Alternative or private loans can be used by students who cannot cover the cost of attendance with federal student loans due to having reached annual and/or aggregate totals or have school-related expenses that cannot be funded with federal funds. These loans are similar to consumer loans in that loan approval is based on the borrower's credit record. Most lenders offer a pre-determination of eligibility prior to actual application. These loans are unsubsidized and the interest accrues, beginning at the date of disbursal (including in-school enrollment). There tends to be no cap on the interest rate, which is variable. For most alternative loans, eligibility for the amount borrowed must be certified by the Financial Aid Office. Students should note these factors when considering an alternative loan:

• fees deducted from the proceeds of the loan prior to disbursal
• potential that the lender may sell the loan(s)
• length of deferment for residency program and grace period
• frequency of capitalization of interest accrued on the loan(s)
• repayment options and benefits
• co-signer options
• determination of interest rate

ELMSelect is an interactive tool that helps students with private loan education and processing. The list of lenders on ELMSelect is not a comprehensive list. Students always have the option to select a lender that does not appear on this list.

• Canadian Student Financial Aid Information
• Citizen's One
• College Avenue
• KHEAA
• Sallie Mae

Negative credit can prevent approval for the following:

• Graduate PLUS Direct Loan
• Residency and Relocation Loan (for fourth-year students)
• Alternative (Private) Student Loan

Negative credit may also require a student borrower to have a co-signer on the loan. Students should request a copy of their credit report before beginning school and resolve any outstanding problems. Credit scores will affect the interest rates on private student loans, with a poor credit score resulting in a higher interest rate. Most lenders do not set a cap on interest rates and the amount of interest can be charged during the life of the loan.

This loan program is available to assist fourth-year students with the costs associated with residency application, travel for interviews, and relocation for residency, if applicable. Residency and relocation costs cannot be included in the cost of attendance and funded by federal funds. The Financial Aid Office does not process these loans. Residency and relocation loans do not require certification of eligibility.

Participating Lenders:

• SallieMae Medical Residency & Relocation Loan
• PNC Bank Medical Professions Loan Program

This is not a comprehensive list of participating loan lenders. Students are always free to select other lenders.