Private Student Loans

You are welcome to explore private student loan options through any lender, bank, or credit union of your choice. Many lenders provide convenient online applications to help streamline the process.

As you research your options, we strongly encourage you to review the following resources from the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA): the Private Loan Checklist and Private Education Loans: Information for Students and Families. These guides provide important information to help you compare lenders, understand loan terms, and make informed borrowing decisions.

You may borrow up to your cost of attendance, minus any other financial aid you receive. If you choose to apply for a loan covering the full academic year, the total amount will typically be divided evenly across the Fall, Winter, and Spring terms.

FASTChoice Private Loan Comparison List

Lawrence University adheres to a Student Loan Code of Conduct (PDF) as required by the Higher Educational Opportunity Act. Lawrence does not endorse or promote any specific private student loan lender or lending program. Borrowers may choose any eligible, participating lender.

As a guide for comparing loans, we have provided a list on FASTChoice, a loan comparison tool that assists borrowers in selecting a loan that is best suited to meet their needs. Families are not limited to lenders on the FASTChoice list and are free to choose any lender that offers private educational student loans.

Lawrence University selected these lenders to be on the FASTChoice Lender List for the following reasons:

• Competitive borrower rates, terms, and incentives
• History of exceptional customer service for borrowers and staff of the university
• Timely processing of loans
• Funds are sent electronically (EFT) when possible

Please keep in mind that the Financial Aid Office will process a private student loan from any lender you choose. There may be lenders not on our list who offer different benefits that are better suited to your particular circumstances.

Processing Time

• We highly recommend borrowing a private student loan over all terms of academic year enrollment rather than reapplying for an individual loan each term. 
• Please allow 3-4 weeks for processing, certification, and receipt of funds.
• The loan will not appear on your financial aid until the lender has confirmed credit approval, sent a certification request to Lawrence University, and the school has certified the loan.