Figuring out student loans doesn’t have to be stressful. At Pacific, we make the process easier with guidance every step of the way. Here’s what you need to know to get started.
Understanding your financial aid offer
First, review your financial aid offer letter. It was sent to your Pacific email as well as the email you used to apply. The offer letter is a comprehensive breakdown of the resources and aid that will be available to you. Here are the different components of this letter:
- Gift aid: This includes scholarships and grants, which are funds you don’t have to repay.
- Cost of attendance: This outlines the estimated costs for one year at Pacific, including direct costs (tuition, fees, room and board) and indirect costs (transportation, books and personal expenses).
- Net Cost: This is the remaining amount you may owe after scholarships and grants are applied.
- Student Loans: Borrowed funds that must be repaid with interest.
Focusing on federal student loans
For most students, federal student loans are a primary source of financial aid. These loans, offered by the U.S. Department of Education, come with several benefits, including fixed interest rates and flexible repayment options.
- Eligibility: New first-year students can typically borrow up to $5,500 per academic year. This amount may increase in subsequent years.
- Subsidized vs. unsubsidized: Subsidized loans are need-based, and the government pays the interest while you’re in school. Unsubsidized loans accrue interest from the moment they’re disbursed.
The loan application process
- Accessing federal student loans: You must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Your financial aid offer letter will indicate the loan amounts you’re eligible for.
- Accepting loans: You’ll need to accept your loans through the MyPacific portal.
- Loan requirements: Accepting your loan isn’t automatic. You must complete a Master Promissory Note (MPN) and loan entrance counseling to fully understand your loan obligations.
Key considerations and timelines
- Confirmation deadline: Remember that your confirmation of enrollment is due May 1.
- Loan acceptance timeline: While you can accept loans at any time after receiving your offer, you should finalize all loan paperwork by early July to ensure funds are applied to your bill.
- Parent PLUS Loans: If additional funds are needed, parents can consider the Federal Parent PLUS Loan, which allows borrowing up to the remaining cost of attendance. Applications for this loan open on April 15.
- Outside scholarships: If you receive scholarships from external sources, notify the financial aid office. Those funds may affect your overall aid package.
- Housing costs: Be aware that student loans may help cover housing costs, but this varies depending on your individual aid package.
Navigating your options
- Payment plans: Pacific offers monthly payment plans to help manage your out-of-pocket expenses. Consider this option if paying in full is challenging.
- Seeking assistance: Don’t hesitate to contact Pacific’s Office of Financial Aid with any questions. We’re here to provide personalized guidance and support.
- FERPA: If you want your parents to discuss your financial aid details with us, be sure you complete a FERPA release form.
Understanding your financial aid offer and student loan options is important for making informed decisions about your college education. By familiarizing yourself with each of these steps, you can confidently navigate the financial aid process and focus on your academic journey at Pacific.
If you have any questions about your financial aid options, contact Pacific’s Office of Financial Aid:
- 209.946.2421