligible program at an eligible school. PLUS Loans are available through the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan (Direct Loan) Program. PLUS loans require an acceptable credit history. Parents may borrow up to the cost of education less other financial aid offered to the student. Repayment for PLUS loans begins 60 days after the last disbursement unless the parent opts for a deferment. PLUS borrowers may choose to delay repayment until six months after the student is no longer enrolled at least half time. Interest may be paid or capitalized upon entering loan repayment.

To apply for a Federal Direct PLUS Loan:

1. The student must have a Free Application for Federal Student Aid on file with the Office of Student Financial Services. (Please see the information in Apply for Assistance for more details.) ../financial/apply.php.
2. The Parent must complete a Master Promissory Note online. The Master Promissory note requires a PIN number to complete at www.studentloans.gov.
3. The Parentmust also provide application data via the Complete Plus Request Process online at www.studentloans.gov.

Deferment Options for Parent Direct PLUS Loan Borrowers

Useful Links for the Federal Direct PLUS Loan Borrower