The Direct Parent PLUS loan is a federal loan that parents of dependent undergraduate students can apply for to help pay educational expenses. A PLUS loan allows a parent to borrow the total cost of undergraduate education including tuition, room and board, and any other eligible school expenses, after the university has applied any aid the child is receiving in their name.

Interest rates on Direct Parent PLUS loans are much cheaper than most credit cards.

Good things to know before you get started 

• Your child can receive a Parent PLUS loan only if you complete a Parent Plus Loan application.
• You will need to provide your student's Social Security Number (SSN) and date of birth.
• Be prepared to provide the name, address, and phone number of two references. Your references cannot share the same last name, address, or phone number.
• To ensure the prompt delivery of your loan information, please provide a valid e-mail address.
• Applications are available beginning July 1 of each year.

Guaranteeing a Parent PLUS loan 

If your child was awarded the option to have you take out a Parent PLUS loan on their behalf, you will be required to complete a Parent Plus Loan application online via www.studentaid.gov. You will need to create a username and password in order to log in.