Type of Financial Aid: Graduate Students

Federal Loan Information

Subsidized Stafford Loan

A low interest loan available to students who demonstrate financial need. Interest does not accrue until repayment begins, which is six months after the borrower ceases to enroll at least half-time. For new borrowers, the interest rate for 2010-11 is 6.8% percent during repayment.

Unsubsidized Stafford Loan

A low interest loan made available to students who are not eligible (or only partially eligible) for the need-based interest subsidy. Interest begins accruing at the time of first disbursement of loan funds. Students may choose to pay the interest while in school or have it accrue and added to the principal amount of the loan. Repayment of interest and principal combined begins six months after the student ceases to be enrolled at least half-time. For new borrowers, the fixed interest rate is currently 6.8% during repayment.

Additional Loan Resources

  • Teacher Loan Forgiveness: The Department of Education has listed specific programs eligible for loan forgiveness after certain terms have been met.
  • Loan Forgiveness for Public Service Employees: You may be eligible for a loan cancellation after 120 payments if you are employed in a specific Public Service field.
  • Loan Cancellation: The Department of Education has strict guidelines for students with outstanding Federal loans interested in a loan cancellation. If you have a special circumstance, please review this website to determine if you would qualify.
  • Loan Consolidation: If you have borrowed multiple Federal loans while in school, you may consider loan consolidation. This link will provide you with detailed information to decide if it would be beneficial to consolidate your loans.
  • In-School Deferment of Prior Loans: You may be eligible to defer repayment on existing Stafford loans while you are enrolled at least half time. For Perkins loan deferment, contact the issuing school or your Perkins loan servicer directly.

Grant and Scholarship Information

TEACH Grant Program: The Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant Program provides grants of up to $4,000 per year to students who intend to teach in a public or private elementary or secondary school that serves students from low-income families. If you are interested in applying for the TEACH Grant, please complete the CUC TEACH Grant Application.

Church Professionals: Graduate students enrolled in an advanced degree church professional program are eligible for the Concordia Supplemental Church Professional Award by completing and submitting the scholarship application.