Loans and Grants

Q. What is a Federal Parent PLUS loan and how can I get one?

A Federal PLUS loan is a federally regulated loan that a parent/stepparent listed on the FAFSA may borrow to help cover the cost of their child's education. A FAFSA must be completed and on file at Kent State University. The borrower needs to log in to studentaid.gov and fill out the Parent PLUS loan application. A credit check will be processed by the Loan Origination Center (LOC). Kent State University (and the parent) will receive notification of the credit decision. If the borrower (the parent or stepparent) passes the credit check, a PLUS loan promissory note needs to be completed. Visit StudentAid.gov to complete your PLUS master promissory note.

If the student has maintained the eligibility requirements, the net amount of the loan (loan amount borrowed minus an origination fee) will be applied to the student's account. If the loan amount exceeds the amount due to the University, a refund will be issued, which may then be used to aid in the cost of the student's educational expenses. Repayment on PLUS loans begin immediately unless deferment is requested.

If the parents are denied a PLUS loan after the credit check, the family has the option to resolve the credit problems, obtain a co-signer (endorser) or the student may be able to receive additional federal unsubsidized loan funds.

Learn more about Loans

Q.  why has the amount of my federal pell grant changed?

Students who are eligible for a Federal Pell Grant are awarded based on enrollment.  If your enrollment has changed prior to the start of classes, that will affect the amount of Pell grant in which you are eligible for.  After the first week of class, at the time of the Census date, the Federal Pell Grant amount will no longer update due to the addition of classes.  Students will be notified of the Census date and process via email each semester.

Learn more about Grants