Loans

The Student Loan Administration processes and disburses all Law School student loans.  To apply for loans, students must submit the FAFSA and the University of Chicago Graduate Loan and Work Study Application.  The priority deadline for submitting these materials is May 15. Questions regarding your loan paperwork and status should be directed to SLA.

Federal Stafford Loans: There are two kinds of Federal Stafford Loans: subsidized and unsubsidized. The subsidized loan has no interest while students are in school and during a six-month grace period, while the unsubsidized loan accrues interest during that time. Within an academic year, a student may borrow a combined $20,500 through the Stafford Loan program. The maximum subsidized loan is $8,500, while the maximum unsubsidized loan is $20,500 minus the amount of subsidized loans. U.S. Citizens and permanent residents are typically eligible for the full $20,500 in loans. Students must fill out the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) online to receive Stafford Loans. Most students supplement Stafford loans with Perkins or Grad PLUS loans. The Law School's FAFSA code is E00377.

Federal Perkins Loan: The Federal Perkins Loan is a low-interest loan for students enrolled in the Law School who demonstrate financial need. Perkins Loans have no fees and no interest accrues while you are in school. This award is approximately $4,500 per year. 

Grad PLUS and Alternative Loans: Alternative loans and/or Federal Graduate PLUS loans are used to cover the difference between the cost of attendance and other forms of financial aid that you have received. Alternative loans and PLUS loans are credit-based loans and will not be made to students who have poor credit. Students should check their credit ratings at the credit reporting agencies (Experian, Equifax and Trans Union) and correct errors in their credit histories. Students with poor credit or international students may be able to borrow an alternative loan with a credit-worthy cosignor. To simplify the repayment process, we encourage you to continue using the same lender if you have previously borrowed an Alternative or PLUS loan.

For lender information and other questions regarding the financial aid process, please visit the Student Loan Administration.